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FRIDAY 21 MAY 2021 9 SHAWWAL - 1442 VOLUME 26 NUMBER 8629 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS Join Ooredoo ONE: Save QR 1,140

on the Wi-Fi router and installation* *12-month contract required Terms and Conditions Apply 1894/2021 Amir, Jordan King Israeli attacks amount to war crimes: FM discuss situation

THE PENINSULA — DOHA in Palestine

The dangerous situation in the occupied Pace of Judaisation and QNA — DOHA territories in Palestine requires urgent action to stop the Israeli attacks, Deputy settlements has increased Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign to the point of ethnic Hamad Al Thani yesterday Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin held a telephone conversation Abdulrahman Al Thani said yesterday at cleansing of Palestinians. with H M King Abdullah II ibn the UN General Assembly emergency Al Hussein of the Hashemite meeting convened to discuss the situ- Kingdom of Jordan, during ation in Palestine. community must work seriously to which they reviewed brotherly He reaffirmed Qatar’s condemnation ensure protection of the Palestinians and relations between the two of the Israeli military forces attacks on stop Israeli aggression against them. We countries and ways to support defenceless civilians in Jerusalem neigh- wonder when the international com- and strengthen them. bourhoods and holy places, which are munity will act to deter Israel,” the During the call, they dis- war crimes and violations of human Foreign Minister said, expressing his sur- cussed regional and interna- rights and international laws. prise about the silence of the interna- tional issues of common The failure of the UN Security Council tional community and inaction against Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin concern, especially the latest to bear its responsibility erodes trust in what Israel is doing in Gaza and Al Quds. Abdulrahman Al Thani addressing the UN General Assembly session, yesterday. developments in Palestine, the credibility of UN to achieve its basic He said the pace of Judaisation and where they expressed their goal which is establishment of peace and settlements has increased to a point that establishment of a Palestinian state with particular attack on Al Shati refugees strong condemnation of the security in the world, he said, calling on can be described as ethnic cleansing. borders of 1967.” camp where tens of civilians were killed continued shelling by the the international community to assume “We must work to achieve a compre- The attacks on Gaza have caused including ten members of one family. Israeli occupation forces of its responsibility. “The international hensive settlement and the death of hundreds of civilians, in `P2 civilians in Gaza Strip, calling for an immediate cease-fire and the protection of Al Aqsa Mosque, holy sites and Minister delivers first Qatari Qatar's campaign defenceless civilians. tracking number to QLife Pharma nears one million fully Hamas, Israel vaccinated people agree on Gaza FAZEENA SALEEM THE PENINSULA of the vaccine. 89.8% of over ceasefire 60s (the most vulnerable pop- ulation group) have been vac- REUTERS — GAZA With recent expansions to the cinated with at least one dose, COVID-19 vaccination while 84.3% have received both Israel and Hamas will cease programme implemented by doses. 64.8% of people over 40 fire across the Gaza Strip the Ministry of Public Health years of age are also fully vac- border as of 2 am on Friday, (MoPH), Qatar is likely to reach cinated against COVID-19. an official with the Palestinian the one million figure of fully At present, all people aged faction said, bringing a poten- vaccinated people in the 30 and above are eligible to tially tenuous halt to the country soon. receive the COVID-19 vaccine. fiercest fighting in decades. So far 928,979 people have Parents can also register their Israel's security cabinet received both doses of the children aged 12 to 15 years to said it had voted unanimously vaccine under the National receive the Pfizer-BioNTech in favour of a "mutual and COVID-19 Vaccination Program. COVID-19 vaccine. With the unconditional" Gaza truce pro- The vaccination rollout has increase in number of people posed by mediator Egypt, but sped up over the past days with vaccinated, the number of added that the hour of imple- over 40,000 vaccines being people tested for COVID-19 has mentation had yet to be administered per day. also increased. A total of 17,127 agreed. Minister of Commerce and Industry and Acting Minister of Finance, H E Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, and According to data released people were tested yesterday. The development came a other officials during the handing over of the tracking number to QLife Pharma. by the Ministry yesterday, as Of them, 3,842 were tested for day after US President Joe many as 40,058 vaccine doses the first time. Among the total Biden urged Israeli Prime Min- THE PENINSULA — DOHA and in appreciation of the of local industries and the were administered in the past number of people tested, only ister Benjamin Netanyahu to efforts made by the pharma- enhancement of their pro- 24 hours. A total of 2,190,807 313 new COVID-19 cases were seek de-escalation, and amid Minister of Commerce and ceutical sector in the country duction and export capabilities vaccine doses had been admin- found — 1.8% of people tested. mediation bids by Egypt, Qatar Industry and Acting Minister of during the COVID-19 in a manner that supports their istered by Thursday. 208 of the new cases were from and the United Nations. Finance, H E Ali bin Ahmed Al pandemic. expansion and access to global At present, 55.6% of the eli- the community and the rest A Hamas official said the Kuwari, has delivered the first “The launch of the Qatari markets.” gible population of the country from travellers returning from ceasefire would be "mutual tracking number to QLife Product Coding and Tracking Al Khalifa highlighted the has received at least one dose overseas. `P3 and simultaneous". Pharma. Office comes within the importance of this step for Rocket attacks by Hamas The ceremony to hand over framework of the country’s Qatari companies, adding: and allied Islamic Jihad had the tracking number was also strategy and efforts to improve “After obtaining the approval resumed after an eight-hour attended by Qatar Development the quality of national products of the General Assembly of the pause yesterday, as Israel con- Bank (QDB) CEO, Abdulaziz bin and enhance their competi- GS1, we worked diligently to tinued shelling that it said Nasser Al Khalifa, and tiveness in all local, regional establish an office in Doha. aimed to destroy the factions' Mohamed Hassan Al Malki, and global markets. Fur- Today we celebrate the launch military capabilities. Assistant Undersecretary for thermore, it is an affirmation of of the first Qatari product with Since the fighting began on Industry Affairs at the Ministry the remarkable development a national tracking number, and May 10, health officials in Gaza of Commerce and Industry Qatar has achieved in the we aspire for this step to be the say 232 Palestinians, including (MoCI). industrial sector,” said the Min- start of new horizons for our Close to 2.2 million vaccine 65 children and 39 women, This comes on the occasion ister on the occasion. national products, whether at doses have been administered have been killed and more of QDB’s inauguration of the He added that the step the level of local or interna- in the country, with 64.8% than 1,900 wounded in aerial Qatari Product Coding and “constitutes an incentive for the tional circulation, in order to of over-40 population fully bombardments. Authorities Tracking Office, in a step that private sector to continue its achieve our strategy and vaccinated against COVID-19. put the death toll in Israel at is the first of its kind in Qatar, efforts toward the development Qatar’s national vision.” `P3 12. SEE ALSO `P4 QU researchers work on bio-fertilizer to grow crops with seawater THE PENINSULA — DOHA Food Security Call from the increase Qatar’s food security fruit quality, enhance soil tolerance capacity of the plant, commented, “We are thrilled Qatar National Research Fund sustainably. quality, and allow for the use of which will allow for the use of to work together with our col- Qatar University (QU) and the Ministry of Municipality This bio-fertilizer will saltwater for the sustainable irrigation waters with higher leagues at Qatar University to researchers are collaborating and Environment, and aims to improve plant productivity and production of conventional salt concentrations. This can pilot this technology. We with Agrico and the Centre of crops such as tomatoes. play an important role in pro- believe it can have a significant Biotechnology of Sfax, Tunisia, The ability of crops to grow moting sustainable food pro- impact on the sustainability of to develop sustainable methods The ability of crops to grow using saltwater using saltwater will permit for duction in Qatar.” the food supply chain in Qatar to increase crop production. will permit for a drastic alleviation of the a drastic alleviation of the The project will foster and look forward to seeing it QU's Center for Sustainable pressure on Qatar’s scarce ground-water pressure on Qatar’s scarce international collaboration in action.” The project is in col- Development (CSD) was resources. ground-water resources. between local researchers and laboration with Agrico, where recently awarded a project to Dr. Imen Saadaoui, the Center of Biotechnology of the novel technology will be produce biological fertilizers Research Associate Professor Sfax (Tunisia), where the tech- demonstrated. Agrico, one of based on salt-tolerant micro- at CSD and Co-Lead-PI of the nology originates. Qatar’s leading crop producers, organisms to promote organic project, said, “This novel bio- Dr. Slim Tounsi, Director of is excited to be one of the first crop production in Qatar. fertilizer will increase the soil the Centre of Biotechnology of to apply this new technology. The project responds to the quality and enhance the salt Sfax and Lead-PI of the project, `P2 02 HOME FRIDAY 21 MAY 2021 Shura Council takes part in Shura Council attends APA meeting on meeting on economic recovery Economic & Sustainable Development QNA — DOHA QNA — DOHA PRAYER The Shura Council participated TIMINGS The Shura Council participated in a parlia- yesterday in the meeting of the Standing PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMINNGG mentary meeting on economic recovery Committee on Economic and in the Middle-East and North Africa by Sustainable Development of the Asian FAJR 03.21 am designing comprehensive, sustainable, and Parliamentary Assembly (APA), through adaptable policies. The meeting was video conference technology. SUNRISE 04.47 am organized by The Parliamentary Network The committee discussed several DHUHR 11.30 am on the World Bank and International reports related to the Asian integrated ASR 02.56 pm Monetary Fund via video conference. energy market, the activation of eco- Talks focused on a number of subjects nomic growth efforts, poverty eradi- MAGHRIB 06.17 pm related to the recovery. They included vac- cation, and the role of Asian parliaments ISHA 07.47 pm cines, governance, reforms, debt, climate in supporting and implementing the sus- change, and the role parliamentarians play tainable development goals. in ensuring transparency and the availa- The Shura Council was represented bility of aid to face the crisis and build a in the Asian Parliamentary Assembly more sustainable economic recovery. meeting by H E Ali bin Abdullatif Al The Shura Council was represented Nasser bin Sultan Al Humaidi Misnad Al Muhannadi, member of the H E Ali bin Abdullatif Al Misnad Al in the meeting by member of the council (pictured). Council. Muhannadi, member of the Shura Council

WEATHER Vegetable markets did brisk business in April PHCC recognises role of family TODAY THE PENINSULA — DOHA doctors in health care system

The Agricultural Affairs QNA — DOHA Corporation praised the Department at the Ministry of essential role of family doctors Municipality and Environment The Primary Health Care in providing comprehensive (MME) has said that vegetable Corporation (PHCC) cele- and continuous health care to o o markets (agricultural yards) brated the World Family all patients, and emphasised 31 C 44 C did brisk business in April, Doctor Day under the slogan the need to build a future with Minimum Maximum 2021. “Building the Future with them by providing continuous Hot to very hot at some places The markets operating in Family Doctors”. and comprehensive care, which during daytime. Al Mazrouha, Al Khor and This day, which falls on May is the second axis, as family Dhakira, Al Wakrah, Al Shamal 19 every year, aims to celebrate doctors build mutual trust with W ALRUWAIS : 28o → 36o and Al Sheehaniya, sold 2,101 the efforts of family doctors, patients and society, as one of W ALKHOR : 27o → 45o tonnes of locally produced highlight their role in com- the four aforementioned axes, vegetables and 726 tonnes munity service, and shed light by filling the existing gaps in W DUKHAN : 26o → 40o fruits in April. on family medicine, which is health care that is provided WAKRAH 25o → 45o W : A total of 394kg honey, one of the most important spe- every day, while family doctors W MESAIEED : 25o → 45o 1,003 kg local dates and 1,123 cialties that deals with compre- provide continuous and com- W ABUSAMRA : 25o → 39o kg of mushroom were also hensive health care for all prehensive care to those who traded at the markets. The family members. need it most. vegetable markets are func- The Primary Health Care PHCC noted that it informs HIGH TIDE tioning during the weekend Corporation participated in cel- the community of the impor- 13:40 from Friday to Saturday at ebrating this day by publishing tance and role of the family LOW TIDE 07:45 – 17:08 night from 6:30pm to 10pm. cards on social media high- doctor by presenting videos lighting the four axes of the published through various World Family Doctor Day 2021, forms of media and social com- the most important of which is munication that highlight the Awqaf increases prayer waiting time after azan building the future with family family doctors in the institution 10 arrested for doctors and primary care staff, and their primary role in THE PENINSULA — DOHA increasing the waiting time Management Department to as family doctors are often the reaching a healthy and well- violating home from five minutes. Imams and Muezzins yesterday. first point of contact for being society, in addition to With the decline in the The department also said The preventive measures are patients in combating epi- thanking the employees of the quarantine COVID-19 cases in the country, that for Friday prayers mosques in place like carrying a personal demics, as well as caring for institution through an online the Ministry of Awqaf and will be opened 20 minutes prayer mat, wearing a face people suffering from chronic post, showing gratitude and THE PENINSULA — DOHA Islamic Affairs has announced before second azan. mask, showing green status on diseases and the need to follow appreciation for their con- that prayers will begin after ten This came in a fresh circular Ehteraz, and maintaining social preventive measures. tinuous efforts in serving The designated authorities minutes of azan (call to prayer), issued by the Mosques distancing. The Primary Health Care people and society. arrested yesterday 10 people who violated the require- ments of home quarantine, they committed to following, QU celebrates Biological Diversity International Day which they are legally accountable for, in accordance with the proce- THE PENINSULA — DOHA one area, the greater the biodi- dures of the health authorities versity and the healthier the in the country. The Biological and Environ- ecosystem will be. The food and The arrest of the violators mental Sciences department at water we consume, the air we came in implementation of the Qatar University (QU) marked breathe, the energy that drives precautionary measures in Biological Diversity Interna- our life, so our health and force in the country, approved tional Day to enhance under- wealth are all supported by by health authorities repre- standing of the importance of various species, providing us an sented in the Ministry of Public maintaining balance in the infinite number of services, Health, to curb the spread of environment. The day also supporting life, and making the COVID-19. supports achieving sustainable earth the only living planet. Any The violators, who are cur- development goals, particularly loss of a species means losing a rently being referred to the after raising global factors such function within the envi- designate prosecution, are as climate change, pollution, ronment, means losing service Saeed Mohammed Hamad Al and overexploitation of natural FROM LEFT: Dr. Radhouane Ben Hamadou; Dr. Fatima Al Khayat and Professor Mohammad Al Ghouti to humans,” he added. Ghafrani Al Marri, Salem resources as causes of biodi- Dr. Yousria Soliman, Asso- Rashid Hamad Said Al Atraq, versity loss. QU is one of few universities national strategy that aims to heritage remains for the next ciate Professor of Environ- John Phillip Padila Virtuoso, Many scientists worldwide, that allocate large land areas achieve sustainable devel- generation. Through, estab- mental Sciences, said, “The Mohammed Haroun Mayan, including the Department of inside the campus as natural opment in various aspects to lishing seed and gene banks, causes of biodiversity loss are Kwayes Ahmed Abdulnour, Biological and Environmental protected areas. achieve environmental balance and appropriate environment multiple. However, the most Omar Ali Omar, Salman Fares Sciences (DBES) at Qatar Uni- Prof Mohammad Al Ghouti, and curb excessive exploi- for endangered native important is the destruction of Moheldin, Atef Youssef Al versity, are focusing on inven- Professor of Environmental Sci- tation,” Prof Al Ghouti added. organisms.” habitats due to overexploi- Dereiri, Abdulmalek Soufan tions and studies to find the best ences, said, “Qatar’s national Dr. Fatima Al Khayat, Dr. Radhouane Ben tation and urbanization. Pol- and Ratna Pita. way to conserve biological biodiversity policy seeks to Assistant Professor of Biological Hamadou, Associate Professor lution is another threat to bio- The designated authorities diversity. foster biological diversity pro- Sciences, said preserving bio- of Environmental Science, said, diversity, especially those pol- called on citizens and residents Professor Mohammed Abu- tection and environmental diversity is crucial for the next “Life on earth is driven by a lutants that cross the borders under home quarantine to Dieyeh, Acting Department balance, as well as the sus- generations. variety of species, estimated to of countries through air and fully commit to the Ministry of Head at Biological and Environ- tainable use of natural “Preserving biodiversity is be currently around 10 to 15 ocean currents affecting Public Health’s condition, to mental Sciences, emphasized resources and equitable distri- a shared responsibility that million, all interconnected broader regions. ensure their safety and the the university’s position in pre- bution of biodiversity benefits. means preserving the heritage between each other in a way or “Global warming and safety of others. serving natural resources. Excessive use of natural and wealth of the nations another. Biodiversity is about climate change are on the list They added that anyone “The mission of QU is to resources is one of the leading because of its economic impor- the diversity of different living of causes for biodiversity loss. who violates the quarantine promote any science, academic causes of biodiversity loss tance. The acceleration of things one can find in a system The average global temperature will be subject to article No 253 programs, courses, and scien- worldwide since it wastes human activity invades many in a specific area is related to will likely rise 2 degrees Celsius of Law No 11 of 2004, provi- tific activities that preserve natural resources and threatens natural environments and the diversity of different living by 2050, which will lead to sions of law no. 17 of 1990 on living and non-living natural the environment.” threatens wildlife, which results things.” rising sea levels of about 30cm, communicable diseases, and resources,” he said. “Qatar environmental sus- in an imbalance in the eco- “The more significant leading to the disappearance of law no. 17 of 2002 on pro- Although the campus is tainability strategy is one of the logical balance. That is why we microorganism, plant, insect thousands of plants and tecting society. being increasingly urbanised, most important pillars of the should preserve the biological and animal species there are in animals.”

QU works on Israeli attacks amount to war crimes: Foreign Minister bio-fertilizer to grow FROM PAGE 1 conventions.” The Deputy Foreign Affairs yesterday held immediate cessation of attacks He pointed out that the crops with seawater H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Prime Minister and the Minister an Arab ministerial coordi- on Islamic and Christian sanc- current events should be a new Abdulrahman Al Thani pointed of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed nation meeting to discuss devel- tities and the cessation of dis- incentive for the international FROM PAGE 1 out that Israel is still targeting Qatar’s supportive positions to opments in Palestine. placement and settlement oper- community to work more seri- residential towers in Gaza, a just solution of the Palestinian The Foreign Minister also ations and policies in all the ously towards achieving a just, Agrico’s Nasser Al Khalaf killing hundreds including issue. “Qatar will continue to participated in a meeting of occupied lands; not subjecting comprehensive and permanent commented, “Our Company women and children. be committed to all sincere Arab foreign ministers with H the settlement decision to asso- settlement of the Palestinian strives to explore innovative The State of Qatar efforts aimed at bringing a per- E António Guterres, Secretary- ciations; cessation of extremist issue and the establishment of agricultural solutions to denounces and condemns tar- manent solution to the Middle General of the United Nations. efforts, as happened in the the Palestinian state with East achieve national food geting the building of Qatar Red East cause. We support all The Foreign Minister Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood, Jerusalem as its capital on the security. This technology has Crescent Society in Gaza, he sincere efforts to de-escalation stressed the importance of as well as stopping the bombing, 1967 borders in accordance the potential to drastically said, emphasising that, “Tar- in Jerusalem and Gaza, and we achieving the desired goals of ending the war on the Gaza with the two-state solution, reduce the ecological foot- geting residential buildings, especially thank Egypt and the meeting, serious Strip, and rapidly joining efforts international legitimacy deci- print of crop production in media and humanitarian insti- Jordan for their efforts to halt engagement of the international to rebuild the strip by the inter- sions, and the Arab and inter- Qatar while producing sus- tutions and hospitals are a the escalation.” community to achieve sus- national community, and inter- national peace initiative, which tainable organic and nutri- blatant violation of interna- Meanwhile, the Deputy tainable peace in the Middle national humanitarian and puts a final end to tious food for the Qatari tional laws and humanitarian Prime Minister and Minister of East, which requires the development institutions. recurrence. society.” FRIDAY 21 MAY 2021 HOME 03 QU, HBKU and QCRI announce MME celebrates World Bee Day

QNA — DOHA the Department of Agricultural localise bee honey production winners of AI competition Affairs, in the celebration came in Qatari farms. The Ministry of Municipality within the framework of the The project also aims to THE PENINSULA — DOHA and Environment (MME) partic- concern to protect and preserve protect bees and work to ipated in the celebration of the bees. increase their reproduction and Qatar University’s College of World Bee Day, which falls on The Ministry launched the the production of honey of Engineering (QU-CENG), May 20 of each year, and is national honey bee project that various kinds. Hamad Bin Khalifa University organised by the Food and Agri- aims to protect the bee com- On this occasion, the MME (HBKU), and Qatar Computing culture Organization of the munity and its components, and called on the owners of farms Research Institute (QCRI) have United Nations (FAO). the idea is to distribute beehives to work to preserve bees, announced winners of the Arti- The participation of the and apiaries requirements to stressing their readiness to face ficial Intelligence (AI) National Ministry of Municipality and the producing farms, and to any risks threatening the Qatari Competition. Environment, represented by supervise them to spread and apiaries. In his speech, QU-CENG Dean, Dr. Khalid Kamal Naji, said, “This is a national compe- tition challenging students, developers, professionals, and Dr. Khalid Kamal Naji (left) and Dr. Ahmed K Elmagarmid researchers to develop and demonstrate how humans can collaborate with powerful Arti- competition recognized the analysis and prediction. Besides ficial Intelligence (AI) technol- developers who are paving the detection and prevention of ogies to tackle some challenges path for future innovative AI attacks and malware, drones for different applications. This technologies that can be emergency services, and opportunity raised awareness deployed to support infra- logistics impacting the supply of AI technologies in Qatar, sup- structure and address chal- chain and security challenges ported building local capacity lenges for different applications due to the blockade.” in this timely and crucial area, as highlighted below.” The winner in track one, and provided a platform for Dr. Ahmed Masoud included Dabeeruddin Syed and participants to share AI ideas QU-CENG Associate Dean for Ameena Zainab, won first place. and applications”. Research and Graduate Studies Tareq Yousef Kamel AlKhraishi Dr. Ahmed K. Elmagarmid, commented, “We looked for won second place, while Director of QCRI, said the com- creative and innovative AI solu- Abhinav Balram Gudavalli won petition consisted of 5 phases, tions, which can be deployed third place in the Concept and Idea Submission, Announcement to resolve practical problems Design category. of shortlisted ideas, Solution including but not limited to, For the Proof of concept design/development duration, healthcare solutions, AI in edu- and Demos category, Nandhini Project Submission, Project cation, automatic and real-time Subramanian won first place. testing, and demos (track 2), the detection of trolls on social Anas Mohammed Tahir and announcement of winners. media, real-time AI solutions Yazan Hazim Ali Qiblawey won Dr. Mounir Hamdi, Dean of for assisting sports referees in second place. Serkan Kiranyaz Locally produced honey products are showcased during an exhibition organised by the Ministry of the College of Science and Engi- taking prompt decisions, crowd and Muhammad Uzair Zahid Municipality and Environment in this file photo. neering at HBKU, said, “The monitoring and behaviour won the third place. Kahramaa employee app bags international award Snoonu completes THE PENINSULA — DOHA year it included a large number provides them with the required keep pace with the latest tech- of candidates, including a information round the clock. nologies used in all fields, and Qatar General Electricity and number of government The services include the service this has been reflected in the aid campaign for Water Corporation (Kahramaa) agencies, companies, civil of sending an official leave satisfaction of its customers and has secured first position for its society institutions, interna- request, the service of sending the quality of its services. employee app under the tional organizations, academic an electronic work card, the The app helped reduce Palestinian people category of ICT application bodies and others. service of tracking the dependency on traditional e-employment. This year, 10 electronic employee’s working days and paper transactions among THE PENINSULA — DOHA are pleased to see local busi- This came within the projects have been qualified, hours, the service of requesting employees achieving goals of nesses supporting such an announcement of the electronic from Qatar representing a and receiving certificates. preserving the environment Doha-based e-commerce important cause and encour- projects that won the World number of sectors and Qatari Since its establishment, and resources for startup, Snoonu, is pleased to aging others in the market to Summit on the Information government agencies, for the Kahramaa has been keen to sustainability. announce that it completed its participate and help in lifting Society (WSIS) 2021 awards third stage of the evaluation (the corporate social responsibility even a little misery from our organised under the auspices voting stage). (CSR) initiative in collaboration Palestinian brothers. This val- of the International Telecom- Kahramaa took the lead with Qatar Red Crescent uable contribution from munication Union (ITU). among them as the only entity Society (QRCS), to support Snoonu holds more than just a The award winning Kah- from the State of Qatar to building hospitals in Jerusalem, monetary aid, but it also con- ramaa app enjoys many fea- qualify for the fourth and final as part of QRCS’s Al Quds sidered as a form of moral tures and its modern and prac- stage of evaluation, after which humanitarian campaign. support, highlight what is hap- tical design have won the rec- it was honoured to get first Through this initiative, pening in Palestine and ognition of the most important place in its category out of five Snoonu aims to improve access increase awareness toward the experts at the international international projects nomi- to healthcare for Palestinians oppression and violations that level. nated from around the world. and raise awareness about are happening in occupied The app took lead among Kahramaa app has been illegal humanitarian violations, Palestine.” selected electronic projects that developed in line with its objec- forced expulsion and other QRCS-led Al Quds pro- have been developed in various tives to achieve integration oppressive practices endured gramme aims at supporting a parts of the world, including 10 between quality and moderni- by the Palestinian people. variety of health projects, pro- projects qualified for the third sation, and contribute to The campaign was held viding medical equipment, stage (the voting stage) from the improving the user experience from May 11 to May 18. vehicles, and necessary tools, State of Qatar. and meet their diverse needs. Co-founder and CEO of as well as improving access to The World Summit on the The app includes over 30 Snoonu, Hamad Al Hajri said, healthcare on Palestinian Information Society is the most digital services developed in “As the violence and injustice territories. prominent international cooperation with the Human towards the civil population in The donation was made Kahramaa officials with Secretary-General of ITU, Houlin Zhao, platform for presenting the Resources Department at Kah- Palestine escalated, Snoonu has exclusively by Snoonu, while during the announcement of the winner of the World Summit on most important and successful ramaa. It provides employees chosen to act. Committed to customers continued to pay the Information Society (WSIS) 2021 Forum, held virtually. electronic projects, and this with all their needs and serving the community and regular costs, and the mer- driving positive change across chants kept receiving the the region, Snoonu has entirety of their revenues. Qatar’s campaign launched this initiative to help Snoonu’s charity initiative QLife Pharma obtains first Qatari tracking number the cause close to the hearts of comes as part of its com- FROM PAGE 1 nears one million circulation, or in terms of tra- market or companies working all Arabic and Islamic commu- mitment to the community, and QLife Pharma obtained the ditional or electronic interna- to export their products abroad, nities, while supporting QRCS to supporting and empowering fully vaccinated first Qatari tracking number, tional commercial operations. to submit their requests to humanitarian action whose vulnerable societies from starting with 630, to be the first The presence of a tracking obtain a national tracking selfless work in Palestine brings across the globe where Snoonu people company in Qatar to obtain the number on products facilitates number for their products immense relief to the Pales- has donated QR1 from each national tracking code. It will be the process of identifying all starting from May 23, 2021. tinian people. As we are com- order on its app to help Al FROM PAGE 1 followed by many national com- product details, from its source Those interested can register pleting the programme, we Makasseed hospital in Meanwhile, another 522 panies in the coming period. to the details of its validity, online at www.GS1.qa would like to encourage eve- Jerusalem. people recovered from It should be noted that this components, and in some cases Qatar secured last year the ryone to keep helping this Engaged in building a COVID-19 yesterday, bringing initiative comes in the midst of its price. unanimous approval of the GS1 cause, as we firmly believe that resilient economy in Qatar, the total number of cases the efforts made by the Ministry Previously, Qatari pro- General Assembly to establish collaborative efforts can make Snoonu continues to support recovered in Qatar to 209,773. in coordination with QDB to ducers used tracking numbers a barcode office for Qatari a real difference in people’s its merchants with lower In addition, the Ministry create a tracking code for Qatar belonging to foreign countries products. lives”. commissions, supporting also announced one new death and locally manufactured to distinguish their products. The country has been Commenting on QRCS’s them in the difficult context from COVID-19. The deceased, products, which will contribute The Qatari Product Coding assigned the code 630 for cooperation with Snoonu, of the pandemic and offering 62, had no history of any to facilitating many local com- and Tracking Office invites all locally manufactured products, Mohammed Al Marri, Director a seamless online shopping chronic disease and was mercial operations, whether in Qatari companies, whether which can be exported or of Communication and Public experience to keep the com- receiving the necessary terms of product movement or those investing in the local traded within the country. Relations from QRCS said: “We munity safe. medical care. The Ministry in its daily COVID-19 report said, “In recent weeks the combined MES Indian School conducts student parliament elections impact of COVID-19 restric- tions and increasing vacci- THE PENINSULA — DOHA Students of Grades VI to VIII voters in ‘Meet the Candidate election provided an oppor- Shiyas, Sports Captain; Fathima nation rates, and the over- were eligible for the posts of Programme’ via Zoom and tunity for all students to involve Mayaza, Student Editor and whelming support of the com- The MES Indian School, Abu Arts Secretary, Sports Captain declared their manifesto. All the in school governance and Lakshmi Priya, Arts Secretary. munity, has resulted in a Hamour Branch (MESIS) and Magazine Editor. Nomi- candidates introduced them- decision making through a The school management consistent reduction in the conducted its maiden student nation forms for the candidates selves and spoke eloquently in group of democratically elected and the staff members number of new daily infections parliament elections for the were sent via email requests their discrete persuasive students who represent the expressed their gratitude to the in the country. posts of Head Boy, Head Girl, and had to be submitted by 5th speeches. views of all students at the parents for their unflinching “However, it is still Assistant Head Boy, Assistant May 2021. After scrutiny, 23 The online voting was held school, gave education support and cooperation to important to be cautious as the Head Girl, Sports Captain, Arts nominations were accepted and on May 11. Class teachers circu- regarding the function of make the school parliament second wave is not yet over Secretary and Magazine Editor six were rejected. On the next lated clear instructions on the democracy and understand the election a grand success. The and there are still two highly for the academic year 2021- day, the final list of contesting method of voting and Google process of the parliamentary students along with the parents contagious and highly virulent 2022. candidates along with their form links for voting were for- system of the government. enjoyed the entire process of a strains of the virus that are The election was announced election symbols was warded to all the class The first elected parliament real democratic election. Ulti- actively circulating in the on May 3, 2021. The Head Boy published. WhatsApp groups. Counting of members of MESIS are: Joseph mately the student parliament community.” and Head Girl titles were The class teachers posted votes was held on the same day Mathew Jinoy, Head Boy; election became a meaningful The Ministry also recently reserved for Grade VIII students digital posters prepared by the at 3.00pm live on Zoom. School Falaqul Thahira, Head Girl; learning activity for the stu- announced phased easing of whereas the Assistant Head Boy candidates in their respective Principal, Dr. Haneef Muhammed Izyan, Assistant dents, opined the Management COVID-19 restrictions from and Assistant Head Girl were class groups. All contesting can- announced the official results. Head Boy; Laiqa Maryam, Committee President Abdul May 28. reserved for grade VII students. didates virtually met their The school parliament Assistant Head Girl; Afaaf Karim. 04 GULF / MIDDLE EAST FRIDAY 21 MAY 2021

UN Chief Guterres calls Gaza Israel, Hamas agree to truce ‘hell on earth’ for children REUTERS — UNITED NATIONS REUTERS — GAZA/JERUSALEM UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres yesterday described Gaza Israel and Hamas will hold as “hell on earth” for children, appealing to Israel for rapid and cease fire across the Gaza Strip unhindered aid access and telling the 193-member General Assembly border as of 2 am today, a he would launch an appeal for humanitarian funding. Hamas official and Israeli Diplomatic efforts toward a ceasefire in the Gaza war gathered media said, bringing a poten- pace on Thursday amid a worsening humanitarian crisis in the Pal- tially tenuous halt to the fiercest estinian territory, but fighting between Israel and Palestinian mil- fighting in decades. itant group Hamas continued. The reports came a day The 193-member UN General Assembly met yesterday to discuss after US President Joe Biden the renewed violence, but no action was expected. “If there is a hell urged Israeli Prime Minister on earth, it is the lives of children in Gaza today,” said Guterres, Benjamin Netanyahu to seek adding that he would launch a full humanitarian appeal for funding de-escalation, and amid medi- as soon as possible. “The hostilities have caused serious damage ation bids by Egypt, Qatar and to vital civilian infrastructure in Gaza, including roads and elec- the United Nations. tricity lines, contributing to a humanitarian emergency. Crossings A Hamas official said the into Gaza have been closed and power shortages are affecting water ceasefire would be “mutual and supplies,” Guterres added. simultaneous”. Guterres called for an immediate ceasefire and urged Israel’s Israeli media reported that military to exercise maximum restraint and Hamas to stop indis- Prime Minister Benjamin criminate rocket fire. He also called on Israel to stop demolitions Netanyahu’s security cabinet and evictions in the Palestinian Territories. approved the truce on the basis “Access for humanitarian goods is paramount,” Guterres said. of what one official reportedly “Israel has a duty to allow and facilitate rapid and unhindered access for called “quiet in exchange for humanitarian aid... into Gaza.” quiet”. Israeli cabinet Smoke and flames are seen above buildings, amid a flare-up of Israeli-Palestinian fighting, in Gaza, Hundreds of buildings and homes have been destroyed or spokesmen had no immediate damaged, Guterres said, and airstrikes have damaged several hos- yesterday. comment. pitals. Some 50,000 people were seeking shelter in UN schools, Rocket attacks by Hamas mosques and other places with little access to water, food, hygiene and allied Islamic Jihad had Since the fighting began on May 10, health officials in Gaza More than 52,000 people have or health services, Guterres added. resumed after an eight-hour say 232 Palestinians, including 65 children and 39 women, fled their homes in Gaza, which pause yesterday, as Israel con- have been killed and more than 1,900 wounded in aerial is blockaded by Israel and tinued shelling that it said bombardments. Israel says it has killed at least 160 Egypt. aimed to destroy the factions’ Israelis living in areas fre- Palestinian envoy accuses Israel military capabilities and deter combatants in Gaza. Authorities put the death toll in Israel at quently targeted by rocket fire them from future confrontation 12, with hundreds of people treated for injuries in rocket began their workday yesterday of committing ‘genocide’ after the current conflict. attacks that have caused panic and sent people rushing without the usual sound of AP — UNITED NATIONS Since the fighting began on into shelters. warning sirens. But after an May 10, health officials in Gaza eight-hour break, the sirens The top Palestinian diplomat has accused Israel of committing say 232 Palestinians, including blared again in southern Israel. “genocide” against Palestinian families and urging the international 65 children and 39 women, Dujarric confirmed that UN main roads were also damaged Israel said some 4,000 community to protect the Palestinian people until their freedom is have been killed and more than Middle East Envoy Tor Wen- in the air strikes. rockets have been launched at assured. 1,900 wounded in aerial bom- nesland is in Qatar, adding: “We In the Gaza City suburb of it from Gaza, some falling short Foreign Minister Riad Al Malki told yesterday’s emergency bardments. Israel says it has are actively engaged with all the Sabra, Amira Esleem, 14, and and others shot down by its Iron meeting of the UN General Assembly that “every country in the killed at least 160 combatants relevant parties for an imme- three family members were Dome air defences. world has a responsibility to ensure that peace, justice and freedom in Gaza. diate ceasefire.” wounded in one Israeli attack, Civilians on both sides are prevail.” He urged the assembly ensure that Israel is held accountable Authorities put the death Israel carried out over a which she said caused parts of exhausted by fear and grief, the for killing innocent Palestinians and is not provided with arms. He toll in Israel at 12, with hun- dozen air strikes on Gaza after their house to collapse. International Committee of the said the presence of a dozen ministers, almost all from Arab and dreds of people treated for midnight, targeting what it said “We were sitting on the sofa Red Cross said. “People in Gaza Islamic countries, sends a clear message: “Stop the violence.” injuries in rocket attacks that was a weapons storage unit in when a missile landed. There and Israel urgently need respite The Palestinian minister responded to Israel’s claims of acting have caused panic and sent the home of a Hamas official, was heavy smoke and we from non-stop hostilities,” said in self-defense by saying: “How can an occupying power have the people rushing into shelters. and military infrastructure in couldn’t see anything,” she said Fabrizio Carboni, regional right to defend itself when a whole people under occupation is Yesterday, Biden discussed the homes of other com- from her hospital bed. director for the Middle East. deprived of the very same rights?” Gaza with Egyptian President manders from the group. Nearly 450 buildings in An international peace Al Malki said the Palestinians have informed the Biden admin- Abdel Fattah Al Sisi and the Hamas-run radio said a Gaza have been destroyed or process aimed at creating a Pal- istration and the Quartet of Mideast mediators — the US, UN, White House said reports of woman was killed and four badly damaged, including six estinian state free of Israeli European Union and Russia - that “ending occupation against our moves toward a ceasefire were children wounded in one attack hospitals and nine health occupation and guaranteeing people and our holy sites should be followed by a political process” “encouraging”. on Khan Younis in southern centres, the United Nations Israel’s security has been frozen that would lead to ending the Israeli occupation of Palestine and UN spokesman Stephane Gaza. Witnesses said several humanitarian agency has said. since 2014. its capital.” Lapid slams Netanyahu’s Hamas has ‘no shortage of missiles’, warns top leader handling of Gaza war AP — BEIRUT “still heading the operation and for months if it chose to do so. “I can Haniyeh’s second note to Khamenei AP — JERUSALEM directing the joint operations” of assure that what we saw during the first since the latest war between Israel and A senior Hamas official said in an Hamas’ military wing, the Qassam Bri- days in terms of bombarding Tel Aviv Hamas erupted. Israel’s opposition leader is leveling interview yesterday that he expects a gades, and other factions. He provided and some areas in Jerusalem, can con- Hamdan said Egypt and Qatar have severe criticism at the government’s cease-fire between the group’s Gaza no evidence for that statement. tinue not only for days or weeks but for been involved in cease-fire negotia- handling of the war against Hamas in branch and Israel within a day, but Since the conflict began, Israel has months,” said Hamdan. But he added tions and suggested that progress was the Gaza Strip. warned that Hamas has “no shortage leveled a number of Gaza City’s tallest that he believed a cease-fire being made. “This is the tentative Yesh Atid party leader Yair Lapid wrote of missiles.” office and residential buildings, announcement is near. vision that I believe that within 24 yesterday on Facebook that Prime Min- Osama Hamdan also told The Asso- alleging they house elements of the Hamdan, who is based in Beirut, hours will lead to an understanding or ister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government ciated Press that Mohammed Deif, an Hamas military infrastructure. is a member of Hamas’ powerful an agreement,” he added. has failed in developing a concrete policy elusive Hamas commander who has On Saturday, an Israeli strike decision-making political bureau. Hamdan said that as part of the regarding the Gaza Strip, and has jeop- been hunted by Israel for decades, is destroyed the 12-story Al Jalaa Founded in 1987, Hamas consists talks, Hamas and a smaller Islamic ardized Israel’s relations with the Biden alive and remains in charge of Gaza Building, an office and residential of a military wing and an above- Jihad, demand that Israeli police agree administration with this latest conflict. military operations. tower where the offices of the AP and ground political organization. Its not to enter Jerusalem’s Al Aqsa Lapid writes: “After 11 days of this oper- Deif, also known as Abu Khaled, is the TV network Al Jazeera were leader, Ismail Haniyeh, runs Hamas Mosque compound, Islam’s third ation, every Israeli citizen will ask them- by far Israel’s most wanted target in located. The military gave a warning from exile. The group’s power center holiest site. selves: What did the government really Gaza. He has survived multiple Israeli ahead of the strike and occupants remains Gaza. Also yesterday, Haniyeh During the Jerusalem tensions that want to achieve with this military oper- assassination attempts, and is rarely evacuated safely. Hamdan denied in a letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader preceded the current war, Israeli riot ation? What is its policy and strategic long- seen in public. Israeli media have said there was any military presence Ayatollah Ali Khamenei asked for a police firing tear guns, stun grenades term aim concerning Hamas in Gaza?” there were two more failed attempts belonging to Hamas or any other wide “mobilisation of Arab, Islamic and rubber bullets clashed with Pal- Earlier this month, Lapid was tasked during the current Israel-Hamas war, armed group in the building. and international support” to stop estinians in the compound. Israel is with forming a government. That happened the fourth in just over a decade. In the interview, Hamdan said his Israeli airstrikes, the official Irna news bound to reject any Hamas demands less than a week before the outbreak of Hamdan told the AP that Deif is group could continue bombarding Israel agency reported. It said this was linked to Jerusalem. fighting between Israel and Hamas. Bahrain restricts unvaccinated US imposes as virus cases spike sanctions on two Houthi military REUTERS — DUBAI infections and eight deaths to leaders bring its total to 206,878 cases Bahrain said yesterday it would with 773 deaths. On May 15, REUTERS — DUBAI restrict access to most public authorities had recorded venues to immunized people around 1,300 infections. The United States is imposing only after coronavirus cases hit “We urge society to get vac- sanctions on two Houthi a record high in the Gulf state cinated and to comply with military officials as the Iran- which has seen an influx of precautionary measures for the aligned movement continues visitors from Saudi Arabia after sake of Bahrain,” Manea said its offensive to seize Yemen’s a causeway reopened this week. in remarks posted on the min- gas-rich Marib region, U.S. Health Ministry Undersec- istry’s Twitter account. special envoy on Yemen Tim retary Waleed Al Manea Around 48% of the eligible Lenderking said on Thursday. attributed the spike to large population has completed 14 Lenderking, who has been gatherings at home during the days since their second vaccine pushing for a ceasefire deal fasting month of Ramadan and shot, said a member of the state between the Houthis and a Eid holidays as well as coronavirus committee, Dr. Saudi-led military coalition, also increased testing. Manaf Al Qahtani, adding this told a virtual media briefing that As of May 21, only people was equivalent to around 37% A protestor gestures as he talks with Lebanese soldiers in Nahr Al Kalb, Lebanon, yesterday. all ports and airports in Yemen aged above 18 who have com- of the total population. should be opened to ease a pleted 14 days since their second Qahtani said only between Syrian expatriates attacked in Lebanon humanitarian crisis. vaccine dose or who have 1% to 2% of this category caught The Saudi-led coalition recovered from the virus will be the virus but that the majority AP — BEIRUT threats of physical violence or new mandate with a veneer of fighting the Houthis in Yemen allowed at commercial centres, had mild symptoms. confiscation of documentation legitimacy. It also comes in vio- intercepted and destroyed an with the exception of super- Of the eligible population, Groups of angry Lebanese that could lead to loss of refugee lation of UN resolutions that call explosive-laden drone markets, banks, pharmacies and 75% have received a first dose yesterday beat up Syrian expa- status, the UN refugee agency for a new constitution before a launched by the Iran-aligned hospitals. from among the four vaccines triates and refugees heading to said. presidential vote. The in-country group in the direction of the The restrictions, which on offer. the Syrian Embassy in Beirut Assad is running for a fourth vote is expected next week. Saudi border province of apply to shopping malls, res- Bahrain and the United and pelted their cars and buses seven-year term - facing sym- In Lebanon, scattered mobs, Jazan, the kingdom's state TV taurants, salons and cinemas Arab Emirates this week said with stones and sticks, outraged bolic competition from two mostly from the Christian right- said on Thursday. as well as offices providing gov- they would offer a booster shot over what they perceive as an other candidates — in a vote all wing Lebanese Forces group, This is the first cross- ernment services, will last until for China’s Sinopharm vaccine. organised vote for President but guarantees to bring him back intercepted cars and buses plas- border attack reported by the June 3. Saudi Arabia reopened its Bashar Assad. as president. The Syrian oppo- tered with pictures of Assad and coalition since a lull observed The island nation of 1.7 borders on May 17, including a Meanwhile, some Syrian sition, as well as Western and carrying Syrian voters at inter- for the Muslim Eid al Fitr million people on Wednesday highway linking the kingdom refugees reported being pres- some Arab countries see it as a sections in and around Beirut holiday on May 13. The Houthis registered 2,354 new COVID-19 with Bahrain. sured to cast their ballot with sham designed to give Assad a and in the eastern Bekaa region. did not confirm the attack. FRIDAY 21 MAY 2021 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 05 Ethiopia set to start generating power from Blue Nile dam

AP — JOHANNESBURG The $4.6bn Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is expected to Ethiopia plans to begin gener- collect 13.5 billion cubic meters of the Blue Nile River water in ating power from its contro- versial Blue Nile River dam the rainy season, swelling its reservoir to 18.4 billion cubic during the upcoming rainy meters, the ministry statement said. A power line 650km (404 season between June and miles) long has been completed to connect the electricity August, the foreign ministry generated at the dam to the country’s power grid, said the announced yesterday. statement. The $4.6bn Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is expected to collect 13.5 billion cubic meters of the Blue Nile River water in continue filling the dam this The talks with a variety of the rainy season, swelling its res- year. Egyptian officials have mediators, including the U.S. ervoir to 18.4 billion cubic said they can deal with government under the previous meters, the ministry statement shortages that may be caused Trump administration, have said. The Blue Nile, which origi- by the water filling process, failed to produce a resolution. nates in Ethiopia, is one of two according to foreign ministry Ethiopia insists the dam, major tributaries of the Nile River spokesman Dina Mufti. which it has fully financed and during the rainy season it Egypt’s Foreign Minister itself, is a crucial development contributes up to 80% of the Sameh Shoukry said his that will help pull millions of its Nile’s water. country can “deal with the nearly 110 million citizens out A power line 650km long has second filling of the Renais- of poverty and make the Libyan PM meets people been completed to connect the sance Dam through tight pro- country a major power Libyan Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibeh is seen during his visits at Bani Walid town, Libya, yesterday. electricity generated at the dam cedures in managing water exporter. Downstream Egypt, to the country’s power grid, said resources,” according to reports which depends on the Nile to the statement.The dam is now on Wednesday in Egypt’s supply fresh water to its 80% complete and is expected media. Many of Ethiopia’s social farmers and population of 100 to reach full generating capacity media users expressed support million, asserts that the dam Zimbabwe reports first case of Indian variant in 2023, making it Africa’s largest for the second round of filling poses an existential threat. It hydroelectric power plant and of the dam’s reservoir and the has said that Ethiopia is filling REUTERS — HARARE doubles as Zimbabwe’s health cost,” Chiwenga said. the world’s seventh-largest, news that it is expected to start the dam too quickly. Sudan has minister, said in a statement Travellers from India according to reports in state producing electricity this year. also voiced concern over its Zimbabwe has detected the first the cases had been detected would be subjected to a media. Ethiopia began filling the access to the Nile’s water. cases of the new coronavirus among a group of people in COVID-19 test on arrival even “Ethiopia will not tolerate dam’s reservoir last July when Negotiators have said key variant that emerged in India, the central town of Kwekwe if they have been tested in their any move that’s aimed at dis- heavy rains flooded the Blue questions remain about how Vice President Constantino after a student returned from country of origin. rupting the water filling Nile. Despite negotiations that much water Ethiopia will release Chiwenga said on Wednesday, India on April 29. Zimbabwe has recorded process, its operation and water have lasted years, Sudan, Egypt downstream if a multi-year adding that all travellers from the “People travelling from or 38,595 COVID-19 cases and releasing scheme,” the ministry and Ethiopia have failed to drought occurs and how the Asian nation would be required transiting from India will be 1,583 deaths since last year. A stated. Ethiopia welcomed a reach agreement over how to countries will resolve any future to undergo mandatory quar- subject to mandatory quar- total of 600,579 people have recent report that Egypt does share the Nile River’s water, a disputes. Ethiopia rejects binding antine. antine at a designated quar- received COVID-19 vaccines not object to the plans to lifeline for all three countries. arbitration at the final stage. Chiwenga, who also antine centre and at their own from China and India.

Ethiopia to hold First ship docks at Kenya’s Lamu deep water port delayed elections

REUTERS — NAIROBI Others were more upbeat. on June 21 “This begins to crystallise The first ship docked at Kenya’s the Lamu Port-South Sudan- REUTERS — ADDIS ABABA deep water Lamu Port Ethiopia-Transport Corridor yesterday as the country looks project, which will benefit Ethiopia’s twice-delayed to open a new transport Kenyan producers immensely,” national and regional elections corridor linking its vast said Chris Flowers, the head of will now take place on June 21, northern region and neigh- Kenyan avocado exporter but security and logistical bouring nations to the sea. Kakuzi which is already using problems will delay voting still Kenyan officials hope that the port. Kenya is building further in some areas, organ- the Indian Ocean port, the several roads from Lamu isers said yesterday. country’s second deep water towards its borders with The announcement that facility, will attract cargo des- Ethiopia and South Sudan. It officials had been unable to tined for neighbouring land- also plans to eventually build a hold voter registration in some locked nations Ethiopia and railway network and a crude oil hotspots thrusts a spotlight on South Sudan, and offer tran- pipeline to Lamu. the frequent outbreaks of shipment services where large The new corridor is unrest in parts of Africa’s vessels bring in cargo for expected to reduce pressure on second most populous nation. onward distribution by smaller the existing Mombasa-Nairobi Voting will be delayed in ships. transport corridor, which serves the Metekel zone in the The Lamu Port, which is landlocked Uganda and western Benishangul-Gumuz being built by China Commu- Rwanda. A Chinese-built region bordering Sudan, the nications Construction modern railway on that route electoral board said. The Company (CCCC), will cost $3 angered cargo operators in 2019 region is host to Ethiopia’s bn to complete over several when the government forced strategic $4bn hydropower years. It will compete with ports all importers to use it, instead dam. Metekel has seen a Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta unveils the first berth of Chinese funded Lamu Port in Lamu, in Djibouti and Sudan and of roads, to try and recoup the number of deadly clashes Kenya, yesterday. Kenya’s main port of Mombasa. cost of the investment faster. blamed on ethnic tensions; at A commissioning ceremony The construction of Lamu least 222 people were killed for the first berth was held by strategically located in the Al Shabaab militants make fre- cargo but we must be assured port was first mooted in 1972 there in December and scores Kenya’s President Uhuru Ken- middle of major shipping quent incursions against targets of security first,” Dennis but the plans lay gathering dust have been killed since. yatta yesterday. Two more routes,” Kenyatta said. on the lonely roads that cut Ombok, the CEO of Kenya in Nairobi until 2011 when Voting will also be post- berths will be completed by the There are, however, security across the jungles surrounding Transporters Association, was former President Mwai Kibaki poned in four zones in end of this year, completing the concerns given the port’s prox- Lamu. quoted as saying by the local revived them. Construction Oromiya and parts of Amhara first phase. “Lamu Port is imity to Somalia, from where “We are ready to follow the Standard newspaper. began in 2014. region around the town of Ataye, said Soleyana Shimeles, spokeswoman of Turkey bans most plastic imports as the National Electoral Board Kenya’s president names country’s of Ethiopia (NEBE). Ataye was EU trash found dumped on roadsides burned down last month and around 200 people were esti- REUTERS — ANKARA first female chief justice mated to have been killed, officials said. Greenpeace welcomed a ban by Ankara on imports of most plastic At least 358,000 people waste after the environmental group said it uncovered exports, AP — NAIROBI judiciary. Her appointment has have been displaced due to some possibly illegal, from Britain and Germany that created not been without controversy. conflict in the Shewa and “mountains” of trash in southern Turkey. Kenyan President Uhuru One of the candidates, lawyer Oromo Special Zones of The environmental group said its teams visited ten sites in Kenyatta has appointed Court Fred Ngatia, cast aspersions Amhara Region, the U.N. said Adana province and found plastic waste - most either burned or of Appeal Judge Martha Koome on how the commission last week. Ataye is in North on fire - mainly from the United Kingdom, Germany, Poland and (pictured), as the East African members chose Koome, Shewa. Voting is also delayed other EU countries. country’s first woman chief saying the process had been in seven constituencies in the The plastics were left on roadsides, in fields, or spilling into justice and head of the judi- rigged. Makau Mutua, a southeastern Somali region water sources, it said in a report published on Monday, with waste ciary. Kenyan law professor working due to complaints and irregu- from UK supermarkets and German retailers found at all sites. The announcement was in the U.S., is seeking orders larities, Soleyana said. Turkey’s trade ministry said on Tuesday it removed polyeth- made on Wednesday in a to compel the judicial com- She declined to give a full ylene plastic— used in shopping bags and many forms of pack- special Gazette Notice - an mission to release the results list of places where is polling aging - from the list of polymers allowed into the country as of official publication for notifying of each candidate in order to is delayed, saying there would July 3, formalising a ban it had been planning to introduce. the actions and decisions of the to succeed in getting a court give the selection process be an announcement soon. Environment and Urbanisation Minister Murat Kurum said government - hours after par- decision to overturn a presi- legitimacy. Voter registration had not customs would conduct constant checks to enforce the ban, which liamentary approval. dent’s election. None of the sitting Supreme been held in all these areas follows a block on mixed plastics imports. While welcoming the “In exercise powers con- Kenyatta won the second Court judges applied for the “due to security reasons,” she ban, Murat Bakan, a lawmaker from the main opposition Repub- ferred by … the constitution. I, election after the opposition position of chief justice, raising said. Those areas will hold a lican People’s Party (CHP), told Reuters it was imposed because Uhuru Kenyatta, President and boycotted participation, speculation that they were vote before a national gov- the government could not properly supervise recycling. Commander-in-Chief of the saying the electoral authority afraid to take up the mantle due ernment is formed, she added, Exporting plastic waste is illegal unless it is destined for recy- Kenya Defense Forces appoint had not implemented ade- to the pressure that Maraga without giving details. cling or incineration in an energy conversion plant. Martha Karambu Koome to be quate reforms to ensure free received following the But voting is due to go Goods made out of polyethylene - including plastic shopping the chief justice of the republic and fair polls. annulment of Kenyatta’s re- ahead in some other areas that bags - must be recycled quickly, usually within a month, oth- of Kenya,” Kenyatta’s Koome won the chief justice election. Maraga said he have seen outbreaks of vio- erwise they become non-recyclable, making them illegal if they announcement said. position over nine other candi- received death threats fol- lence, including along the are exported mixed with standard non-recyclable materials, She replaces David Maraga, dates, including some of the lowing the Supreme Court’s 4-2 border between Amhara and Greenpeace said. The group said the Turkish ban marked a mile- who made history by leading country’s most prominent decision against Kenyatta. The Oromiya, the country’s two stone. Nihan Temiz Atas, biodiversity projects lead from Green- the Supreme Court when it lawyers and academics. The Supreme Court judges failed to most populous provinces. peace Mediterranean, told Reuters it would cover 74% of the plastic annulled Kenyatta’s 2017 re- candidates were interviewed make a decision over an oppo- The government had Turkey imported last year - some 660,000 tonnes of waste - election victory citing “illegal- live on TV by the Judicial sition petition to stop the fresh already announced elections including 95% of UK imports, “That means they (Britain) have to ities and irregularities” and Service Commission in April. election after unknown would not be held in the take responsibility... and recycle their own materials,” she said. ordering a fresh election. Koome, 61, has had a dis- assailants shot and seriously northern province Tigray, A spokesman for Defra, Britain’s environmental department, Before that historic tinguished career with over 33 wounded the police officer who where the military is fighting acknowledged the country should handle more of its waste at decision, it was unprecedented years in private legal practice was the driver for the deputy a regional insurgency that home. in Africa for an opposition party and as a member of the chief justice the previous day. erupted in November. 06 ASIA FRIDAY 21 MAY 2021 N Korea strategy tops agenda at Biden-Moon summit today

BLOOMBERG — SEOUL/WASHINGTON But Pyongyang, which has publicly detail changes to its diplomatic displayed disdain for both strategy, the official said. South Korean President Moon Jae-in Instead, the US looks eager to high- is set to make a last-ditch attempt to leaders, has shown no interest in light other elements, including a push bring the US and North Korea together their diplomacy. That raises the for better collaboration amid a global under his watch when he meets Joe stakes for today's summit as semiconductor shortage, the official Biden at the White House today, trying said. Commerce Secretary Gina Rai- to revive dormant nuclear talks in his Moon tries to find fresh mondo is expected to hold a meeting final year in office. enticements to lure his neighbour with South Korean Trade Minister Yoo But Pyongyang, which has dis- back to table and the Biden Myung-hee on supply chain issues. played disdain for both leaders, has Moon is slated to attend the Medal shown no interest in their diplomacy. administration undertakes a new of Honor ceremony for Korean War That raises the stakes for today's strategy to end a nuclear veteran Ralph Puckett, Jr., becoming summit as Moon tries to find fresh program it sees as a serious the first foreign head of state to par- enticements to lure his neighbour back ticipate in the awarding of the highest to table and the Biden administration threat to America and the world. US President Joe Biden (left), and South Korean President Moon Jae-in decoration for US servicemembers. undertakes a new strategy to end a The Biden administration has indi- nuclear program it sees as a serious violence between Israel and Hamas leader Kim Jong Un at a historic 2018 the Biden administration was looking to cated it may be ready to ease some sanc- threat to America and the world. fighters in the Gaza Strip could be a summit in Singapore. Moon helped build on not only the Singapore tions in exchange for steps by Kim to A key part of Biden’s foreign policy distraction for the summit where the bring the two leaders together and has agreement, but other agreements made freeze, cap and wind down his nuclear has been turning to allies for support focus is supposed to be on North Korea. been looking for Biden’s backing of the by previous administrations. The official arsenal. That could help the North in addressing the security risks posed Moon left for the five-day visit on pact that Seoul sees as a launching said the US believed nuclear negotia- Korean leader fix an economy that has by the likes of China and North Korea, Wednesday and was expected to seek point for future discussions. tions would be challenging and Biden -- only shrunk since he took power about trying to mend relations strained by US cooperation on COVID-19 vaccines, The Singapore summit resulted in in contrast to his predecessor -- wasn’t a decade ago. Moon has said he wants his predecessor Donald Trump and aiming to step up production at home. a bare-bones declaration that included orienting his diplomatic effort around to use the final year of his single, five- placing a greater emphasis on the Indo- Biden has been looking for help from a call for the two sides “to work toward achieving a grand bargain. year term to reach an “irreversible Pacific region. The summit with Moon South Korea’s advanced semiconductor complete denuclearization of the The official, who asked not to be peace” on the Korean Peninsula, but his is emblematic of that, being Biden’s industry for chips as Washington seeks Korean Peninsula.” But the US and identified as a condition of partici- role as a bridge between the US and North second White House meeting with a to secure supply chains in its trade battles North Korea never agreed on what they pation in the briefing, sought to play Korea has waned. North Korea froze out foreign leader since coming to office, with China. In what might be a concil- meant by “denuclearisation” and the down the likelihood the meeting would Moon as talks with Trump faltered. This after an April summit with Japanese iatory gesture, the Biden adminis- accord resulted in no tangible steps for result in a splashy new North Korea month it released a 151-page photo book Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga. tration appears willing to accede to a Kim to wind down his arsenal, which announcement. While the leaders of Kim’s diplomatic achievements where But persistent troubles in the denuclearisation agreement reached only became larger and more lethal. would consult on the best path forward, Moon was conspicuously absent, despite Middle East have flared up and the between Trump and North Korean A senior US official told reporters that the White House doesn’t expect to three summits with Kim.

Malaysia sees India battles rash of another record in 'black fungus' cases virus infections and deaths hitting covid patients REUTERS — KUALA LUMPUR Malaysia reported a new daily REUTERS — BENGALURU on steroid therapy and those record in coronavirus infec- with pre-existing diabetes. tions and deaths yesterday, as India has ordered tighter surveil- “This fungal infection is the country deals with spike lance of a rare fungal disease leading to prolonged morbidity in the number and severity of hitting COVID-19 patients, offi- and mortality among COVID-19 new cases. cials said yesterday, piling patients,” he said in the letter It announced 59 COVID-19 pressure on hospitals struggling reviewed by Reuters on fatalities yesterday, a record with the world’s highest number Thursday. toll for the third day this week, of daily infections of the novel He gave no numbers of the while its 6,806 new cases was coronavirus. Mucormycosis cases nationwide the second straight day of Mucormycosis, or “black but Maharashtra, one of the states record infections. fungus” usually infects people worst hit in the second wave of The latest numbers pushed whose immune system has coronavirus infections, has Malaysia’s total cases to been compromised, causing reported 1,500 cases of it. 492,302 — the third highest in blackening or discolouration Agarwal asked state govern- Southeast Asia behind Indo- over the nose, blurred or double ments to declare it as a “notifiable nesia and the Philippines. A shepherd reacts as a healthcare worker takes a nasal swab sample from him for a coronavirus test vision, chest pain, breathing dif- disease” under the Epidemics Act, Malaysia is under a in Nawroz Baba village in central Kashmir’s Budgam district, yesterday. ficulties and coughing blood. meaning they have to identify nationwide lockdown that Doctors believe that the use and track every case. came into effect earlier this of steroids to treat severe India yesterday reported second highest after the United epidemic, with some experts S P Kalantari, a doctor month, prohibiting inter-dis- COVID-19 could be causing the 276,110 new coronavirus infec- States. Deaths rose by 3,874 saying infections and deaths based in Sevagram, a town in trict travel and shutting down rash of cases because those tions over the previous 24 overnight, taking the total tally could be five to 10 times Maharashtra, said that a team schools. It has also been under drugs reduce immunity and hours, slightly higher than a day 287,122. higher. including ear, nose, and throat a state of emergency since push up sugar levels. earlier but well below the But with hospitals and cre- The second wave has pen- surgeons, ophthalmologists and January to curb the spread of Health Secretary Lav 400,000 high seen at the matoria overflowing and the etrated deep into the coun- neurologists was needed to the virus. Officials have said Agarwal said in a letter to state beginning of this month in a health system overwhelmed, tryside and the additional treat mucormycosis. they are seeing an increasing governments that mucormy- devastating second wave. it is widely accepted that the burden of mucormycosis has hit “Unfortunately, this kind of number of serious COVID-19 cosis had emerged as a new The total caseload stands at official figures grossly under- a rural health system ill- team does not exist in rural infections in the current wave. challenge for COVID-19 patients 25.77 million, the world’s estimate the real impact of the equipped to cope. areas,” Kalantari said. The latest spike is partly due to highly infectious var- iants found in recent weeks. China, in global campaign, vaccinates its people in Thailand Pinarayi Vijayan

AP — BANGKOK Chinese citizens live in benefited from the “Spring about its people. high-end nightspots in central takes oath as chief Thailand. Sprout” vaccine program since Qin Qing, a 39-year-old real Bangkok spread rapidly as minister of Kerala Chinese citizens living in China has so far supplied it was launched in March. estate broker in Bangkok, said people were allowed to travel for second time Thailand began being vacci- millions of vaccine doses to the In downtown Bangkok, a she was a bit nervous before during a mid-April national nated yesterday as part of country, most of which Thailand Chinese volunteer with a white getting the shot and felt slightly holiday. China’s global campaign to purchased.The Thai gov- mask, transparent shield and dizzy afterward. On Thursday, health author- AGENCIES — THIRUVANANTHAPURAM inoculate its nationals living and ernment has said it will vac- blue gloves stood in front of a “I am grateful for my ities reported 2,636 new cases working abroad. cinate Thais before inoculating red banner reading “Spring country and the embassy, and and 25 deaths for a total of Pinarayi Vijayan was sworn in China recently donated most other foreigners, Sprout Action” flanked by the people who help to make it 119,585 infections and 703 deaths as the Chief Minister of 500,000 vaccine doses, and regardless of risk factors or age. flags of China and Thailand at happen, from airline staff who since the pandemic began. Of that southern Indian state of Kerala Thailand agreed in turn to inoc- Just over 2% of Thailand’s a vaccination center. fly the vaccines here to Thai number, 90,722 confirmed cases for a second time yesterday, ulate Chinese nationals as it 70 million people have received A dozen people waited to medical workers,” she said. and 609 deaths have been after guiding the CPM-led Left slowly rolls out shots for its own a first vaccine dose and about get a cursory medical check as Thailand had largely con- recorded since April 1. Democratic Front government citizens to contain a corona- 1% have received a second. The nurses, accompanied by a tained coronavirus cases last year A partial lockdown in recent to a historic second successive virus surge that has sickened government hopes to inoculate translator, gave Chinese-made by closing its borders, enforcing weeks has made limited term in the April-May election. tens of thousands in the past 70% of its people by the end of Sinovac shots in another room. mandatory quarantines and headway in containing out- Vijayan was sworn-in by two months. the year, but has been criticized “I am happy and proud to actively tracing contacts of those breaks, especially in Bangkok Governor Arif Mohammad Yang Xin, minister coun- for taking too long to start be able to get a vaccine on day found to be infected. The and in prisons. The capital has Khan in a brief ceremony con- sellor at the Chinese Embassy, vaccinating. 1 organized by my government,” measures devastated its lucrative been hit especially hard, with ducted in accordance with said Beijing’s “Spring Sprout” China’s official People’s said Zhang Xiaohong, 40, who tourism industry but kept the thousands of cases surfacing in COVID-19 protocols; the cer- program would benefit tens of Daily newspaper says more runs a logistics company in pandemic at bay, for the most slums, crowded low-income emony itself was only allowed thousands of Chinese in the than 500,000 Chinese citizens Thailand. He said he believes part, until early April. housing and camps housing after the High Court gave its country. An estimated 150,000 in more than 120 countries have the Chinese government cares Then a surge that began in construction workers. permission on Wednesday. Hong Kong court backs no-jury security law trials Thai town offers free cows REUTERS — HONG KONG anything authorities deem as saying in a written judgement are controlled by the Com- to boost vaccine drive secession, separatism, terrorism yesterday “there is nothing munist Party and conviction REUTERS — BANGKOK The first person charged under and collusion with foreign inherently unreasonable in rates are close to 100% - states the national security law in forces with up to life in prison. directing a trial by a panel of three instances where juries can A district of northern Thailand has launched a raffle campaign Hong Kong will face a trial Tong, 24, was among more three judges sitting without a be scrapped: protecting state for its vaccinated residents to win a live cow per week for the rest without jury, the city’s High than 300 demonstrators against jury, when there is a perceived secrets, cases involving foreign of the year, in a bid to boost the local COVID-19 vaccination drive. Court ruled yesterday, in a the new law who were arrested risk of the personal safety of forces and protecting the per- From next month, one lucky vaccinated villager in the Mae landmark decision which marks that day, and was charged with jurors and their family sonal safety of jurors. Chaem district of Chiang Mai province will be randomly chosen a departure from the global inciting separatism and members or that due adminis- Tong has also been every week to win a young cow worth around 10,000 baht financial hub’s common law terrorism. tration of justice might be repeatedly denied bail. Hong ($318.78). The campaign, set to run for 24 weeks, has been met traditions. In February, Secretary for impaired”. Kong’s common law has tradi- with enthusiasm in the town of 43,000 since it was announced Police say Tong Ying-kit, Justice Teresa Cheng informed Hong Kong’s Judiciary tionally allowed defendants to earlier this week. carried a sign reading “Liberate the defendant’s legal team his describes trial by jury as one of seek release unless prosecutors “Our vaccine registration numbers have gone from hundreds Hong Kong, revolution of our trial will be heard by three the most important features of can show lawful grounds for to thousands in a couple of days,” district chief Boonlue Thamtha- times,” and drove his motorbike judges appointed for national the city’s legal system, a their detention. ranurak said. “The villagers love cows. Cows can be sold for cash.” into officers during a protest on security cases, instead of a jury, common law tradition designed In another departure from More than 4,000 people in priority groups, including those July 1, knocking several down on citing “the personal safety of to offer defendants additional common law practices, the over 60 years old and those with pre-existing conditions, have the narrow street before falling jurors and their family protection against the possi- burden is now placed on the already registered for their shots, Boonlue said. over and getting arrested. members”. Tong then filed for bility of authorities over- defendant to prove they will not The town will start vaccinations on June 7, in line with the gov- It was the first day on which a judicial review of the decision. reaching their power. break the law if released on bail. ernment’s national rollout. Other provinces in Thailand have also the national security law was Judge Alex Lee at the High Article 46 of the new law - The trial is due to start on come up with creative incentives to boost registration, such as gold in force. The law punishes Court rejected the application, drafted by Beijing, where courts June 23. necklace giveaways, store discount coupons, or cash handouts. FRIDAY 21 MAY 2021 ASIA / EUROPE 07

Britons banned World’s largest iceberg from working in Singapore over breaks off from Antarctica yacht party

REUTERS — MAJORCA ISLAND The breaking off of Maryland-based US National REUTERS — SINGAPORE A-76 iceberg, which Ice Center using imagery from A giant slab of ice bigger than Copernicus Sentinel-1, con- Singapore’s manpower the Spanish island of Majorca is likely to split into sisting of two polar-orbiting ministry has banned eight has sheared off from the frozen two or three pieces satellites. Britons from working in the edge of Antarctica into the The Ronne Ice Shelf near country after they flouted its Weddell Sea, becoming the soon, is not linked the base of the Antarctic strict COVID-19 rules by largest iceberg afloat in the to climate change, Peninsula is one of the largest getting together on a yacht last world, the European Space of several enormous floating year, local media and author- Agency said yesterday. said Ted Scambos, a sheets of ice that connect to the ities said yesterday. The newly calved berg, des- research glaciologist. continent’s landmass and The eight were work visa ignated A-76 by scientists, was extend out into surrounding holders and were part of a spotted in recent satellite seas. group that gathered on the images captured by the Coper- Antarctica’s Ronne Ice Shelf, Periodic calving of large boat in December 2020, inter- nicus Sentinel-1 mission, the ranks as the largest existing chunks of those shelves is part mingling without masks at a space agency said in a iceberg on the planet, sur- of a natural cycle, and the time when social gatherings statement posted on its website passing the now second-place breaking off of A-76, which is were limited to five people, with a photo of the enormous, A-23A, about 3,380 square km likely to split into two or three The Straits Times newspaper oblong ice sheet. in size and also floating in the pieces soon, is not linked to reported. Its surface area spans 4,320 Weddell Sea. climate change, said Ted “The Ministry of Man- sq km and measures 175km long Another massive Antarctic Scambos, a research glaciologist A view of the newly calved iceberg designated A-76 by scientists, power (MOM) has permanently by 25km wide. iceberg that had threatened a at the University of Colorado at the largest currently afloat in the world according to the European banned these individuals from By comparison, Spain’s penguin-populated island off Boulder. Space Agency. working in Singapore for tourist island of Majorca in the the southern tip of South Scambos said the Ronne breaching regulations under Mediterranean occupies 3,640 America has since lost much of and another vast ice shelf, the the coast, its break-away does undergone rapid disintegration the COVID-19 (Temporary sq km. The US state of Rhode its mass and broken into pieces, Ross, have “behaved in a stable, not raise ocean levels, he told in recent years, a phenomenon Measures) Act,” the ministry Island is smaller still, with a scientists said earlier this year. quasi-periodic fashion” over the Reuters by e-mail. scientists believe may be related said in a statement. land mass of just 2,678 sq km. A-76 was first detected by past century or more. Because Some ice shelves along the to global warming, according They were also fined The enormity of A-76, the British Antarctic Survey and the ice was already floating in Antarctic peninsula, farther to the US National Snow & Ice $2,250 each. which broke away from confirmed by the the sea before dislodging from from the South Pole, have Data Center. Their work passes had earlier been canceled by their former employers, the min- istry added. China, US spar over naval activity in disputed sea In addition to the eight Britons, there was another AP — BEIJING mobilised to track and monitor operations to assert its right to statement asserts its “excessive China has fortified its island Briton and another foreigner the ship and “warned and sail in international waters. and illegitimate maritime holdings in the strategically vital aboard the same boat, who China yesterday issued its expelled it.” In its lengthy response, the claims at the expense of the South China Sea and created were banned earlier in the second protest in as many days The Paracels are also 7th fleet said the operation Southeast Asian neighbors in new island outposts by piling year for violating the same over United States naval activity claimed by Vietnam. “upheld the rights, freedoms, the South China Sea.” sand cement on coral reefs and rule, the ministry said. in the region, drawing an China accused the US of and lawful uses of the sea rec- China on Wednesday issued topping them with airstrips and The tiny island nation, unusually sharp response from increasing regional security ognised in international law by a complaint over the Wilbur’s other infrastructure. known for its no-nonsense law the US Navy’s 7th Fleet, which risks, “misunderstandings, mis- challenging the unlawful restric- passage through the Taiwan It has ignored rival terri- enforcement and widespread accused Beijing of attempting judgments, and accidents at tions on innocent passage.” Strait, also calling it a provo- torial claims by its smaller surveillance, has jailed and to assert illegitimate maritime sea.” It called the ship’s “The PLA’s statement about cation that undermined peace neighbors, including the Phil- fined several people for rights at the expense of its manoeuvres “unprofessional this mission is false. USS Curtis and stability in the region. ippines and Vietnam, as well as breaking COVID-19 rules, neighbors. and irresponsible,” saying Wilbur was not ‘expelled’ from While the strait is in interna- an international arbitral ruling while other foreigners have A statement from the Chinese forces were deter- any nation’s territory,” the tional waters, China claims self- that declared most of China’s also had their work permits Chinese People’s Liberation mined to defend the country’s statement said. “USS Curtis governing Taiwan as its own ter- claims in the South China Sea revoked. Violations of rules Army’s Southern Theater sovereign claims while main- Wilbur conducted this FONOP ritory and regards the US Navy’s invalid. can be penalised with a fine of Command said the guided taining peace and stability in the (freedom of navigation oper- presence near the island as pro- An emboldened China faced up to S$10,000 or up to six missile destroyer USS Curtis South China Sea. ation) in accordance with inter- viding support for its inde- with the scaling up of US mil- months in jail, or both. Wilbur “illegally” intruded into The US refuses to recognise national law and then con- pendence-leaning democrati- itary operations in the area has Singapore is seeing a resur- its territorial waters sur- China’s claim to virtually the tinued on to conduct normal cally elected government. increasingly raised concerns gence, with infections of rounding the Paracel island entire South China Sea and reg- operations in international Along with building the about a possible clash or con- untraceable origin rising to 48 group in the South China Sea ularly conducts what it calls waters.” world’s largest navy and coast frontation, whether intended or cases in the past week, from 10 yesterday. It said Chinese forces freedom of navigation It said that China’s guard by numbers of vessels, not. the previous week. Roadside Lithuania parliament latest to bombings in recognise Uighur ‘genocide’ Afghanistan leave REUTERS — VILNIUS occupation by a Communist 13 people dead regime for 50 years”, said The parliament in Lithuania Dovile Sakaliene, a lawmaker AP — KABUL yesterday became the latest to who has been blacklisted by describe China’s treatment of China and who sponsored the Roadside bombings in its Uighur minority as resolution. southern and central Afghan- “genocide”, voting to call for a Lithuania, which suffered istan killed 13 people, UN investigation of internment repressions under Soviet rule including nine members of one camps and to ask the European from 1940-1991, is now a family, officials said yesterday. Commission to review relations member of the EU and Nato, Meanwhile, militants stopped with Beijing. and has often taken a prom- a bus in western Afghanistan, The Biden administration inent role in pushing for ordered three men to get out in the United States has used tougher Western diplomatic and shot and killed them. the term genocide to describe lines towards Russia and Com- No one has claimed China’s actions towards the munist countries such as China. responsibility for the latest Uighurs, as have parliaments In March, Lithuania said it attacks. The three men on the in countries including Britain would open a trade represent- bus were ethnic Hazaras. The and Canada. Beijing denies ative office this year in Taiwan, government blamed the abusing minorities and has which China considers its own Taliban but previous attacks condemned countries for using territory, angering Beijing. on Hazaras have been claimed the term, which it says is moti- Rights groups, researchers, by the Islamic State group. vated by propaganda. former residents and some Large swaths of war- The non-binding reso- Western lawmakers say Soldiers in protective suits disinfect a metro station following a surge of coronavirus infections in ravaged Afghanistan have lution, supported by three fifths authorities in China’s Xinjiang Taipei, yesterday. been littered with bombs and of Lithuanian parliament province have arbitrarily land mines. Many have been members, also called on China detained around a million planted by insurgents to target Taiwan leader tests negative after COVID-19 scare to abolish a national security Uighurs and members of other military convoys but often kill law in Hong Kong, and to let primarily Muslim minorities in civilians instead. REUTERS — TAIPEI held up as an example of how her staff were immediately observers into Tibet and begin a network of camps since year One of the two bombs to stop the virus in its tracks, tested but found to be talks with its spiritual leader, 2016. struck a car carrying a family Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen Taiwan has over the past two negative. the Dalai Lama. The Chinese government of 12 in southern Helmand has tested negative for novel weeks reported a spiralling “The president is healthy Neither Prime Minister initially denied the camps province late on Wednesday, coronavirus (COVID-19) after a number of infections in the and safe, please rest assured,” Ingrida Simonyte nor Foreign existed but has since said they said provincial police worker at her residence was community, with 1,572 cases. Chang added, saying her resi- Minsiter Gabrielius Landsbergis are vocational training centres spokesman Zaman Hamdarad. confirmed to be infected, her Presidential office dence was being disinfected. participated in the vote, despite designed to combat religious Several of the nine family spokesman said yesterday, as spokesman Xavier Chang said Both the presidential office being present in the extremism. members who died were the island reported 286 new a person who helped look after and Tsai’s nearby official resi- parliament. The United States was the children, he said. domestic cases amid a spike in dogs at Tsai’s residence was dence are close to Taipei’s “We support democracy, as first country to officially declare The vehicle was travelling infections. confirmed infected on Wanhua district, one of the epi- we will never forget the cruel Chinese government of Uighur to the provincial capital of Having for months been Wednesday, and Tsai and 24 of centres of the outbreak. lesson of living under Muslims an act of “genocide.” Lashkar Gah when it struck the bomb. The Nad Ali district where the explosion occurred is under Taliban control and Trust in EU govts falls amid pandemic, steady in EU as a bloc Hamdarad said it is difficult to get information. REUTERS — BRUSSELS lockdowns began in March last After improving last purchases, saw one of the fell in Germany, the EU’s most A second roadside year. The exception was summer when the bloc biggest falls in support over the powerful member. bombing, in central Ghor European Union citizens’ Denmark, where sentiment was approved its multi-billion-euro past year, the survey found. Fourteen months after the province, destroyed a motor- support for their national steady. recovery plan, trust in the EU Denmark and Finland were first COVID-19 cases were cycle carrying a family of four, governments has fallen sharply The study also found that as an organisation fell slightly the countries with the highest recorded in the EU, Eurofound all of whom were killed, said since the COVID-19 pandemic the trust in the bloc itself was in February and March from a trust in the national warned that rising inequality the province’s governor, Abdul began, although the suprana- generally higher than for year earlier. government. and fatigue could lead to insta- Zahir Faizzada. tional bloc itself has maintained national governments even Most recently, people in The study confirmed a his- bility if more is not done to help The Taliban earlier this trust, a survey by an EU agency after sharp criticism of the exec- Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech torical trend that Europeans Europeans. week said Afghan fighter jets published yesterday showed. utive European Commission Republic, Cyprus, Greece and trust the EU as a organisation “Failing to prevent the rise bombed a health clinic in area The survey by Eurofound, over delays to COVID-19 Poland registered much lower more than their national of economic and social inequal- the insurgents control in the EU agency for improving vaccine procurement and support for their governments governments. ities among citizens and northern Baghlan province. A living and working conditions, delivery. than a year ago. Citizens in France, Hungary, member states risks ... triggering video circulated by the Taliban showed that citizens in 26 of the Eurofound said the survey Austria, whose government Malta, Portugal, Romania and political discontent against the showed a partially damaged 27 EU countries had less faith was based on three rounds of was initially praised for its han- Spain said they trusted the EU European social contract that mud and brick building, typical in their national governments polling based on an overall dling of the pandemic but then more now than at the start of binds all of us together,” the of rural Afghanistan than when COVID-19 sample of 138,629 people. faced criticism over its vaccine the pandemic, although support survey said. 08 VIEWS FRIDAY 21 MAY 2021 Qatar affirms it is making unremitting efforts Established in 1996 through mediation to resolve conflicts in Africa CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI QNA

The State of Qatar affirmed that over the EDITOR-IN-CHIEF past years it has made unremitting efforts, DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI through mediation based on the United [email protected] Nations Charter, to prevent and resolve conflicts on the African continent, in coor- dination with the Security Council. ACTING MANAGING EDITOR The State of Qatar also confirmed that MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED this came as a contribution to addressing [email protected] the root causes of conflicts and achieving security, peace and development in the African continent, and within the DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR framework of Qatar’s strategic partnership MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI with the United Nations, where Qatari dip- [email protected] lomatic mediation efforts led to the reso- lution of a number of conflicts in Africa, the latest of which was the resumption of dip- lomatic relations between the Republic of Somalia and the Republic of Kenya, in a EDITORIAL way that enhances stability on the African continent. A file photo of the Permanent Representative of Qatar to the United Nations, Ambassador This came in a statement made by Significance of product tracking Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, attending a UN meeting. Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the FOR every economy to be sustainable and experience United Nations Ambassador H E Sheikha steady growth, it must be independent and run on pol- Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, at the open continent and help it focus on imple- Programme (UNDP) and Germany to build icies tailored to its operational strength and the potential debate of the Security Council on “Peace menting the African Union’s agenda 2063 the world’s biggest and fastest information to overcome challenges. and Security in Africa: Addressing Root and the United Nations 2030 Agenda for network on developmental challenges Qatar’s manufacturing sector has witnessed steady Causes of Conflict in Post-Pandemic Sustainable Development. called the UNDP Accelerator Labs. The growth and development in recent years as the country Recovery in Africa”. The ambassador pointed out that while entity is currently active in 78 country, the diversifies from an oil-based economy. Qatar, with almost Her Excellency noted that the Security African countries are working, within the majority of which are among the slowest 1,000 running factories, now exports various goods and Councils continued consideration of means framework of the African Union, to con- growing in Africa, and aims to deal with services across several sectors. to address the root causes of conflict front the dangers of armed conflicts and developmental challenges more Pushing this drive, the Ministry of Commerce and reflects the extent of its effects on devel- the challenges of sustaining security, sta- effectively. Industry (MoCI) yesterday handed over Qatar’s first opment in its human, economic and social bility and development, the Coronavirus Sheikha Alya added that in the product tracking number to QLife Pharma Company. dimensions, and the urgent need for a (COVID-19) pandemic constituted an addi- framework of international efforts to elim- QLife Pharma obtained the first Qatari tracking comprehensive, coordinated and effective tional burden and cast its effects on life. Yet inate epidemics, QFFD and the World number, with 630, to be the first company in Qatar to response as an integrated approach to it produced additional lessons and incen- Health Organization (WHO) signed a three- receive the national tracking code. maintain international peace and security. tives towards promoting cooperation year agreement that eliminates tropical The Qatar Development Bank (QDB) also launched Sheikha Alya also indicated that the among the countries of the continent to diseases and other diseases in 49 African the Qatari Product Coding and Tracking office. Previ- African continent is rich in great and varied advance the promising African agenda and countries, benefiting close to 400 million ously, Qatari producers used tracking numbers belonging potentials, yet the exacerbation and pro- achieve comprehensive recovery, through people. Her Excellency also said that, given to foreign countries to distinguish their products. longation of the conflicts it faces casts a the development of sustainable devel- recovering from the pandemic in Africa The significance of this move cannot be understated negative shadow over its ambitious plans opment policies in its various dimensions, can only happen with the recovery of all, as it represents a drive by the country to boost the and development and humanitarian pro- and strengthening the interdependence the State of Qatar took the initiative and presence of its national products here in Qatar, in the grams, and therefore it is important for the between peacekeeping and peacebuilding offered urged medical aid to more than 78 region, and worldwide. international community to join hands to activities, in a way that contributes to countries around the world to help their Product packages contain all sorts of logos, certifi- address the root causes of conflicts on the addressing the root causes of conflict. efforts in dealing with the pandemic. The cations, claims, and machine-readable identifiers like Sheikha Alya indicated that in this total value of governmental and non-gov- barcodes and QR codes. Some have regulatory pur- context, it is the responsibility of the inter- ernmental aid reached $88 million. There poses, and some are marketing. Others are for logistical national community at the present time to was also $20 million allocated to the purposes, while some have a mix of all 3. assist African countries to strengthen their COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access The addition of batch numbers, barcodes, and relevant health systems and institutions and obtain (COVAX), in addition to QFFD signing a dates to packaging (mainly food and drinks) enables man- The Permanent Representative vaccinations, and to emphasize the impor- core contribution agreement with WHO ufacturers and relevant authorities to quickly trace their of Qatar to the United Nations tance of implementing Security Council worth $10 million, to support WHOs Thir- products wherever they are in the world in the event of a Resolution No. 2565 of February 26 teenth General Programme of Work (GPW recall. This process also helps protect supply chain integrity H E Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin regarding a ceasefire in all conflict areas in 13) and for COVID-19 response through the by rapidly identifying whether a product is a counterfeit. Coun- Said Al Thani said that, in order to provide vaccination, and support Access to COVID-19 Tools Accelerator terfeit medications, faulty medical devices, contaminated response to the challenges the COVAX facility to provide vaccines to (ACT-A). foods, and unsustainable sourcing practices threaten public the people most in need of assistance, Her Excellency said that Qatar Airways safety, waste precious natural resources, negatively impact facing less-developed based on the fact that the pandemic is a for its part repatriated 3 million people consumer confidence and destroy brand’s reputation. countries including those challenge for everyone and that the back home in addition to shipping medical Hence, being able to trace a product is not just crucial response to it must be global and with the equipment, as well as signing a Memo- for multinational brands. It’s also essential for small and on the African continent cooperation of all. randum of Understanding (MoU) with medium-sized manufacturers. Besides optimizing when it came to achieving The Permanent Representative of UNICEF to support UNICEFs Humanitarian available resources and ensuring fair and sustainable Qatar to the United Nations H E Sheikha Airfreight Initiative. Qatar Airways will also trade, traceability enables companies to regulate their sustainable development, the Alya Ahmed bin Said Al Thani said that, in ship vaccines, medicine, medical products’ carbon footprints. State of Qatar will host the response to the challenges facing less- equipment, and other supplies to ensure Through the relevant authorities, the government con- developed countries including those on the their fair and quick delivery everywhere tinues to work to enhance product safety mitigation and 5th United Nations Conference African continent when it came to including the African continent, in addition traceability efforts. Those across the industries need to on the Least Developed achieving sustainable development, the to supporting the COVAX facility. understand the direction of lot code practices and Countries, and support their State of Qatar will host the 5th United In the conclusion of the statement, Her regulations. Nations Conference on the Least Excellency stressed that the State of Qatar The Qatari Product Coding and Tracking Office invites developmental efforts for the Developed Countries, and support their will continue its partnership in the UN all Qatari companies, whether those investing in the local next 10 years, in line with developmental efforts for the next 10 years, framework to deal with the core reasons market or companies working to export their products in line with the Sustainable Development leading to conflicts, and will honor its com- abroad, to submit their requests to obtain a national tracking the Sustainable Development Agenda 2030. There is also cooperation mitments aiming to maintain peace and number for their products starting from May 23, 2021. Agenda 2030. between Qatar Fund for Development security in the African continent and the (QFFD) and United Nations Development world. Strong-performing companies should invest in growth areas to boost GDP D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR contraction since the end of accounts for a large number of more than 40% of the popu- EMAIL: [email protected] JAPAN NEWS - YOMIURI Word War II. Thorough jobs. The average unem- lation has received at least one The preliminary report on real measures to curb the spread of ployment rate in fiscal 2020 vaccine dose, real GDP grew by EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 gross domestic product for the the coronavirus inevitably hurt rose 0.6 percentage point from an annualized 6.4% in the Jan- FAX: +974 4455 7758 January-March quarter indicated the economy, but the impact the previous fiscal year to 2.9%, uary-March period, partly due MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 an annualized 5.1% decline from must be minimized. Personal the first rise in 11 years. to the effects of large-scale fiscal the previous quarter. Japan's consumption in the January- This is less severe than the spending measures. In Britain as DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 GDP contracted for the first time March quarter fell by 1.4% from rate seen after the collapse of well, consumption of clothing in three quarters since April-June the previous quarter. The main Lehman Brothers, which topped and other goods is recovering LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 of last year. A drop in personal reason for the decline was 5%, thanks to policy measures rapidly, according to the report. BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 consumption, which accounts for sluggish consumption of such as the expansion of Around the world, the more than 50% of GDP, dealt a services such as dining out. Cor- employment adjustment sub- progress of vaccinations is SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 blow to the economy due to porate capital investment fell by sidies. However, the government directly linked to economic people refraining from going out, 1.4% from the previous quarter declared a third state of emer- recovery. ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 and eating and drinking estab- due to sluggish growth in tele- gency in April, and its impact has Distributing the vaccine email: [email protected] lishments shortening their communications equipment been prolonged. There is fear widely to the public as soon as business hours under a state of and automobiles. Not just con- that companies will not be able possible is the best medicine for PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 email: [email protected] emergency for the coronavirus sumption but overall domestic to sustain their employment. the economy. Corporate pandemic. demand may have collapsed. It is essential for the gov- investment is also important. MARKETING: TEL: 4455 7657 GDP for fiscal 2020, which On the other hand, exports ernment to pay closer attention Many companies such as those email: [email protected] ended in March, also shrank a showed robust 2.3% growth, to the employment situation in the automobile and elec- real 4.6% from the previous reflecting a recovery of overseas and continue providing tronics industries are improving ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 857 fiscal year, surpassing the 3.6% economies. Exports of elec- thorough and well-tailored their performance. They should FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] decline seen in fiscal 2008 tronic parts, among others, have support. To revive consumption, promote investment in growth CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 when the global economy was increased, the report said. the government needs to speed in areas such as digitization and email: [email protected] hit by the crisis triggered by the The impact on employment up vaccinations against the the elimination of greenhouse collapse of US investment bank is a major cause for concern coronavirus, an effort that has gas emissions through decar- SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 Lehman Brothers. Fiscal 2020 because the service industry, been stuck in a bottleneck. bonization. It is hoped that such FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected] saw the sharpest annual which has fallen into dire straits, In the United States, where investments will create new jobs.

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar If the leaders of Russia and /ThePeninsulaQatar the United States can work /Peninsula_Qatar cooperatively, the world will be a safer place. /ThePeninsulaNewspaper Antony Blinken, US Secretary of State +974 6698 6188 FRIDAY 21 MAY 2021 EUROPE 09 Blinken, Lavrov agree to work together despite differences

REUTERS — REYKJAVIK “We think that’s good for our Blinken said the two countries could people, good for the Russian people Top diplomats from the Biden admin- work together on tackling the and indeed good for the world,” istration and Russia in their first Blinken said. in-person meeting on Wednesday coronavirus pandemic, combating The pair also discussed cyber stressed that the former Cold War foes climate change, dealing with Iran and security and Russia’s troop movements have serious differences in how they North Korea’s nuclear programmes, on its border with Ukraine, issues that view world affairs but struck an opti- and the war in Afghanistan. have tested the already fraught ties this mistic tone for the talks, saying the two year, senior State Department officials sides can still find ways to work told reporters. They repeatedly insisted together. that the meeting was “table setting” for US Secretary of State Antony spheres where our interests collide.” future talks. Blinken met with Russian Foreign Min- Senior US State Department offi- Wednesday’s meeting, the first ister Sergei Lavrov, a veteran diplomat, cials said there were no breakthroughs high-level, in-person discussion and said it was “no secret that we have in the meeting, but described it as a between the Biden administration and our differences” and that Washington “good start” to work on relations a Russian counterpart, lasted one hour US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (left) greets Russian Foreign Minister Sergey would respond to aggressive acts by between the two countries in “weeks, and 45 minutes, longer than the Lavrov as they arrive for a meeting at the Harpa Concert Hall, on the sidelines of Russia, but the world would be safer if months and years to come.” Blinken expected one hour. the Arctic Council Ministerial summit, in Reykjavik, Iceland. the two countries’ leaders worked said Biden wanted “a predictable, Lavrov told Russian state media the together. stable relationship with Russia” and talks were “constructive” and that Lavrov, speaking through an inter- said the two countries could work Russia was ready to discuss all issues Russian President Vladimir Putin, bility” would be discussed. preter at the opening of the meeting in together on tackling the coronavirus between the two countries “on the Lavrov said. Blinken pushed for Russia to Reykjavik on the sidelines of an Arctic pandemic, combating climate change, basis of mutual respect.” State Department officials referred release US citizens Paul Whelan and Council meeting, said Russia and the dealing with Iran and North Korea’s The two diplomats would prepare questions about a presidential meeting Trevor Reed and raised the health of United States have “serious differ- nuclear programmes, and the war in proposals for a possible meeting to the White House, but said there was detained Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, ences” but have to cooperate “in Afghanistan. between US President Joe Biden and acknowledgment that “strategic sta- US officials said. Merkel: Germany to discuss common ground on Russia with US Hungary has opted out of new AP — BERLIN Russia’s influence and poses where we have dif- Biden will soon see each other risks to Ukraine and Poland in ferent views but at Group of Seven and Nato EU vaccine deal Chancellor Angela Merkel said bypassing both countries. where we will now meetings. yesterday that Germany will On Wednesday, the Biden talk further about She noted that she and with Pfizer discuss “necessary common administration imposed sanc- what the necessary Armin Laschet, her party’s can- REUTERS — BRUSSELS/ ground” with the US on rela- tions on Russian companies and common ground is in didate to succeed her after Ger- BUDAPEST tions with Russia after President ships for their work on the the relationship with many’s September 26 election, Joe Biden opted not to punish pipeline, but Biden angered Russia.” Speaking at advocate sticking to pledges to Hungary is the only European the company overseeing a many Democratic and Repub- an event organised raise Germany’s defense Union country that has Russia-Germany pipeline lican lawmakers by opting not by German broad- spending. decided to opt out of a new project that Washington to punish Nord Stream 2 AG, the caster WDR in Berlin, “We will have to speak vaccine deal the bloc has opposes. company overseeing the she didn’t elaborate about Russia and Ukraine signed with Pfizer and The Nord Stream 2 pipeline project. on that common policy, and of course about BioNTech for the supply of up German Chancellor Angela Merkel looks on has been an irritant in relations Waiving penalties regarding ground. China policy,” she said. to 1.8 billion doses of their during an official ceremony in Berlin, yesterday. between the US and Germany ally Germany was “in line with Asked what “But this isn’t measured in COVID-19 jab, an EU for years. Washington, which our commitment to strengthen Biden will get from millimeters and grammes — spokesman said. has battled to block it, argues our Transatlantic relationships Merkel said yesterday that Germany or Europe for waiving partnerships are based on trying The Commission yesterday that the pipeline — now 95% as a matter of national security,” “President Biden has now taken sanctions, Merkel replied: to react to the other’s thought confirmed the new deal, the complete — threatens European US Secretary of State Antony a step toward us in connection “Look, that’s not how it works.” processes and positions in order third it has signed with the two energy security, heightens Blinken said in a statement. with the Nord Stream 2 conflict, Merkel added that she and to find good compromises.” companies, for the possible purchase of up to 1.8 billion doses until 2023, following 600 million doses ordered via Current vaccines appear the two previous contracts. “Hungary opted out of the protective against variants: WHO Pfizer deal,” the EU spokesman said yesterday. REUTERS — LONDON “All COVID-19 virus variants that Gergely Gulyas, Prime have emerged so far do respond to the Minister Viktor Orban’s chief COVID-19 vaccines currently being available, approved vaccines,” Kluge told of staff, confirmed that deployed in the fight against the a media briefing. Hungary had decided not to pandemic in Europe appear able to Countries across Europe are rolling be part of the joint purchase, protect against all variants that are out vaccines from several drugmakers, expressing confidence in the circulating and causing concern, the including Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca country’s current supply of World Health Organization’s regional and Johnson & Johnson. vaccines. director said yesterday. Since the latest concerning variant, Gulyas added that Hungary Hans Kluge said health authorities known as B.1.617, was first identified in would also refrain from buying should remain vigilant on the rising India, it has spread to at least 26 coun- other vaccines through the EU number of cases in the region of tries out of the 53 in the WHO’s European procurement scheme. Palestine solidarity show in UK COVID-19 caused by a variant that Region, Kluge said - “from Austria, to “Hungary would not like to emerged in India, but stressed that vac- Greece, Israel to Kyrgyzstan”. “We are take part in the next chapter People display a Palestinian flag amid the ongoing hostilities between Israel and cination and infection control measures still learning about the new variant, but of Brussels’s vaccine purchase Palestinians, at Elbit Factory in Leicester, Britain. would help prevent its spread. it is able to spread rapidly,” he said. program,” he told a news con- ference on Thursday. Even if a booster was Prince William needed, “there are plenty of Sarkozy goes on trial over 2012 campaign financing vaccines from Eastern and receives first Western sources as well,” he AP — PARIS Sarkozy wasn’t present yes- French law since 1990 has The investigation did not said. dose of COVID-19 terday at the Paris court, where strictly limited political cam- establish whether Sarkozy Orban has cultivated The trial of former French Pres- he was represented by his paign spending. allegedly participated in trying strong ties with Russia and vaccine ident Nicolas Sarkozy on lawyers. The trial is scheduled According to the judicial to cover up the overspending, China, and Hungary has charges that his unsuccessful to last until June 22. investigation in his case, which included forging authorised and deployed AP — LONDON 2012 reelection bid was illegally Sarkozy, who was president Sarkozy “indisputably benefited invoices, or ordered fraudulent Russian and Chinese shots financed formally started from 2007 to 2012, faces up to from fraud that allowed him to actions himself. before their approval by the Prince William said yesterday. The scandal had one year in prison and a fine of have, during his 2012 campaign, In addition to the former EU drugs regulator -- the only yesterday he has received thrown his conservative party ¤3,750 ($4,580), if found guilty. resources much superior to president, 12 other people and European Union country to do his first dose of COVID-19 into turmoil. The proceedings got what the law authorized.” An the company in charge of so. vaccine as Britain’s National Sarkozy, 66, is facing alle- underway less than three investigative magistrate con- organizing the campaign rallies In March, the government Health Service expands it gations that he spent almost months after Sarkozy was con- cluded that Sarkozy and his are facing trial on charges that suggested Russian and Chinese inoculation program to twice the maximum legal victed of corruption and close entourage decided to hold include forgery, breach of trust, COVID-19 vaccines were more younger people. amount of ¤22.5m ($27.5m) on influence peddling in another “spectacular and expensive fraud and complicity in illegal effective than Western ones, William, 38, received his the presidential race he lost to case. He has appealed that rallies.” The campaign’s total campaign financing. Sarkozy prompting an outcry from shot at London’s Science Socialist Francois Hollande. He verdict. cost allegedly reached at least has denied that illegal money Hungarian scientists and Museum, one of the large- has denied wrongdoing. Following several scandals, ¤42.8m ($52m). financed his campaign. doctors. scale vaccination centers opened around the country. A photo of the prince receiving his shot was posted Spain: Stream of migrants stops on his social media account. “On Tuesday, I received as Morocco beefs up security my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine,’’ he wrote. “To all AP — CEUTA, SPAIN street. The police moved back but those working on the vaccine later dispersed the group. rollout - thank you for every- Authorities in Ceuta, the Spanish In previous days, the border thing you’ve done and con- enclave at the centre of a human- between Morocco and Ceuta tinue to do.” itarian crisis and a diplomatic became porous following warnings Britain last week opened dispute between Morocco and from the Moroccan government to its national vaccination Spain, said yesterday that no Spain that it would face conse- program to anyone over the migrants crossed overnight into the quences over Madrid’s decision to age of 34. The program has city after security forces in the provide coronavirus treatment to been gradually expanded to neighbouring north African the head of a militant group fighting progressively younger age kingdom tightened the shared for the independence of the groups since it began in early border. Western Sahara region annexed by December. Security forces clashed well into Rabat. Other members of the the night with dozens of mostly Brahim Ghali, head of the royal family, including Queen young men who had gathered in Polisario Front, flew into Spain in Elizabeth II and Prince Fnideq, the Moroccan town across mid-April with an Algerian passport Charles, have also received the border from Ceuta, hoping to that had a false identity. their shots publicly to follow the thousands who reached Spanish Defence Minister Mar- promote vaccine take-up. European soil in previous days. garita Robles yesterday said that More than 70% of Britain’s Barcelona cabbies protest The scuffles broke out when the country won’t accept being adults have received at least police tried to break up the groups pressured with “the use of minors.” Taxi drivers protest against the regulation of VTC cars (Uber and Cabify) in Barcelona, yesterday. one dose of COVID-19 of people who had gathered and “We are not going to accept being vaccine. set fire to a barricade blocking the blackmailed,” 10 AMERICAS FRIDAY 21 MAY 2021 35 Republicans buck Trump, back probe into Capitol riot

AP — WASHINGTON was Rep. Greg Pence. His The 35 defectors brother, former vice-president Thirty-five House Republicans represented a relatively Mike Pence, was in the Capitol joined Democrats in voting to during the attack and was create a bipartisan commission modest but significant hustled to safety by security to investigate the January 6 slice of House Republicans, officers even as some in the attack on the Capitol, risking of whom 175 opposed the pro-Trump mob were heard the wrath of former president legislation. shouting “Hang Mike Pence.” Donald Trump and flouting Trump had turned on his vice- GOP leaders who condemned president for not derailing Con- the proposal as unfairly par- attack while leaders tried to gress’ counting of the votes, tisan and unneeded. avoid enraging the former pres- which Pence did not have the The Republican mavericks ident, whose support they constitutional power to do. were led on Wednesday by New believe they’ll need to win A moderate and former York Rep. John Katko, who House control in the 2022 prosecutor, Katko defended the wrote the measure with elections. proposed commission as a fair Homeland Security Committee All 10 Republicans who and needed step toward under- Chairman Bennie Thompson. voted in January to impeach standing the riot, how it hap- People take part in a protest demanding government action to tackle poverty, police violence and Katko, that panel’s top Repub- Trump for encouraging his sup- pened and what security inequalities in healthcare and education systems, in Cali, Colombia, on Wednesday. lican, was battling two tides that porters to storm the Capitol improvements the Capitol have overwhelmed Congress supported the commission. needs to prevent a future in recent years: the nearly over- Most of the 35 Republicans assault. whelming potency Trump still backing the commission were Two other Republicans Pressured by protests, Colombian has among Republicans and a moderates. spoke in favour of the legis- jagged-edged partisanship that The 10 who backed lation: Fred Upton and Peter often confounds even mundane impeachment included Katko Meijer of Michigan. The two had lawmakers vote down health reform legislation. and Rep. Liz Cheney, Trump’s also voted to impeach Trump. “I encourage all members, most prominent House GOP Meijer, a freshman, said the AP — BUCARAMANGA, COLOMBIA coronavirus pandemic, which prevention. “The people’s Republicans and Democrats critic. She did not speak during attack occurred “with the has infected more than 3 struggle in the streets against alike, to put down their swords Wednesday’s debate, but after encouragement of prominent Colombian lawmakers voted million people in the South years and years of injustice has for once, just for once, and the vote she tweeted a message elected officials.” against a health system American country and caused achieved the shelving of a support this bill,” Katko said urging the Senate to approve Other Republicans backing overhaul bill on Wednesday, 82,000 deaths. reform that would have before the House approved the the commission, saying, “Some the commission included Reps. giving protesters another Critics of the bill said it destroyed health as a right and measure. things must be above politics.” Adam Kinzinger of Illinois , and victory after 20 days of street could lead to health care commercialized it even more The 35 defectors repre- The vote came a week after her Stephanie Bice, president of the demonstrations that have left monopolies by strengthening in favor of a few,” leftist Sen. sented a relatively modest but colleagues dumped her from a House GOP freshman class. dozens dead and forced the the role of private “health pro- Alexander López said on significant slice of House Republican leadership position The Democratic-run House government to retreat on tax motion companies,” which Twitter after the vote by Senate Republicans, of whom 175 for repeatedly criticizing Trump approved the measure 252-175 reform. administer resources and con- and House of Representatives opposed the legislation. Their for his role in the attack and his and sent it to the Senate, where Health Minister Fernando tract services, and by allowing committees. The protests began defiance underscored the false claims that he lost the Democrats face an uphill fight Ruiz defended the proposal, mergers in some cases of with anger over a now-with- party’s rift as some lawmakers election because of widespread to garner at least 10 Republican saying it would give the health private health providers with drawn tax restructuring that supported an investigation of voting fraud. “yes” votes they will need to care system the tools needed to public hospitals. It would have would have raised levies during the shocking and violent Capitol Opposing the commission prevail. deal with emergencies like the also increased focus on disease the pandemic.

Brazil drugmaker Sanders moves resolution blocking arms sales to Israel produces first REUTERS — WASHINGTON US-made bombs are devas- $735m in weapons to Israel this Sanders, a former can- and Rashida Tlaib, which has tating Gaza, and killing women year, and sent it to Congress for didate for Democratic presi- at least six other co-sponsors, batch of Russia's US Senator Bernie Sanders and children, we cannot simply formal review. dential nomination, said Amer- including some of the most introduced a resolution let another huge arms sale go The clashes have prompted icans need to take a “hard look” left-leaning Democrats in the Sputnik vaccine blocking a $735m weapons sale through without even a con- calls from some lawmakers for at whether the weapons sales House. to Israel yesterday, mirroring gressional debate,” said a more concerted US effort to fuel conflict between Israel and The measures were REUTERS — GUARULHOS, BRAZIL a symbolic action by the House Sanders, an independent who stop the violence, including Palestinians. unlikely to pass in either the of Representatives in response votes with Democrats. Israeli air strikes that have His resolution follows a House or Senate, where bipar- Brazilian pharmaceutical to conflict between Israel and Democratic President Joe killed dozens of civilians, most measure introduced by US tisan support for arms sales for company União Quimica Gaza’s Hamas leaders. Biden’s administration of them Palestinians in the Representatives Alexandria Israel has traditionally been completed production of its “At a moment when approved the potential sale of besieged Gaza Strip. Ocasio-Cortez, Mark Pocan strong. first batch of the Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine with active ingredients and tech- Venezuelans tied nology supplied by Russia, the Some US states forbid mask mandates in schools company said yesterday. to anti-Maduro REUTERS — WASHINGTON The vaccine will be “The state of Iowa is in schools, medical settings and wear them if they cannot dis- exported to neighbouring plot sentenced to putting parents back in control public transit. tance themselves from others. countries in South America, Iowa joined a handful of other of their child’s education and The decision by Texas, Those states also have not since Brazil has not yet 6 years in prison US states yesterday in passing taking greater steps to protect Florida and Iowa to ignore stopped individual businesses approved the Russian shot for a law that forbids cities, the rights of all Iowans to make some of the guidance comes from requiring visitors to wear domestic use. AP — MIAMI counties and local school their own healthcare deci- after a year in which many masks. Moscow’s Gamaleya districts from requiring people sions,” Reynolds said in a conservative political leaders In his Tuesday executive Institute, which developed the A judge in Colombia has to wear face masks that protect statement. have cast mask mandates as order, Texas Governor Greg vaccine, said it had seen to sentenced three Venezuelan against the spread of the coro- A week ago, the US Centers an erosion of individual liberty Abbott said schools must scrap quality control of the vaccine men to six years in prison for navirus. for Disease Control and Pre- rather than a public health any mask requirements by ingredients, which were put helping organise an ill- Governor Kim Reynolds, a vention (CDC) said people vac- issue. June 4. However, public hos- into vials and packaged for conceived plot to remove Republican, signed the cinated against COVID-19 no Some Democrat-led states, pitals and state jails may still shipping — a process known President Nicolás Maduro measure into law just hours longer need to wear a mask in such as New York and Con- impose mask requirements, as fill and finish — at the União involving former American after it was approved by the most settings because the necticut, have adopted the CDC the order said. On Wednesday, Quimica plant in Guarulhos, Green Berets. state legislature. Texas and chance of them catching or advice and said vaccinated the Utah legislature passed a just outside the city of São The sentence handed Florida, which also have transmitting the airborne coro- people are no longer bound by bill forbidding public schools Paulo. down late Tuesday was the Republican governors, have navirus is so low. But it still mask mandates, though and state universities from The factory’s first batch of minimum allowed for the passed similar measures. advised face coverings be worn unvaccinated people must still requiring masks. 100,000 doses were packed crimes, according to an into boxes labelled in Spanish, attorney for the three co- although the countries defendants who spoke on receiving them have not been Wednesday. Six dead in Guatemala decided yet by the Russian In March, the men pleaded Direct Investment Fund guilty to working alongside prison riot, fighting (RDIF), executives said. Jordan Goudreau, a former US Approval of the vaccine by Green Beret and Iraq war AP — GUATEMALA CITY Brazilian health regulator veteran, in organising a rag tag Anvisa has been delayed after army of a few dozen Vene- Rioting and fighting among inmates at a prison in the agency took issue with zuelan military deserters western Guatemala caused the deaths of at least some documents and missing intent on overthrowing Ven- six prisoners, police said on Wednesday. trial data that the RDIF, which ezuela’s socialist leadership. Authorities said the violence at the prison in is marketing the shot, has been Plans included raiding military Quetzaltenango province, which holds 2,250 pris- asked to provide. installations as well as the oners, broke out after visiting hours ended late RDIF said it has signed presidential palace. Tuesday. production contracts for The so-called Operation Photographs from the scene showed several Sputnik V with 20 manufac- Gideon ended with six insur- bodies had been dismembered and then dragged turing sites in India, Argentina, gents dead and two of along the floor, leaving trails of blood. It was not South Korea, China, Italy, Goudreau’s former Special clear whether authorities had regained control of Serbia, Egypt, Turkey, Belarus Forces buddies behind bars in the facility. It is not the first time there have been and Kazakhstan. Caracas. But the plot really deadly riots at Guatemala’s crowded, antiquated So far, the vaccine has never stood a chance of suc- prisons. In 2019, a riot at the Pavon Rehabilitation already been produced in Police officers enter a prison after a riot broke out at the facility, in the municipality ceeding against Maduro’s loyal Model Farm east of Guatemala City left at least Russia, Serbia, Turkey, Egypt of Cantel, in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, on Wednesday. and heavily armed military seven inmates dead and 10 wounded. and Argentina. after having been thoroughly infiltrated months earlier. Two of the men sentenced on Tuesday, National Guard Former health minister shields Bolsonaro in COVID-19 inquiry Maj. Juvenal Sequea and Juven Sequea, are the older brothers REUTERS — BRASILIA given through April. But the Pazuello, a three-star general the time, Pazuello said in a China. Pazuello resigned in of the confessed commander government’s use of the vaccine in active duty, told a Senate video with Bolsonaro at his side: March in the face of mounting of the failed May 3 incursion, Former health minister Eduardo was long in doubt. commission investigating the “One orders, the other obeys.” criticism over the lack of vac- Capt. Antonio Sequea, who is Pazuello denied on Wednesday Last year, Bolsonaro dis- handling of the pandemic in Ideologically motivated attacks cines. More than 435,000 Bra- jailed in the Venezuelan that Brazil’s far-right President paraged the shot due to its Brazil and the slow ramp up of on China by Bolsonaro and zilians have died of COVID-19. capital of Caracas. The third Jair Bolsonaro had overturned “origins” and publicly clashed the nation’s inoculation members of his inner circle Just one in eight Brazilian adults person, Rayder Russo, has long his efforts to buy the COVID-19 with Sao Paulo Governor Joao campaign. have soured diplomatic rela- have been fully vaccinated. sought Maduro’s armed vaccine made by China’s Doria, a political rival respon- Senators reminded the tions despite the Asian nation’s The parliamentary inquiry overthrow. Sinovac Biotech Ltd. sible for the partnership making general that he had announced role as top trade partner. is expected to damage Bol- As part of the plea bargain The vaccine has become the finished doses of the Chinese plans to buy the Chinese Production of both the sonaro’s political standing agreement reached in March backbone of immunisation vaccine at the Butantan medical vaccine in October, only to Sinovac vaccine and the Astra- ahead of next year’s elections the men accepted a single efforts in Brazil as it fights the center. reverse himself after Bolsonaro Zeneca shot, finished in Brazil by highlighting how he played charge of providing logistical world’s second-deadliest coro- “The president never told dismissed the idea publicly the with Chinese ingredients, has down the virus and missed support to an illegal armed navirus outbreak, accounting me to undo any contract or next day. sputtered in recent months due opportunities to ensure timely group. for five out of every six shots agreement with Butantan,” Asked about the dust-up at to delayed shipments from vaccine supplies. Business 11

FRIDAY 21 MAY 2021 Turkish economic growth to exceed expectations in 2021 Turkey is looking at 2021 as the year when the world will win the fight against the pandemic and the nation’s economy will make unprecedented growth.

Mustafa Varank Turkey's Industry Minister Business | 13 QSE 10,695.05 -38.57 (0.36%) FTSE 100 7,005.59 +55.39 (0.80%) DOW 34,071.86 +175.82 (0.52%) BRENT $66.31 (-0.32)

Natural gas a vital QST to host Angel Investor Bootcamp

THE PENINSULA — DOHA element in mission In line with QDB’s Qatar SportsTech (QST), a leading mission to develop, grow startup accelerator founded by and diversify Qatar’s net zero: GECF Qatar Development Bank (QDB), private sector, QST has announced the opening of initiated this bootcamp applications for an Angel Investor THE PENINSULA — DOHA Bootcamp to be held virtually on to further enhance May 24 and May 25, 2021. sportstech startups in The Gas Exporting Countries In line with QDB’s mission to country by empowering Innovation in SportsTech’, where raise capital. Investors will be able Forum (GECF), as an intergov- develop, grow and diversify investors and driving esteemed industry experts from to watch notable members from ernmental coalition of 19 of the Qatar’s private sector, QST ini- interest towards rapidly Qatar and the region will discuss QST’s alumni network and current world’s leading gas producers tiated this bootcamp to further the role of technology in trans- cohort pitch and can make their together representing 70 enhance sportstech startups in the growing industry. forming the world of sports and first investment in QST’s startups. percent of the proven natural country by empowering investors how heavy investments are fos- The ever-expanding Qatar gas reserves, 52 percent of gas and driving interest towards the investors interested in the sport- tering innovation in the sportstech Sportstech portfolio comprises pipeline, and 51 percent of LNG rapidly growing industry. QDB is stech industry with QST support industry. This will be followed by successful and innovative startups exports, echoes the Interna- committed to strengthening the and access to its sportstech a workshop, conducted by David with a global reach, including tional Energy Agency (IEA)’s economy of innovation, startups base. The purpose of the Stern, a renowned angel investor ComeTogether, who have sold recent report ‘Net Zero by rewarding its talents, and multi- two-day long bootcamp is to help experienced with sports and their blockchain-powered tick- 2050’. plying the number of stakeholders local and international industry sportstech industries, which will eting system to major live festivals The GECF is convinced that only approach to achieve to foster innovation, and help the experts learn how to invest in offer participants insights on angel and created a HealthPassport app natural gas, as an abundant, energy market stability, most promising startups reach startups and kick off their investment, the sportstech market to help the Greek government affordable and clean hydro- responsible and inclusive eco- their potential, achieving the goals investment journey with QST. The and its main players and chal- combat the COVID-19 pandemic carbon source, has a central nomic growth, as well as sus- of Qatar National Vision 2030. bootcamp will also bring lenges and where the facilitators and allow individuals to safely go role to play in the energy tran- tainable development goals is QST is powered by Startup- esteemed local and international will share their own experiences, back to events; FATE Esports who sition while simultaneously to consider natural gas as a bootcamp, and supported by the angel investors into the QST providing a hands-on approach is working with Uber Eats Inter- supporting progress on several destination fuel that will always Supreme Committee for Delivery network, providing them with an to angel investors in sportstech. national gaming tournament sustainable development be an essential element in and Legacy, Qatar Stars League, opportunity to meet and collab- The second day of the “eLigue 1” that will be taking place dimensions including the achieving a lower-carbon beIN Media Group, MBK Holding, orate with the startups under bootcamp will serve as a net- in Qatar, Brazil, Japan, Ivory Coast, guardianship of ecosystems, energy system. Aspire Zone Foundation, Qatar Qatar SportsTech umbrella. working platform for sportstech Morocco and the United States; human health, and the It is obvious that the Financial Centre, and the Ministry The first day of the bootcamp investment professionals and will GYMCraft, already valued at over economy. structure of the energy mix is of Commerce and Industry. will launch with a virtual panel facilitate the encounters between $7.3m and partnering with inter- In fact, our member coun- becoming more diversified The Angel Investor bootcamp discussion at 18:00 Doha time on potential investors and startups national conglomerates Samsung tries are already demonstrating thanks to the expansion of will educate new and seasoned May 24, titled ‘Investment and from QST’s portfolio seeking to and Precor; and Sponix. their manifold commitment to renewables. However, fossil environmental stewardship by fuels are projected to remain reducing emissions from their dominant, accounting for 71% own operations and wherever in 2050. According to the latest they hold equity to accelerate GECF estimates natural gas will Microsoft to unplug Internet Explorer decarbonisation. become the leading source in The GECF’s in-house the global energy mix by mid- REUTERS — BENGALURU developed Reference Case Sce- century, increasing its share nario (RCS) implies a realistic from 23% today to 28%. Microsoft is pulling the plug approach when it comes to The GECF believes in the on its once omnipresent governments – including some right of countries, particularly browser, Internet Explorer, of the most energy-poor the developing economies, to next year as it prepares to nations – increasing their have access to abundant, battle market leader Chrome ambitions from current affordable and clean source of with its slicker Edge browser. Nationally Determined Contri- energy. We don’t condone Launched in 1995, Internet butions (NDCs) and net zero restriction of policies on Explorer became the dominant pledges. The RCS takes into upstream development and browser for over a decade as account adopted and directing investment resources it was bundled with Micro- announced national energy instead towards expensive soft’s Windows operating policies, while building its long- decarbonisation options and system that came pre-installed term assumptions, based on technologies, some of which in billions of computers. pragmatic assessment of pol- are yet to be proven. The browser, however, icies’ implementation as well For the time being, it is started losing out to Google’s General view of Microsoft Corporation headquarters at Issy-les-Moulineaux, near Paris, France. as progress in technologies that widely recognised that the net Chrome in the late 2000s and support carbon mitigation. zero pathways rely on technol- has become a subject of Google browser. 3 percent share, while Internet and more secure Microsoft Based on the latest esti- ogies which are not currently countless internet memes for As of April, Chrome has a Explorer has a miniscule share Edge. mates in the GECF RCS, global available in the market. This its sluggishness in comparison 65 percent share of the global of the market it once “Internet Explorer 11 primary energy demand is pro- technology challenge is further to its rivals. browser market, followed by dominated. desktop application will be jected to increase by 24% over exacerbated when considering To compete better, Apple’s Safari, with an 18 The Windows software retired and go out of support the next three decades, boosted the developing countries that Microsoft launched the Edge percent share, according to maker said on Wednesday the on June 15, 2022, for certain by cumulative economic and have no access to technologies browser in 2015 that runs on web analytics firm Stat- future of Internet Explorer on versions of Windows 10,” the population growth drivers. The and financial resources. `P12 the same technology as the counter. Microsoft Edge has a Windows 10 was in its faster company said in a blog post. Google plans to open first physical IMF studying Tunisian economic reform REUTERS — WASHINGTON Tunisia, which has seen its store in New York this summer debt burden rise and economy The International Monetary shrink by 8.8 percent, with the REUTERS — BENGALURU Fund said yesterday it is in fiscal deficit at 11.4 percent, is close contact with Tunisian also in talks with other Alphabet’s Google said authorities to understand the potential lenders, including yesterday it would open its first technical details of their Qatar, to help finance the state physical store in New York City economic reform plans, a key budget. this summer, mirroring a retail step toward Tunisia’s request Meanwhile, IMF lauded approach that has helped Apple for an IMF financing program. Germany for excellent crisis rake in billions of dollars in the “We stand ready to resonse. It said Germany has last two decades. support Tunisia and its people made "excellent use" of its The Google store will be to cope with the challenges spending power with unprec- located in the city’s Chelsea they’re facing, including the edented support measures to neighborhood near its New impact of COVID, and to get are currently focused on fight the COVID-19 pandemic. York City campus, which back on the path of an understanding the details of "While the pace of mass vac- houses over 11,000 employees. inclusive, job-rich recovery this plan,” he said. cinations is picking up, the Google, which has set up and to restore sustainable Rice gave no timetable for recovery path remains pop-up stores in the past to finances,” IMF spokesman completing that assessment uncertain and beset with promote its products, said it Gerry Rice (pictured) told a and did not comment on the risks," the IMF said in its latest would sell Pixel smartphones, regular briefing. possible size of an IMF country report on Germany. Pixelbooks and Fitbit fitness The logo of Google is seen at the high profile startups and high Rice said the IMF had program. "On the other hand, trackers along with Nest smart tech leaders gathering, Viva Tech, in Paris, France. received Tunisia’s request for Tunisia’s minister of domestic demand could home devices at the retail an IMF financing program economy Ali Kooli this week rebound more swiftly due to outlet. internet giant has taken a leaf in Virginia in 2001, has 270 when Tunisian authorities said the country’s financial sit- pent-up savings, and exports Visitors will also be able to out of Apple’s play-book of stores in the United States and visited Washington earlier this uation is critical and he may grow more strongly than avail customer service for their operating physical stores and many more around the world month, followed by sub- expects to conclude an envisaged, driven by a sharper devices and pick up their online providing in-person services to that drive its sales and also mission of the country’s eco- agreement with IMF within economic rebound and further orders at the store. The boost sales. Apple, which provide shoppers hands-on nomic reform plan. three months, a shorter-than- policy support in key trading announcement signals the opened its first two retail stores customer service. “Our technical discussions usual timeframe. partners," it added. 12 BUSINESS FRIDAY 21 MAY 2021 UBS, Nomura hit hardest as EU fines crisis-era bond cartel

BLOOMBERG also sue all members of the cartel for bond desks, and mostly in London, damages. were in regular contact, mainly on UBS Group and Nomura Holdings and It was unacceptable, that in the middle UBS said the fine could hurt second- chatrooms, where they “informed and UniCredit were fined a total of €371m of the financial crisis, when many quarter results by as much as $100m. updated each other on their prices and ($452m) by the European Union for financial institutions had to be rescued It’s considering an appeal and has “taken volumes offered in the run-up” to euro colluding on euro government bond by public funding these investment appropriate action years ago to mitigate zone government bond auctions “and trading during the region’s sovereign and improve processes,” it said in a the prices shown to their customers debt crisis. banks colluded in this market at the statement. or to the market in general.” The EU UBS was fined €172m and Nomura expense of EU member states. Nomura said the fine “relates to his- didn’t seek to show that traders’ will have to pay €129.6m for a traders’ toric behavior” by two former actions affected bond yields, with their cartel that swapped commercially sen- Margrethe Vestager employees “for an approximate case focusing on the illegality of sitive information from 2007 to 2011 EU Antitrust Chief 10-month period in 2011.” The fine won’t sharing commercially sensitive when euro region bond yields soared. have an impact on the current financial information. UniCredit was fined €69m. year and the bank has made provision Citigroup, RBS and JPMorgan It was “unacceptable, that in the for the levy. The bank “will consider all Chase & Co. were among five banks middle of the financial crisis, when many leading to billions of euros in fines. At to bailed-out and failed German lender options, including an appeal” and “has that agreed in 2019 to pay EU fines of financial institutions had to be rescued the same time it approved billions of WestLB, avoided a levy because it had introduced increased measures to over €1bn for colluding on foreign- by public funding these investment euros in government support to keep no revenue last year. ensure that we conduct our business exchange trading strategies. The EU banks colluded in this market at the many European lenders alive during the Bank of America and Natixis partic- with the highest levels of integrity,” it is still investigating some banks for a expense of EU member states,” Mar- financial crisis. ipated in the cartel but weren’t fined said in an emailed statement. related cartel. grethe Vestager (pictured), the EU’s Vestager’s criticism seems to be because they had quit the cartel five UniCredit “vigorously contests” the Bank of America, Credit Suisse antitrust chief, said in an emailed aimed at two banks that weren’t fined. years before the EU started its probe. fine and will appeal to the EU courts, Group and Credit Agricole were fined statement. A Royal Bank of Scotland Group unit The finding against them means they it said in a statement. The bank “main- about €28.5m last month over chat- The EU has spent more than a escaped a fine because it was the first would be seen as repeat offenders and tains that the findings do not demon- rooms where traders swapped infor- decade probing how bank traders to tell regulators. It received a UK bailout would face higher fines from any future strate any wrongdoing.” The EU said mation on trading of US supra-sov- swapped information in chatrooms, in 2008. Portigon, the successor bank EU cartel. Institutional investors could traders on European government ereign, sovereign and agency bonds.

Founder of Maritime shipping to fall short of TikTok’s Chinese net zero emissions target: IEA owner stepping down as CEO REUTERS — SINGAPORE AP — BEIJING The maritime shipping industry will fall short of The founder of TikTok’s achieving net zero greenhouse Chinese owner said yesterday gas emissions (NZE) by 2050, he will give up his job as CEO the International Energy to focus on longer-term initia- Oatly prices IPO at top of Agency (IEA) said in a report. tives, a step that comes amid The shipping industry is uncertainty over whether the expected to miss its net zero Biden administration will force range to raise $1.4bn carbon dioxide (CO2) target the sale of the popular short “due to a lack of available low- video service’s US arm. BLOOMBERG In the last three months, carbon options on the market Zhang Yiming said Liang between 35 percent to 40 and the long lifetime of vessels Rubo, a co-founder, will Oatly Group, the vegan food and percent of adults in the US, the The CMA CGM Marco Polo, an Explorer class container ship enters New (typically 25 to 35 years)”, the succeed him as ByteDance CEO. drink maker, priced its initial United Kingdom, Germany, York Harbor as seen from Brooklyn, New York, in the US, yesterday. IEA said in a report on Tuesday. Zhang said leaving day-to-day public offering at the top of a China and Sweden purchased This comes despite a management will “enable me marketed range to raise more plant-based milk alternatives, growing stream of pledges and About 90 percent of world hydrogen and ammonia will to have greater impact on than $1.4bn. oatly said. commitments from policy- trade is transported by sea, and play a significant role, longer-term initiatives,” but The company and its Oat milk’s growth is sur- makers and industry stake- the UN shipping agency - the according to the IEA. gave no details of his next role. investors sold more than 84 passing other plant-based holders to achieve zero emis- International Maritime Organ- “Ammonia and hydrogen ByteDance is waiting to find million American depositary drinks. Overall US sales for dairy sions by 2050 in the global ization (IMO) - aims to reduce are the main low-carbon fuels out whether the Biden admin- shares for $17 each on alternatives grew 15 percent to shipping industry. overall greenhouse gas emis- for shipping adopted over the istration will revive former Wednesday, according to a nearly $2.2bn in the 52 weeks The IEA now expects emis- sions by 50 percent from 2008 next three decades in the NZE, President Donald Trump’s statement. The Swedish ending May 1. Almond milk held sions from the maritime levels by 2050. their combined share of total efforts to force the sale of Tik- company had offered the shares the largest share of those sales, shipping industry, which was In the short-term, consid- energy consumption in Tok’s US arm. Trump said the for $15 to $17 each. at 68 percent. Oat milk was responsible for about 880 erable emission reductions in shipping reaching around 60 service was a security threat The listing gives Oatly, the second with a 14 percent share million tonnes of CO2 emis- shipping are possible through percent in 2050,” said the IEA. because it gathered too much world's largest oat milk and soy milk held an 8 percent sions in 2019 and 830 million operational efficiencies such Biofuels are expected to personal information about company, a market value of share. Coconut milk and rice tonnes in the following year, as reduced voyage speeds and provide almost 20 percent of millions of American users. about $10bn based on the out- milk each had less than a 4 to decline by 6 percent wind assistance while in the total shipping energy needs in Regulators also are stepping standing shares listed in its percent share. annually to 120 million tonnes medium-term low-carbon 2050 while electrification will up anti-monopoly enforcement filings with the US Securities and Oatly was started in 1994 by of CO2 in 2050. fuels such as biofuels, play a “very minor role”, it said. against Chinese e-commerce Exchange Commission. brothers Rickard and Bjorn Oste. giants and other internet com- US markets dropped for the Using technology based on panies, though there is no indi- third day in a row, with the S&P research from Sweden’s Lund Natural gas a vital element in mission net zero: GECF cation ByteDance has been 500 index falling 0.3 percent University, the company turns targeted. Wednesday. fiber-rich oats into liquid food. Zhang founded ByteDance The IPO underscores plant- In July, Oatly secured FROM PAGE 11 between 2000 and 2009. in 2012. The company said last based products’ jump into the $200m in new capital from There is an expected growth in LNG con- year that TikTok had 700 mainstream, as environmental investors led by Blackstone The move away from investment in upstream sumption in future decades because of popu- million users globally. and health concerns spur con- Group. The group also included gas resources can substantially affect the security lation growth, growing economic prosperity in ByteDance, headquartered sumers to seek alternatives to celebrities such as Oprah of supply and prevent countries from accessing developing countries (China and India), in Beijing, says it operates in 150 traditional meat and dairy Winfrey and Jay-Z, as well as competitive and clean energy sources, such as favourable government regulations and actions markets and has more than products. Investors have been former Starbucks founder natural gas, which is compatible with sustainable to reduce air pollution and eliminate coal. 60,000 employees. looking for ways to replicate the Howard Schultz. The company development. Regardless of any financing structural The Trump administration’s public-market success of was valued at about $2bn in the Prior to 2020, historical upstream investment changes due to market ambiguities, the level of plan called for ByteDance to be Beyond Meat, whose shares round. between 2010 and 2019 was $571bn worldwide, investment is expected to grow in the required to sell TikTok’s US arm have surged more than 300 Oatly’s offering is being led indicating a tremendous accumulative increase long-term. to the software maker Oracle percent since it went public in by Morgan Stanley, JPMorgan of 79 percent compared to the investment volume It is estimated that total gas investment, and retailer Walmart. May 2019. Chase & Co. and Credit Suisse during the 2000s. including upstream and midstream activities The Biden administration Global sales of plant-based Group. The shares were Furthermore, $472bn investment was made between 2020 and 2050 will reach about $10 suspended that while it dairy substitutes reached $18bn expected to begin trading yes- in gas transportation and trade infrastructure trillion, representing a compound annual growth reviewed potential security in 2020, or just 3 percent of the terday on the Nasdaq Global between 2010 and 2019, showing an increase of of 1.26 percent from a total of $258bn in 2020 to threats posed by Chinese tech $600bn dairy industry, Select Market under the symbol 67 percent compared to the investment made $375bn in 2050. companies. according to Euromonitor. OTLY. Every second counts as startups race to deliver fresh food

REUTERS — LONDON Dean, a 32-year-old finance aggressively in London, with its supply chain, they can also worker, to select locally pro- purple and yellow scooters seen deliver at speed. In a railway arch in south duced goods for delivery to his on roads and billboards, after it The challenge remains stark London, pickers and packers are door for a fee of £2.95 ($4.18). raised $300m in March, valuing however, as seen in the finances in a race against time: to get fresh “Time is precious in the 21st it at $2.6bn. of German-based, €26bn food to the door of Alastair Dean century,” he said on his doorstep Berlin-based Gorillas has a Delivery Hero. within 15 minutes of his order in the affluent London district of valuation of more than $1bn after Present in over 50 countries, hitting an app. Pimlico. “The world of going and it raised $290m, including from the group has a long-term core- Their company Weezy is part doing your weekly shop, like I China’s Tencent. “I strongly earnings margin target of 5 to 8 of a new army of European rapid remember growing up - it’s all believe our business model is percent. However its rapid com- delivery firms that, backed by completely changed. We’re going to be the new normal,” merce division traded at a billions of dollars of venture always last minute.” The combi- Chief Executive Kagan Sumer margin of minus 33 percent in capital from Europe, the United nation of cash, tech and the surge told Reuters. 2020, its first year of operation. States, China and Japan, are in online delivery in a pandemic US operator Gopuff, valued Chief Executive Niklas using electric bikes and scooters has shaken the kaleidoscope for at nearly $9bn, has bought Fancy Ostberg said all the emerging to deliver groceries. the grocery industry, creating to expand in Britain and Europe, services were trying to find new They have placed a bet that new players, challenging others while Dija has been backed by ways to make the already razor- A rider from online supermarket Weezy delivers an order amidst the demand for convenience will and providing a new frontier for Creandum, which invested in thin margin business of food expansion of rapid grocery delivery firms, in London, Britain, recently. drive the next transformation in traditional supermarkets. payments firm Klarna and retail work. food retail and help crack the The trend has taken root Spotify. “It’s no secret that this is very vice-like grip of the big super- across European cities, where market convenience shops. thing longer seems too slow. Food-delivery riders from tough economically, but we have market stores which, in Britain, e-commerce giant Amazon has Holding up to 2,000 items Many start by ordering Deliveroo and Uber Eats will also found a way to make it work,” supply 95 percent of the coun- yet to properly gatecrash the instead of the more than 20,000 snacks before adding sourdough bring groceries from established Ostberg told Reuters ahead of the try’s groceries. grocery market. in supermarkets, mini centres bread, vegetables, meats, herbs, supermarkets. launch of its fast commerce The boss of one of Europe’s In central London, residents built for delivery rather than cus- fresh pasta, games and COVID The different services are service in Germany. biggest supermarkets, speaking have been bombarded with tomers can be picked quickly tests, to be delivered in brown testing minimum order fees and Quick delivery operators say on condition of anonymity, told offers from at least four new and located in cheaper areas. paper bags. delivery charges, or no restric- that low rents, ordering direct Reuters that far from dismissing rapid services. Weezy co-founder Alec Dent “The industry is huge. It’s a tions at all, to see what works. from suppliers and the option for the new services as hype, they The likes of Weezy, Getir, said orders had jumped since £200bn market, and it’s rapidly While the model has high brands to pay to promote goods could pose “death by a thousand Dija and Gorillas store goods Britain started to unlock from moving online and rapidly costs and low margins, its riders on an app all help. nibbles” to the dominant chains from major suppliers and local COVID restrictions and people’s moving in the direction of con- are classed as workers, giving With so much activity, the such as Tesco and Sainsbury’s, producers in urban mini-ful- lives became more complicated. venience,” Dent said of the them basic rights and making the supermarkets are watching and Aldi and Lidl. filment centres to supply cus- Once they know they can rely on British grocery sector. groups less vulnerable to future know they must respond in Weezy enables shopper tomers at prices similar to super- 15-minute delivery, he said, any- Turkey’s Getir has launched regulation. In full control of the time. FRIDAY 21 MAY 2021 BUSINESS 13 Turkish economic US weekly jobless claims drop further growth to exceed REUTERS — WASHINGTON The number of Americans filing expectations in 2021 new claims for unemployment benefits dropped further below ANADOLU — ANKARA 500,000 last week, but jobless rolls swelled in early May, Turkey is looking at 2021 as the which could temper expecta- year when the world will win tions for an acceleration in the fight against the pandemic employment growth this month. and the nation’s economy will Other data yesterday make unprecedented growth, showed factory activity in the the country’s industry minister mid-Atlantic region growing at said. a significantly slower pace this In 2020, global production month, likely because of and trade saw one of the largest shortages of labour and raw drops during the last century, materials. A measure of said Mustafa Varank (pictured), employment dropped for fac- speaking at the opening cer- tories in the region that covers emony of an aluminum plant The country’s exports in the eastern Pennsylvania, southern in Turkey’s industrial province New Jersey and Delaware. But second half of 2020, matched People line up outside a newly reopened career center for in-person appointments in Louisville, US. of Kocaeli. businesses boosted hours for The global economy and the same period in 2019. The workers. trade narrowed by 3.3 percent industrial sector generated The economy is reopening DeQuadros, senior economic is viewed as consistent with restaurants and bars, employers and 8.5 percent, respectively, 392,000 additional after being severely disrupted advisor a Brean Capital in New healthy labor market condi- are scrambling to find workers, he added. employment during the by COVID-19 for more than a York. tions. They have dropped from even as nearly 10 million Amer- Touching on Turkey’s per- pandemic. In 2021, industrial year. But pent-up demand Initial claims for state a record 6.149 million in early icans are officially unemployed. formance in 2020, he said unleashed by the broadening unemployment benefits totaled April 2020. The enhanced unemployment despite the turbulent times, the production also posted a economic re-engagement is a seasonally adjusted 444,000 Applications are likely to benefits give more than most country posted a GDP growth significant increase of 12.3 pushing against supply con- for the week ended May 15, decrease further in the weeks jobs paying minimum wages, of 1.8 percent. percent in the first quarter. straints, threatening to slow the compared to 478,000 in the ahead after Republican gov- which range from as low as The demand for investment recovery from the pandemic prior week, the Labor ernors in at least 21 states $7.25 per hour to as high as $15. did not go down during the recession, which started in Feb- Department said yesterday. announced they would With more than a third of pandemic period, and in fact, He said the industrial sector ruary 2020. That was the lowest since mid- withdraw next month from the population vaccinated, increased, the minister said. generated 392,000 additional “If the data are taken at face March 2020 and held claims unemployment programs restrictions on services industry Last June, industrial pro- employment during the value, it would suggest both a below 500,000 for two straight funded by the federal gov- businesses are being lifted, duction reached pre-pandemic pandemic. reduction in layoffs and a weeks. ernment. These included a allowing for broader economic levels in Turkey, Varank said. In 2021, industrial pro- slowing in hiring, which given Economists polled by weekly $300 subsidy, which re-engagement. The economy He added that the country’s duction also posted a signif- the rising level of labour Reuters had forecast 450,000 businesses say are encouraging is also being underpinned by exports in the second half of icant increase of 12.3 percent demand could only be applications for the latest week. the jobless to stay at home nearly $6 trillion in pandemic 2020, matched the same period in the first quarter, explained by a reduction in Claims remain well above the instead of seeking work. relief provided by the gov- in 2019. he said. labour supply,” said Conrad 200,000 to 250,000 range that From manufacturing to ernment over the past year. Bank of Canada warns on household debt and housing exuberance

BLOOMBERG markets in times of stress, mis- pricing climate risks that can The Bank of Canada warned leave investors exposed to household debt vulnerabilities sudden losses due to the tran- are intensifying amid a surge in sition to a low-carbon economy, housing prices that’s being and the viability of businesses driven in part by speculative once government supports end. activity. The rapid evolution of crypto In its annual Financial asset markets also was listed as System Review, the Ottawa- a vulnerability, as it has been in based central bank said yes- the past. terday there are signs people are The two first vulnerabilities buying houses in some regions listed, however, were household of the country with the expec- debt and the Canada’s red-hot tation prices will continue to combined with Canada’s strong housing market. The quality of Jakarta business district rise, which creates unsus- regulatory and supervisory new mortgage borrowing dete- tainable dynamics. High home framework.” riorated during the pandemic, A general view of business buildings as smog covers the capital city of Jakarta, Indonesia. prices across the country, mean- How this analysis plays into the central bank said, citing data while, have led many house- the central bank’s policy is showing the share of new mort- holds to take on larger mort- ambiguous. Growing household gages with a loan-to-income Italy approves €40bn package to support economy gages relative to their income, vulnerabilities could give policy ratio above 450% rose substan- putting them in a precarious sit- makers more reason to consider tially in the second half of last BLOOMBERG provide credit and liquidity for measures that will push the uation should the economy take raising borrowing costs, for year to 22% of all mortgages. struggling businesses and €4bn recovery, we need to accelerate a downward turn. example, though higher rates That’s above the range seen in Italy has approved a €40bn to workers in industries most- on that front.” At the same time, policy would also inflate risks -- such 2016 and 2017, the report said, ($49bn) stimulus package that hit by the crisis. The funds included in the makers led by Governor Tiff as slow growth or housing price when regulators tightened extends economic support for It also extends emergency new package will be financed Macklem (pictured) found the correction. The central bank, mortgage qualification rules. businesses and families hurt by income, boosts cash contribu- with extra deficit spending nation’s lenders could absorb a which didn’t provide any The vulnerability associated COVID-19 restrictions. tions for seasonal and tourism already approved by the significant amount of losses in analysis on the impacts of with household indebtedness “is Prime Minister Mario sector workers, and cuts taxes administration. Italy’s total the case of another shock. The financial stability risks on significant and has increased Draghi said that the measures for young people buying their government outlays on bank said household debt and current policy, has often been over the past year,” the report will support Italy’s economic first home. Additionally, it sets stimulus since the beginning housing market vulnerabilities criticized for fueling some of said. “These highly indebted rebound as vaccinations accel- up a special fund, initially worth of the pandemic has surpassed probably don’t pose a significant these financial stability risks households have less flexibility erate and the pandemic slows €50m, to support scientific €170bn, pushing debt to systemic threat to bank sol- through loose monetary policy to deal with sudden financial down. But he added that the research. almost 160 percent of output. vency, even though they could that’s keeping interest rates at changes, such as a job loss or a more than €200bn of the "These are important The economy shrank 8.9 undermine future growth. historic lows. drop in the price of their home.” European Union’s recovery measures,” Carlo Bonomi, head percent last year due to “The Canadian financial The financial system review The Bank of Canada did say fund are necessary to signifi- of Italy’s Confindustria lockdowns. system went into this crisis in a outlines the central bank’s that household finances on the cantly boost the country’s employers’ association said at "If the pandemic situation solid position and has proved to thinking on risks and can seem whole haven’t deteriorated growth potential. an event in Rome yesterday. continues to improve, we won’t be resilient,” Macklem said in a like a laundry list of concerns. thanks to government support The package allocates "What is missing is that we are need further support measures statement. “This reflects sound Among other vulnerabilities programs, but mortgage debt is €17bn for companies and self- still in the support and emer- this year,” Draghi said at a press risk management across a range cited in this year’s report include growing and some households employed workers, €9bn to gency phase and not enough on conference in Rome yesterday. of financial system participants liquidity worries in bond may be overleveraging. Daimler Truck ‘all in’ for green energy shift as targets costs Turkey seals deal for 60m more

REUTERS — LONDON doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine As truck makers move towards Daimler Truck said it aims to a zero-emission world, electric ANADOLU — ANKARA “Our goal is to deliver as cut costs and boost profit trucks are expected to be used many doses of our COVID-19 across all regions by 2025 as Turkey has finalized a deal to vaccine as possible to people it goes “all in” for electric and for shorter distances, but the buy 60 million more doses of around the world to help end hydrogen fuel cell powered batteries needed for longer the Pfizer-BioNTech corona- this pandemic, reduce COVID- vehicles. journeys would be too heavy virus vaccine, with an option 19-related hospitalizations German carmaker Daimler and hydrogen fuel cells will for an additional 30 million and return to a normal life,” plans to spin off Daimler need to be used instead. doses. he added. Truck, the world’s largest “This second supply Also commenting on the truck and bus maker, later this agreement brings the total deal, Cem Acık, Pfizer Country year as it seeks to increase its number of doses to be sup- Manager in Turkey, said this investor appeal as a focused Mercedes-Benz eActros long- plied to Turkey to up to 120 agreement will further electric, luxury car business. haul electric truck. million, all of which will be enhance Turkey’s COVID-19 “Both technologies The truck maker also delivered in 2021,” vaccination efforts. (electric and hydrogen) will be German carmaker Daimler plans to spin off Daimler Truck, the struck a deal with Shell under according to a statement “Pfizer is committed to needed,” Daimler Truck CEO world’s largest truck and bus maker, later this year as it seeks to which the energy firm will issued by BioNTech contributing to public health Martin Daum told an investor increase its investor appeal as a focused electric, luxury car business. from 2024 launch hydrogen- yesterday. in Turkey and very proud to presentation yesterday. “And refuelling stations between On December 25, 2020, have a global partner such as we intend to lead the way in said it will cut costs and capital between 6 percent to 7 percent green hydrogen production the two companies announced BioNTech in the global fight both technologies.” expenditure while focusing on under poor market conditions, hubs at Rotterdam in the an initial agreement to against the pandemic,” he As truck makers move maintaining double-digit executives said. Netherlands and in Cologne provide 30 million vaccine concluded. towards a zero-emission margins in North America. Daimler Truck also plans and Hamburg in Germany. doses to Turkey, read the On Tuesday, Turkey’s world, electric trucks are Daum said the truck maker to cut personnel costs by Daimler Truck and Volvo statement. Health Minister Fahrettin expected to be used for shorter will relentlessly target higher €300m ($366m) by 2022. AB said last month they aim “We are grateful to be able Koca announced that Turkey distances, but the batteries profits in both Europe and The truck maker said it jointly to cut the costs of to make an important contri- will secure 90 million doses needed for longer journeys Asia. was intensifying its part- hydrogen fuel cells by a factor bution to Turkey’s vacci- of the Pfizer-BioNTech coro- would be too heavy and By 2025 Daimler Truck is nership with Contemporary of five or six by 2027 as they nation efforts and for the trust navirus vaccine in the next hydrogen fuel cells will need targeting margins above 10 Amperex Technology (CATL), seek to make the technology placed in us,” said Ugur Sahin, two months to facilitate the to be used instead. percent under favourable choosing the Chinese battery commercially viable for long- CEO and co-founder of country’s fight against the Daimler Truck executives market conditions, and maker as the supplier for its haul trucking. BioNTech. pandemic. Sport FRIDAY 21 MAY 2021 14 Expect stronger India in final at neutral venue, Pujara tells Kiwis

REUTERS — NEW DELHI India, Australia women against England in Sydney. forward to welcoming to play pink-ball Test this “Taking forward our com- members of the India women’s Cheteshwar Pujara still feels Their bowling attack is very year mitment towards women’s team to Australia after what the sting of last year’s drubbing well-balanced. We have The India women’s team Cricket, I am extremely has been an incredibly chal- in New Zealand but the will play their maiden pink- pleased to announce that lenging time and thank the batsman says India will be a faced their bowlers before ball Test later this year, against Team India @BCCIwomen will BCCI for supporting this different propositionproposition whenwhen thethe and have a fair idea of how AustraliaAustralia in PePerth,rth, CricketCricket playplay in ttheirheir first-everfirst-ever pinpinkk gground-breakinground-break tour,” sides clashh again at thethe neutralneutral they operate, the angles boardsboards ooff bothboth thethe countries ballball day-nightday-night Test laterlater thisthis HHockleyockley sasaidid in a statement. venue of SouthamptonSouthampton in next they use, and we will be announcedannounced yesterday.yesterday. year in Australia,”Australia,” BoardBoard ooff IndiaIndia were llast among the month’s WorldWorld Test CChampi-hampi- prepared. MithaliMithali Raj’s team willwill taketake ControlControl fforor CCricketricket in InIndiadia ffrontlinerontline teamteams to embrace onship (WTC)WTC) final.final. on Meg Lanning’s squadsquad at tthehe (BCCI)(BCCI) secretary Jay Shah said ppink-ballink-ball Test when their India were blblankedanked 22-0-0 in WACAWACA groundground fromfrom Sept. in a post on Twitter.Twitter. mmen’sen’s team hosthosted Bangladesh Olympic champ New Zealand,and, wwhoho are aalreadylready Cheteshwar Pujara ItIt wiwillll aalsolso bbee tthehe ffirstirst Test fforor a day-nightday-night match in the quarantiningning in SoutSouthamptonhampton matchmatch betweenbetween thethe AustralianAustralian eastern cicityty oof Kolkata in Rudisha to miss and will playlay a two-Test series andand InIndiandian women’s teams in NovemNovemberber 22019.019 against EEnglandngland beforebefore thethe 1515 years. CricCricketket Australia’sAustralia’s The wwomen’somen team under WTC finall ffromrom JuneJune 18.18. Joe Root’s sisidede anandd Pujara was interiminterim CEO, Nick Hockley, MitMithalihali Raj wiwillll play their first Tokyo Games “Whenen we playedplayed tthehe confidentconfident thethe tourists couldcould hopedhoped thethe multi-formatmulti-format series TTestest matcmatchh in nearly seven Kiwis in 22020,020, it was in theirtheir win theirtheir firstfirst TestTest seseriesries in against IndiaIndia wouwouldld matcmatchh tthehe yyearsears when tthey take on AP — GENEVA backyard,”,” PujaraPujara told Times EnglandEngland since 2007.2007. dramadrama ooff llastast season’s Test EEnglandngland in BrisBristol on June 16. of India nnewspaper.ewspaper. Part ofof thatthat beliefbelief stems seriesseries bbetweenetween tthehe BeforeBefore thethe startst of the tour, Two-time Olympic 800-meter “That won’t bbee tthehe case in frfromom India’sIndia’s benchbench men’smen’s teams ooff ththee BCCI handedhande out annual champion David Rudisha will not the WTC final...final... it’sit’s a neutralneutral sstrength,trength, whichwhich hehe the contracts to 119 players on defend his title at the Tokyo Games. venue foror both the teams.teams. felt waswas the bestbest he countries.countries. WWednesday,ednesday, wwith teenaged Rudisha’s agent, Michel Boeting, None of thehe teateamsms wiwillll hahaveve a had seenseen inin the “We“We oopenerpener SShafalihafali VVerma moving said yesterday that Tokyo was “out home advantage.”vantage.” past decade.decade. look up to a GraGradede B contract from of the question” for Rudisha because As India’sndia’s top-order “The“The amounamountt ooff C. of a persistent hamstring problem. bulwark,, PPujaraujara will be tatalentlent in thethe IndianIndian Twenty20Twenty20 captain Har- The Olympics are set to open on expected to tame New ZeZea-a- ccircuitircuit is hhumongous,”umongous,” manpreet KKaur,aur, deputy Smriti July 23 and the 800 heats start July land’s formidablemidable pace attacattackk Pujara said, recalling how MandhMandhanaana aand spinner 31. and the 33-year-old33-year-old said he thethe injury-ravaged side PPoonamoonam YadavYadav are the only “He is just contemplating his next and his teateamm mmatesates werewere triumphed 2-1 in Australia tthreehree wiwithth a GGradera A contract step, whether it’s retirement or to ready for the challenge. earlier this year.year. aandnd a rretaineretaine fee of five continue training,” Boeting said in a “Theirr bowling attack is “The“The AAustraliaustralia seseriesries mmillionillion rupees (($68,366). telephone interview. Cheteshwar Pujara very well-balanced.-balanced. We have eearlierarlier this yyearear wawass an 30 TestTest and OODID captain Raj Now 32, Rudisha has not run at faced theirr bobowlerswlers bebeforefore aandnd eexample.xample. We hhadad so many in whatwhat iiss amonamongg tthehe 110 players in the international level since the 2017 have a fairair idea of how theythey injurinjuries,ies, but the babackupckup will be onlyonly GGraderade B worthworth three million season, and the current injury is operate, thethe anglesangles theythey use, options did well for us to win thethe secondsecond day-day- rupees, whilewhile ssix players are linked to chronic inflammation of his and we wwillill be prepaprepared,”red,” he the seriesseries.. nightnight Test in women’s in GradeG C which sitting bone, Boeting said. said. “Everyone“Everyone in this Indian Cricket, followingfollowing is worth one Rudisha set the world record of 1 After the final,final, India will team is huhungryngry to do well and Australia’sAustralia’s ddrawnrawn million minute, 40.91 seconds when he won play a five-Testee-Tes Testt seriesseries againstagainst that’sthat’s the sign of a good side.” sideside..” 2017 match rupees. gold at the 2012 London Olympics. No one has since come within a second of that time. The Kenyan retained his title in Abu Dhabi to host Rio de Janeiro, in 1:42.15, and also has England fast bowler two world championship gold medals remaining PSL from 2011 and 2015. Boeting said it was unclear if Archer to undergo Rudisha wanted to target the post- matches poned 2022 track worlds in Eugene, surgery on sore elbow AP — ISLAMABAD Oregon. “He is only motivated for the REUTERS — LONDON elbow soreness. He will now The Pakistan Super League (PSL) will play Olympics, so that’s why it’s hard to proceed to surgery its remaining 20 matches in Abu Dhabi next say he can really be motivated for the England fast bowler Jofra tomorrow,” the ECB said. month, the Pakistan Cricket Board said world championships,” Boeting said. Archer is set to undergo The ECB did not give a yesterday. “If you talk about the Olympics surgery on his troublesome timeframe on the Barbados- The league was suspended in March you would see his eyes shine. right elbow today, the coun- born paceman’s return with after several players and support staff on “He just needs to think on what is try’s cricket board (ECB) said. England set to host India in the six teams tested positive for COVID-19. the next step, and he needs to have Archer was already ruled August. The PCB confirmed that it received the freedom to do it.” out of England’s two-Test Archer also had surgery in “approvals and exemptions” from the series against New Zealand March to remove a glass United Arab Emirates government. starting next month due to fragment from a tendon in his “We are delighted with this devel- pain in his elbow. right hand, an injury he sus- opment as the remaining hurdles in the Now 32, Rudisha has not run at the The 26-year-old returned tained in January when an staging of the remaining (league) matches international level since the 2017 to action for county side attempt to clean his fish tank in Abu Dhabi have been overcome and all season, and the current injury is Sussex against Kent last week went wrong. systems are now good to go,” PCB chief linked to chronic inflammation of his in a bid to regain match fitness Fellow fast bowler Stuart executive Wasim Khan said in a statement. but he only bowled five overs Broad said Archer was “frus- The board and the six franchise owners sitting bone. Rudisha set the world in Kent’s second innings due trated” with his nagging injury planned to talk to finalise arrangements. record of 1 minute, 40.91 seconds to pain in the elbow. but is determined to be fit for The league is scheduled to finish in June when he won gold at the 2012 “England and Sussex the Twenty20 World Cup in prior to the national team’s departure for London Olympics. No one has since bowler Jofra Archer has been India and the Ashes series its England tour. In early May, the Indian come within a second of that time. reviewed by a medical con- against Australia later this Premier League was suspended indefinitely Jofra Archer sultant in respect of his right year. after outbreaks on three teams amid a surge in coronavirus infections nationwide. NBA: LeBron lifts Lakers over Vendrame takes maiden Warriors in West play-in game Giro stage win as Bernal retains overall advantage AP — LOS ANGELES halftime as Curry buried a 3-pointer at the buzzer. The LeBron James made a long, Lakers opened the second half REUTERS — BAGNO DI ROMAGNA Another Italian, Gianluca go-ahead 3-pointer with 58.2 by going on a 14-2 run that Brambilla, came a distant third. seconds remaining, rallying the included seven points by Dennis Italian Andrea Vendrame In the first of four Giro Los Angeles Lakers to a 103-100 Schröder. pulled clear late on to take a stages this year over 200km in victory over the Golden State Schröder’s 3-pointer drew first-ever Grand Tour win on distance, Bernal, with his Ineos Warriors in a Western Los Angeles within a point at Stage 12 of the Giro d’Italia, a Grenadiers team all around Conference play-in tournament 57-56, but he fouled Curry 212-kilometre ride from Siena him, settled at the head of the game. when he attempted a shot to Bagno di Romagna peloton before Vincenzo Nibali, Golden State James finished with 22 beyond the arc. yesterday, as Egan Bernal the 2016 Giro champion, split Warriors points, 11 rebounds and 10 Curry made all three of his retained his general classifi- the pack with a late charge. center Kevon assists for his sixth triple- shots to start a 15-4 spurt by the cation lead. Nibali’s surge saw him double of the season, Anthony Looney (right) Warriors. Curry’s fourth Vendrame emerged from a climb to 13th in the general Davis scored 13 of his 25 points defends Los 3-pointer of the night pushed breakaway group of four riders classification, while Colombian in the fourth quarter, and the Angeles Lakers Golden State’s advantage to vying for the stage win after the Bernal keeps hold of his pink Lakers overcame 37 points from forward 72-60 before the Lakers final climb up Passo del jersey and a 45 second league scoring champ Stephen LeBron James regained control and ended the Carnaio, and held off a late advantage over second-placed Curry. under the quarter with a 17-7 rally. challenge from New Zealander Aleksandr Vlasov after coming Golden State had a chance basket in the Golden State took a 9-2 lead Christopher Hamilton to take in a comfortable 17th to send it into overtime, but second half of as it made four of its first five the victory. yesterday. Kent Bazemore had a bad the game at shots from the field, while the inbounds pass and sealed the Staples Center. Lakers missed six of their first victory for the Lakers - who seven. The Warriors extended earned the seventh seed for the their first-quarter advantage to playoffs and a first-round 15-4 when Wiggins hit a matchup with second-seeded track. They combined to go 14 The final 12 minutes saw 3-pointer with 7:38 remaining Phoenix. of 22 in the second half. three lead changes and five ties. in the quarter. Golden State hosts Los Angeles trailed by 13 at The Warriors were up 98-95 on The Lakers countered with Memphis, which defeated San halftime and were down by 12 Curry’s bank shot before the a 12-2 run to get within one, but Antonio in Wednesday’s other midway through the third Lakers scored seven of the couldn’t draw closer in the play-in game, for the eighth quarter before rallying back. game’s final nine points. quarter as Golden State led seed on Friday. The winner of The defending NBA champions Alex Caruso scored 14 points 28-22 after 12 minutes. Andrea Vendrame that game will face top-seeded didn’t get their first lead until and Dennis Schröder added 12. The Warriors were up by celebrates after Utah. James and Davis were 3 Kyle Kuzma’s layup 56 seconds Andrew Wiggins added 21 five midway through the second winning the stage. of 19 from the field in the first into the fourth quarter put them points for Golden State. quarter before steadily pulling half before getting back on up 81-79. Golden State led 55-42 at out to a double-digit lead. FRIDAY 21 MAY 2021 SPORT 15 Local Leclerc leads Ferrari one-two in Monaco practice REUTERS – MONACO Formula One returned to Monaco after 1:12.487 on the soft tyres, with Sainz two years’ absence due to COVID-19. again second quickest and 0.119 off the Charles Leclerc went from last to first Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, 14 pace, with Verstappen third. on his home town streets to lead a points adrift of Hamilton after four Hamilton, who has won three races stunning Ferrari one-two in a red- races, was fourth fastest. to Verstappen’s one, was fifth on the flagged second Monaco Grand Prix It was the first time Ferrari had led morning timesheets and also on the practice yesterday. a practice session since Sebastian medium tyres with team mate Valtteri The 23-year-old Monegasque, born Vettel, now at Aston Martin, was fastest Bottas sixth. AlphaTauri’s French driver and bred in the Mediterranean princi- in Hungary last July. Pierre Gasly was fourth fastest. pality, lapped the metal-fenced layout The afternoon session was stopped Two-times world champion with a best time of one minute 11.684 five minutes early after Mick Schu- Fernando Alonso hit the wall early on, seconds in the afternoon session. macher hit the barriers sideways at smashing his front wing. Leclerc managed only four laps in Massenet and parked up after going The race, a highlight of the cal- the morning before being sidelined by through the tunnel, with the Haas endar, was cancelled last year due to a gearbox problem that left him bottom needing to be removed. the pandemic but has returned with Ferrari’s of those timesheets. Mexican Sergio Perez was fastest 40% capacity in the grandstands and Charles Spanish team mate Carlos Sainz for Red Bull in the opening session, the 7,500 ticket holders a day. Leclerc in was second fastest, 0.112 slower, with first time he had done so since joining Practice is traditionally on Thursday action during Mercedes’ seven-times world the team this year. in Monaco rather than the usual Friday, practice champion Lewis Hamilton third as The Mexican had a best time of which is a rest day for Formula One. yesterday.

Liverpool Gauff beats move into Anisimova to top four with reach semis crucial win in Parma at Burnley AP – PARMA REUTERS – BURNLEY Coco Gauff advanced to the semi-finals of the Emilia- Liverpool moved into the Romagna Open by beating Champions League qualifying Amanda Anisimova 6-3, 6-3 spots after a 3-0 win at yesterday. Burnley on Wednesday took The 17-year-old Gauff, them above Leicester City and who last week reached the into fourth place with one Italian Open semifinals for her round of Premier League career-best result on clay, will Paris Saint-Germain players celebrate after matches remaining. next face Czech player Kat- winning the French Cup following a 2-0 win over Roberto Firmino struck erina Siniakova, who beat AS Monaco in the final on Wednesday. two minutes before halftime eighth-seeded Caroline Garcia and a Nathaniel Phillips 7-5, 6-1. header made it 2-0 in the 52nd Siniakova eliminated minute before a superb late Serena Williams on Tuesday. strike from Alex Oxlade- French Cup: Mbappe magic Former US Open champion Chamberlain secured a fourth Sloane Stephens also reached straight win. the semifinals by beating Sara The victory moves Liv- Errani of Italy 6-3, 6-0. erpool onto 66 points, ahead Stephens will face either of fifth-placed Leicester on sets up title victory for PSG second-seededsecond-seeded PetraPetra MartićMartić or goal difference while Chelsea sixth-seeded Qiang Wang.Wang. are third on 67 points. REUTERS – PARIS Burnley enjoyed the better of the first half but the visitors Kylian Mbappe set up the first grabbed the lead when Sadio goal and grabbed one of his Mane fed Andy Robertson on own as Paris St Germain the left and his low cross was retained the French Cup with a expertly slotted home by 2-0 victory over Monaco in Firmino. Wednesday’s final at the Stade Phillips eased any lin- de France. gering Liverpool nerves with Quick thinking by Mbappe a firm header at the back post to disposes Axel Disasi in his from a Mane cross from the own penalty area, as the left before a fine individual Monaco defender let a short effort from substitute Oxlade- pass from goalkeeper Radoslaw Chamberlain wrapped up the Majecki slip through his feet, set win. up a 19th-minute opener for Juergen Klopp’s side face Mauro Icardi. Crystal Palace at Anfield on Mbappe took the ball away Sunday while Chelsea are at and, displaying quick feet, PSG's Qatari President Nasser Aston Villa and Leicester are passed square for Icardi to tuck Al Khelaifi with coach Mauricio at home to Tottenham the ball home from close range. Pochettino and Sporting Director Coco Gauff Hotspur. With team mate Neymar Leonardo after the victory. Champions Manchester suspended and watching from City and second-placed Man- the empty stands, Mbappe was chester United have already able to dominate the contest outside the penalty area having last in the final in 2010 when play off his crossbar. But any TENNIS RESULTS secured Champions League with his talent and pace and spotted Majecki off his line. PSG also beat them. hopes of a comeback were qualification. added the second goal in the It was one of few chances PSG defender Alessandro swiftly ended by the pace and ATP WORLD TOUR 81st minute. in a largely dour final, played Florenzi had a powerful shot vision of Mbappe as he settled GENEVA OPEN Angel Di Maria set him up behind closed doors, that only tipped over by Majecki in the the outcome. Men’s Singles with a short through-ball and came alive in the last 15 first half while Monaco created Both clubs now turn their Round of 16 City’s Dias the World Cup winner lifted his minutes. the better opportunities after attention to the end of the Ligue Denis Shapovalov (2), Canada, finish over Majecki to make PSG retained their title and the break as PSG goalkeeper 1 season on Sunday where they def. Marco Cecchinato, Italy, named sure of the outcome. extended to 14 their record Keylor Navas made two good hold out hopes of winning the 6-7 (4), 7-5, 6-1. Mbappe’s goal came a number of wins in the cup. saves from Wissam Ben Yedder title. PSG are second, one point Men’s Singles minute after he had hit the Monaco had won five previous and Krepin Diatta and saw an behind leaders Lille, while Quarter-finals FWA Men’s crossbar with a clever chip from times but last in 1991. They were errant cross rebound back into Monaco are three points adrift. Pablo Andujar, Spain, def. Dominic Stephan Stricker, Footballer Switzerland, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4. Men’s Doubles Round of 16 of the Year Chiesa fires Juventus to Coppa Italia glory Michael Venus, New Zealand, REUTERS – MANCHESTER REUTERS – REGGIO EMILIA Juventus’ Gianluigi Buffon and winner in the last league and John Peers (2), Australia, team-mates celebrate with meeting between the def. Matwe Middelkoop, Manchester City’s Ruben Dias Federico Chiesa clinched the trophy after winning the sides, continued his Netherlands, and Marcelo was named England’s Foot- a Coppa Italia triumph for Coppa Italia on Wednesday. remarkable run of scoring Arevalo-Gonzalez, El Salvador, baller of the Year yesterday in Juventus and a first or assisting in each of his 6-1, 6-4. the annual vote of the Football trophy for coach Andrea last 10 appearances with Gonzalo Escobar, Ecuador, Writers’ Association (FWA), Pirlo with a 2-1 victory a trademark powerful and Ariel Behar, Uruguay, making him the first defender over Atalanta in the final finish to level. def. Nathaniel Lammons and to win the award since Steve on Wednesday. After the break, Ata- Jackson Withrow, United Nicol in 1989. Another early Cham- lanta’s intensity dropped, States, 6-3, 6-4. The 24-year-old Portugal pions League exit and a with Juve having a great Men’s Doubles centre back beat Totenham’s limp Serie A title defence chance to take the lead, Quarter-finals Harry Kane and City team left Pirlo staring at a dis- but Chiesa could only hit Raven Klaasen, South Africa, mate Kevin De Bruyne in the appointing debut season the post after latching on and Ben Mclachlan (3), Japan, voting, with nine players from as Juventus coach, but to a backheel from def. Marin Cilic, Croatia, and the Premier League winners goals from Dejan Kulu- Ronaldo. Andrey Golubev, Kazakhstan, receiving more than 50% of sevski and Chiesa earned Chiesa was not to be 6-3, 7-6 (4). the total votes cast. his side Italian Cup glory. denied, however, as he Simone Bolelli, Italy, and Dias signed for City from With fans in took his tally against Ata- Maximo Gonzalez, Argentina, Benfica for a fee of €68m attendance for the first lanta to five in all compe- def. Nikola Cacic, Serbia, ($82.85m) in September, two time in Italy since March, titions - against no other and Tomislav Brkic, Bosnia- days after the club had suf- it was Juve who took the lead at after the break and Chiesa fired but the defender could not steer Serie A side has he scored more Herzegovina, 6-3, 7-6 (7). fered a 5-2 home defeat by the Mapei Stadium, against the home his 13th goal in all com- the chance home. - with a fine finish after a neat Leicester City. run of play, thanks to a fine petitions this season in the 73rd It remained all Atalanta, with one-two with Kulusevski. WTA BELGRADE Dias is only the third finish from Kulusevski in the 31st minute to spark jubilant scenes Zapata’s strength continuing to Atalanta threw bodies RESULTS player to win the honour in minute. among the Juve players and staff cause problems, but on their first forward, but they could not test Women’s Doubles his first season at a club, fol- Atalanta, looking to win their at the final whistle. real attack, Juve opened the veteran Juve goalkeeper Gian- Quarter-finals lowing German Juergen first Italian Cup since 1963, Atalanta’s Duvan Zapata scoring after Cristiano Ronaldo luigi Buffon, playing potentially Alison van Uytvanck and Klinsmann of Tottenham deservedly levelled through created the first real chance, drove at the heart of the defence, his last game for the club, as Greet Minnen, Belgium, def. Hotspur (1994-95) and Italian Ruslan Malinovskiy four minutes using his strength to barge past and the ball fell loose for Kulu- Pirlo’s team clinched a 14th Dalila Jakupovic, Slovenia, and Gianfranco Zola of Chelsea before the break. Matthijs de Ligt before squaring sevski curled home. Coppa Italia - five more than any Yana Sizikova, Russia, 6-3, (1996-97). But Pirlo’s side stepped it up the ball for Jose Luis Palomino, Malinovskiy, who scored the other side - with ease. 6-3. Sport

FRIDAY 21 MAY 2021 Expect stronger India at neutral WTC final venue, Pujara tells New Zealand When we played the Kiwis in 2020, it was in their backyard.. That won't be the case in the WTC final ... it's a neutral venue for both the teams. None of the teams will have a home advantage.age.

Sport | 14 Cheteshwar Pujara PREMIER LEAGUE RESULTS : Crystal Palace 1-3 Arsenal; Burnley 0-3 Liverpool; West Bromwich Albion 1-3 West Ham United Qatar's Musab, Cheruiyot lead star-studded 1500m field in Doha

DIAMONDLEAGUE.COM – DOHA record which came with victory delivering a confident in the 2020 Doha Diamond performance.” World 1500m champion My preparation is now underway League (3:30.51) and prior to Musab said: “My prepa- Timothy Cheruiyot will return for my first Olympic Games and to that, a 3000m national record ration is now underway for my to the scene of his global triumph in Rome (7:28.02). He clocked first Olympic Games and to when he opens his season at the compete again in my home an Australian all-comers’ record compete again in my home at the Wanda Doha Diamond country at the Wanda Doha for the mile in December country at the Wanda Doha League next Friday. Diamond League is a great (3:50.61). Diamond League is a great The 25-year-old Kenyan, motivation. I ran a personal best The loaded field also includes motivation. I ran a personal who competed over 800m in last (at the time) at the Doha Diamond Ethiopia’s Selemon Barega and best (at the time) at the Doha year’s Doha meeting, will relish Samuel Tefera, the World Cham- Diamond League last year the opportunity to return to his League last year and I can’t wait to pionships 5000m silver medallist and I can’t wait to race again number one event and avenge race again on this occasion against and world indoor 1500m on this occasion against some his 2019 Diamond League per- some of the best athletes in the champion respectively, in of the best athletes in the formance where he finished world: Adam Ali Musab addition to Morocco’s Soufiane world.” second – his only defeat that El Bakkali, the 2019 world bronze The 2021 Wanda Diamond year. medallist in the 3000m SC. League comprises 14 meetings Adam Ali Musab, Qatar’s Doha in February. The Asian World champion Cheruiyot - starting with Gateshead world-leading 1500m star and Championships bronze med- - who has a 1500m best of (replacing Rabat as the first host Stewart McSweyn, Australia’s allist, who has already qualified 3:28.41 from 2018 - said: “I can’t city on this year’s circuit) on 1500m national record holder, to represent Qatar at the wait to be on a start line again Sunday - leading to a single final will also line up at the Qatar Olympic Games in Tokyo, fin- and have great memories of across two days in Zurich at the Sports Club. ished ninth in last year’s Doha competing in Doha, especially end of the season. Each meeting Musab has made great Diamond League in a then-per- winning gold at the 2019 World will be broadcast globally in a strides over recent years, most sonal best of 3:35.60. Championships. With Doha live two-hour programme. recently clocking a 3:32.41 McSweyn has produced a being my season’s opener, it is The 2021 calendar remains lifetime best – quick enough to host of impressive performances an important race to assess my subject to change depending on World 1500m Qatar's take him to the top of the world over the past 12 months shape at the start of an Olympic the global health situation in the champion Timothy Musab Ali rankings for 2021 to date – in including his 1500m national summer. I look forward to coming months. Cheruiyot AIFF thanks QFAA for support England’s Champions as Indian team lands in Doha League race goes down to the wire THE PENINSULA – DOHA REUTERS – MANCHESTER League for only the second time The Indian National Team in their history. arrived at the Hamad Interna- The battle for the final two Realistically, the Foxes, who tional Airport in Doha on Champions League qualification beat Chelsea in the FA Cup final Wednesday night ahead of the spots goes down to the wire on last Saturday, need to win and forthcoming matches in the Sunday with Chelsea, Liverpool hope one of their rivals slip up. FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and and Leicester City all vying for “All we can do is get three AFC Asian Cup China 2023 joint a place in Europe’s elite compe- points and see where it takes us. qualifiers, slated to be played tition. The maturity in the team and from June 3. Chelsea are third on 67 how they’ve fought has allowed The Indian contingent, points and will book their place us to get into this position,” comprising 28 players and the with a victory at Aston Villa on Leicester City manager Brendan support staff underwent com- Indian players and officials upon their arrival at the Hamad International Airport in Doha, yesterday. Sunday, before they take on Rodgers told reporters following pulsory quarantine yesterday PIC:TWITTER/@INDIANFOOTBALL Manchester City in the Cham- the win over Chelsea. till they received the PCR test pions League final. Rodgers, a former Liverpool results in Doha. The squad was Liverpool and Leicester City manager, will be hoping another to be allowed to kick-off their and thankful to the QFA for the the President of the QFA who results, and had undergone are both a point adrift of ex-Anfield boss can do him a preparatory camp as part of manner they went out of the raised our concern with the another PCR test prior to their Chelsea, with the 2019 Cham- favour. their preparation for the way and helped us begin our Prime Minister’s Office, after take off. pions League winners having Roy Hodgson will be in matches after their 10-day camp in Qatar early. which the 10-day quarantine India who are currently on the edge. charge of Palace for the last time quarantine was waived off. “The Group E World Cup period was waived off,” Das 3 points from 5 matches in An unbeaten run of nine on Sunday after announcing his “The AIFF would like to put Qualifiers will be played from informed. Group E are scheduled to play games, including wins in their departure from the club at the on record its gratitude to the inside a secure bio bubble. We The members of the squad Asian Champions Qatar on June last four outings, has propelled age of 73. Hodgson was in Qatar Football Federation for understand that there are along with the support staff 3, Bangladesh on June 7, and Juergen Klopp’s side above charge at Anfield during a brief their help, cooperation and certain mandatory health flew out from New Delhi Afghanistan on June 15 with all Leicester on goal difference. and unsuccessful spell in understanding in helping the parameters which we need to wherein they were in a com- three matches to be played at The plus-four goal dif- 2010-11. Blue Tigers to assemble in Doha adhere upon arrival in Doha, pulsory isolation upon their the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium. ference advantage means that Recent form suggests his and start the camp, all in an which we will with complete arrival from their respective if Liverpool win against Crystal side are unlikely to be party- effort to take football forward diligence,” AIFF Secretary- hometowns from May 15 INDIA’S FIXTURES: Palace on Sunday, Leicester poopers however -- Palace together,” the Indian football General Kushal Das said. onwards. The entire contingent June 3: India vs Qatar would need to beat Tottenham were beaten 7-0 at home by body said. “The AIFF President Praful had arrived in the Capital with June 7: Bangladesh vs India Hotspur by an unlikely margin Liverpool in December and lost “We are extremely grateful Patel had detailed chats with mandatory negative PCR test June 15: India vs Afghanistan to make it into the Champions 4-0 at Anfield last season. Al Wakrah, Al Rayyan enter Amir Cup semis 23rd Asian Club League Championship Holders Al Arabi to take on Bahrain's Al Najma in opener QNA/THE PENINSULA – DOHA AGMK on June 12, then Saudi side Al Wehda on June 13. They will face Yemeni The reigning champions Al Arabi will take side Al Qaten on June 14 and Kuwait's Al on Bahrain's Al Najma on June 12 in their Kuwait on June 16. Al Duhail conclude opening clash in the 23rd Asian Club their matches in the group stage against League Handball Championship, it was Iranian side Mes Kerman on June 17. revealed yesterday. The first and second place winners Apart from Al Arabi, their familiar from each group qualify for the semi-finals Qatari opponents Al Duhail will also par- of the 11-team tournament on June 19. The ticipate in the championship which will two winners qualify for the final will be be held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. held on June 21. According to the schedule announced Al Arabi qualified for the champi- by the Asian Handball Confederation (AHC) onship after winning the Qatar Handball yesterday, Al Arabi will play their second League, while Al Duhail booked their place group match against Saudi side Mudhar on in the event after becoming the Amir Cup June 13. They will meet Kuwaiti side Al champions in the 2019-2020 season. Al Duhail's Rafael Capote prepares to shoot against Al Wakrah during their Amir Cup quarter-final match yesterday. Salmiya on June 16 and Iranian side Shahid Al Arabi won the last edition of the At Al Duhail Indoor Arena, Al Wakrah defeated the reigning Amir Cup champions 26-25 in a thrilling match to make Shameli Kazeroon on the following day. Asian championship, held in Samcheock, it to the semi-finals. Earlier, at the same venue, Al Rayyan defeated Al Ahli 31-28 to book a place in the semis. Today, Al Duhail open their confrontations in South Korea, in 2019, after defeating Saudi Al Gharafa will meet Al Sadd in the third quarter-final at 5.00pm. Later, at 7.00pm, Al Khor will face Al Arabi. the second group against Uzbekistan's Arabia's Al Wehda (21-19) in the final.