Poland launches Out of quarantine new COVID-19 and into the fray, economic aid of India tour gets about $10bn underway

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FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2020 12 RABIA II - 1442 VOLUME 25 NUMBER 8454 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS Recharge using the app and get health insurance as a gift! Qatar, Turkey enhance cooperation with several pacts Sixth meeting of Qatar-Turkey Supreme Strategic Committee reviews the outcomes of previous meetings and ways to enhance the committee’s work. Memorandum to purchase a stake in Istinye Park shopping centre signed. MoU between Qatar Investment Authority and Altin Halic of Turkey on potential joint investment in the Golden Horn project signed. Agreements to purchase a stake in Borsa Istanbul, selling and purchase of Ortadogu Antalya port between Global Liman and QTerminals concluded. Qatar Free Zones Authority and the Turkish Ministry of Trade sign MoU on cooperation in the free zones.

QNA — DOHA focused in particular on devel- opments in Palestine, Libya, and Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Syria. Hamad Al Thani discussed Afterwards, H H the Amir yesterday with President of the and H E the Turkish President Republic of Turkey, H E Recep witnessed the signing of a Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and President of the Republic of Turkey, H E Recep Tayyip Erdogan witnessing the signing Tayyip Erdogan the strategic memorandum to purchase a of an agreement in Ankara, yesterday. bilateral cooperation in all stake in Istinye Park shopping fields, particularly the political, center, a memorandum of economic, investment, defence, understanding (MoU) between managing water, a letter of Qatar-Turkey Supreme Stra- energy, education, transport, Qatar Investment Authority intent between the Qatari Min- tegic Committee. and sports fields. and Altin Halic on potential istry of Finance and the Turkish The signing ceremony was The sixth meeting of the joint investment in the Golden Ministry of Finance and attended by Their Excellencies Qatar-Turkey Supreme Stra- Horn project, a memorandum I conducted with brother President Erdogan in Ankara, a Treasury that aims to enhance members of the official dele- tegic Committee, which was to purchase a stake in Borsa successful round of talks on Qatari-Turkish partnership. cooperation in the economic gation accompanying H H the held at the presidential palace Istanbul, an agreement selling We agreed to employ more of our countries’ capabilities to and financial fields, a memo- Amir. It was attended on the in Ankara, reviewed the out- and purchasing Ortadogu consolidate this partnership, which is constantly evolving randum of understanding for Turkish side by Their Excel- comes of previous meetings, Antalya port between Global for the goodness and interests of our people. We also cooperation in family, women, lencies ministers and ranking and ways to enhance the Liman and QTerminals, and a exchanged views on a number of regional and global issues and social services affairs, a officials. H H the Amir was met committee’s work to advance memorandum of under- and developments. declaration of intent on upon arrival to the presidential the interest of the two standing between Qatar Free exchanging diplomats between palace with an official peoples. Zones Authority and the the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ reception. The two sides also discussed Turkish Ministry of Trade on Diplomatic Institute and the The Amir attended a the latest regional and interna- cooperating in the field of free signing of a joint announcement Commerce and Industry and the Diplomacy Academy of the luncheon banquet held by the tional developments, and zones. on the establishment of a joint Turkish Ministry of Trade, a Turkish Ministry of Foreign Turkish President, in honour of exchanged their views H H the Amir and H E the economic and trade committee memorandum of understanding Affairs, and the signing of the His Highness and the accom- regarding them. The two sides President also witnessed the between the Qatari Ministry of on cooperation in the field of meeting minutes of the panying delegation. `P2 World Cup can transform Qatar calls for condemning illegal people’s attitudes to sustainability in Qatar measures by siege countries QNA — NEW YORK was called for by Russia, China, THE PENINSULA — DOHA South Africa, Niger and Saint The attempt to undermine The State of Qatar called for Vincent and the Grenadines. sovereignty and political Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary- condemning the unlawful Sheikha Alya stated that the independence is unac- General of the Supreme There is a close unilateral coercive measures State of Qatar has been facing ceptable and illegal, Committee for Delivery & connection between imposed by the blockading coun- illegal measures and a blockade stressing that this attempt Legacy (SC), believes the FIFA sustainability and tries and pointed out that the appli- imposed on it unilaterally World Cup has the potential to cation of unilateral coercive without justification or legal contradicts international legacy, and we have law and obligations under transform people’s attitudes to affirmed our measures targeting the State basis for more than three years. sustainability in Qatar. continues despite the evidence that She said that the attempt to the UN Charter. Speaking during the Doha commitment to both they are unlawful and the relevant undermine sovereignty and Smart Cities Summit, Al Thawadi since the first rulings issued by the competent political independence is unac- H E Sheikha Alya Ahmed outlined the different ways Qatar moments of preparing international bodies such as the ceptable and illegal, stressing that bin Saif Al Thani 2022 will help people leverage Qatar’s bid to host the International Court of Justice. this attempt contradicts interna- new technology and change their FIFA World Cup. This came in a statement by tional law and obligations under lives for the better. Permanent Representative of the UN Charter, and undermines resolutions, she said, referring to She pointed out that these uni- Organised by Msheireb Hassan Al Thawadi the State of Qatar to the United collective security frameworks UN Resolution 74/154 entitled lateral measures against the State Properties, the virtual summit Nations, H E Ambassador and, thus, threatens regional and Human Rights and Unilateral of Qatar resulted, and continues brought together experts to Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al international peace and security Coercive Measures, which urges to result in, social and humani- discuss the future of smart Thani in the UN Security Coun- in a region that receives special all states to stop taking or imple- tarian consequences affecting the cities through a series of cil’s virtual Arria-Formula attention by the Security Council. menting any unilateral measures citizens and residents of the State, keynote speeches and panel meeting on ‘End Unilateral These coercive measures that are inconsistent with inter- as well as many human rights discussions. Discussions Coercive Measures Now’, which violate UN General Assembly national law and the UN Charter. violations. `P2 focused on how to leverage smart technology to tackle COVID-19, responses to climate change, the importance of Automatic exceptional entry permit service for travellers cybersecurity and the potential of autonomous vehicles. THE PENINSULA — DOHA printout the exceptional entry wish to return to Qatar. Based on these new proce- During his keynote address, permit from the Ministry of Inte- According to GCO, the quar- dures, a Coronavirus Al Thawadi highlighted the In a move to further ease travel rior’s website at any point after antine period will be for one (COVID-19) test will be con- importance of sustainability – notably a plan to deliver the restrictions, Qatar yesterday the resident has departed Qatar. week only after arrival in the ducted for those returning from one of the core pillars of Qatar first carbon neutral World Cup announced automatic excep- Requests will no longer need to country, regardless of desti- travel upon arrival to the 2022. in history. tional entry permit service for be submitted through the “Qatar nation. Home quarantine will country in the event they “There is a close connection Another example of sus- travellers departing and Portal” website. The permit will be applied to those coming from haven’t had a test within 48 between sustainability and tainability can be found at Ras returning to Qatar. The decision be available automatically upon countries on the Ministry of hours before travelling to Doha legacy, and we have affirmed Abu Aboud Stadium, which is will come into effect starting registration of the resident’s Public Health’s Green List. Hotel by one of Ministry of Public our commitment to both since being constructed using November 29. departure from Qatar. quarantine is mandatory for Health’s accredited COVID-19 the first moments of preparing shipping containers and will be Government Communica- GCO said that the automatic those coming from countries Testing Centers. Then a second Qatar’s bid to host the FIFA completely dismantled after the tions Office, said in a statement exceptional entry permit service that are not included in the test will be conducted on the World Cup,” said Al Thawadi. tournament, with its parts used that residents who are currently will not be available for resi- Green List. The quarantine sixth day from the date of Qatar and FIFA have made to create sporting facilities in Qatar and wish to travel and dents who are currently outside period for those who use shared arrival. The status on the several commitments around across Qatar and overseas. It return will automatically receive the State of Qatar. They are still quarantine facilities will be two Ehteraz application will remain sustainability, all of which are will be the first fully an exceptional entry permit required to obtain the excep- weeks. The decision is based on yellow until the end of the outlined in the Qatar 2022 Sus- demountable stadium in FIFA upon departure. The resident or tional return permit via the national and international epi- seventh day from the date of tainability Strategy, most World Cup history. `P2 their employer will be able to “Qatar Portal” website if they demiology statistics. arrival. 02 HOME FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2020 Qatar, Turkey enhance cooperation with several pacts H H the Amir and H E the Turkish President witnessed the signing of a memorandum to purchase PRAYER a stake in Istinye Park shopping TIMINGS center, a memorandum of PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMINNGG understanding (MoU) between Qatar Investment Authority FAJR 04.37 am and Altin Halic on potential SUNRISE 05.59 am joint investment in the Golden DHUHR 11.21 am Horn project, a memorandum ASR 02.23 pm to purchase a stake in Borsa MAGHRIB 04.45 pm Istanbul, an agreement selling ISHA 06.15 pm and purchasing Ortadogu Antalya port between Global Liman and QTerminals, and a memorandum of understanding between Qatar Free Zones Authority and the Turkish Ministry of Trade on cooperating Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani during the guard of honour ceremony in Ankara with the President of the Republic in the field of free zones. of Turkey H E Recep Tayyip Erdogan, yesterday. BELOW: Amir and Turkish President during a visit to the Nation's Library of WEATHER the Presidency in Ankara. TODAY FROM PAGE 1 and honour His Highness and the The Amir and the Turkish Pres- accompanying delegation ident visited the Nation’s Library received during the official visit, of the Presidency in Ankara. during which the two sides During the visit, they were affirmed their firm keenness and informed on the contents of the common determination to con- o o library in terms of books, journals, tinue to support and strengthen 23 C 29 C and university dissertations, in the strong fraternal relations and Minimum Maximum addition to the electronic strategic partnership between the Moderate temperature daytime database of books. The Amir and two countries in various fields for and partly cloudy with a chance of the President were also briefed the good and the interest of the scattered rain, blowing dust at times. on ways the library’s research and two peoples. W ALRUWAIS : 21o → 28o scientific services provided to its The Amir wished in the W ALKHOR : 22o → 28o visitors. message the President good The Amir sent a message to H health and wellness and con- W DUKHAN : 18o → 27o E the President, in which he tinued success, and for the WAKRAH 21o → 30o W : expressed his thanks and appre- brother Turkish people further W MESAIEED : 21o → 30o ciation for the warm hospitality progress and prosperity. W ABUSAMRA : 17o → 29o

HIGH TIDE 04:08 – 13:47 Minister of Culture & Sports opens Euro film fest LOW TIDE 09:37 – 21:48 The Minister of Culture & Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Sports, H E Salah bin Ghanem Out the Window and Disappeared Al Ali alongside nine European (Sweden), Brothers Of The Wind (Austria); Les Chevaliers Blancs (Belgium); Po ambassadors and embassy Strnisti Bos Gundermann representatives in Qatar, (Czechia); (Germany); Quanto Basta (Italy); Achtste Qatar Visa Centre inaugurated the ‘The European Groepers Huilen Niet (The Netherlands); in India to reopen Drive-In Film Festival’ yesterday at A Mae E Que Sabe (Portugal); and the Doha Festival City. The festival I’Apollon De Gaza (Switzerland). on December 3 will run until November 28. The envoys emphasized the impor- tance of arts, especially with the current THE PENINSULA — DOHA AYENI OLUSEGUN coronavirus pandemic and the restric- The Ministry of Interior has THE PENINSULA tions on preventing its spread. announced that Qatar Visa The German ambassador said: Centre (QVC) in the The Minister of Culture & Sports, H E “Coronavirsu has had a huge impact on Republic of India will Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali alongside nine culture and cultural events that would reopen on December 3, European ambassadors and embassy have normally taken place. The 2020. Appointment to visit representatives in Qatar, inaugurated COVID-19 has shown us how important the Centre in India can be the ‘The European Drive-In Film Festival’ cultural events are for our emotional made through the QVC yesterday at the Doha Festival City. The wellbeing. I thank the Swedish embassy website, the Ministry said festival will run until November 28. for spearheading this event.” on its Twitter account Tickets for the event are already sold out, DHFC Assistant GM Jihad Zarkout yesterday. according to organisers. said: “Thank you to all the ambassadors Minister of Culture and Sports, H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali, attending the inauguration Ambassadors in attendance were for making this one-of-a-kind Film Fes- of the European Drive-in Film Festival at Doha Festival City, yesterday. Also seen is Ambassador of Austria H E Karin Fich- tival happen in Qatar. Qatar is a desti- the Ambassador of Sweden, H E Anders Bengtcén. Qatar calls for tinger-Grohe, Deputy Head of Mission of nation that holds an incredible diversity the Embassy of Belgium Céline Ganseman, of cultures, languages, and arts coming condemning Ambassador of Italy H E Alessandro Prunas, said: “The European Drive-in Film Fes- films from nine European countries will from across the world. We can discover illegal measures Ambassador of Germany H E Dr. Claudius tival comes just a few days after the suc- be shown representing part of the a new cultural experience here every Fischbach, Ambassador of Sweden H E cessful Ajyal Film Festival. This means vibrant and dynamic film culture and day, which makes this wonderful country by siege countries Anders Bengtcén, Second Secretary of that November will be the month of Film industry in Europe. The selected films so unique. The European Drive-In Film Embassy of the Netherlands Ilyaas Sherally, Festivals here in Doha. We are proud to represent a broad spectrum of themes Festival is one of the largest and most FROM PAGE 1 Ambassador of Portugal H E António Alves be part of this community effort to bring and subjects. We hope that audiences at impressive cultural projects globally, In this context, she referred to de Carvalho, and Ambassador of Swit- quality films to the Qatari public. Culture this festival will enjoy the festival. I thank unifying a multitude of cultures and cin- UN reports, the latest of which zerland H E Edgar Dörig. Also present was plays a fundamental role in the relations H E, the minister, for his support,” he ematographic talents. is the preliminary findings of Assistant General Manager of Bawabat between people and countries, breaching added. “After so many months of limited UN Special Rapporteur on Al Shamal Real Estate Company Jihad communication, and building integrated Guests can watch the movies in an activities, Qatar’s community was very unilateral coercive measures Zarkout, and General Business Manager communities to support openness and outdoor venue with a large screen as much in need for such a joyful gathering, and human rights Alena of Nestlé Qatar Zaher Abou Khamis. mutual understanding.” each day will host three screenings. The and the European Drive-In Film Festival Douhan and her recent visit to Swedish envoy, H E Anders Bengtcén “During the next three evenings, films lined up for the festival include The came just at the right time.” the State of Qatar. She reviewed the most prominent violations in the Special Rapporteur’s Shura Council’s financial World Cup can transform people’s report, including numerous Mall of Qatar announces violations of fundamental rights committee discusses attitudes to sustainability in Qatar and freedoms, such as the right draft state budget FROM PAGE 1 to family life, education, work, great shopping deals treatment, private property, the THE PENINSULA — DOHA are offering further discounts QNA — DOHA “Thousands of seats will be donated for the purpose of practice of religion and access including Home r us, Dwell, Pottery building sports facilities in a number of countries in to justice. Mall of Qatar, the nation’s mall, has Barn, Villeroy & Bosch, and much The Shura Council’s Financial Affairs coordination with FIFA, and, in doing so, providing a She indicated that the announced the launch of great more with a range of fantastic offers Committee held yesterday a meeting unique mode of legacy that organisers of future major Special Rapporteur expressed shopping deals, including unique that will cater to everyone during to examine the draft state budget for tournaments can benefit from,” said Al Thawadi. concern about the blockading promotional offers from more than this promotion. the 2021 fiscal year and the draft law Al Thawadi also spoke about how the stadiums built countries’ application of 100 leading brands to choose from. Taking advantage of the sales to adopt it. for the tournament were designed in a manner that various forms of unilateral With something for everyone, promotion, customers can lev- The committee discussed the would eliminate the creation of so-called ‘white ele- trade embargoes against the shopping deals will also incen- erage from the great deals to shop draft budget under the chair- phants’. He said: “Our goal behind designing the sta- Qatar, which restricts trade in tivize shoppers via an unbeatable and get their copouns to take part manship of its rapporteur H E Ali diums and their surrounding areas is not limited to goods, services, and trade- series of promotions and offers, in the current Shop & Win cam- bin Abdullatif Al Misnad Al hosting matches over a 28-day period only. Rather, our related intellectual property with more than 50% discounts, buy paign. Mall of Qatar visitors will Mohannadi in the attendance of focus was on building modern, versatile facilities that rights, and hinders the full two get one free, and offers with need to buy a gift card of a Assistant Undersecretary for serve all members of society and enhance community achievement of the Sus- endless choice of brands. minimum value of QR300 and Treasury Affairs at the Ministry of bonds long after the tournament ends.” tainable Development Goals, The promotion covers special shop later or spend QR300 or Finance Abdulrahman Fouad Al Between them, all eight Qatar 2022 stadiums feature also noting the Special Rap- deals across wide range of fashion more in any of the Mall outlets to Modahka, Assistant Undersecretary a vast range of legacy facilities, including public parks, porteur’s concern about the stores such as Bershka, Pull & Bear, be eligible for the weekly raffle for Financial Policy Affairs at the Min- shops, restaurants, sporting facilities and more. demand to close Qatari media Top Shop, H&M, New Yorker, Sacoor draw to win a car. istry of Finance Abdulrahman Al Thawadi also spoke about how organisers are outlets, which undermines Brothers, DKNY, Abercombie & Also, customers who buy Gifts Mohammed Jolo, Director of the committed to creating a fan experience that is centered freedom of expression. Fitch, and Salam Store. Beauty & Card’s worth QR500 or spend budget department at the Ministry of on smart technologies, leveraging other initiatives by Concluding her statement, perfumes shoppers will also enjoy QR500 or more will be entitled to Finance Salman Mohammed Al Msheireb, Qatar Foundation and other Qatar 2022 Ambassador Sheikha Alya great discounts offered by popular participate in the grand prize raffle Mahmoud , Director of the stakeholders. Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani brands such as Pari Gallery, The draw to win one of the two luxury department regulating public projects “Work continues tirelessly to ensure the provision pointed out that the appli- Body Shop, Debenhams, MAC, cars on December 10 on the mall’s at the Ministry of Finance Youssef of a smart experience for visitors in 2022, from the cation of unilateral coercive Beauty Gallery, and much more. anniversary, and on December 18, Mubarak Al Kuwari, Director of the moment they board a plane to Qatar, to connecting to measures targeting the State Various footwear and sports on Qatar National Day. Seven cars shared services affairs at Ashghal a 5G network, commuting aboard the Doha Metro, of Qatar continues despite the brands are also giving reductions were delivered so far to the winners, Mishal Sultan Al Hitmi, and director staying at Msheireb or other locations, and transporting evidence that they are such as Aldo, Foot Locker, Dune and 13 more are still available till of financial and administrative affairs between different tournament stadiums and all tourist unlawful and the relevant London, Crocs, Birkenstock, Steve January 14, 2021. Mall of Qatar has at Ashghal Nouf Saleh Al Fuhaid. attractions in the country,” said Al Thawadi. In par- rulings issued by the com- Maden, Charles & Keith, Ecco, Kurt worked tirelessly to bring world- The committee decided to ticular, Al Thawadi stressed the importance of working petent international bodies Geiger, Nike, Athelete’ co, Go Sports, class brands together to offer excep- present its report on the 2021 fiscal with a variety of different partners to create what he such as the International and much more. As for the home tional value to its customers to enjoy year budget and its draft law to the referred to as, “an exceptional, unparalleled experience Court of Justice. and décor shoppers, leading brands fantastic discounts. Shura Council. in 2022”. FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2020 HOME 03

Deputy PM and Minister of State for Defence Affairs meets US Acting Defence Secretary Education Ministry launches NSRC’s virtual exhibition QNA — DOHA Assistant Undersecretary for Educational The Ministry of Education and Affairs at the Ministry of Education and Higher Higher Education has launched Education, Fawzia Abdulaziz Al Khater, said the virtual exhibition of the annual National Science that the annual National Science Research Research Competition (NSRC) Competition (NSRC) celebrates researchers in cooperation with Qatar National Research Fund and innovators by encouraging them to pursue (QNRF). their topics of interest. The competition announced the winners of high school, elementary, and junior Director of Information Research Experience Program high school categories. It also Technology Tareq Al Emadi (HSREP) is a qualitative announced the winners of congratulated all the winners addition to training students for Katara’s Olympiad in of the competition and thanked research outside the school Astronomy. all those in charge of the virtual framework, specifically in uni- Assistant Undersecretary exhibition for their efforts, and versities under the supervision for Educational Affairs at the said that the Ministry has given of academic advisors from uni- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs H E Dr. Khalid bin Mohammad Al Attiyah Ministry of Education and public service and simplifying versities and research centres. met yesterday with the US Acting Secretary of Defence, H E Christopher Miller, who is currently visiting Higher Education, Fawzia user procedures as a priority, It is noteworthy that the Qatar. They discussed military relations between the two friendly countries and means to promote Abdulaziz Al Khater said that making it one of the first gov- online platform is a virtual them, in addition to the latest regional and international developments. The meeting was attended the competition celebrates ernment agencies to implement exhibition to display the distin- by a lineup of Armed Forces senior officials, and the delegation accompanying the US Official.The researchers and innovators by digital transformation in its guished research of students Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs also met with Republican Senator encouraging them to pursue services to online use. and teachers, and to announce John Barrasso, who is currently visiting the country. their topics of interest. She Al Emadi said that the min- first places in all academic added that the competition also istry reached 85% of its services levels and categories of projects encourages cooperation and to be electronic through more submitted via the following Qatar attends Arab Justice Ministers' meeting competition, in addition to than 80 electronic services that link: https://educompetitions. showcasing the projects under- are currently available on the edu.gov.qa/. taken by students to solve the public service portal of the Min- Research and projects will world’s problems. istry of Education. be presented annually on the She noted that the extraor- Director of Capacity platform, and are available dinary conditions imposed by Building at QNRF, Dr. Aisha Al through the ministry’s website the coronavirus all over the Obaidly affirmed that the to all schools and the general world meant that the compe- launch of the High School public. tition could not be held as in the past, and added that the ministry remained committed to holding the event nonetheless. She also expressed her pride at seeing some of the students win inter- national awards for their work. Executive Director of the Qatar National Research Fund, Dr. Abdul Sattar Al Taie said that in line with the vision and mission of the QNRF to build national capabilities in scien- tific research at all stages, the fund, in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and The State of Qatar, represented by the Minister of Justice and Acting Minister of State for Cabinet Higher Education, has Affairs H E Dr. Issa bin Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi, participated yesterday in the 36th meeting of Arab encouraged school students at Justice Ministers, which took place via video conferencing. The meeting dealt with enhancing all levels to employ the Arab and international cooperation in the field of counter-terrorism. It also discussed the Arab knowledge and skills they learn Assistant Undersecretary for Educational Affairs at the Ministry agreement for combatting cybercrime, and a draft Arab law on preventing hate crime. The meeting through training them in scien- of Education and Higher Education, Fawzia Abdulaziz Al Khater also reviewed a number of articles and documents related to joint Arab work. tific research methodologies. speaking at the launch ceremony. Qatar-Turkey ties exceptional, Qatari investments in governed by moral reference Turkey reach over $22bn

QNA — DOHA QNA — DOHA

Ambassador of the State of Qatar Ambassador of the Republic to the Republic of Turkey, H E of Turkey, H E Mehmet Salem bin Mubarak Al Shafi said Mustafa Goksu affirmed the that Qatari-Turkish relations are growing development of distinct, stressing that this rela- Qatari-Turkish relations, as tionship is governed by a moral the two countries became reference and has gone through strategic allies, in light of the many challenges before reaching great leap in their relations the stage of strategic relations in various fields of joint and comprehensive partnership. cooperation. In his statement to QNA, In a statement to QNA, Ambassador Al Shafi said what Ambassador said that strengthened the status of that bilateral relations between relationship was the great con- the two countries have wit- vergence at the level of leaders Ambassador of Qatar to Turkey, H E Salem bin Mubarak Al Shafi nessed remarkable progress Ambassador of Turkey to Qatar, H E Mehmet Mustafa Goksu and the people, the common in recent years in all fields denominators between the two to become strategic partners international trade and countries, the unlimited solidarity taxation and joint exemption from that cooperate on many water resources. in times of crises, the converging travel visas between the State of issues at the bilateral, On the commercial and and harmonious political visions The official visit of Amir H H Qatar and the Turkish Republic regional and international The regular holding of investment aspects, he said in many files and issues, as well Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al for holders of regular passports levels. that the relations between as the sincere and continuous from citizens of the two He added that the regular Qatar-Turkey Supreme the two countries have efforts made by the two sides to Thani to the Republic of Turkey countries. holding of Qatar-Turkey Strategic Committee reflected positively on the preserve this distinguished level yesterday to chair the sixth This visit gives the Supreme Supreme Strategic Com- meetings at the highest trade and investment field, of relations. Strategic Committee’s meetings a mittee meetings at the adding that the trade The official visit of Amir H H meeting of the Qatar-Turkey regular and permanent character. highest level annually is an level annually is an exchange between Qatar and Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Supreme Strategic Committee It will also contribute to strength- indication of the strength of indication of the Turkey witnessed important Thani to the Republic of Turkey ening the bonds of strategic part- this relationship and strong development during the past yesterday to chair the sixth with Turkish President H E nership and exceptional relations evidence of the commitment strength of this years, and last year it meeting of the Qatar-Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in between the two countries. of the two countries, as stra- relationship and strong recorded a growth of about Supreme Strategic Committee addition to the meetings, talks On the importance and impli- tegic allies, to strengthen 6 percent. with Turkish President H E Recep cations of the timing of this visit, their partnership in various evidence of the He also pointed out that Tayyip Erdogan, in addition to the and agreements that will result Ambassador Salem bin Mubarak fields. commitment of the two Qatari companies are the meetings, talks and agreements from it, will add great Al Shafi said that this visit comes He pointed out that the third largest investors in the that will result from it, will add at a time when the world is suf- Qatar-Turkey Supreme Stra- countries, as strategic field of contracting in the great momentum to the bilateral momentum to the bilateral fering from severe polarization tegic Committee meeting is allies, to strengthen Turkish market, and high- relations and lead to exploring relations. and challenges, in addition to the being held in light of regional their partnership in lighted that more than 179 new horizons, as it will contribute outbreak of the coronavirus pan- and international political Qatari companies operate in to strengthening and developing demic and the negative effects that and economic challenges, various fields. Turkey and the volume of existing cooperation mecha- H E Salem bin Mubarak Al Shafi this has left. which makes it imperative Qatari investments has nisms, he stressed. Ambassador of Qatar to Turkey On the effect of this visit on for the two countries to H E Mehmet Mustafa Goksu reached more than $22bn. In December 2014, H H the the existing cooperation consult, coordinate and Ambassador of Turkey to Qatar Regarding Turkish com- Amir and H E President of the strengthen bilateral relations in all between the two countries in dif- exchange views regarding panies in Qatar, he noted Turkish Republic, had signed an fields, Ambassador Al Shafi added. ferent areas, H E the States them in a way that con- that more than 500 Turkish agreement to establish a (Supreme These meetings resulted in Ambassador to Ankara indicated tributes to achieving their companies are active in Strategic Committee) between the opening new horizons of cooper- that this visit and the meetings common interests and previously signed. He added Qatar, working in vital fields, two countries. Under this ation between the two countries and agreements that will result enhances their role in pro- that after signing the new and actively participating in agreement, a large number of min- and also contributed to enhancing from it will have a great impact moting security and peace cooperation agreements, the infrastructure projects, istries, governmental and private trade exchange and cooperation on consolidating and stabilizing in the region and the world. number of agreements pointing out that a number institutions in the two countries, in at the economic, financial, com- the gains that have been On the agreements that between the two countries of Turkish companies won addition to the concerned sectors, mercial, educational, agricultural, achieved, codifying and organ- will be signed during the is expected to exceed 60 contracts worth $1.2bn. have engaged in talks to prepare technological and defense levels. izing the various aspects of coop- meeting, H E Ambassador agreements that will cover In the field of tourism, for bilateral agreements, memo- In addition to the beneficial eration, developing legal and explained that a number of many and varied fields, His Excellency stated that randa of understanding and coop- measures that accompanied all this implementation frameworks for new agreements will be including economic, indus- the number of Qatari visitors eration protocols. The Higher Stra- for the citizens of the two coun- it, finding other prospects for signed between the two trial, cultural and Islamic to Turkey reached 110,000 tegic Committee has also acted as tries, such as easing restrictions on cooperation and providing more sides, in addition to 52 affairs, and in the family last year, up from 30,000 in an important mechanism to investments, preventing double beneficial measures. agreements that were domain, as well as 2016. 04 MIDDLE EAST FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2020

Air strikes kill Turkey jails 337 for life in 2016 coup trial 19 Iran-backed AFP — ANKARA fighters in A total of 251 people died A Turkish court jailed more than Syria: Monitor 300 former pilots and other and more than 2,000 suspects for life in a mass trial were injured in the AFP — BEIRUT stemming from a bloody 2016 bloody 2016 coup coup attempt against President attempt against President Air strikes likely carried out by Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Israel killed at least 19 pro-Iran Fethullah Gulen, a US-based militia fighters in war-torn preacher, is accused of ordering Court documents showed eastern Syria, a war monitor the failed putsch. His movement 337 defendants handed said yesterday. has been proscribed as a ter- life sentences for murder, The early morning strikes rorist group by Ankara, but the violating the hit positions of Iran-backed 79-year-old denies all charges. militias outside the town of Albu A total of 251 people died constitutional order and Kamal in Deir Ezzor province, and more than 2,000 were attempting to assassinate killing mostly Pakistani fighters, injured in what has turned into Erdogan. Sixty suspects the Syrian Observatory for the defining moment of were given jail sentences Human Rights said. Erdogan’s rule and contem- of various lengths while Syrian state media did not porary Turkish politics. report the attack and Israel Turkey’s largest courtroom 75 were acquitted. rarely acknowledges individual was packed with dozens of strikes, but the Observatory has security personnel and the pre- accused the Jewish state of siding judge ordered one pro- Ufuk Yegin, who represents a launching at least two other testing defendant to “Sit down!” victims’ families association, aerial attacks against pro-Iran several times before reading the said. “It was a very important Turkish riot police officers stand guard at the entrance of the Sincan Penal Institution at the 4th forces in Syria since Saturday. verdict. trial for the Turkish judicial Heavy Penal Court near Ankara, yesterday. Early on Wednesday, at He issued multiple life sen- system and for the country,” least eight Iran-backed fighters tences to 27 disgruntled air added Muaz Ergezen, another forces and the Ankara police. after the coup bid but released and replaced the death penalty were killed in strikes near force pilots who bombed the lawyer for the victims. Erdogan was on vacation in later and is now on the run. after it was abolished in 2004 Damascus and in southern capital Ankara and civilians “It is a trial that will go down southern Turkey at the time. Yesterday's verdict culmi- as part of Turkey’s drive to join Syria, according to the war who orchestrated the coup in history.” The bombs killed 68 people nates a trial that began in the European Union. monitor, which is based in the attempt from inside the Akinci The then chief of staff in the capital and injured more August 2017 involving nearly The putsch bid was stamped UK but relies on a network of military base near the capital. general Hulusi Akar — now the than 200. Nine civilians also 500 suspects. out quickly, but its legacy still sources inside Syria. On Sat- Court documents showed defence minister — and other died trying to stop the plotters Businessman Kemal haunts Turkey. urday night, air strikes near 337 defendants handed life sen- top commanders were held at the entrance to the base. Batmaz, accused of assisting Ten of a total 289 trials into Albu Kamal killed at least 14 tences for murder, violating the hostage at the military base Gulen, Adil Oksuz — a the- Oksuz, was among dozens of the failed overthrow of Erdogan pro-Iran militia fighters. constitutional order and overnight before their rescue ology lecturer who officials defendants handed multiple are still under way, state news Iran backs President attempting to assassinate on the morning of July 16, 2016. claim was a key coordinator of aggravated life sentences for agency Anadolu reported. Bashar Al Assad’s regime in Erdogan. Sixty suspects were F-16 fighter jets struck the what was happening on the playing leading roles in Erdogan’s More than 2,800 people Syria’s civil war. The latest given jail sentences of various parliament building, the road ground — and four others are attempted overthrow. have been jailed for life, with strikes came after Israel’s lengths while 75 were acquitted. near the presidential palace and being tried in absentia. An aggravated life sentence judges convicting nearly 4,500 ambassador to the United “Justice has been served,” the headquarters of the special Oksuz was detained shortly has tougher terms of detention suspects since July 2016. Nations Gilad Erdan called on the Security Council to take immediate action to remove Thailand returns Iranians in Iranian forces from Syria. Turkey does not expect sanctions “Israel... demands a total rollback of Iran and its proxies swap with Australian lecturer from Syria and the removal of over Russian S-400s under Biden Iranian military infrastructure AFP — BANGKOK from Syrian territory,” he said REUTERS — ANKARA compatible with Nato defences, fighter jets and has removed in a letter addressed to the head Thailand confirmed yesterday it had returned three Iranians jailed raised the prospect of US sanc- Turkey from the jet programme of the UN Security Council. over a 2012 bomb plot in Bangkok, in an announcement that came Turkey does not expect ties tions early next year if Con- where it was a manufacturer Israel has carried out hun- after Tehran freed an Australian-British lecturer imprisoned for with the United States to be gress approves a defence and buyer. dreds of air and missile strikes alleged spying. strained under President-elect spending bill which the House Ankara says the S-400s will on Syria since the country’s civil The kingdom’s corrections department said two of the men — Joe Biden and does not antic- of Representatives has already not be integrated into Nato and war broke out in 2011, targeting Masoud Sedaghatzadeh and Saeid Moradi — were transferred as ipate sanctions over its voted to include language has called for a joint working Iranian and Lebanese Hezbollah prisoners while the third, Mohammad Khazaei, was granted a purchase of Russia S-400 requiring the president to group to discuss US concerns. forces as well as Syrian gov- royal pardon in August. defence systems, a senior sanction Turkey. Kurtulmus repeated that ernment troops. Syria’s war has Thai officials have not explicitly linked the transfer with the official in President Tayyip In an interviews, AK Party Turkey would not bow to killed more than 380,000 release of Middle East scholar Kylie Moore-Gilbert, who returned Erdogan’s AK Party said. Deputy Chairman Numan Kur- pressure to return the Russian people and displaced millions to Australia after two years in detention in Iran on espionage Relations have been tense tulmus played down that systems, or leave them unused. more since starting in 2011 with charges. But Iranian state TV said on Wednesday that Moore- between Ankara and Wash- prospect. “Sorry, but we didn’t the brutal repression of anti- Gilbert was swapped for three Iranians. ington over issues from policy “The US President will most procure these to hide them. We government protests. The trio freed by Thailand had all been jailed over a botched towards Syria to the US refusal likely watch the balance in the got them to meet Turkey’s Meanwhile, the United bomb plot that Israel linked to a spate of attacks on its diplomats to extradite a cleric Turkey Middle East very carefully for security needs,” he said. Nations has confirmed that around the world. The plot came to light on Valentine’s Day 2012 blames for a 2016 coup attempt. US interests, and will not want to While Erdogan has down- urgent relief aid is needed for when a huge explosion ripped the roof off a house in suburban Turkey has relied on the continue the tense ties with played the possible fallout from three million Syrian refugees Bangkok after bombs apparently detonated accidentally inside. good personal ties between Turkey,” Kurtulmus said. these sanctions and vowed before winter, noting that the Moradi, aged 29 at the time, threw a bomb at police as he fled Erdogan and US President “...I believe they will take counter-sanctions, he has also recent rain in northern Syria the scene but succeeded only in blowing his own legs off, while Donald Trump to smooth over positive steps in the future.” promised economic and judicial have destroyed or damaged Khazaei, then 43, made it to the airport before being apprehended. divisions. Washington says the reforms, following an overhaul hundreds of tents in dis- In 2013 a Bangkok court jailed Moradi for life for attempted murder Ankara’s purchase last year S-400s pose a threat to the of Turkey’s economic lead- placement sites in the prov- and sentenced Khazaei to 15 years for possession of explosives. of the S-400s, which are not capabilities of its F-35 stealth ership amid a plunge in the lira. inces of Idlib and Aleppo. Israel frees Palestinian who waged 103-day hunger strike

AFP — NABLUS Al Barqawi said. Akhras, 49, was detention beyond that date. arrested near Nablus in July and Israel’s administrative Israel yesterday released a Pales- put in administrative detention, detention policy, inherited from tinian who waged a 103-day a policy that Israel uses to hold the British mandate of Palestine, hunger strike to protest Israeli suspected militants without allows the internment of pris- rules allowing his detention charge. oners without charge for without charge, the Palestinian He is suspected of links to the renewable periods of up to six Prisoner’s Club said. armed Palestinian group Islamic months each time. Maher Al Akhras, arrested Jihad, labelled a terrorist group Israel says the procedure over alleged membership of a by Israel, the United States and allows authorities to hold sus- militia group, was transferred the European Union. pects and prevent attacks while from a Tel Aviv hospital to Nab- The father of six launched his continuing to gather evidence, lus’s Al Najah University Hospital fast to protest a four-month but critics and rights groups say in the occupied West Bank, the detention order, which had been the system is abused. prisoners’ rights group said. due to end on November 26. Around 355 Palestinians were A decision on releasing him Akhras, who been arrested being held under administrative to return home will follow “a by Israel several times previ- detention orders as of August, Palestinian detainee Maher Al Akhras flashes the victory sign with his daughter as he arrives at medical assessment of his con- ously, ended his hunger strike including two minors, according his home in the West Bank village of Seylat Al Dhahr, south of Jenin city, following his release by dition”, Al Najah hospital after Israeli authorities com- to Israeli human rights group Israeli authorities, yesterday. medical director Abdul-Karim mitted to not extending his B’Tselem. Sailing river bends, young Iraqis rock the boat AFP — BAGHDAD succeed,” she added, after Hussein in 2003, Adhamiya “It’s now a place of leisure pulling her dinghy up the became the heart of a Sunni and relaxation,” said Ghazi Al Mariam Khaled squinted her muddy bank. insurrection and one of the Shayaa, a sports journalist. eyes, drew in her sail against the The water sports are also most dangerous places in “It’s a joy to see Baghdadis wind and set her white dinghy revolutionising how Iraqis Baghdad. gathering here nearly every day towards a point on the interact with the historic Tigris The dark years of Iraq’s sec- to watch the swimmers or the riverbank: Adhamiya, to be and Euphrates, which gave the tarian fighting from 2006 until boats go by,” he said. precise, in central Baghdad. country its byname of the “land 2008 pitted it against the Shia The latest major round of With the orange sunset sat- between the two rivers” mil- district of Kadhimiya, just violence in Iraq ended in 2017, urating the sky, a cluster of lennia ago. across the Tigris. when the government mostly teenage sailors, wind- Water levels in the twin The remains of victims declared victory in its years- surfers and jet-skiers were rivers have dropped by half who were thrown into the long fight against the Islamic making waves along the river because of dams upstream in river back then still sometimes State group. Tigris. “It’s a difficult sport that neighbouring Turkey and wash ashore— but today, The next year, Ahmad requires a lot of effort, and Iran. Baghdad’s river bends see Mazlum came up with a crazy Members of the Iraqi Water Sports Federation are pictured on the plenty of patience and perse- One year in Baghdad, the much more life than death. idea: setting up Iraq’s first banks of the river Tigris, in the Adhamiya district of capital Baghdad. verance,” 16-year-old Khaled, levels drew so low that resi- Along the waterfront, res- water sports federation. Its riv- a former junior swimming dents could squelch between taurants and small funfairs are erside headquarters in Half of the 10 dinghies are build our own in a workshop we champion, said. the banks of the Tigris on foot. teeming with families who Adhamiya is identifiable by the Iraqi-made, at around $600 set up with the club members,” “But I want to show eve- Following the US-led gaze out at the young rows of white dinghies and each. “An (imported) sailboat said Mazlum, the federation’s ryone that we, Iraqi women, can invasion that toppled Saddam athletes. bright windsurfing sails. can cost $10,000. So we had to deputy head. FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2020 ISLAM 05 Migration: An Islamic perspective

ZEKI SARITOPRAK could find Prophet to work, he would ask his brother or The practice of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) sister to wait for the Prophet’s com- he term for migration in Islam Muhammad (Peace Be and his friend and kill panionship in order to receive what the is hijra. The active participle of them before they Prophet had said, so that the one who the word is muhajir. The Islamic Upon Him) with regards to migrated. The Prophet was not working could share the tradition contains two related immigrants can be taken successfully finished Prophet’s words with the one who was Tterms as well. They are ghurba and his painful migration, working. The Prophet’s brotherhood also as an example for our gharib. Both terms have a connotation modern-day approach to a long journey made helped to create a warm environment of being strange in a certain place. The on the back of a for immigrants and to strengthen society. difference between hijra and ghurba is migration and immigrants. camel. After arriving The Prophet achieved a full inclusion of that hijra involves permanent relo- The teaching of Islam has at the city of Madinah, immigrants. For example, Africans and cation while ghurba can be either per- very important which was a multicul- women were folded into the hierarchical manent or temporary. There is a very foundations for providing tural and multi-reli- society. The declaration of brotherhood famous Arabic statement in this regard: gious city, the first between members of these two commu- “The stranger is blind even if he has mutual help among thing he did was to nities was not random. The Prophet eyes,” which indicates the vulnerability immigrants and citizens. establish foundations looked at their characteristics, their spir- of the stranger and suggests that the The Quran and the sayings for an interconnected itual compatibilities, and even their tastes, stranger needs help and guidance. of the Prophet contain society where people and he declared brotherhood and sis- The Quran speaks of the migration could live peacefully terhood between these two segments of experiences of many prophets such as many examples of peaceful with one another. society. It took five months for the Adam, Abraham, Lot, Jonah, Jacob, and societies made of Muslims made up only Prophet to get to know them well. Moses (peace be upon them). Since Adam, immigrants as well as fifteen percent of The Quran refers to their earlier sit- the father of humanity, migrated from regular citizens. The Madinah’s population uation when it says: “Remember when heaven to earth, the tradition of Islam when Prophet you were enemies. God has united your considers all human beings as immi- Prophet (PBUH) said: “You Muhammad (PBUH) hearts and through his grace you have grants. Therefore, the primordial cannot be a real believer migrated to the city. become brothers” (3:103). fatherland of humanity is heaven, while unless you want for your The population was The practice of the Prophet with the earth is a place for temporary relo- brother what you want otherwise made up of regards to immigrants can be taken as cation. This view seems to be dominant Arab idol wor- an example for our modern-day in the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad for yourself. shippers, members of approach to migration and immigrants. (Peace Be Upon Him) as well. He likens Jewish tribes, and a The teaching of Islam has very himself to a traveller who stays for a short few others. Success- important foundations for providing time to rest under the shade of a tree and were persecuted by his opponents for diplomacy they were asked to return, fully, he brought a mutual help among immigrants and cit- then continues on his journey.1 their ‘new religion’. In order to have a after several conversations with them, peaceful life to the conflicting tribes izens. The Quran and the sayings of the Migration can take place for many safe place, they needed to migrate. Two the Abyssinian King Negus and his reli- through an important document that Prophet contain many examples of reasons: Economic, religious, or simply of their three migrations were small- gious advisors, convinced of the immi- he developed, the Constitution of peaceful societies made of immigrants for relocation. Islam has witnessed scale migrations. grants’ innocence, refused to return Madinah or the Madinah Charter, in as well as regular citizens. various waves of migration. The Holy One of them was the Prophet’s them to the Makkans. This honest and which equality between all members The Prophet (PBUH) said: “You Quran speaks of oppressed and weak migration to the city of Taif, seeking kind behaviour of the king and his of society, regardless of religion, was cannot be a real believer unless you people on earth and suggests that they refuge from the hostile reaction and monks received praise in the Quran and established. want for your brother what you want could migrate from their oppressed persecution of Makkan idol worshipers. was the occasion of certain Quranic There is no doubt that the Muslims for yourself.”6 positions to another land of God. The In fact, this might not even be called a verses. The king’s good behaviour who migrated from Makkah were verse says: “Was not the earth of God full migration, since the Prophet (PBUH) towards immigrants became an financially weak because they had to Notes: spacious enough for you to flee for wanted to convince the people of the city important reference for later Muslim- leave everything behind in Madinah. 1. The story of this saying of the Prophet is narrated refuge?” (4:97). to accept him and his followers for their Christian relations. They were unable to carry their pos- by one of his companions, Ibn Abbas. According to The verse indirectly suggests that full-scale migration. Instead of giving him sessions with them. Their poverty and the story, Umar visited the Prophet while he was sit- those who have authority should take help, the people of this city encouraged Painful migration weakness was to be solved through the ting on a mat, and he said to the Prophet that the care of refugees, since it speaks of God their children and slaves to attack the The largest and the most important wisdom of the Prophet. Because there Prophet should have a wonderful bed instead of as the owner of the land. Therefore, the Prophet and his companions and even migration in the history of Islam is the were Muslim citizens in Madinah prior sleeping on a mat. The Prophet responded in the worldly owners and authorities should to stone them. His foot was wounded and migration of the Prophet (PBUH) from to the immigrants’ arrival, the immi- following way: “I don’t have anything to do with this feel closeness and openness to those bled. This event became one of the worst the city of Makkah to the city of grants were called muhajir. In order to world. My story is like a rider in a desert who takes who are destitute and oppressed and events in the life of Prophet Muhammad Madinah, 280 miles north of Makkah. integrate immigrants with the local shade under a tree for a certain moment and then therefore open the doors of their (PBUH). The Prophet did not ask God to Because of the significance of this Muslims, the Prophet declared broth- departs from there.” (Ahmad bin Hanbal. Al-Musnad borders for them. punish them for their bad behaviour migration, it marked the beginning of erhood between every immigrant and Volume 6 p. 40. These page numbers are based on The verse continues... “as for the against him in the hope that there might the Islamic calendar. The Prophet local Muslim, and he asked the local the electronic version of the text which is available helpless men, women and children who be some good generations to come out (PBUH) did love his hometown, Muslims to help the immigrants. Such at: www.al-Islam.com. Accessed on 4/8/2007.) have neither the strength nor the means of the offspring of this people. Makkah. When he needed to leave, he a unique brotherhood created two 2. This saying of the Prophet suggests that the to escape, God may pardon them. The second migration came when turned back to the city and said, “O important groups in the history of Islam Prophet and his community were privileged with Surely God pardons and forgives. Those a marginalised social class who con- Makkaha! I know you are the most who became the subjects of praise in three things. First, that the whole face of the earth who migrate for the sake of God shall verted to Islam, faced severe perse- blessed (khayr) of the land of God. If the Quran: Muhajirun (immigrants) and was made pure and available as a place of worship find many places for refuge in the land cution. Slaves and women were at great your people did not force me to leave Ansar (helpers). or as a mosque. Second, that our rows in prayer in great abundance” (4:99-100). risk. By torturing them, the Makkan I would never have left you.”4 Speaking of these people, the Quran became similar to the rows of angels when they Therefore, according to Islamic elite believed that they would dis- It is also narrated that the Prophet says: The men who stayed in their own had their prayer. The final verses of the second teaching, every part of the earth is God’s courage the weaker people. In fact, the (PBUH) made the following prayer city (Madinah) and embraced Islam chapter of the Qur’an were given to him as a gift. land. Although today we have put up opposite became true, because the per- while he migrated: “Lord, you have before them loved those who have (Ibn Hibban. Electronic Version: www.alsunnah.com borders in order to divide nations and secution increased their loyalty to the taken me from the most blessed city. sought refuge with them. They do not Accessed on: 4/7/2007.) stop the flow of emigration and immi- Prophet and to their faith. Realising Please, take me to another blessed city.” covet what they are given but rather 3. The entire story mentions that when they went gration from one land to another, in the their painful situation, the Prophet Prior to the migration, the Prophet prefer their brothers and sisters above to Abyssinia and met with King Negus, the King teaching of Islam all lands belong to asked them to migrate to Abyssinia (PBUH) and Muslims were all singled themselves although they are in need. listened to them, and at the end he said, “You are God and all people are servants of God. (Ethiopia). Therefore, this migration out by the elite in the city of Makkah. Those who preserve themselves from welcome and the one from whom you came is also A similar statement which indicates was made at the request of the Prophet The wealthy merchants of the city their own greed shall surely prosper. welcome. I believe that he is God’s messenger. He is that the entire land belongs to God is Muhammad (PBUH), although he imposed a severe economic boycott (59:9) the one that I found in the Gospel. Jesus gave good found in one of the sayings of the himself did not participate in it. This against the Prophet and his followers The Prophet named one Ansar and news of him. Live in Abyssinia wherever you want. Prophet: “God has made the entire face particular event is also considered one for three years. It is believed that out one Muhajirun, and he declared them If I was not the King, I would be willing to carry the of the earth as a Mosque for me and its of the early encounters between of this economic boycott came star- brothers and sisters. Ansar shared their sandals of the Prophet.” When he died, the Prophet soil as pure.”2 Muslims and Christians, when Muslims vation, and the Prophet’s wife, Khadija, money and their farms with their was in Madinah, and he said to his companions, Today, we have Muslim immigrants received support and encouragement died. The Prophet called this “the year brothers to the extent that the immi- “Your brother Ashama (Negus) died in Abyssinia,” in many parts of the world, in the from the Christian king. Abyssinia was of grief (huzn).” grant Muslims received legal rights and he asked them to have a funeral prayer for him. United States of America as well as a Christian kingdom which Prophet One of the important aspects of this from the inheritance of their Ansar (Ismail bin Kathir. Al Syrah al-Nabawiyyah. Volume Europe. Most of these migrations are Muhammad (PBUH) thought would be migration was the request that came brothers. When one of the Ansars died, 2, p. 9-10. The pages are based on the electronic for economic reasons, and few of them a safe refuge for his followers. from the people of Madinah. They his Muhajirun brother would be his heir. version of the text which is available at www.alwar- are for religious freedom. Similarly, In the sixth year of the his wanted the Prophet to migrate to their Some of the immigrants were very hon- raq.com. Accessed on 4/8/2007.) there are many Muslim countries that prophethood, about eighty-three town in order to stop the ongoing tribal ourable and did not want to ask for 4. Ibn Kathir. Ibid. Volume 2 p. 285. receive immigrants from different parts members of Prophet Muhammad’s warfare. Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) help. Instead of asking for assistance 5. The particular questions might include: Show of the world. The most interesting and (PBUH) community, male and female, peace-making skill prompted the they would say, “show me the way of me what the local buying and selling customs are? well-known journeys of migration in under the leadership of his cousin Ja’far people of this city to go to him with such the marketplace.”5 Show me where the marketplace is? This implies the history of Islam are the three bin Abu Talib, left the city of Makkah a request. Therefore, the Prophet asked The brotherhood the Prophet that one’s skills in the marketplace would not have famous occurrences that happened in for Abyssinia, including some prom- his companions to migrate one by one. declared brought prosperity and soli- been easily transferable from one town to the next. early period. These early migrations inent figures who would later be caliphs Eventually he and his close friend, Abu darity to the community. It was not only 6. Bukhari. Hadith no. 12. (in his al-Sahih, Vol. 1, were religiously oriented. In other in Islam, such as Uthman bin Affan and Bakr, who would later be the first caliph a material cooperation, but a spiritual p. 20 in the electronic version which is available at words, Muslims migrated for religious his wife.3 in Islam, migrated under a great risk of one as well. For example, the broth- www.al-Islam.com. Accessed on 4/7/08.) reasons. In the city of Makkah, Prophet Although they were followed by the being attacked or killed. A man had erhood would listen to the Prophet in Courtesy: The Journal of Scriptural Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers idol worshippers and through been offered one hundred camels if he turn. When one of them needed to go Reasoning

Shukr is a very important principle in Islam. It is a quality of the believers and it is a source of all goodness. Shukr is used in the Quran An Islamic Thanksgiving sometimes as equivalent to faith. The faithful are thankful people and MUZAMMIL SIDDIQI the unfaithful are ungrateful people. Allah has described His Prophets commercialism. It is important that to Allah (Quran 34:13). Allah told His and Messengers among those who were thankful people. hen do ye remember Me; I will we remember and remind others Prophet Muhammad: Nay, but worship remember you. Be grateful to Me about the spirit of thanksgiving. Allah, and be of those who give thanks. Tand reject not Faith. (Quran 2:152) The Quranic word for thanks is (Quran 39:66) Allah’s favours and blessings. There accomplished this (by ourselves). And And remember! Your Lord caused to “shukr.” It is mentioned in the Quran Allah also promised: Nor can a soul are many special prayers that the to our Lord, surely, must we turn back!” be declared (publicly): “If ye are grateful, many times. It is the quality of human die except by Allah’s leave, the term Prophet taught us to keep us on the (Quran 43:13) I will add more favours unto you; but if beings and it is also the quality of Allah. being fixed as by writing. If any do path of gratitude and thankfulness. O Allah, we ask you this journey ye show ingratitude, truly My pun- According to scholars Shukr means: desire a reward in this life, We shall give When we eat, he told us that we righteousness and piety and the deeds ishment is terrible indeed.” (Quran 14:7) “It is the consideration of the favour it to him; and if any do desire a reward should say: When the Prophet used to that are pleasing to you. O Allah, make We bestowed Wisdom on Luqman: and its acknowledgment. Shukr from in the Hereafter, We shall give it to him. eat or drink, he used to say, “Thanks this journey easy for us and shorten “Show (thy) gratitude to Allah.” Any the human means the recognition of And swiftly shall We reward those that be to Allah Who gave us food and drink its distance. O Allah, You are the Com- who is (so) grateful does so to the profit the favour. Shukr from Allah means who are thankful. (Quran 3:145) and made us Muslims.” (Tirmidhi) panion in journey and You are the of his own soul; but if any is ungrateful, the reward and appreciation.” In Islam thanksgiving is not only Whenever the Prophet put on any Guardian for the family (left behind). verily Allah is free of all wants, worthy Shukr is a very important principle a particular religious act or service; it new dress, he would say its name O Allah, We ask you to protect us from of all praise. (Quran 31:12) in Islam. It is a quality of the believers is the whole life. The whole life should ‘Amamah or shirt or shawl, then he would the exhaustion of journey, from bad The National Day of Thanksgiving and it is a source of all goodness. Shukr be lived in obedience to our Ultimate say, “O Allah, Thanks be to You, You gave scenes and from bad return to our in America is a beautiful holiday. It is used in the Quran sometimes as Benefactor, Allah. God has been good me this to wear. I ask You to give me the property and family.” When he used contains a good spirit and noble equivalent to faith. The faithful are to us and so in our thankfulness we good of this dress and the good for which to return he used to say, “Returning, message. It is not a holiday of any par- thankful people and the unfaithful are should worship Him, obey His com- it is made and I ask You to protect me from repenting, worshiping and praising our ticular religion. It is not a Christian or ungrateful people. Allah has described mands and orders. Our daily prayers, the evil of this dress and from the evil of Lord.” (Muslim) Jewish holiday but it has many deeply His Prophets and Messengers among our fasting during Ramadan, our Zakat that for which it is made.” (Tirmidhi) Islam does not only teach us to thank religious and spiritual meanings. those who were thankful people. and Hajj are all our acts of thanks- When the Prophet used to mount Allah, but we are also told to thank our America at thanksgiving is America at Prophet Noah was a grateful servant giving. We should do them not only as his camel going on a journey he used to parents, our spouses, our friends, neigh- its best. It is unfortunate that like many of Allah (Quran 17:3). Prophet Abraham duties that must be performed but as say Allahu Akbar (God is the greatest) bours and all those who do any good to other moral and spiritual things this used to thank Allah for His many our gratitude to our Lord and Creator. three times and then he would say, us. The Prophet said: “Those who do not holiday is also turned nowadays into blessings (Quran 16:121). Prophet David Furthermore, we should remind “Glory to Him Who has subjected these thank people, they do not thank Allah.” too much indulgence and and his family were told to be grateful ourselves that we are constantly under to our (use), for we could never have (Tirmidhi) www.islamicity.org 06 AFRICA FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2020 Abiy orders ‘final’ offensive against Tigray leaders AFP — ADDIS ABABA Prime Minister It was not immediately clear leaders of Ethiopia to do every- assist by handing over TPLF ele- Eritrean capital Asmara and Abiy stressed that how close the army was to the thing possible to protect civilians” ments in their midst, Abiy said. Ethiopian cities outside Tigray, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on city. A communications as the US, EU and other interna- Abiy ordered troops into spurring fears the conflict could yesterday ordered Ethiopia’s Ethiopia’s defence blackout in Tigray and restric- tional powers encouraged medi- Tigray on November 4 following destabilise the wider Horn of army to launch a “final” forces had “carefully tions on reporting have made ation through the AU, headquar- alleged attacks by TPLF forces Africa region. offensive against Tigray’s verifying claims from both sides tered in Addis Ababa. on federal military camps in the Hundreds have reportedly dissident leaders in their devised” a strategy difficult. Rights groups have warned region. been killed, although an regional capital Mekele, saying to defeat the TPLF Diplomats briefed on the bombarding Mekele could con- He has resisted appeals for accurate figure is not known. the deadline for their surrender fighting told AFP Wednesday stitute a war crime. talks. His government signalled Ethiopia’s rights watchdog this had expired. in Mekele without that federal forces were at least “Despite the Ethiopian mil- it would meet the AU envoys “as week said at least 600 civilians Abiy, the winner of last harming civilians or 30km from Mekele to the north itary’s warnings to residents, a matter of respect” but flatly were massacred in the Tigrayan year’s Nobel Peace Prize, late public property. and the south. warnings alone do not absolve refused to negotiate. town of Mai-Kadra alone. Sunday gave the Tigray People’s The threatened assault and the government of its obligation As international pressure The UN, in its latest crisis Liberation Front (TPLF) 72 fears for Mekele’s half a million to take constant care to protect mounted this week, Abiy issued report, said shortages of cash hours to lay down their arms. against the TPLF, Abiy said. inhabitants accelerated diplo- civilians, particularly when a strongly-worded statement and fuel were “very critical” in The ultimatum was rejected “In this final phase, great matic efforts this week to using airpower and heavy rejecting outside “interference” Tigray and humanitarians were by the leaders of the region, care will be given to protect mediate, with the UN Security weaponry” in congested urban in what he labelled an internal struggling to meet needs. Abiy whose forces have been fighting innocent civilians from harm. Council holding its first meeting areas, Human Rights Watch said “law enforcement” operation. committed Thursday to opening federal troops in the country’s All efforts will be made to on the crisis on Tuesday. yesterday. “We therefore respectfully a humanitarian access route north for three weeks. Violence ensure that the city of Mekele, A team of special envoys Abiy stressed that Ethiopia’s urge the international com- into Tigray and working with has claimed hundreds of lives which was built through the dispatched by the African Union defence forces had “carefully munity to refrain from any the UN and other aid agencies and displaced more than hard work of our people, will (AU) to try to mediate between devised” a strategy to defeat the unwelcome and unlawful acts to help those in need. 40,000. not be severely damaged,” Abiy the warring parties arrived in TPLF in Mekele without harming of interference and respect the More than 40,000 people Ethiopia’s army — which in promised. Addis Ababa late Wednesday, civilians or public property. fundamental principles of non- meanwhile have crossed into recent days said it was He said “thousands” of TPLF said a spokesperson for the “We call on the people of intervention under interna- eastern Sudan, where the UN advancing on Mekele with tanks militia and special forces had 55-member bloc. Mekele and its environs to tional law,” he said. says a “full-blown humanitarian — had been directed “to con- surrendered to federal forces UN Secretary-General disarm, stay at home and stay Since the fighting began, crisis is unfolding” in one of the clude the third and final phase” before the deadline lapsed. Antonio Guterres urged “the away from military targets” and rockets have fallen on the country’s poorest regions. Former Sudan Burkina Faso President PM Al Mahdi dies of COVID-19 Kabore wins reelection

AP — CAIRO AFP — OUAGADOUGOU

Sadiq Al Mahdi, Sudan’s last Burkina Faso’s President Roch democratically elected prime Marc Christian Kabore minister and leader of the (pictured) has won a second country’s largest political term after gaining an outright party, has died of COVID-19 in majority in the first round of a hospital in the United Arab elections, the country’s elec- Emirates, his party said. He toral board announced was 84. yesterday. Al Mahdi was taken to Abu “Mr Kabore... with 57.87 Dhabi for treatment in early percent of the vote, is provi- November, and died late sionally elected president of Wednesday. His body was (Burkina) Faso in the first expected to arrive in Sudan for round,” said Newton Ahmed week in which to confirm the burial today morning, the Barry, head of the Independent outcome. National Ummah Party National Electoral Commission One of the poorest coun- tweeted. It had announced Al (CENI). tries in the world, Burkina Faso Mahdi tested positive for the Eddie Komboigo, the can- is struggling with a militant A teacher giving lesson in a classroom of Albert Street Primary School, in Johannesburg CBD, yesterday. coronavirus on October 29. didate of a once-ruling party, campaign that has claimed at Al Mahdi was overthrown came second in Sunday’s vote least 1,200 lives since 2015 and in a 1989 Islamist-backed coup with 15.48 percent of the ballot, forced around a million people that brought longtime autocrat 'Africa may wait for COVID-19 vaccinations' followed by Zephirin Diabre, to flee their homes. Omar Al Bashir to power. considered by pundits to be the Opposition parties say the Nearly three decades later, Al REUTERS — JOHANNESBURG timely fashion,” said John countries have imposed strict best-placed opposition hopeful, vote was marked by fraud and Mahdi’s party allied with a Nkengasong, director of the lockdowns and have generally with 12.46 percent. flawed procedures, threatening pro-democracy uprising in Mass vaccination against Africa Centres for Disease younger populations. President Kabore, 63, has to reject “results stained by Sudan that led the military to COVID-19 is unlikely to start in Control and Prevention, an Many African nations have been under fire for his response irregularities.” overthrow Al Bashir in 2019. Africa until midway through African Union agency. expressed interest in taking part to a five-year-old militant Their complaints include Sudan has since been ruled next year and keeping vaccines “It will not be, in my view, in the COVAX global vaccine insurgency that has rolled in polling stations that either did by a transitional military- cold could be a big challenge, up to (the) middle of next year distribution scheme co-led by from Mali. not open or opened late, civilian government. Elections the continent’s disease control before we truly start to get vac- the World Health Organization. But he was the favourite insecure handling of ballot could possibly be held in late group said yesterday. cination into Africa,” he told a It is expected — but not certain and by winning an overall boxes and arbitrary changes to 2022. Some European countries news conference. “There were — that less wealthy countries majority in the first round he voting areas. Al Mahdi was one of the expect to start rolling out vac- also logistical problems to will receive vaccines at low or avoids a runoff vote in which Because of the unrest, the staunchest opponents of cination campaigns as early as overcome in Africa, a hot con- no cost via COVAX next year. he would have had to stand election was not held across at Sudan’s recent normalisation January. But health cam- tinent with perennial chal- Nkengasong said his against a single candidate least one-fifth of the territory, of ties with Israel, which he paigners are worried that Africa lenges supplying electricity.” agency’s aim was for 60 backed by a united denying up to 350,000 people dismissed as “an apartheid will find itself near the back of The continent of 1.3 billion percent of the continent’s pop- opposition. the right to vote, according to state” because of its treatment the queue for COVID-19 vac- people has recorded more than ulation to be vaccinated even- The elections on Sunday CENI’s figures. of the Palestinians. He also cines after wealthier nations 2.1 million confirmed cases of tually, adding that, so far the were for Burkina’s legislature Pro-Kabore parties on accused US President Donald signed a raft of bilateral vaccine the novel coronavirus, AstraZeneca vaccine candidate as well as its presidency, where Tuesday argued that all candi- Trump of being racist against supply deals with pharmaceu- according to a Reuters tally, offered “the best possibility for executive power in the former dates were equally affected by Muslims and Black people. tical companies. though it has had a lower death distribution in Africa” because French colony is the problems and that in any Sudan’s government “We are very concerned as rate than other continents. its temperature storage condi- concentrated. case these were not on a scale declared three days of national a continent that we will not It has recorded only 50,000 tions were less strict than The paramount court, the to have any major impact on mourning. have access to vaccines in a deaths, because African others. Constitutional Council, has a the result. South Africa’s Ramaphosa Morocco upholds jail terms for 23 faces no-confidence vote Sahrawis over Assembly’s programming committee. 2010 killings A spokeswoman for the parliamentary caucus of the AFP — RABAT governing African National Congress (ANC) party, which A Moroccan appeals court has Ramaphosa leads, declined to upheld jail sentences ranging comment. up to life for 23 Sahrawis over The ANC has 230 seats in the killings of security the National Assembly. personnel a decade ago, a Ramaphosa’s predecessor defence lawyer said. as head of state, Jacob Zuma, Morocco and rebel Polisario survived many no-confidence Front, which seeks inde- REUTERS — CAPE TOWN votes before being ousted by pendence for disputed Western Ramaphosa’s allies in the ANC Sahara territory, have accused The speaker of South Africa’s in February 2018 amid growing each other of provoking deadly lower house of parliament has corruption scandals. clashes between police and authorised a vote on a motion According to the consti- Sahrawi protesters at a camp for of no-confidence in President tution, a motion of no confi- displaced people in Gdeim Izik Cyril Ramaphosa (pictured), a dence in the president needs to in November 2010. Rescue workers installing a water pump to drain water from a mine shaft to gain access to at least parliamentary official said be supported by a simple “The Court of Cassation on 40 informal gold miners trapped inside a collapsed shaft at Ran Mine in Bindura, yesterday. yesterday. majority or at least 201 law- Wednesday dismissed all the The request for the vote makers in the National appeals” of the 23 defendants, was made by a small political Assembly to pass. Mohamed Fadel Leili said. party, the African Transfor- The constitution also makes Dozens trapped in Zimbabwe mine shaft collapse “This is the final decision.” mation Movement (ATM), provision for the removal of a AFP — HARARE miners were working inside the The landlocked southern The appeals court’s decision which has only two seats in the sitting president for serious vio- disused Ran Gold Mine when a African country is home to vast comes amid heightened ten- 400-member National lations of law, misconduct or At least 40 informal miners in shaft caved in. Six miners have gold and mineral reserves, sions in the territory, where the Assembly, meaning the motion an inability to perform the Zimbabwe have been trapped since been pulled from the including diamonds and two sides have traded regular has little chance of functions of the office, but this underground after a shaft in a rubble and taken to hospital. platinum. fire since a three-decade UN- succeeding. requires a two-thirds majority disused gold mine collapsed, “Those who were rescued The gold sector provides backed ceasefire broke down “There had been a request in the assembly. the country’s miners’ federation said there were about 40 people jobs to nearly 10 percent of the earlier this month. by the ATM for a motion of no- The ATM’s leader was not said yesterday. in the mine shaft at the time of country’s population, according The 23 defendants were confidence in the president that immediately available to say The incident occurred late the incident,” said Takavarasha, to the International Crisis found guilty in 2013 by a mil- came through several months why the request for the no- Wednesday in the town of adding that rescue efforts were Group (ICG). itary court which sentenced ago. The speaker has approved confidence vote had been Bindura, around 70 km north ongoing. Small-scale miners often them to jail terms ranging from that request, and our recom- made. The largest opposition of the capital Harare, said Wel- Mining is a major source of operate illegally to avoid selling 20 years to life. mendation is that it be dealt party, the Democratic Alliance, lington Takavarasha, head of foreign currency for Zimbabwe, their bullion to the state-owned Four of the defendants have with next Thursday,” the said it did not support the ATM Zimbabwe Miners Federation. where gold alone accounts for buyer as they are paid only 55 completed their sentences, the official told the National motion. Takavarasha added that the 60 percent of exports. percent in foreign currency. lawyer said. FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2020 ASIA 07 Malaysia PM gains political lifeline with budget nod

AP — KUALA LUMPUR Finance Minister (governing) coalition,” he said, Zafrul Aziz made adding that bargaining and Malaysia’s Parliament approved horse-trading will continue to the government’s proposed some concessions and take place. 2021 budget yesterday, included more goodies Had Muhyiddin failed to throwing a political lifeline to obtain Parliament’s support for embattled Prime Minister in minor revisions the budget, it would have trig- Muhyiddin Yassin amid strong to the budget, the gered new calls for him to resistance to his 9-month-old resign or spur him to seek a leadership. biggest ever, in his general election, which is not Opposition lawmakers as concluding speech favored during the surge in well as members of his gov- yesterday in response coronavirus cases. Malaysia’s erning coalition had warned cases have jumped sixfold in during three weeks of debate to the complaints. He two months to nearly 60,000. that they would reject the insisted that “this is Opposition leader Anwar budget, citing insufficient Ibrahim warned it wasn’t a funding to fight a surge in coro- a COVID-19 budget, victory for Muhyiddin’s coa- navirus cases and help those hit a budget for survival lition yet. He said his camp will by the pandemic. scrutinize details in the pro- Malaysia’s Finance Minister Zafrul Aziz speaks during a session of the lower house of parliament, in Finance Minister Zafrul Aziz and resilience.” posed budget in the second Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, yesterday. made some concessions and round of debate and will oppose included more goodies in minor it if changes are not made. din’s own Malay party. were sufficient to tackle the weak one,” said Oh Ei Sun, a revisions to the 322.5bn ringgit “A budget vote has always Muhyiddin, 73, has only a slim Lawmakers from both sides pandemic, but urged lawmakers senior fellow at the Singapore ($79bn) budget, the biggest ever, been a de facto vote of confi- two-seat majority in Parliament. of the divide have also pushed for to back the budget. Institute of International Affairs. in his concluding speech yesterday dence or no-confidence in the He has been challenged by Anwar, a vote of no-confidence in Muhy- The palace issued a statement Muhyiddin took power in in response to the complaints. He government,” said Ahmad Fauzi who last month said he has iddin, but the bids have been later Thursday welcoming the March after withdrawing his insisted that “this is a COVID-19 Abdul Hamid, a political science majority support to form a new thwarted by the house speaker. budget approval and said the king party from Anwar’s ruling budget, a budget for survival and professor at Malaysia’s Uni- government with defections from Muhyiddin last month pro- thanked lawmakers for heeding reformist alliance that won resilience.” In the end, the budget versity of Science. Muhyiddin’s coalition. posed a coronavirus emergency his advice. Muhyiddin in a sep- 2018 polls. He tied up with the was approved despite the dis- Muhyiddin’s “government The support reportedly comes that would have suspended Par- arate statement said the approval corruption-tainted UMNO and senting voices. Still, Muhyiddin is is temporarily secure but it will from the United Malays National liament and given him uncon- will ensure economic recovery other opposition parties to not yet safe. A second round of continue to have to fight from Organization, the biggest party in tested powers, but it sparked efforts can go on. form a Malay-centric gov- debate on the budget begins next bill to bill as it survives on a the unelected governing coalition, widespread anger. The king “He got lucky again - until ernment, but his adminis- week, with specific budget provi- slender majority and on the which was angry at being side- rejected the proposal, saying the next showdown, as his gov- tration has been riven by sions up for approval. goodwill of bigger parties in the lined amid rivalry with Muhyid- that existing laws ernment remains a decidedly infighting.

Farmers in India clash with police NZ's Mahuta brings new outlook to foreign affairs AP — WELLINGTON 1996 at age 26. She is part of the ministry spokesperson Zhao the Zoom diplomacy,” she said. reactions to hers in some parts during protest most diverse group of law- Lijian said in response, referring People around the world of the country, but these days Diplomats like to remain makers ever appointed to the to the “Five Eyes” military have been curious about most people recognize it as an against new laws neutral but Nanaia Mahuta let top roles in Cabinet after Prime alliance among the five Mahuta’s moko kauae, or sacred affirmation of culture. the veil slip a little when a Minister Jacinda Ardern won a countries. facial tattoo, which she got four Mahuta is the daughter of AP — NEW DELHI winner was declared in the US second term in a landslide Mahuta said she had talked years ago to celebrate her her- the late Sir Robert Mahuta, a key election by tweeting a smiley- victory last month. with Ardern before deciding to itage, ancestors and connection figure in the Tainui tribe who Thousands of Indian farmers face emoji. Mahuta said she felt joyous sign the statement and felt it to Papatuanuku, or Mother helped settle a groundbreaking clashed with police in northern Mahuta, the first indigenous at being chosen and promised was a natural progression to Earth. financial claim with the gov- Haryana state yesterday Maori woman to be appointed to bring a new perspective to “turn the dial up” and join with “The most common ernment for land that was taken during a protest demanding New Zealand’s foreign affairs foreign affairs. other countries. She said she question is, did it hurt?” she during colonisation. that the government abolish minister, suppresses a real-life She didn’t have to wait long thinks the relationship with laughs. Mahuta said her father was new farming laws that they smile when asked about it. for her first contentious China is mature enough to with- The answer? Not really, her mentor and a tough task- fear will reduce their earnings “Look, what I can say is that moment. New Zealand has long stand such disagreements. because her mind went to a dif- master. But it was the students and give more power to corpo- there were encouraging signs been cautious of criticizing Still, it will pose a challenge ferent place. She said wearing she met as a university tutor who rations. in those speeches,” she said in China, its largest trading for Mahuta to find the right the moko makes her more convinced her to go into politics, The farmers, who were an interview. She said the partner. balance to strike with an mindful “in how you want to be not her dad. “I think if he had his traveling toward the capital, victory speech by Vice Pres- But Mahuta last week took increasingly assertive China and as a person, how you treat other way, I wouldn’t be in politics, I’d New Delhi, on tractors and ident-elect Kamala Harris was the step of joining Australia, a combative US. For now, people. So that it’s almost like be in the tribe,” she said. motorbikes, flung police bar- “inspirational to many women Canada, the UK and the US in Mahuta said she intends to focus a compass.” Lara Greaves, a lecturer in ricades into a river and threw around the world.” condemning China for imposing on building relationships with Thirty years ago, before politics at the University of bricks and stones at the Mahuta, 50, was a surprise new rules to disqualify legis- New Zealand’s immediate there was a revival of Maori Auckland, said Mahuta is well officers near Ambala district. pick for the role, despite being lators in Hong Kong. island neighbours in the Pacific, culture in New Zealand, facial prepared for her role because Police halted them by firing a respected performer in Par- China reacted with anger. even if the coronavirus prevents tattoos tended to be associated she has spent her whole life teargas and water cannons. liament for almost half her life, “Be careful not to get poked her traveling there in person. with gang members. Mahuta steeped in high-level cultural There were no immediate since she was first elected in in the eye,” Chinese foreign “This could be the period of said she still finds negative diplomacy in Maori society. reports of injuries. “Such kind of injustice toward farmers is not fair. Peaceful protest is Australia to their constitutional right,” New Mass evacuations hailed for casualty-free India cyclone Delhi chief minister Arvind dismiss at least Kejriwal said in a tweet. AFP — PUDUCHERRY Hundreds of police were also 10 soldiers over deployed at the border between Accurate forecasting and the New Delhi and Haryana to block evacuation of several hundred Afghan killings the protesters. thousand people helped avert The farmers say the any loss of life after a cyclone REUTERS — SYDNEY farming laws, which were clobbered southeast India, approved by Parliament in authorities said yesterday, as Australia has issued termi- September, could cause the rescuers worked to restore nation notices to at least 10 government to stop buying power and clear fallen trees. special forces soldiers after the grain at guaranteed prices and Nivar made landfall at release of a report that found result in their being exploited 3.05am (2135 GMT) near credible evidence of unlawful by corporations that would Puducherry, packing gusts of killings in Afghanistan, the buy their crops at cheap prices. up to 130km per hour, Australian Broadcasting The government of Prime uprooting trees and bringing Corporation (ABC) said Minister Narendra Modi has torrential rain of up to 30 cen- yesterday. said the laws are aimed at timetres in a few hours in some An independent report reforming India’s farming parts. published last week in sector by giving farmers the Thousands of emergency redacted form said there was freedom to market their personnel were deployed in evidence that 39 unarmed produce and boosting agricul- Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh Afghan prisoners and civilians tural growth through private and Puducherry as authorities were killed by 19 Australian investment. began restoring power that soldiers. For the last two months, had been suspended to None of the 19 soldiers was farmer unions unwilling to prevent damage to the elec- identified in the report, which accept the laws have camped tricity grid. Emergency and rescue workers clear a street after a tree fell due to heavy rains and strong winds was written by a state judge on highways in Punjab and One woman in Tamil Nadu after Cyclone Nivar landfall, in Puducherry, India, yesterday. appointed by the inspector- Haryana states. In an attempt died after a boundary wall col- general of defence. The 19 to pacify them, the federal lapsed following heavy rains cooperation,” said O Panneer- good news,” he said, adding that hundreds of trees uprooted in current and former soldiers government has called leaders late Wednesday, local media selvam, Deputy Chief Minister 250,000 people were housed Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. have been referred for possible of the farmers to a second reported, but this was not con- of Tamil Nadu state. in shelters in the southern state Electricity pylons were also prosecution. round of negotiations on firmed by local authorities who “It’s a solace that nothing as a precaution. toppled in some areas, and Amid the immediate December 3 after the first said there was no loss of life. untoward happened and the Rescue workers were using several flash floods were fallout, the ABC said 10 soldiers round failed last month. “People have given us full weakening of the cyclone is heavy machinery to remove reported. had been formally notified that they would be dismissed. The broadcaster did not identify any of the 10 but said Cambodia begins mass trial of opposition activists all of them were witnesses or accessories and therefore not AP — PHNOM PENH disbanded Cambodia National have been charged with con- ADHOC. Cambodian law allows week that he feared his clients among the 19 referred for pos- Rescue Party. spiracy to commit treason and trials in absentia. could not get a fair judgment sible criminal charges. A Cambodian court yesterday As the sole opposition party incitement to commit a felony, Judge Ros Piseth agreed to because there are so many being The Department of began hearing the cases of in Parliament, it had been which together carry a maximum split the defendants into two tried at the same time. Defence did not immediately nearly 130 government critics expected to present a strong penalty of 12 years in prison, groups to make the proceedings “I am very doubtful about respond to requests for and opponents charged with challenge to Prime Minister Hun according to defence lawyers and easier, with the first group this arrangement and whether comment. treason for taking part in nonvi- Sen’s ruling Cambodian Peo- human rights activists. having its initial hearing on Jan. fairness will be received by my The ABC said the 10 sol- olent political activities over the ple’s Party in the 2018 general It was not immediately clear 14 and the other on March 4. clients according to the inter- diers would have at least 14 past three years, in what one of election. But in late 2017, Hun why only 33 defendants The judge said he was national standard,” he said. days to respond to the termi- them called a sham trial. Sen launched a sweeping attended yesterday’s court adjourning the trial for now so One of the best-known nation notices. It did not say if Only 33 defendants crackdown on his opponents session. An unknown number that defendants who did not yet defendants living in Cambodia any of them had legal attended yesterday’s session at and the CNRP was forced by the are believed to be living abroad, have lawyers and declined is Theary Seng, a Cambodian- representation. the Phnom Penh Municipal high court to disband and its including senior politicians and court-appointed ones could find American lawyer who has long Australia’s most senior Court, with some believed to be lawmakers removed from Cambodian labourers in neigh- representation. been one of the most outspoken military official apologised to overseas. Most are former Parliament. boring countries, said Ny Sokha Sam Sokong, one of the critics of Hun Sen and his Afghanistan last week after the members or supporters of the Virtually all of the defendants of the local rights group defense lawyers, said earlier this government. release of the report. 08 VIEWS FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2020

Established in 1996

CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI

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

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected]

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI [email protected]

EDITORIAL Qatar-Turkey ties

AMIR H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani’s visit to Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani with President of the Republic of Turkey H E Recep Tayyip Erdogan during a visit to Turkey, yesterday. Ankara comes on the heels of back-to-back meetings between Qatar and Turkey at the highest level in recent years. H H the Amir and Turkish President Qatar and Turkey, a strategic partnership H E Recep Tayyip Erdogan chaired the sixth meeting of the Qatar-Turkey Supreme Strategic Committee in Ankara, yesterday. The relationship between Doha and Ankara is rooted built on joint interests & mutual respect in decades of close religious, cultural and trade ties. In QNA recent years the two countries have increased bilateral and international issues of joint interest. Bilateral ties has seen a noticeable cooperation in various fields including tourism, defence Qatar and Turkey also held a prepar- and knowledge sharing. The sixth meeting of the Qatar-Turkey atory ministerial meeting for the sixth boost recently thanks to the Qatar-Turkey Supreme Strategic Committee has Supreme Strategic Committee, under the session of the Qatar-Turkey Supreme Stra- commitment of H H the Amir and the been convening annually since its first meeting in Doha chairmanship of the Amir H H Sheikh tegic Committee in Antalya on November 5. President of Turkey’s determination in 2015. Ever since the two countries have signed 52 Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and President of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of to enhance them, especially that both agreements to enhance cooperation in diverse fields. the Republic of Turkey H E Recep Tayyip Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin A number of agreements in the fields of economy, Erdogan, reflects the unwavering Abdulrahman Al Thani represented the State sides agree on many of the regional culture, trade, education, Islamic and family affairs, and commitment of the two countries’ leadership of Qatar in the meeting, while Minister of and international issues. The supreme water management were signed at the sixth round. to enhance bilateral cooperation for the Foreign Affairs H E Mevlut Cavusoglu repre- strategic committee have also helped The trade ties between the two countries have benefit of the two peoples. sented the Republic of Turkey. grow these ties in many fields. increased tremendously over the past years, and cur- This year’s meeting will focus on The Qatari-Turkish Business Forum also rently more than 500 Turkish companies are operating advancing the strategic partnership in dif- took place on Sept. 29 through video con- in Qatar. The total value of the projects undertaken by ferent fields. It will also see both sides ference, where 1500 companies from both Turkish contracting companies since 2002 is $18.5bn. exchange views on regional and interna- countries discussed investment opportunities. each test. Similarly, Qatari investment and the footprint of Qatari tional issues of joint interest, and sign a Joint Technical Committee also held yes- Trade ties concurrently continue to grow companies in Turkey has also increased as currently number of agreements and Memoranda of terday its second meeting through video rapidly, with trade volume tripling over the 280 Qatari firms are engaged in various sectors in Turkey Understanding. The new agreements will conference. The meeting discussed issues past five years to more than $2 billion in and the Qatari investments in Turkey have risen to touch on a range of fields such as investment related to the use of skilled workers from the 2019. Turkish products and services are $22bn. Qatar-Turkey bilateral trade volume has tripled and industrial cooperation, commerce, free Republic of Turkey in the State of Qatar, as fourth largest on the list of Qatari imports, over the past five years to more than $2bn in 2019. zones, water resources, and Islamic affairs well as the employment fair in which the based on official data for the first six months The number of Qatari tourists to Turkey has also among others. They will likely bring the total Turkish side will display the Turkish labor of this year. increased tremendously from about 30,000 in 2014, to number of agreements signed between both skills suitable for the Qatari labor market, The total number of Qatari companies about 110,000 in 2019. There are also more than 11,000 sides to 60. and coordinate with the Qatar Chamber to operating in Turkey reached 280, repre- Turkish citizens who live and work in Qatar in different The two sides sign new agreements every hold the exhibition through visual communi- senting the third largest investor in Turkey’s fields. The two countries have also worked closely on year at the meeting of their joint supreme stra- cation technology. construction market. Turkey is also one of many issues at the bilateral, regional and international tegic committee since the meetings first started Bilateral ties has seen a noticeable boost the favored destination for Qataris, whether levels for years, and Turkey has also been a strong sup- in 2014. The signing of those agreements recently thanks to the commitment of H H for investment or tourism. porter for Doha’s mediatory role for peaceful resolution reflects the strong intention of both sides to the Amir and the President of Turkey’s Total Qatari investments in Turkey of conflicts in the region and elsewhere. enhance cooperation. determination to enhance them, especially exceed the $22 billion, spread over a number Turkish President, who recently visited Doha, has The sixth meeting was preceded by a that both sides agree on many of the regional of industries such as tourism, agriculture, termed the bilateral cooperation with Qatar a win-win part- number of meetings and consultations. H E the and international issues. The supreme stra- energy, defense, banking, and real estate. nership. He said Turkey-Qatar Combined Joint Force Turkish President visited Doha on October 7 tegic committee have also helped grow these Meanwhile, there are more than 500 Turkish Command was a symbol of brotherhood, friendship, sol- and discussed with H H the Amir strategic ties in many fields. Ties between the two companies operating in Qatar. There are also idarity, and sincerity between the two countries, adding bilateral relations and the means to enhance countries have been tested over the past few more than 11,000 Turkish citizens who live that Turkey’s military presence in Qatar was contributing them. They also exchanged views on regional years, and have proved its resilience with and work in Qatar in different fields. to the stability in the whole region. President Erdogan said Qatar had emerged stronger despite the unjust blockade imposed against it, hoping the crisis is resolved soon. Qatar’s cooperative ties with Turkey have served the cause of peace, justice, and respect for the inter- We can’t abandon Afghanistan national law in the region and beyond. KELLY AYOTTE, JOSEPH DUNFORD - and what is necessary to No deal will emerge as long as Second, affirm the US com- & NANCY LINDBORG protect US national security the Taliban believes the United mitment to Afghanistan’s consti- THE WASHINGTON POST interests. States is withdrawing troops tutional order and the country’s Our study group has a imminently, without regard for gains in human rights, including Over the past four years, the strong and united position: An the Taliban’s behavior. the rights of women. Having put D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR Trump administration took abrupt withdrawal of US If the United States takes severe pressure on the Afghan bold actions to initiate negotia- troops, as is now being con- that path before genuine government to enter talks with EMAIL: [email protected] tions between the Kabul templated by the Trump progress is achieved, it will give the Taliban, the United States government and the Taliban administration, would up the leverage that could must now show that its support EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 insurgency. For the first time undermine the fragile but produce a sustainable political will continue as long as the FAX: +974 4455 7758 since the Afghanistan conflict potentially transformational compromise. Doing so would Afghan government negotiates began more than 40 years ago, peace process. It would also damage US credibility with in good faith, fights corruption MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 an Afghan government began embolden the Taliban, desta- its allies and partners. and reaches out to all elements talking to its main insurgent bilize the Kabul government At the same time, the of Afghan society. During the DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 rival about creating a foun- and allow terrorist groups to greatly reduced US presence negotiations, our remaining dation for a stable future. reconsolidate. A civil war could over the past few years has sig- troops will back Afghan security LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 Thanks to this diplomatic initi- result, provoking a wider naled to the Afghan gov- forces as they keep the Taliban ative, the pressing question regional conflict and an inevi- ernment that the United States’ from a battlefield victory and BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 about the US presence in table humanitarian and patience and resources are continue to lead the fight against Afghanistan is no longer about migration crisis. limited, and that Kabul also terrorist groups. SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 winning an “endless war” but The US military presence in must negotiate in good faith. Third, reemphasise to the about brokering a lasting peace. Afghanistan underpins the For the immediate future, Taliban that the full withdrawal ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 Congress called last year negotiations, which offer the the United States should of US troops is strictly condi- email: [email protected] for the establishment of the likeliest path to peace in that embrace a peace-centered tional on progress toward peace, Afghanistan Study Group, country since 9/11. Getting US strategy that has the following including a genuine and broad PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 which we lead, to examine US troops out of Afghanistan is the elements: reduction in violence - a email: [email protected] options in Afghanistan and to Taliban’s main goal. During our First, we should make clear reduction that at the moment is report in early 2021. In our consultations with more than to all parties involved what the not in evidence. Our study ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 eight months of consultations 60 interlocutors, we have desired end state will be. In par- group’s assessment is that the FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] with US, Afghan and interna- looked intensely at the question ticular, a post-peace Afghan- Taliban has instigated most of tional leaders and experts, our of whether a credible peace istan must be able to either suf- the recent violence and is under- CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 15-member bipartisan group deal between the Afghan gov- ficiently control its territory to mining their claim that they can email: [email protected] believes it has emerged with a ernment and the Taliban is prevent the harboring of ter- and will prevent the use of clear understanding of the possible. There has been one rorists or accept international Afghan soil by Al Qaeda, the SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 current situation in Afghanistan clear and consistent response: assistance to do so. Islamic State or other terrorists. FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar We now have reason to hope that by spring, /ThePeninsulaQatar community testing and vaccines will combine to /Peninsula_Qatar end this era of restrictions. But to get there, we must first navigate a hard winter, when the burden /ThePeninsulaNewspaper on our NHS and cold weather favours the virus.

+974 6698 6188 Boris Johnson, British Prime Minister FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2020 ASIA 09 China’s FM touts S Korea ties amid row with US

AP — SEOUL After meeting South he met Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, to met South China’s top diplomat yesterday Korean Foreign Korean President Moon Jae-in stressed the importance of Minister Kang Kyung- later yesterday. bilateral relations while meeting wha, Chinese Foreign In Tokyo on Wednesday, senior officials in South Korea, Wang told Suga that he wants the where there’s growing concern Minister Wang Yi told two Asian powers to have good the country is becoming reporters that his relations and cooperate in fighting squeezed between its biggest the coronavirus and reviving their trading partner and military ally visit amid a spreading pandemic-hit economies. But the the United States. coronavirus pandemic two sides remain at odds over an After meeting South Korean island dispute. Foreign Minister Kang Kyung- shows how much South Korea has been eager wha, Chinese Foreign Minister Beijing values its to repair its relations with Wang Yi told reporters that his China, its biggest trade partner visit amid a spreading corona- relations with Seoul. that reacted furiously to Seoul’s virus pandemic shows how decision to deploy an advanced much Beijing values its relations said “America is not the only US anti-missile system on its South Korean President Moon Jae-in (right) talking with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during with Seoul. He called for nation in the world.” “There are soil in 2016 to better cope with their meeting at the presidential house in Seoul, yesterday. stronger cooperation over anti- 190 countries and each of them North Korean threats. virus efforts, trade and finding are sovereign nations,” he said. There’s also concern in that the US anti-missile system secure a visit by Chinese leader to the face masks worn by a peaceful solution to a nuclear “They include China and South Korea over a deepening in South Korea could be recon- Xi Jinping this year in what reporters, saying that the coro- standoff with North Korea. South Korea, which are close row between Washington and figured to peep into its territory, Seoul officials describe as a key navirus situation must first be When asked whether neighbours and should visit Beijing over trade, security, had been accused by Seoul of step in repairing relations, but contained. Beijing was pressing Seoul to each other more often like human rights and other issues, retaliating by limiting Chinese the pandemic has complicated South Korea earlier choose a side amid rising US- relatives.” which could force Seoul into a tour groups visits to South such plans. reported 583 new cases of the China tensions over trade, Wang, who arrived in Seoul difficult balancing act. Korea. When asked about a pos- coronavirus, its biggest daily security and other issues, Wang following a visit to Japan where China, which has claimed South Korea had hoped to sible visit by Xi, Wang pointed increase in about eight months. Philippines to sign vaccine Pakistanis join final trials for China-made vaccine AGENCIES — ISLAMABAD For years, China has focused indifference to the pandemic. to officials. There have been winter is going to be like, so supply deal with much of its attention in Pakistan Meanwhile, Pakistan shut 386,198 total cases in the there is a bit of worry right now Thousands of volunteers are on mammoth development its schools and postponed country recorded so far, and because our cases are rising up AstraZeneca flocking to research hospitals projects, bankrolling the con- exams yesterday to try to curb 7,843 deaths. quite rapidly these days,” Prime across Pakistan to join final- struction of roads, power plants new coronavirus infections and The decision to close Minister Imran Khan told an REUTERS — MANILA stage clinical trials of a Chinese- and a strategic port. a rise in the number of people schools, officials have said, was event organized by the World made vaccine for the corona- Beijing has now tapped one in hospital with COVID-19. based on an increase in the rate Economic Forum on The Philippines is set to sign a virus. of its closest allies to participate Students, including those at of positive test results in the Wednesday. supply agreement for Astra- It is the first time Pakistan in the vaccine trials, despite higher educational institutions country. The rate of people “We are going to only lock Zeneca’s potential COVID-19 has participated in such a trial, Pakistan’s chequered history as well as in private schools, are testing positive in June was as down the non-essential, in vaccine today, the first such which comes amid a string of with inoculation campaigns. expected to continue classes high as 23 percent, but dropped other words the public gath- deal in a country aiming to positive vaccine announce- “We hope to have some through distance learning until to a low of 1.7 percent by Sep- erings and so on where our further reopen its economy ments by Western pharmaceu- findings ready about the December 24, when schools are tember. It has since begun to economy doesn’t get hurt.” that has been ravaged by the tical companies this month. accuracy and efficacy of the scheduled to go on winter break increase again, reaching 7.41 Pakistan closed educational pandemic. The vaccine is being vaccine in two to three months,” until January 11. percent this week. insitutions between March and Carlito Galvez, a top coro- developed by CanSinoBio and Ejaz Ahmad Khan, the principal “All efforts will be made to More than 19 percent of new September to combat the navirus task force official, told the Beijing Institute of Biotech- researcher overseeing the trial make sure that education con- cases were from educational spread of the virus. State tele- a media briefing the deal nology China. in Pakistan, said. tinues from home,” Education institutions, where the rate of vision and radio stations were would be for two million “I have volunteered myself Officials said Pakistan has Minister Shafqat Mahmood said positive results had nearly used to broadcast lessons for doses. However, Joey Con- for a noble cause that will help already inoculated about 7,000 on Monday, announcing the doubled in one week to reach 3.3 students at home for students cepcion, a government humanity,” said a volunteer at of the 10,000 participants closure of schools, adding that “if percent, officials said on Monday. in government schools. business adviser, told Reuters Islamabad’s Shifa hospital, expected to receive a jab. the situation improves” schools The south Asian country has Less than a year after the the private sector was aiming where hundreds of participants The trials come with would reopen on January 11. ruled out a wide ranging coronavirus that has claimed 1.4 to procure more than that. are being paid about $50 for intensive care wards across the Pakistan reported 3,306 lockdown, opting to close down million lives began spreading The deal will augment their trouble. country nearing capacity as a new cases on Wednesday, and non-essential public gatherings across the globe, a number of government efforts to lock in Others should “step forward second, deadlier wave of the 40 deaths from the pandemic, in a bid to keep the economy highly promising CCOVID-19 supplies to inoculate around and take part in this noble cause coronavirus spreads and offi- with 2,485 patients currently afloat through the pandemic. vaccines are on the cusp of two-thirds of its 108 million which will save lives,” he added. cials struggle to counter public admitted in hospitals, according “We do not know what this release. population, and is another boost for AstraZeneca, which has already signed supply deals for more than three Indonesian minister billion doses of its experi- mental vaccine developed with the University of Oxford. apologises after arrest The private firms will pay for the vaccine and donate half of the supply to the gov- on bribe charge ernment, with the other half to be used to cover employees AP — JAKARTA sustainability concerns. in the private sector, Con- President Joko Widodo said cepcion said, without identi- Indonesia’s anti-corruption he respected the decision of the fying the private companies. commission formally named anti-corruption commission to Galvez, the former general the country’s fisheries minister arrest Prabowo. in charge of strategy to fight the as a suspect in taking bribes “I believe the KPK works in coronavirus, said the gov- related to exports of lobster a transparent, open and pro- ernment had separate negotia- larvae, and alleged he used the fessional manner,” Widodo told tions with AstraZeneca, which money on a luxury shopping reporters. “The government said on Monday its COVID-19 spree during a visit to the consistently supports cor- shot could be up to 90% effective United States. ruption eradication efforts.” and cheaper to make than some Maritime Affairs and Fish- Prabowo faces up to 20 rivals. The vaccine still has to be eries Minister Edhy Prabowo years’ imprisonment if found approved by regulators. was arrested upon arrival at guilty. It could further tarnish The government is also in Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta Inter- Widodo’s credibility when it talks with China’s Sinovac over national Airport early comes to fighting corruption. a 20-50 million vaccine supply Wednesday from a working Two previous members of deal, as well as US drugmaker visit to the US, the deputy Widodo’s Cabinet have already Pfizer, Galvez said earlier. chairman of the Corruption been sentenced to prison terms The Philippineshas grad- Indonesia's Mount Merapi spews ash Eradication Commission, Nurul in corruption cases. ually lifted coronavirus curbs Ghufron, told Kompas TV. Former Social Affairs Minister since May after imposing one A couple watches as smoke spewing from Mount Merapi in Yogyakarta yesterday, after the Indonesia Prabowo apologised, saying, Idrus Marham was sentenced to of the strictest lockdowns Geological agency raised the status of alert for Merapi to the second highest ahead of a possible “I will be responsible for what I five years in a bribery case related globally eruption. have done.” He was later named to a coal-fired power plant as a suspect along with five other project on Sumatra island, while officials and a businessman for former Youth and Sport Minister allegedly taking bribes in Imam Nahrawi got seven years Top brands compensate garment workers in Thailand exchange for permits related to after he was found guilty of per- exports of lobster larvae and sonally using a National Sports REUTERS — BANGKOK The workers agreed a set- workers would receive compen- factories there were difficult to other commodities this year. Committee grant. tlement this month worth 1 sation — either directly or via the inspect. The anti-corruption com- Prabowo is the deputy Garment workers in Thailand million baht, said Jirarat brands’ suppliers which sourced HRDF and MAP Foundation mission, known in Indonesia chairman of the Great Indonesia who were illegally underpaid Moonsiri, a lawyer from the from Kanlayanee’s factory. estimate less than a dozen fac- by its acronym KPK, said Movement Party, or Gerindra, while making products for Human Rights and Devel- “The case shows that at the tories paid minimum wage Prabowo is accused of formerly a rival to Widodo’s major brands are set to receive opment Foundation (HRDF) end of the day, brands are not based on research and inter- receiving at least 3.4bn rupiah party. He joined the Cabinet in compensation worth about 3 who represented the migrants. able to deny their responsibility views in the area. ($240,000) from several com- November 2019 as part of an million baht ($99,000) from the Kanlayanee — who closed (for workers),” said Suchart Tra- Tesco this month sent panies through his two per- alliance forged after Widodo’s factory owner and companies her business following the raid koonhutip, a coordinator at MAP 736,000 baht to the group of sonal assistants, who were also election to a second term, along such as Starbucks and Walt — could not be reached for Foundation, which has supported workers, and gave another 1.1 named as suspects, this month. with the party’s chairman and Disney Co. comment. “It was clear this was the workers and been in dis- million baht to MAP Foundation Another deputy chairman former Widodo’s rival in the 2019 A Thomson Reuters Foun- the maximum amount the cussion with the companies. to support migrants in Mae Sot, of the KPK, Nawawi presidential election, Prabowo dation investigation in September owner could offer, which is why Located 500km from the according to the NGO. The Pamolango, told a news con- Subianto, who currently serves 2019 found dozens of migrants the workers agreed to accept,” capital Bangkok, Mae Sot is the retailer said it had made two ference just before midnight as defense minister. from Myanmar working at said Jirarat. main entry point into western payments but did not confirm that Prabowo and his wife had Considered by many to be several factories in the western Interviews with workers by Thailand and a trade hub home the sums involved. spent some of the money to buy one of Subianto’s most trusted region of Mae Sot were paid less NGOs found that they were to about 430 factories and at least Starbucks said its local branded goods during their US aides, Prabowo told reporters than the daily minimum wage of making goods for companies 44,500 workers — mainly business partner was in the visit, including a Rolex watch that he would resign as minister 310 Thai baht ($10.15). from Universal Studios to Brit- migrants seeking to make money process of paying 600,000 baht and Louis Vuitton bags. and politician from Gerindra. A group of 26 workers at ain’s largest supermarket Tesco. to send back to their families. to the workers, while Disney Prabowo earlier this year “I apologize to Mr. President... one of the factories raided last The brands said her factory had Last year, labour ministry said the company sourcing rolled back a ban on lobster I have betrayed his trust, and to year by officials sued the owner been subcontracted by their sup- official Somboon Trisilanun said Disney-branded products from larvae exports put in place by Prabowo Subianto, my teacher — Kanlayanee Ruengri— in pliers or partners without per- Mae Sot — which is part of a Kanlayanee’s factory had com- his predecessor. That decision who has taught many things,” he August for failing to pay the 3.5 mission. Disney, Starbucks and special economic zone (SEZ) — mitted to giving the same sparked criticism from his told reporters before entering a million baht owed to them. Tesco this week confirmed the was a “black hole” as many amount in compensation. predecessor and activists over car to be taken to a holding cell 10 EUROPE FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2020

French court Germany extends COVID-19 rejects graft trial restrictions to early January delay for Sarkozy AFP — PARIS AFP — BERLIN shops will remain open. Germany has From December 1, private registered a total of A Paris court yesterday Germany will extend its current gatherings will be limited to five rejected a request to postpone coronavirus restrictions people from two households — 961,320 coronavirus the corruption trial for former through to early January unless down from 10 people currently, cases and 14,771 French president Nicolas there is a dramatic drop in though children are exempted Sarkozy and two other infections — something that is from the new rule. deaths. defendants, ordering them to not expected, Chancellor Angela For the festive period from appear in person for hearings Merkel has said. December 23 to New Year’s day, that will begin on Monday. Merkel said the measures rules on gatherings will be ‘we are staying home’,” Sarkozy became France’s introduced in early November, slightly eased to allow up to 10 according to the agreement. first modern head of state to including limits on private gath- adults meeting, with children Other measures agreed appear in the dock this week, erings and the closure of res- under 14 exempted. include trains expanding their on suspicions he promised a taurants, leisure and cultural But this does not mean that seating capacity, in order to plush job to a judge in facilities, cannot be lifted given parties will be allowed, better ensure distancing exchange for inside infor- German Chancellor Angela Merkel delivers a speech during a session current infection rates. according to a deal hammered between passengers. mation on a campaign finance at the Bundestag in Berlin, yesterday. The curbs will be continued out by Merkel’s government and Fireworks will be banned on inquiry. “until December 20 first but we Germany’s 16 states — rather, certain public squares to Lawyers for the judge, assume that... due to the very the motto for the period will be prevent people from gathering Merkel said. The measures were from the current seven-day 73-year-old Gilbert Azibert, high incidence of infection, to remain at home. in large groups on New Year’s agreed after more than seven incidence of almost 140. sought a postponement for restrictions will have to apply “Employers are urgently Eve in particular. hours of tense talks, with some “The steeply rising curve medical reasons when the trial until the beginning of January,” requested to check if company Germany will also seek a less-affected regions calling for has become a flat one, but this opens on Monday, saying he Merkel said. holidays or home working solu- deal with European partners to lighter restrictions. is only a partial success. We can had health problems that The agreement means con- tions can be applied from close ski slopes through to early In order to ease restrictions, by no means be satisfied,” she made public appearances risky tinued closures for restaurants, December 23 to January 1 to January, to prevent the virus the infection rate would have said. during the Covid-19 sporting facilities and cultural allow companies to close, so spreading further. to come down to below 50 new Germany has registered a outbreak. venues in Europe’s biggest that nationwide, we can “I will say this openly that it cases per 100,000 people per total of 961,320 coronavirus But a medical exam economy, though schools and implement the basic principle won’t be easy, but we will try,” week, Merkel said — a far cry cases and 14,771 deaths. ordered by the court deter- mined Azibert could indeed appear in court as long as strict social distancing measures PM: Pandemic weakening more in were respected, and the trial will resume next Monday. France than elsewhere in Europe “In any event and, unfor- REUTERS — PARIS from the epidemic is weakening tunately, no matter the risk, we and it is weakening more in will continue the proceedings France has done a better job of France than in other European starting Monday,” Azibert’s flattening a second wave of nations.” President Emmanuel lawyer, Dominique Allegrini, COVID-19 infections that some Macron this week announced a told journalists after the of its European neighbours but phased unwinding of the hearing. it would be premature to talk lockdown, to begin tomorrow Sarkozy made no about an end to the lockdown, with the re-opening of non- statement as he entered the Prime Minister Jean Castex said essential shops and then the- courtroom. yesterday. atres, museums and cinemas in Only one other French Castex said the ‘R’ rate that mid-December. president, Sarkozy’s political measures the spread was now Stores must restrict numbers mentor Jacques Chirac, has at 0.65 countrywide, the same to 1 client for every 8 square faced trial after leaving office level France reached at the end metres of shop floor, put in place — but because of ill health, of a three-month confinement one-way systems where pos- Chirac never appeared in court in the spring, but that citizens sible and ventilate their for his conviction in a fake- must not lower their guard over premises. Health Minister jobs scandal. the festive holidays. Olivier Veran said a COVID-19 Prosecutors say Sarkozy Restaurant and cafe owners protest against government's pandemic-related restrictions in Marseille, “Your efforts are paying div- patient was admitted to and his lawyer, Thierry France, yesterday. Restaurants will stay closed until January 20, the government has said. idend,” Castex said. “Pressure intensive care every six minutes. Herzog, tried to bribe Azibert with a job in Monaco, if he would provide information on Italy to launch an inquiry into claims Sarkozy Austria warns EU ski ban would be ‘disastrous’ accepted illicit payments from first Europe-US L’Oreal heiress Liliane Betten- AFP — VIENNA But as Austria’s more than proposed ban would cost the have contracted the virus. court during his 2007 presi- ‘virus-free’ flights 250 ski destinations make much sector up to ¤2bn. “We live off tourism not 100 dential campaign. Proposals for an EU-wide ban of their profits during the Winter sports-mad Austria percent, but 110 percent, so this Wiretaps of conversations AFP — ROME on ski holidays to curb corona- Christmas and New Year is currently under lockdown would be an enormous strain between Herzog and Sarkozy virus infections came under period, industry representatives until December 7. on us,” Andreas Steibl, head of — who used a secret phone Italy will offer Europe’s first heavy fire in Austria yesterday, suggest the move could knock And ski resorts and the gov- Ischgl’s tourism association, bought under the alias of “Paul coronavirus-free corridor with with government and industry up to a third off total revenues ernment have invested millions said of the proposed ban. Bismuth” — purportedly reveal the United States for representatives warning that for the sector. of euros in coronavirus While the EU’s health com- the two men making plans to passengers who have tested the fallout for the country’s “This would be absolutely measures for the coming missioner has suggested that an get Azibert to help sway the negative for COVID-19, tourism-reliant economy would disastrous, not just for us but the season, with lifts and resorts EU-wide ban was unlikely, Italy inquiry. Sarkozy has denied scrapping the obligation for be “disastrous”. entire country,” said Franz planning to open in time for and France have said their own the accusations, denouncing new arrivals to quarantine. Germany and Italy are Hoerl, head of the Austrian ski Christmas. Last season, one of ski lifts will remain closed this month “a scandal that will Rome’s Fiumicino airport pushing for Europe to ban such lift operators’ association and the first destinations to be throughout the Christmas go down in history.” Charged said yesterday it had sealed a ski holidays as the number of a member of parliament. affected was Ischgl, a tiny holidays. with bribery and influence deal with Italian airline Alitalia worldwide infections reached On Tuesday, Austrian village in the western province And in Germany, Chancellor peddling, Sarkozy risks a and Delta Air Lines of the a new peak of more than 60 finance minister Gernot of Tyrol, where more than Angela Merkel urged people not prison sentence of up to 10 United States for the special million. Bluemel estimated that the 6,000 tourists are thought to to go on skiing trips this winter. years and a fine of ¤1m. flights between selected North American cities and the Italian capital from next month. Similar corridors will also Italy reports 29,003 new be trialled between Rome and the German cities of Munich and Frankfurt, it said. virus cases, 822 deaths The move follows the REUTERS — ROME occupancy has slowed, sug- launch in September of virus- gesting the latest wave of infec- free domestic flights between Italy reported 822 COVID tions was receding. Rome and financial capital 19-related deaths yesterday, up The number of people in Milan. “The new travel pro- from 722 the day before, and hospital with COVID-19 stood tocols, planned on an experi- 29,003 new infections, up from at 34,038 on Thursday, a mental basis on flights from 25,853 on Wednesday, the decline of 275 from the day the United States to Fium- health ministry said. before. icino... will be progressively There were 232,711 swabs The number in intensive offered to passengers as early carried out in the past day, care decreased by two, fol- as December,” Fiumicino said compared with a previous lowing an increase of 32 on in a statement. 230,007. Wednesday, and now stands at “The experimental phase Italy was the first Western 3,846. will aim to evaluate the effec- country to be hit by the virus When Italy’s second wave tiveness and functionality of and has seen 52,850 COVID-19 of the epidemic was acceler- the new travel mode, with the fatalities since its outbreak ating fast in the first half of aim of making it more widely emerged in February, the November, hospital admissions available in view of the second highest toll in Europe were rising by around 1,000 summer 2021 season,” it after Britain’s. It has also reg- per day, while intensive care added. Britain reports 498 deaths from COVID-19 istered 1.510 million cases. occupancy was increasing by The airport said travellers While Italy’s daily death about 100 per day. Pedestrians walk by a billboard displaying a Manchester City Council message about the national would be able to skip quar- tolls have been amongst the The northern region of lockdown restrictions to combat the novel coronavirus pandemic in the centre of Manchester, antine by doing a test 48 hours highest in Europe over recent Lombardy remained the northwest England, yesterday. Britain recorded 17,555 new coronavirus cases yesterday and 498 before departure and one on days, the rise in hospital admis- hardest hit area yesterday, landing in Rome. new deaths within 28 days of a positive COVID-19 test. sions and intensive care reporting 5,697 new cases. EU nations on Mediterranean coast renew push for migrant quotas AP — BRUSSELS out people who qualify for representing member countries when they arrive and how the Mediterranean Sea are strict would then enter an asylum refugee status among the 27 EU and Germany, which holds the much other EU countries should and clear in the “New Pact for procedure or be deported, both Four European Union countries countries must be pursued. bloc’s presidency. assist has helped fuel public Migration and Asylum,” but that within 12 weeks. People could that hundreds of thousands of Austria, the Czech Republic, The entry in 2015 of well support for far-right parties the duties of their EU partners be held in detention and would unauthorised migrants have Hungary, Poland and Slovakia, over one million migrants, across the bloc. Populist gov- are not. “The notion of man- not be deemed to have officially entered over the past five years among others, reject such a mostly people fleeing conflict ernments in Hungary and datory relocation should remain entered the EU. have expressed concern that move. in Syria, sounded the death Poland, notably, challenged a and be pursued as the main sol- EU countries would then new proposals to revamp the “The front-line member knell for the EU’s asylum previous system of migrant idarity tool,” the text face two choices: take in some EU’s asylum system will states cannot face the migratory system, and sparked a deep quotas at Europe’s top court. continued. of the refugees or provide other continue to leave them to cope pressure on the whole European political crisis that continues to In the text, seen by AP, Under the reform plans, material and logistical support; with the challenge alone. Union,” the four countries said echo even though entries have Greece, Italy, Malta and Spain migrants arriving at Europe’s or if they are not willing to do Greece, Italy, Malta and in a text sent to the European dropped to a relative trickle. argue that their responsibilities outside borders without per- that, they could take charge of Spain said in a joint paper that Commission, which drew up the The row over who should as countries where most unau- mission to enter would be deporting people whose appli- mandatory quotas for sharing asylum plans, the EU Council take responsibility for people thorised migrants arrive across screened within five days. They cations are refused. FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2020 EUROPE / AMERICAS 11

PM says Finland’s Hungary, Poland COVID-19 situation remain defiant in worsening rapidly REUTERS — HELSINKI

Finland’s COVID-19 situation standoff with EU has worsened rapidly in recent days, Prime Minister REUTERS — BUDAPEST Sanna Marin said yesterday, Both countries are under though she added that the Hungary and Poland insisted EU investigation for government had decided it there could be no rule of law did not yet have the grounds conditions to access the undermining the to adopt emergency European Union’s multiannual independence of courts, measures as it did in March. budget and recovery fund media and non- Finland’s 14-day inci- unless the EU changes its governmental dence rate per 100,000 founding treaty, digging in their organisations. inhabitants stood at 75.8 on heels as the bloc seeks to Wednesday, Europe’s second unwind the deadlock. lowest level behind Iceland, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban (right) and Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki pose Hungarian Prime Minister European Centre for Disease ahead of their meeting in Budapest, Hungary, yesterday. Viktor Orban said yesterday his a second wave of COVID-19 and Prevention and Control data country would have Poland’s a double-dip recession. showed, but the Finnish gov- backing in the continued row “This debate cannot be The crisis compounds an The premiers also issued a Rule of Law and the financial ernment warned the number over the pair’s recent blocking solved with money,” Orban, already thorny relationship joint statement which empha- interests of the Union should be of new cases was rising at a of the ¤1.8 trillion worth of EU standing alongside Poland’s between Brussels and the two sised they would have each established”. Polish Prime Min- worrying pace again. funds vital to restart the econ- premier Mateusz Morawiecki, countries, which have been other’s backs in upcoming ister Morawiecki repeated the In the worst hit region omies of the 27 member states. said in a press statement in accused of eroding democratic negotiations. veto was a real weapon. around the capital Helsinki, The veto decision by Poland Budapest. standards. They proposed a “two-track “The use of veto today is the the number of new cases rose and Hungary, both beneficiaries “Those who conflate these Both countries are under EU process” to facilitate the base scenario that we discussed by nearly 70% last week from of the budget and the recovery two issues (rule of law and crisis investigation for undermining adoption of the financial in order to actually change the the week before, the region’s plan, is likely to delay hundreds funding) are irresponsible as at the independence of courts, package, saying it should be dis- bad dynamics that have Chief Medical Officer Markku of billions of euros in funds just a time of crisis rapid decisions media and non-governmental cussed in the European Council recently been imposed,” Makijarvi said. as the 27-nation bloc is facing are needed to aid the economy.” organisations. “whether a link between the Morawiecki said. “The coronavirus situ- ation has worsened in Finland rapidly. The number Russia sees of infections has increased Russia's top diplomat says West meddling in Belarus and the amount of those in record COVID-19 need of hospitalisation has AFP — MINSK prompting and intrusive offers risen,” Marin told reporters. cases, deaths of unsolicited mediation,” “In my opinion, we should Russia’s foreign minister Lavrov said. not rule out any measures,” AFP — MOSCOW accused the West of interfering Lukashenko has accused she added, referring to the in Belarus yesterday as he met Western countries of orches- possibility of resorting to a Russia yesterday registered strongman leader Alexander trating the demonstrations and national state of emergency record numbers for daily Lukashenko who has faced conspiring to have him again. infections and deaths from the months of protests over his removed after 26 years in Yesterday, the gov- coronavirus for the second disputed re-election. power. Lavrov said the West is ernment recommended time in less than a week. Sergei Lavrov held talks “using dirty methods of so- regional authorities tempo- Health officials reported with Lukashenko and other top called colour revolutions, rarily close all high-risk 25,487 new infections, officials in the capital Minsk, in including manipulating public public spaces in regions bringing the national total to the latest show of Russia’s opinion, supporting forces that where case numbers were 2,187,990 cases since the support for authorities in its ex- are openly anti-government rising rapidly. beginning of the pandemic — Soviet neighbour. and promoting their New cases are on the rise the fifth-highest caseload in Thousands of protesters radicalisation”. in around half of the country, the world. demanding Lukashenko’s res- Several Western leaders with two regions out of 21 Health authorities also ignation have taken to the have refused to recognise the more severely affected, reported 524 deaths, raising streets of Minsk every weekend results of the election and health authorities said. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov (left) and his Belarus Russia’s total fatalities from since an August 9 election that voiced support for The region around Hel- counterpart Vladimir Makei ahead of a meeting, in Minsk, yesterday. COVID-19 to 38,062. saw the 66-year-old claim a Tikhanovskaya, who fled to EU sinki will ban all public It was the second time sixth term in office. member Lithuania shortly after meetings both indoors and since Saturday that the country Protesters believe political back Lukashenko since the pro- States and several European the vote. The European Union outdoors and send pupils and had registered record novice Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, tests erupted. countries of “gross inter- has slapped sanctions on students of more than 15 increases for both cases and 38, who took her jailed hus- Speaking at a press con- ference” in the domestic affairs Lukashenko and a number of years old home to remote deaths. band’s place in the presidential ference with his Belarusian of Belarus. “The wise Belarusian his allies citing election rigging learning, among other Despite the surge — which race, was the true winner. counterpart Vladimir Makei, people are able to sort them- and a violent police crackdown measures, local health President Vladimir Putin last Moscow has continued to Lavrov accused the United selves out without any outside on demonstrators. authorities said. week described as “alarming” — Russia has not imposed the kind of lockdowns seen in some parts of Europe. Colombia extends emergency until February Greece extends coronavirus Authorities in many regions have required mask- REUTERS — BOGOTA 36,000 deaths. Active cases banned. “The sanitary emer- lockdown by a week wearing in public spaces and number 57,260. gency will extend until Feb- limited the number of in-office Colombia’s government will It held a gradually-loosened ruary 28, 2021,” Duque said on AP — ATHENS, GREECE capital. Flights that had been workers, but have not reintro- extend its health state of emer- national quarantine for five and his nightly television program. canceled or rescheduled went duced the strict stay-at-home gency by three months, Pres- a half months earlier this year, “We will extend this process for Greece’s government ahead, however, as air traffic order put in place in the spring. ident Ivan Duque said on sending economic growth into 90 days and we’re doing it to spokesman yesterday controllers called off their Russia has registered a Wednesday, as he urged people negative territory and unem- maintain control (and) detailed announced a weeklong strike after a court ruled their much lower virus fatality rate to avoid crowds and keep up ployment soaring. monitoring.” extension to the country’s participation illegal. than other badly hit countries, safety measures to contain the Most economic activities Duque urged viewers to current lockdown, due to the Greek journalists were also raising concerns that author- spread of the novel coronavirus. are now allowed, as are inter- avoid crowds and use safety continued spread of the coro- participating with a two-hour ities are downplaying the The Andean country has national flights, but face masks measures to avoid second out- navirus, particularly in the work stoppage between 11 am severity of the health crisis. had over 1.27 million confirmed are required in public. Concerts breaks like those seen in north of the country. and 1 pm, during which no Russia’s federal statistics cases of coronavirus and nearly and other large events are Europe. Stelios Petas said the news broadcasts were aired. service has released data lockdown, which was due to About 400 people gathered showing excess deaths of more end on November 30, would in central Athens for a protest than 117,000 year-on-year be extended to the morning of march, while about 150 striking between March and Sep- December 7. workers also gathered briefly tember, indicating that virus “The decision is necessary for a protest rally in fatalities could be much as the epidemiological load Thessaloniki. higher. While Moscow saw the continues to be high,” Petsas Civil servants unions called most new cases yesterday, the said. “In particular in some the strike on a variety of second wave is hitting the areas it is a source of concern.” demands, including the country’s poorly funded The announcement came amid increase of coronavirus-related regions the hardest. a 24-hour strike by civil protective measures in work- Russia is pinning its hopes servants on a variety of places and in schools, mass for controlling the pandemic demands, including better hirings in the public transport on home-made vaccines, workplace protection against and health sectors, and salary including the Sputnik V the coronavirus. The strike dis- increases for civil servants. vaccine that researchers said rupted public transport and Public transport workers Tuesday was 95 percent services, while several hundred are also calling for workers to effective. people defied a ban on gath- be allowed to undergo tests for The jab will be provided erings imposed due to the pan- COVID-19 at their companies’ free to Russian citizens and demic, holding protests in expense. Greece has so far reg- Moscow is looking to secure Athens and the northern city of istered more than 97,000 con- major international orders in Thessaloniki. firmed coronavirus cases and the global race to supply vac- Ferries to the islands were just over 1,900 deaths in a cines. Last month Putin Chile protesters clash with police halted and the Athens metro country of 11 million. Nearly announced that Russia had system and tram were shut for 600 people are intubated in Protesters clash with Chilean riot police during a demonstration to mark the International Day for registered a second vaccine, yesterday’s strike, although ICUs nationwide, according to the Elimination of Violence against Women in Santiago, Chile, on Wednesday. EpiVacCorona. buses continued to run in the figures released on Wednesday. Latin America governments facing vaccine distribution challenges AFP — MONTEVIDEO distributors, given the vital need chain, he said. Amazon basin Some 12.5 million of the 630 through Covax, a WHO initiative Countries in the region are to maintain the cold chain to countries had an early taste of million Latin Americans have to guarantee equal access for having to spend significant Cash-strapped Latin American preserve the vaccines. the geographical challenges been infected with the corona- impoverished countries. amounts of money on these pre- governments face severe Transporting vaccines “to ahead for their vaccination virus and at least 435,000 have All Latin American and Car- purchases just as they are expe- geographical, economic and the most distant parts of the big campaigns, after health workers died, a third of the total number ibbean countries have joined riencing historic economic con- social challenges in trying to cities and to peripheral neigh- struggled to provide care for of deaths worldwide, according Covax, although some lack tractions from the impact of the ensure life-saving COVID-19 bourhoods, with the need to three million indigenous people to AFP figures based on official funds to purchase vaccines pandemic. Lower-income coun- vaccines are made available to conserve the cold chain, will be scattered throughout the rain- data. The process will be “chal- themselves, Barbosa said. tries like Bolivia, Haiti, Guyana vulnerable populations, experts the first major challenge,” forest, an area almost seven lenging and costly” said Jarbas In any case Covax will only and several Caribbean island say. Colombian epidemiologist times the size of Spain. Barbosa, deputy director of the provide enough vaccines for 10 states are betting on the Covax- Megacities like Sao Paulo, Carlos Trillos told AFP. Vaccine campaigners also Pan American Health Organi- to 20 percent of the population, eligible status to receive vaccines mountain ranges like the Andes Governments also face a worry about rampant disinfor- zation (PAHO). forcing many governments to without contributing funds. So as well as the vast Amazon race against time to provide mation in the continent worst- The organisation expects to sign separate bilateral agree- is El Salvador, Honduras and basin pose just a few of the geo- training to those handling the affected by the coronavirus distribute vaccines in the region ments with laboratories and Nicaragua, recently battered by graphical problems for doses throughout the cold pandemic. between March and May 2021 biotechnology companies. Hurricanes Iota and Eta. 12 AMERICAS FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2020 Americans celebrate Thanksgiving under pall of pandemic AFP — WASHINGTON

Millions of Americans defied The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York, a public health guidelines cherished tradition nearly a century old featuring giant yesterday to spend a subdued balloons and colourful floats, went ahead in a truncated Thanksgiving holiday with made-for-TV celebration across just one city block, with no family and friends as corona- virus deaths surged worldwide. crowds and much of it pre-recorded. More than a million people were screened at US airports on Wednesday — the fifth straight said he was expecting “a surge made-for-TV celebration across day with roughly that number superimposed upon a surge” just one city block, with no of air travellers bent on enjoying caused by the big getaway, indi- crowds and much of it one of the biggest US annual cating that he would be pre-recorded. celebrations. restricting celebrations to an Biden described how he The exodus came despite online chat with his daughters. normally travels to the New warnings that mass travel Globally, more than 60 England coast for a big family threatens to significantly million infections and 1.4 feast, but would be staying worsen the pandemic in the million deaths have been home in Delaware this year for country hardest hit, with a six- recorded since the new coro- a small get-together. month high of more than 2,400 navirus emerged in China late “I know this isn’t the way deaths in just the past 24 hours. last year, according to a tally many of us hoped we’d spend President-elect Joe Biden compiled by AFP from official our holiday. We know that a offered a message of hope sources. small act of staying home is a however in a Thanksgiving Despite the burst of travel gift to our fellow Americans,” video address that rallied Amer- in America — still far below last he said in his message, posted Volunteers with the nonprofit Hosea Helps participate in a Thanksgiving food giveaway event at the icans to pull together to defeat year’s Thanksgiving numbers to social media. Georgia World Congress Center, in Atlanta, US, yesterday. the outbreak. — pandemic restrictions meant On radio and TV, chefs have Vaccine breakthroughs that there was a somber, stoical been making suggestions on have raised hopes for an end to undercurrent to this year’s scaling down meals for smaller less what they were grateful for America’s political divisions hunker down and keep the outbreak but much of the festivities. gatherings, or even sharing bits and published some of these were also evident. observing health guidelines world faces a gloomy winter The Macy’s Thanksgiving of what they cook and leaving lines as Americans tried to make Outgoing President Donald until a vaccine becomes dampened by lockdowns, eco- Day Parade in New York, a it on the doorstep of friends and the best of the holiday. Trump’s White House has urged available. “There is real hope, nomic anxiety and devastating cherished tradition nearly a family, so it at least feels like a “A furtive hug with a friend,” “all Americans to gather, in tangible hope. So hang on. Don’t loss. century old featuring giant bal- shared meal. one entry reads. “Windows have homes and places of worship,” let yourself surrender to the Dr. Anthony Fauci, the top loons and colourful floats, went The New York Times asked never been so important,” said despite the health risk. fatigue,” Biden said on US infectious disease expert, ahead in a truncated readers to state in six words or another. But Biden called on them to Wednesday. Trump pardons ex-aide Flynn who pleaded guilty in Russia probe CIA officer killed in Somalia: US AP — WASHINGTON supporters who have taken up Flynn as called the Justice Department’s dismissal a cause celebre and rallied around the request an abuse of power and said its media reports President Donald Trump pardoned his retired Army lieutenant general as the grounds for dropping the case were former national security adviser Michael victim of what they assert is an unfair ever-evolving and “patently pretextual.” AFP — WASHINGTON Flynn on Wednesday, ending a yearslong prosecution, even though Flynn twice As Sullivan declined to immediately prosecution in the Russia investigation admitted guilt. Trump has repeatedly dismiss the prosecution, Flynn lawyer A CIA officer was killed in that saw Flynn twice plead guilty to lying spoken warmly about Flynn and, in an Sidney Powell sought to bypass the judge combat in Somalia in recent to the FBI and then reverse himself indication of his personal interest in his by asking a federal appeals court to days, US media said yesterday before the Justice Department stepped fate, asked then-FBI Director James direct him to drop the matter. A three- without releasing details of in to dismiss his case. Comey in February 2017 to end a judge panel did exactly that, but the full how the agent died. “It is my Great Honor to announce criminal investigation into the national court overturned that decision and sent The veteran officer was a that General Michael T. Flynn has been security adviser. the case back to Sullivan. member of the CIA’s Special granted a Full Pardon,” Trump tweeted. In a statement, Flynn’s family At a hearing in September, Powell Activities Center, a paramil- “Congratulations to @GenFlynn and his thanked Trump “for answering our told Sullivan that she had discussed itary branch that carries out wonderful family, I know you will now prayers and the prayers of a nation” by Flynn’s case with Trump but also said some of the US intelligence have a truly fantastic Thanksgiving!” issuing the pardon. she did not want a pardon — presumably agency’s most dangerous The pardon, in the waning weeks of Democrats lambasted the pardon as because she wanted him to be vindicated tasks, The New York Times A file photo of Michael Flynn Trump’s single term, is part of a broader undeserved and unprincipled. House in the courts. said. effort by Trump to undo the results of a Speaker Nancy Pelosi called it “an act of Powell emerged separately in recent The officer died of injuries Russia investigation that shadowed his grave corruption and a brazen abuse of this nonsense when they voted out Pres- weeks as a public face of Trump’s efforts sustained during an operation administration and yielded criminal power,” while Representative Adam ident Trump. ” to overturn the results of his election loss last week, according to CNN. charges against a half-dozen associates. Schiff, the Democratic chair of the House The pardon is the final step in a case to President-elect Joe Biden, but the The CIA has not com- It comes just months after the president Intelligence Committee, said a “pardon defined by twists and turns. The most Trump legal team distanced itself from mented publicly on the death. commuted the sentence of another asso- by Trump does not erase” the truth of dramatic came in May when the Justice her after she advanced a series of uncor- Washington has some 700 ciate, Roger Stone, days before he was Flynn’s guilty plea, “no matter how Department abruptly moved to dismiss roborated conspiracy claims. troops deployed in Somalia to report to prison. Trump and his allies try to suggest the case, insisting that Flynn should not The pardon spares Flynn the possi- carrying out training of Somali A Justice Department official said the otherwise.” have been interviewed by the FBI in the bility of any prison sentence, which Sul- forces and conducting department was not consulted on the “The President’s enablers have con- first place, only to have US District Judge livan could potentially have imposed had counter-terrorism raids pardon and learned on Wednesday of structed an elaborate narrative in which Emmet Sullivan resist the request and he ultimately rejected the Justice Depart- against the Al Shabaab militant the plan. But the official, who spoke on Trump and Flynn are victims and the appoint a former judge to argue against ment’s dismissal request. That request group, which Washington des- condition of anonymity to discuss Constitution is subject to the whims of the federal government’s position and was made after a review of the case by ignated a terrorist movement internal deliberations, noted that the the president,” House Judiciary Com- to evaluate whether Flynn should be held a federal prosecutor from St. Louis who in 2008. Earlier this month, president has the legal power to pardon mittee Chair Jerry Nadler said in a in criminal contempt for perjury. had been specially appointed by Attorney Washington put on its terror Flynn. The move is likely to energise statement. “Americans soundly rejected That former judge, John Gleeson, General William Barr. blacklist the leader of an elite unit of the Al Qaeda-affiliated group blamed for a January US extends attack in Kenya that killed Biden: Americans ‘won’t stand’ for attempt to derail vote result three Americans. TikTok sale AFP — WASHINGTON signalled a hardening line Trump had been due earlier a margin of 80,000 votes on Al Shabaab is estimated to against Trump who for more to appear in person at the November 3, helping him have between 5,000 and deadline to Dec 4 President-elect Joe Biden said than three weeks has been Republican meeting, which assemble a convincing 9,000 fighters who have on Wednesday that Americans touting conspiracy theories, took place near the Civil War nationwide victory and making vowed to overthrow the AFP — WASHINGTON “won’t stand” for attempts to with no meaningful evidence, battlefield site of Gettysburg. He Trump a one-term president. Somali government, which is derail the US election outcome, that Biden stole victory on cancelled at the last minute. Trump, who tore up supported by some 20,000 The US Treasury on as Donald Trump called for the November 3. The gathering, which also countless norms during his four troops from the African Union. Wednesday said it had results to be overturned. Trump dug his heels in. “We featured Trump’s controversial years in power, is carving out The slain US operative was extended by seven days the In a speech on the eve of the have to turn the election over,” personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani, new territory with his refusal a veteran of special forces November 27 deadline given Thanksgiving holiday, Biden he told Republican supporters was portrayed by the president to concede to Biden. operations, having previously to the Chinese owner of said in his hometown of Wilm- in Pennsylvania. on Twitter as a “very important Supporters suggest he is been a member of the elite TikTok to sell the popular ington, Delaware, that Amer- “This election was rigged,” Pennsylvania State Senate already eying an announcement SEAL Team 6, the Times social media platform’s icans “have full and fair and free Trump said via telephone, hearing.” It was in fact held in of running for president again reported. The outgoing admin- American business. elections, and then we honour repeating several claims of vote a hotel in the small town and, in 2024. istration of President Donald “The Committee on the results.” “The people of this tampering that have been shot rather than an official hearing, Building his brand ahead of Trump is considering with- Foreign Investment in the nation and the laws of the land down in courtrooms across the was merely a forum for Trump’s a new campaign might be one drawing all US forces from United States (CFIUS) has won’t stand for anything else,” country. Trump said “all we ardent supporters to push his explanation for the real estate Somalia by the time he leaves granted ByteDance a one- he said. need is to have some judge claims. tycoon’s dogged pursuit of such office in January, the paper week extension, from The Democrat’s statement listen to it properly.” Biden won Pennsylvania by a lost cause. added. November 27, 2020 to December 4, 2020 to allow time to review a revised sub- mission that the Committee Alleged mastermind of recently received,” a Treasury spokesperson said. President Donald Trump’s Mormon killings arrested administration has expressed REUTERS — MEXICO CITY members of the criminal national security concerns organisation, “La Linea,” the over the app, claiming it could Mexico captured a gang leader federal attorney general’s office be used for Chinese espionage accused of being the said on Wednesday. and threatening to ban it. mastermind behind the It accused Gonzalez of The ban has been chal- massacre of nine women and being the “intellectual lenged in courts, including a children of US-Mexican origin, architect” of the massacre. case in Washington and a sep- authorities confirmed on “There’s still so much to arate filing by the app’s “cre- Wednesday, a move that Wash- clarify about what happened, ators” in a Pennsylvania court, ington hailed as a victory for but at least these arrests are an which blocked the ban on bilateral cooperation. advance in the case,” said October 30, though the gov- Suspected drug cartel Adrian LeBaron, who lost a ernment is appealing that hitmen shot dead the three daughter and three grand- order. Trump has claimed that women and six children from children in the attack. TikTok — which has some 100 families of Mormon origin in After the attack, US Pres- million US users — can be used the northern Mexican border ident Donald Trump called for to collect data on Americans state of Sonora in broad day- the United States and Mexico for Chinese espionage, a claim light on November 4, 2019, to wage “war” on cartels. denied by the company. Mexico protest clashes sparking outrage in Mexico and US Ambassador to Mexico The White House has said the United States. Christopher Landau congratu- Protesters clash with riot police during a demonstration on the International Day for the Elimination of TikTok must become a US firm On Monday, security forces lated Mexican security forces for Violence against Women outside the Government Palace in Mexico City, on Wednesday. Demonstrators controlled by American detained Roberto Gonzalez, the new arrests. “Excellent marched through the Mexican capital and scuffled with police during an angry protest at widespread investors to avert a ban. known as “the 32,” in the cooperation between author- But any plan would likely violence against women in the Latin American nation. northern state of Chihuahua, ities in both countries. There will need approval from Beijing. along with two other alleged be justice!” he wrote on Twitter. Business 13

FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2020 ECB’sE chief economist sounds alarm on worryingw financing conditions WeW will recalibrate our instruments, as appropriate, to respond tto the unfolding situation and to ensure that financing conditions rremain favorable to support the economic recovery. PhilipP Lane Business | 14 EECB's chief economist QSE 10,290.20 -13.69 (-0.13%) FTSE 100 6,368.25 -22.84 (0.36%) DOW 29,872.47 -173.77 (0.58%) BRENT $45.20 (-1.12)

Poland launches QE's benchmark index surges 180 points in a week new COVID-19 SACHIN KUMAR economic aid of THE PENINSULA Gains were led by the about $10bn Shares in Qatar stock market Banks & Financial ended the week on a positive Services and note as shares registered strong Transportation indices, gains during the week. The gaining 2.1 percent and Qatar Stock Exchange (QE) Index has risen by 180 points or 1.7 percent, respectively. around 2 percent to close at Top gainers were QNB 10,290.20 points yesterday Group and Qatar from 10,107 on previous Navigation, rising 4.4 Thursday. percent and 4.0 percent, Of the total five trading days during the week, the index respectively. closed at higher levels than pre- QE Index movement during the past five trading sessions. vious closing session on three days. Stock market started the rose 1.2 percent to close at Tuesday. Losses were led by the Goods & Services indices, points on Wednesday. week on bullish note as the QE 10,329.7. Gains were led by the Banks & Financial Services and gaining 1.7 percent and 0.8 The volume of shares traded REUTERS — WARSAW Index rose 0.9 percent to close Real Estate and Industrials Consumer Goods & Services percent, respectively. Top decreased to 156.6 million from at 10,202.8 on Sunday. Gains indices, gaining 3.0 percent and indices, falling 1.7 percent and gainers were Qatar Cinema & 200.8 million on Wednesday were led by the Banks & 1.8 percent, respectively. Top 0.8 percent, respectively. Film Distribution Co. and Al and the value of shares Poland is introducing a pro- Financial Services and Trans- gainers were Ezdan Holding Top losers were Qatar Meera Consumer Goods Co., decreased to QR415m from gramme to help its economy portation indices, gaining 2.1 Group and Qatari German Islamic Bank and QNB Group, rising 7.0 percent and 2.4 QR507.8 million on Wednesday. withstand the hit from the percent and 1.7 percent, respec- Company for Medical Devices, falling 2.6 percent and 2.4 percent, respectively. Among Indices of three sectors novel coronavirus pandemic tively. Top gainers were QNB rising 10.0 percent and 7.5 percent, respectively. Among the top losers, Qatar General closed with gains while four worth about $9-10bn, Prime Group and Qatar Navigation, percent, respectively. Among the top gainers, Qatar General Insurance & Reins. Co. fell 7.1 sectors ended in red zone Minister Mateusz Morawiecki rising 4.4 percent and 4.0 the top losers, Medicare Group Ins & Reins Co. gained 5.3 percent, while Qatar Gas yesterday. (pictured) said yesterday, as percent, respectively. Among fell 2.4 percent, while Qatar percent, while Qatar Gas Transport Co. Ltd. was down 5.4 QSE Total Return Index it confronts a second wave of the top losers, Dlala Brokerage Insurance Company was down Transport Company was up 3.4 percent. decreased 0.13 percent to infections. & Investment Holding Company 1.7 percent. percent. However, the index wit- 19,782.58 points and QSE Al Emerging Europe’s largest fell 4.7 percent, while Mazaya The index could not On Wednesday, the QE nessed a drop of 13.69 points or Rayan Islamic Index fell 0.21 economy weathered the first Real Estate Development was maintain rising trend next day Index rose 0.4 percent to close 0.13 percent yesterday as it percent to 4,185.87 points. QSE wave of the coronavirus pan- down 3.3 percent. as the QE Index declined 0.7 at 10,303.9. Gains were led by closed at 10,290.20 compared All Share Index lost 0.17 percent demic well, but after a strong On Monday, the QE Index percent to close at 10,261.2 on the Industrials and Consumer to previous closing of 10,303 to 3,162.88 points. recovery in the summer it looks set to slide back into recession in the fourth quarter as the second wave hits. Vodafone Qatar announces weekend mega sale on smartphones “Today it is necessary to save industries in the most dif- THE PENINSULA — DOHA move, Vodafone 5G is in prime 75 percent of Doha with 5G, ficult situation, and in 2021 to locations such as Hamad Inter- Vodafone Qatar has extended 5G support entrepreneurs in Vodafone Qatar announced yes- national Airport; Mall of Qatar, coverage to other areas outside terms of investment, economy terday that a selection of smart- several hotels including Park Doha such as Al Khor, Al Wakra and business, as well as phone devices, including a range Hyatt and Mandarin Oriental; and a number of camping areas employees,” Morawiecki told that are 5G enabled, will be on popular destinations such as in Sealine. a news conference. sale during the much awaited Msheireb Downtown Doha, The devices featured in the Morawiecki said the pro- mega sales starting this weekend. Katara and Souq Waqif; and promotion include high-end gramme would be worth 35 Customers can get more dozens of residential locations phones of iPhone, Xiaomi,Oppo, billion to 40 billion zlotys value for money on a fantastic including Al Waab, Umm Slal, Al HTC, Huawei and Inseego . ($9.33bn to $10.67bn), with 3 choice of smartphones, MiFis and Rayyan, Gharaffa, Abu Hamor, The promotion runs from billion zlotys in aid for micro routers and pair them with Mamoura, Al Sadd, Bin November 26 to 28 and is valid firms, 5 billion zlotys for small Vodafone Qatar’s reliable world Mahmoud, Muntazah, Bin for purchases made via Voda- firms and the remaining 25-27 class GigaNet network. For cus- Omran, Madinat Khalifa, Al fone’s e-Shop and in Vodafone’s billion zlotys going to medium tomers wanting to make a 5G Aziziyah. In addition to covering retail stores. and large firms. Repsol to rein in oil output, boost renewables capacity fivefold BLOOMBERG gigawatts -- including wind and first step in a dramatic shift for European hub for hydrogen percent this year. solar -- from the current 2.95 the oil industry. Larger shipments, and the company The energy producer set a Repsol SA outlined its plans for gigawatts. European rivals, including Total aims to produce more than 1.2 new dividend policy, moving a greener future, saying it “By 2030, Repsol will be a SE, Royal Dutch Shell Plc and gigawatts in 2030. all payouts to cash and no intends to wind down the company that is renewed, more BP Plc, have since followed suit The Spanish firm said it longer offering a so-called search for oil and expand its sustainable, and more focused,” or gone even further with their plans to use three types of tech- scrip, which is paid in shares. renewable capacity fivefold the company said in its strategic green pledges, although the US nology to produce green Repsol said it doesn’t plan to during the next decade. plan published yesterday. “Our majors remain committed to hydrogen: electrolysis -- using increase debt in the next five The Spanish company, strategy is based on a multi- fossil fuels. renewable electricity to make years, and is targeting adjusted which was the first oil major to energy offering that combines Repsol’s new strategy also hydrogen from water -- earnings before interest, taxes, set a net-zero emissions target all the technologies for includes a concrete target for biomethane in steam reformers, depreciation and amortization a year ago, will put its projects decarbonization.” green-hydrogen production, which extracts hydrogen from of more than €8.2bn by 2025. into “harvest mode” as it refo- Repsol’s decision last setting it apart from other oil gas produced from biological Chairman Antonio Brufau “energy company” rather than cuses on higher-value oil pro- December to write down the producers. Most companies sources, and photoelectrolysis (pictured) started to publicly an oil producer. Last month, duction in fewer countries. value of its oil assets by €4.8bn argue this fuel is not yet cost- where sunlight is used to outline his intention to build a Chief Executive Officer Josu Jon Cash flow from Repsol’s ($5.7bn) and its promise to effective. Repsol is seeking to extract hydrogen from water. cleaner oil firm as far back as Imaz said he is already petroleum business will be fun- eliminate net emissions of align itself with the Spanish Repsol’s share price fell 3.3 2016. Central to the Catalan- spending more on developing neled into an expansion of greenhouse gases from its government’s aim of trans- percent to €8.45 at 10:17 am in native’s strategy is becoming renewable projects than renewable capacity to 15 operations by 2050 was the forming the country into a key Madrid. That’s down about 40 what he calls an all-around searching for oil. World markets subdued as US trading shut for Thanksgiving

AP — TOKYO Germany’s DAX was up less than percent to 26,819.45, while the Economic data has been mixed this US consumer spending, the primary 0.1 percent to 13,291 while France’s Shanghai Composite was up 0.2 week, with reports showing the driver of the economy, rose by a Global stock markets were subdued CAC 40 dipped about 0.1 percent to percent at 3,369.73. number of Americans seeking unem- sluggish 0.5 percent in October, the yesterday after significant gains in 5,565. Britain’s FTSE 100 slipped 0.5 Cases of COVID-19 continue to ployment aid jumped last week to the weakest gain since April when the recent days and as US trading remained percent to 6,356. soar around the world, and deaths highest level in more than a month. A pandemic first erupted. closed for the Thanksgiving holiday. US markets will be closed yes- related to the sickness are growing, separate report showed consumer At the same time, the government Investors have been in an upbeat terday and be open for half the day hitting more than 1.4 million people spending posted the weakest gain said that income, which provides the mood this week, pushing the Dow today. In Asia, Japan’s benchmark cumulatively worldwide. Worries are since April. fuel for consumer spending, fell 0.7 above 30,000 for the first time, on Nikkei 225 gained 0.9 percent to finish growing about it spreading during the “The market overall has reached percent in October. news of the development of corona- at 26,537.31, the highest level for the Thanksgiving holiday in the US by most standards what we call over- In energy trading, benchmark US virus vaccines and treatments. index since the collapse of the Japanese In Japan, authorities asked restau- bought conditions, and that typically crude shed 79 cents to $44.92 a barrel. They then became more cautious “bubble economy” nearly three rants and bars to close early, and suggests that the market would need Brent crude, the international as coronavirus infection rates remain decades ago. people to refrain from travel. European to digest the gains, perhaps pause a standard, fell 84 cents to $47.69 a high in many major economies and Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 slipped 0.7 governments are looking to ease bit, and consolidate,” said Quincy barrel. after the release of a batch of discour- percent to 6,636.40, but South Korea’s existing restrictions ahead of Krosby, chief market strategist at Pru- The dollar inched down to 104.24 aging US economic data, including Kospi edged up 0.9 percent to 2,625.91. Christmas, though many limits on dential Financial. yen from 104.50 yen. The euro cost jobless numbers. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng rose 0.6 business are expected to continue. The Commerce Department said $1.1901, up from $1.1885. 14 BUSINESS FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2020 ECB’s chief economist sounds alarm UK’s Johnson picks new on worrying financing conditions chief of staff to lead BLOOMBERG October meeting, but officials post-Cummings ‘reset’ chose to wait for uncertainties The euro-area economy is seeing The Governing Council including the US election, Brexit, REUTERS - LONDON initial signs of strained financing next sets policy on and national budget plans to be conditions, European Central December 10 and is resolved before planning their British Prime Minister Boris Bank chief economist Philip Lane next move. Johnson appointed Dan Rosen- (pictured) said in remarks just widely expected to Some of his colleagues also field (pictured), a business two weeks before policy makers increase and extend its questioned the severity of any consultant and former treasury meet to reset their monetary €1.35 trillion ($1.6 financial tightening seen until official, as his new chief of staff stimulus. trillion) pandemic asset- then. yesterday as he tries to restore “There are some worrying purchase programme as “It was remarked, however, trust in his leadership. signals in recent survey data,” he that the results of the bank Johnson is reshaping his said in an online speech yes- well as offer more lending survey should not be senior team of advisers fol- terday, citing indicators on long-term funding to over-interpreted or overstated,” lowing the departure of lending, investment, and access banks. the report said, pointing to sub- Dominic Cummings earlier this to finance for small- and stantial credit easing observed in month. Cummings was seen as medium-sized businesses. “We fourth quarter. Lane said the ECB the second quarter, underpinned the driving force behind John- will recalibrate our instruments, in favor of action. intends to keep borrowing costs by state-guaranteed lending. son’s strategy on Brexit and as appropriate, to respond to the “Members widely agreed low through the pandemic and A few Governing Council most other policies, and his unfolding situation and to ensure that, given the sharper slowdown into the recovery phase after the members were skeptical of the exit has been billed as a chance that financing conditions remain in growth momentum and the immediate crisis is over. effectiveness of more bond pur- for a ‘reset’ for the British properly with elected members favorable to support the eco- weakening of underlying “While the arrival in the chases, which adds to indications leader. of his ruling Conservative nomic recovery.” inflation dynamics compared coming weeks and months of that the ECB will also consider Rosenfield joins from Party, which has stirred The Governing Council next with what had previously been further positive signals about ramping up its long-term loan Hakluyt, a strategic advisory rebellion over lockdown rules sets policy on December 10 and expected, as well as the deterio- progress in the roll-out of vaccine facility for banks. firm for businesses and and Brexit policies. is widely expected to increase ration in the balance of risks, it treatments would certainly be “While the existing mon- investors, where he has been The decision to hire a rel- and extend its €1.35 trillion ($1.6 would be warranted to recali- highly welcome,” Lane added, “it etary-policy instruments were global head of corporate atively low profile former civil trillion) pandemic asset-purchase brate the monetary policy instru- is essential that the macroeco- viewed as effective, questions clients and head of the UK servant marks a change of programme as well as offer more ments in December,” according nomic recovery is not derailed were raised about possible non- business since 2016, the gov- direction for a prime minister long-term funding to banks. Par- to the account. by a premature steepening of the linearities, side effects and ernment said. whose inner circle was previ- allel to Lane’s speech, the ECB Since the October update, yield curve.” ‘diminishing returns’ in an envi- He previously worked at ously largely made up of published the account of its last new coronavirus lockdowns According to the account, ronment of high uncertainty and Bank of America as a man- alumni from the 2016 Brexit policy meeting on October 28-29, have hit the euro-area economy, Lane already voiced concerns very favorable financial condi- aging director of investment campaign, with Cummings at which showed officials broadly which will likely contract in the over lending surveys during the tions,” the account said. banking, and spent over a the fore. decade working in the finance The chief of staff is tradi- ministry where he served as a tionally the most powerful UK delivery prices jump ahead of Brexit cliff edge as firms rush to stockpile senior aide to former finance political appointment in the ministers Alistair Darling and prime minister’s office. REUTERS - LONDON to bring goods into the country of Jordon Freight, told Reuters of his Espace Europe had seen the George Osborne. Though exact responsibil- before any potential disruption the changing dynamic in the last cost of journeys between Poland “Dan is a class act and an ities vary according the British businesses are rushing to in January, and customs agents two weeks. “The consequence of and England, and France and inspired appointment,” said leaders’ preference, the job stockpile goods just five weeks report being overwhelmed by that is there’s simply not enough England, rise by more than 10 Rupert Harrison, a former aide involves providing strategic before post-Brexit customs pleas for help from traders nav- capacity and the prices are going percent. The frantic activity to Osborne who now works for and political advice to help the checks come into force on igating new rules for the first through the roof.” reflects the need to get ready for Blackrock. He described prime minister take January 1, driving up the cost of time. Swallow said the increased UK’s departure from the world’s Rosenfield as bright, tough and decisions. cross-border deliveries and “We have told our customers demand had pushed prices up by biggest trading bloc which will politically savvy. Rosenfield will begin work cutting capacity, industry sources that the best thing you can do around 20 percent in recent spark a need for customs and Johnson has been heavily on December 7 and officially said. now is stock up, stockpile, and weeks and would likely rise safety declarations, and some criticised for his response to take up the Chief of Staff role Logistics companies told Reuters they’re bringing in as much as further in December. Fellow checks, when goods move into the COVID-19 crisis and a on January 1, Downing Street they have seen a surge in demand they can,” Jon Swallow, director freight specialist Tony Shally said the EU after December 31. failure to communicate said. Eurostar seeks UK funding after state handout to airports BLOOMBERG recognizes the financial chal- lenges facing Eurostar and has Channel Tunnel express-train been engaging with it on a operator Eurostar International regular basis since the start of Ltd. said it’s lobbying the British the outbreak. government for financial “We will continue to work support after help was provided closely with them as we support to English airports. the safe recovery of interna- Chief Executive Officer tional travel,” it said. Jacques Damas (pictured) wrote In addition to extending to Chancellor of the Exchequer airport aid to include interna- Rishi Sunak after the Treasury tional rail services, Eurostar said announced grants to hubs it wants the UK to incorporate equivalent to their business-rate high-speed trains in its support bills, up to a maximum of £8m for the travel sector, especially ($11m) each. in light of its low-carbon cre- Damas took on the CEO role “The new scheme of rates dentials. That should start with last month after a career at relief for airports puts Eurostar a reduction in access charges on SNCF and its overseas arm at a direct disadvantage against High Speed 1, the UK section of Keolis, as well as SNCF-con- A file photo of passengers boarding a Eurostar International LTD train at a station in the UK. its airline competitors,” a the Channel Tunnel line, which trolled Thalys, a provider of spokeswoman said, adding that are three times higher than high-speed trains between Paris the company “has been left international travel. The Infrastructure, which control a with 1.8 billion pounds in British those in France, the spokes- and Brussels with which fighting for its survival” by the company, which is 55 percent combined 40 percent of the government support to aviation woman said. Eurostar is merging operations. coronavirus crisis. owned by French state railroad company, and Belgium, which through loans, tax deferrals and While Britain has rescued He replaced Mike Cooper, who Demand on Eurostar routes SNCF, says it has received has a 5 percent stake. financing. The company is also domestic UK rail operators with made a surprise exit to run the linking London with Paris, money from shareholders, Eurostar, which employs in talks with the French gov- emergency agreements and UK-based Arriva arm of Brussels and Amsterdam has without disclosing how much. 3,000 people and has its head- ernment, the spokeswoman provided a £1.8bn bailout for Deutsche Bahn AG. plunged by 95 percent as Other investors are funds Caisse quarters in London, said it has said. the London subway, Eurostar The Guardian reposted on national lockdowns triggered by de Depot et Placement du so far received only furlough The UK Department for hasn’t qualified for those pro- Eurostar’s appeal to Sunak the pandemic stunt Quebec and Hermes funding from the UK, compared Transport said the government grams, she said. earlier. The world’s oldest bank is facing problems again BLOOMBERG declined to comment. Paschi’s recent disclosures might affect What’s more, in the November its assessment of the lender’s You can understand why Italy might 13 report Paschi says it is a going viability. want to hand yet another round of state concern because the government So far, this feels like the rerun of a aid to Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena (which owns about two-thirds of the movie we’ve seen before. Back in 2017, SpA. It is, after all, the world’s oldest bank) supports strengthening its capital with the blessing of the ECB and bank. And while by no means systemic, to meet the regulatory minimum. Brussels, Paschi received Italian funds the lender is large enough to rock the Would the bank not be a going concern that were meant to cover potential country’s finance industry. Paschi also without those funds? True, having the future losses stemming from a stress employs thousands in Siena. Italian state as a shareholder gives test. In reality, the new money covered But protecting a city’s livelihood comfort that private investors existing weaknesses. The bank was shouldn’t come at any cost. Keeping wouldn’t be able to provide. But probably insolvent at the time of the investors in the dark about the bank’s whether taxpayer funds can be recapitalization, and should have been real financial health and skirting deployed isn’t certain. One constraint wound down. around state aid rules - which is what is the international rules by which Italy In fairness, banks and their super- happened when Paschi was last needs to abide. visors are still testing the complex set rescued only three years ago - would Italian press reports say Paschi may of rules put in place under the EU’s create lingering damage and need as much as €2.5bn ($3bn) of gov- Bank Recovery and Resolution undermine trust in the institutions that ernment funds to persuade UniCredit Directive of 2013, designed to shield govern Italy and Europe. SpA, a bigger rival, to take over the bank. public funds after the bailouts of the Paschi’s most recent financial Taxpayer money could cover the capital financial and sovereign debt crises. report, published on November 13, is shortfall, in addition to the costs of An outside view of Monte dei Paschi di Siena SpA's headquarters building in Regulators also have to manage public hardly reassuring. In it, the bank says merging with UniCredit, which may also Siena, Italy. perceptions when a deposit-taking it expects capital to fall below regu- be shielded from Paschi’s legal risks. bank is under strain, and avoid fanning latory requirements, without elabo- What these government funds would halfhearted restructurings have left regulator, plans a stress test next year. concern that might deepen the lender’s rating on the size of the deficit. But on cover matters, and not just because it limping. Two counts of fraud by two The exercise should reveal any likely problems. November 5, when the bank first Italian taxpayers deserve to know. The different sets of the lender’s man- future shortfalls from souring loans in But if Italy is to avoid any doubt that reported its earnings for the months lender has been pushed to the edge agers didn’t help. the economic downturn, probably it’s playing by the rules, it needs to be trans- through September, it had said capital because of past wrongdoing; the pan- Spiraling legal claims and bad adding to the existing deficit. parent about how it’s rescuing Paschi. buffers still exceeded regulators’ demic, which has prompted Europe to loans, accumulated well before the The European Union has relaxed To thrive, Europe’s overbanked demands. loosen state aid rules, shouldn’t be used pandemic, are now weakening the its state aid regime to let member industry needs to become more inte- What changed between these two as cover for yet another rescue. lender’s solvency. But how much countries save businesses put under grated, with a common deposit- filings is unclear. Bluebell Partners, an Paschi, a regional commercial capital the bank needs this time strain by COVID-19. It is even letting insurance scheme and the ability to adviser to Paschi shareholders seeking bank, never recovered from buying around, in what would be the fourth nations recapitalize lenders, provided move funds freely across the region. damages for its past misdeeds, has a rival it couldn’t afford in 2007. state-backed funding since 2009, is the banks aren’t likely to fail. The ECB Keeping Paschi alive shouldn’t become asked regulators to shed light on the Since then, a series of desperate educated guesswork. The European said it couldn’t comment on individual another reason for skeptics to resist a discrepancy. A Paschi spokesman attempts to keep it afloat and Central Bank, the lender’s principal companies when I asked whether stronger financial union. Sport FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2020 15 Swimming: Al Sadd crowned Qatar Cup champions KhaleelKh l l Al Jabir, J bi President P id t of f Qatar Swimming Association pose with officials and Al Sadd captain Abdulaziz Al Obaidly, who received the 2019-2020 Qatar Cup trophy after the season- ending competition at Hamad Aquatic Centre, yesterday. It is the fourth Qatar Cup trophy for Al Sadd. They won the Qatar Cup with a total of 79.24 points, followed by Al Arabi (72.17) and Qatar Sports Club (69.05). Al Jabir congratulated all the participants and praised them for their commitment despite the challenges. Out of quarantine and into the Time to put on a show: Lewis fray, India tour gets underway Hamilton England REUTERS – SYDNEY The two captains India’s Virat Kohli and skipper The plans for India’s tour of Australia’s Aaron Finch Australia have been ripped up and Salary cap redrawn dozens of times over the Morgan last eight months but the action should not finally gets underway with the AFP – CAPE TOWN first one-day international at the handicap top Sydney Cricket Ground today. England captain Eoin Morgan says his It was at the same venerable England team are determined to “put on a talent: Hamilton ground on March 13 that Australia bit of a show” in the Twenty20 international REUTERS – MANAMA last hosted international men’s series, which starts at Newlands stadium cricket, with the hosts beating in Cape Town today. Any proposed cap on the New Zealand by 71 runs to snap a Morgan said he had become well aware salaries of Formula One drivers five-match losing streak in of the importance of live televised sport should be careful not to hold one-dayers. during the lockdown imposed by Covid-19. back the sport’s top talent, The 48,000 seats were empty “It’s huge,” he said of the chance to play newly crowned seven-times that day as the COVID-19 pan- international sport and provide enter- champion Lewis Hamilton said demic began to bite but Australia’s tainment for viewers. yesterday. relative success at containing the But Morgan said he did not foresee an Formula One has been dis- virus means up to half of them will early end to the need for teams to remain cussing a cap on driver salaries be occupied today. in bio-secure “bubbles” while playing. as part of a wider effort to level India’s squad will be raring to “There’s news about vaccines but the the financial playing field go after coming out of two weeks first to receive it will be the people who between the wealthiest and of quarantine, while Australia’s September and his side is likely AUSTRALIA VS INDIA - ODI SERIES really need it. We are well down the pecking poorest teams on the grid. players will be reunited after pre- to look pretty similar with the all- order of who should be prioritised,” he said. “I’m not personally paring in two separate groups to important addition of former FIXTURES (Start at 2.40pm local, 0340 GMT) “I don’t see any change before the start opposed to it,” the Briton, who satisfy biosecurity protocols. skipper Steve Smith, who missed Nov. 27: First ODI - Sydney Cricket Ground of our own summer.” England have further equalled Michael Schumacher’s Virat Kohli’s tourists are the the 50-over matches because of Nov. 29: Second ODI - Sydney Cricket Ground winter tours planned to Sri Lanka and India record haul of seven titles at the second ranked ODI side in the concussion. Dec. 2: Third ODI - Manuka Oval, Canberra before then. last race in Turkey, told world and will be looking to get Smith and opener David AUSTRALIA Morgan said England intended to field reporters in a video conference into their groove in the three Warner were also absent in the World ranking: 4 their best possible team against South call at the Bahrain Grand Prix. 50-over and three Twenty20 aftermath of the Newlands ball- Captain: Aaron Finch Africa. “I do think about the next matches that precede the four- tampering scandal when India Coach: Justin Langer “It’s the first time in a long time we’ve up and coming young stars that match test series around the new won ODI and test series on their Top ranked batsman: Aaron Finch (7) had a full-strength team available for are coming through and I don’t year. last visit but both batsmen will be Top ranked bowler: Pat Cummins (6) selection. It’s very exciting.” He said he particularly see why they “It’s important to start well in in the Australia team. Squad: Aaron Finch, Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex believed his team were well prepared, with should be handicapped if the white-ball series,” India vice- All-rounder Mitchell Marsh’s Carey, Pat Cummins, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, some players having been active in the they’re bringing something captain KL Rahul said. absence with an ankle injury Moises Henriques, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn recent Indian Premier League while others huge to the sport.” The sport “We are playing for the might offer an opportunity to Maxwell, Daniel Sams, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, had benefited from an extended off-season has already agreed a $145m cap country after a while. We enjoy uncapped youngsters Cameron Marcus Stoinis, Andrew Tye, Matthew Wade, David rest. on teams’ overall budgets for coming here and playing hard Green and Will Pucovski, who Warner, Adam Zampa “Training was very dangerous,” he joked next year which is set to reduce cricket.” Skipper Kohli will return have been in prolific form with INDIA about England’s big-hitting batsmen flexing further to $140m in 2022. home after the first test to attend the bat in the Sheffield Shield. World ranking: 2 their muscles in practice. The salary cap, however, is the birth of his first child. Finch said he thought the Captain: Virat Kohli South Africa captain Quinton de Kock not a part of those measures India have not played a one- unusual preparations would not Coach: Ravi Shastri said his country’s large 24-man squad had and is still some way away, dayer since they lost a series 3-0 have an impact on the Australian Top ranked batsman: Virat Kohli (1) been picked to cover both the T20 series with a proposal calling for it to in New Zealand in February but players, who will stand in a circle Top ranked bowler: Jasprit Bumrah (2) and a one-day international series imme- be implemented in 2023 put the players have had plenty of barefoot to recognise the coun- Squad: Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, Shubman Gill, KL diately afterwards. before the Formula One Com- opportunities to sharpen their try’s indigenous people before the Rahul, Sanju Samson, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, “We will narrow it down to 12 or 13 mission in October. skills in the Indian Premier match. Hardik Pandya, Mayank Agarwal, Ravindra Jadeja, when we get to the ground today,” he said. “This sport controls pretty League (IPL). “I think everyone’s on the Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Two unnamed South African players much the driver’s image,” Wicketkeeper-batsman same page in terms of how we Mohammed Shami, Navdeep Saini, Shardul Thakur remain in isolation after testing positive for added the 35-year-old, who Rishabh Pant was left out of the want to play one-day cricket and ODI HEAD TO HEAD Covid-19 but Cricket South Africa earns an estimated £40m ODI squad and opener Rohit build up some really good Matches: 140, Australia wins: 78 announced on Thursday there had been no ($53.40m) a year and is in Sharma will miss the two short momentum,” he told reporters on India wins: 52, No result: 10 new positive cases after a third round of negotiations over an extension format series at least with a ham- Thursday. LAST THREE SERIES testing. to his Mercedes contract which string issue. “Everyone’s just really looking 2019-20 India beat Australia 2-1 However, all-rounder Dwaine Pretorius is set to expire at the end of this Aaron Finch led Australia to a forward to getting out and playing 2018-19 Australia beat India 3-2 had been ruled out of both series after suf- year. 2-1 series triumph in England in for Australia.” 2018-19 India beat Australia 2-1 fering a hamstring injury during training. World champion Coleman Noor Al Hawa wins Al Safliya Cup appeals two-year ban REUTERS – LAUSANNE

World 100 metres champion Christian Coleman (pictured) has appealed against his ban for breaching anti-doping whereabouts rules, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) said yesterday. CAS said it had registered Coleman’s appeal after he was banned for two years by the Athletics Integrity Unit’s (AIU) Disciplinary Tri- bunal last month and is set to miss next year’s Tokyo Olympics. Under the so-called whereabouts rule, elite athletes must make themselves available for random out-of-competition testing and state a location and one-hour window where they can be found on any given day. Al Safliya Cup's winning team posing for a photograph after Noor Al Hawa Three failures to properly file whereabouts information or being won the feature race of the 13th Race Meeting at QREC's Al Rayyan Park, absent during the hour stated in a 12-month period can result in a yesterday. one- or two-year suspension. The American sprinter said at the time of his provisional suspension Jockey Alberto Sanna thatthat anti-dopinganti-doping offi-offi- cialscials hadhad not ffollowedollowed prprocedureocedu when he guiding Al Wasmiyah Farm’s missedmissed themthem afterafter goinggoing Christmas shoppinshoppingg last year at Noor Al Hawa to Al Safliya a timetime whewhenn he had ssaidaid hhe would be Cup victory. at home.home. 14TH RACE MEETING - AL SAFLIYA CUP RESULTS CAS also said it had registeredr an AL SAFLIYA CUP (QA Listed) (Far Bend) appealappeal relrelatingating to world 400 Noor Al Hawa (Georges Mikhalides, trainer/Alberto Sanna, jockey) metresmetres championchampio Salwa Eid PUREBRED ARABIAN CONDITIONS (Far Bend) Naser.Naser. CAS saidsai the sport’s Akmar (Hadi Nasser Rashid Al Ramzani/Faleh Bughanaim) governinggoverning bbody World THOROUGHBREDS (Class 3) (Far Bend) AthleticsAthletics (W(WA) has filed Taxiwala (Osama Omer E Al Dafea/Mickael Berto) an appealappeal against the THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP (Class 3) (Far Bend) decisiondecision of the AIU’s Zyzzyva (Ibrahim Saeed Ibrahim Al Malki/Ronan Thomas) DisciplinaryDisciplina Tribunal THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP (Class 5) (Qatari Riders Only) (Far Bend) to clclearear tthe Bahrain Thierry (Gassim Mohammad Ghazali/Saleh Salem Al Marri) runner of com- PUREBRED ARABIAN MAIDEN PLATE (Far Bend) mittinmittingg an anti- Djalnor (Mohammed Gassim Ghazali/Marco Casamento) dopindopingg rule vio- LOCAL THOROUGHBRED MAIDEN PLATE (3 Year Olds) (Far Bend) lationlation (ADRV) by S K Shawaheen (Mohammed Hamad Al Attiya/Alberto Sanna) missingmiss out-of- LOCAL PUREBRED ARABIAN MAIDEN PLATE (3 Year Olds) (Far Bend) competitioncomp tests. AJS Berline (Hadi Nasser Rashid Al Ramzani/Marco Casamento) Sport

FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2020 TimeT to put on a show: England's Morgan It’sI the first time in a long time we’ve had a full-strength tteam available for selection. It’s very exciting. We will nnarrow it down (the squad for South Africa series) to 112 or 13 when we get to the ground today.

EoinE Morgan Sport | 15 EEngland captain AFC CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Melbourne Victory vs Beijing, Ulsan Hyundai vs Perth Glory, Shanghai Shenhua vs Tokyo, Chiangrai United vs Seoul

Thousands bid farewell to Maradona AP – BUENOS AIRES HOW THE WORLD Tens of thousands of fans eager to honor Diego Maradona lined up to file past the REACTED coffin of Argentina’s most iconic soccer When I was growing up Diego was star yesterday, some confronting police the guide on how to play football. who tried to maintain order at the coun- This painful moments hurts us all, try’s presidential mansion. because Maradona is football, he is Some threw bottles and pieces of Argentina, he had that rebellious metal fencing at police near the Casa character which defined him Rosada in the heart of Buenos Aires. everywhere he went. He really Officers at one point used tear gas to looked after me when we were both try to control them. at Sevilla and I was very young. Fans blew kisses as they passed Diego may have gone but his spirit Maradona’s wooden casket in the main will remain on every football pitch: lobby of the presidential building, some ATLETICO MADRID COACH DIEGO strike their chests with closed fists and SIMEONE shouting, “Let’s go Diego.” The casket was covered in an Argentine flag and the No. 10 shirt he It’s an enormous loss for the world famously wore the national team. in general but above all for football. Dozens of other shirts of different soccer What he did in the 1986 World Cup teams tossed in by weeping visitors is engraved in my mind. We feel were scattered on and around the A man waves a jersey with a picture of Diego Maradona awful about what happened today, casket. as fans wait to enter the Government House to pay we are very sad: REAL MADRID Maradona died on Wednesday of a tribute to late football legend in Buenos Aires, yesterday. COACH ZINEDINE ZIDANE heart attack in a house outside Buenos Aires where he recovered from a brain Today is an unbelievably sad day. operation on Nov. 3. Fernando. Jana, who Maradona recog- Maradona’s death was confirmed and Maradona also speaks of Argentina,” de Our Diego left us. Our hearts - of all Open visitation started at 6:15 a.m. nized as his daughter only a few years grew to several blocks. Among those Lima told The Associated Press. of us who loved him for how he local time (0915 GMT) after a few hours ago, also attended the funeral. present were the renowned barrabravas Lidia and Estela Villalba cried near was, and for what he represented - of privacy for family and close friends. Then came former teammates of the fans of Boca Juniors, one of his former the exit of the lobby. Both had a Boca have stopped beating for a moment. The first to bid farewell were his 1986 World Cup-winning squad clubs. Juniors shirt and an Argentinian flag on Our silence, our tears, our pain is the daughters and close family members. including Oscar Ruggeri. Other The first fan to visit was Nahuel de their shoulders.A huge mural of only thing we are feeling deep His ex-wife Claudia Villafañe came Argentine footballers, such as Boca Lima, 30, using crutches to move Maradona’a face was painted on the tiles inside us at this time: FIFA with Maradona’s daughters Dalma and Juniors’ Carlos Tévez, showed up, too. because of a disability. that cover the Plaza de Mayo, near the PRESIDENT GIANNI INFANTINO Gianinna. Later came Verónica Ojeda, The lines started forming outside “He made Argentina be recognised Casa Rosada, which was decorated with also his ex-wife, with their son Dieguito the Casa Rosada only hours after all over the world, who speaks of a giant black ribbon at the entrance. El Zahr nets late equaliser as Al Ahli steal a point against Al Rayyan; Al Wakrah and Qatar SC win

THE PENINSULA – DOHA

Nabil El Zahr struck a last-gasp equalizer as Al Ahli held Al Rayyan 1-1 in their Round-7 clash of the QNB Stars League (QSL) at the Al Ahli Stadium yesterday. ROUND 7 The former champions Al Rayyan YESTERDAY'S RESULTS had taken the lead in the 77th minute Al Sailiya 1-3 Al Wakrah through Franck Kom before Al Ahli Al Ahli 1-1 Al Rayyan fought back through El Zhar's injury- Qatar SC 3-0 Al Arabi ACL: Kobe’s Iniesta time penalty (90+5). TODAY'S FIXTURES Al Ahli and Al Rayyan now have Al Gharafa VS Al Khor sets his sights on 16 and 11 points under their names Al Gharafa Stadium 5:30pm respectively. Al Sadd VS Umm Salal deep run in Doha The match - dubbed as the Al Gharafa Stadium 7:45pm marquee clash of the week pitted REUTERS – DOHA Al Duhail VS Al Kharaitiyat together the high-flying Al Ahli and Al Duhail Stadium 7:45pm last season's runner-up Al Rayyan. Andres Iniesta has set his sights on steering Asian Al Ahli, who are enjoying a mem- Champions League debutants Vissel Kobe to the orable season so far, were looking latter stages of the competition as the Spanish for their sixth win in seven matches. Al Sadd's World Cup winner looks to finish a disappointing Apart from the Round-5 hick-up Action during the QNB year on a high for the Japanese club. where they lost to strong Al Sadd 1-7, Stars League Round-7 Al Dosari returns Iniesta was on target for Kobe on Wednesday Al Ahli had won all their games match between Al Ahli and as the J-League side defeated twice champions before yesterday's blockbuster clash. ahead of Umm Guangzhou Evergrande to become the first club Both teams attacked from the Al Rayyan. to secure their place in the last 16 of the eastern word go, but a goal eluded the Salal clash half of the draw in the continental opening session. Khalfan was fouled by Mohammed close towards the end of first half. championship. In the first half, Gabriel Mercado Alaaeldin and referee Abdulla Ali At the other end, Al Sailiya Vissel have endured a difficult domestic sent his shot wide, Abdulaziz Hatem Athba pointed to the spot, a decision attackers Abdulqadir Ilyas, Tiago THE PENINSULA – DOHA season, with coach Thorsten Fink fired in late was thwarted by Al Ahli goalkeeper confirmed by the Video Assistant Bezerra and Mohanad Ali (Mimi) September and Kobe still languishing in 11th place Ivanildo Rodriguez and Kom headed Referee. And Nabil converted from struggled to make inroads as they Former champions Al Sadd will be in the 18-team J-League despite owner Hiroshi wide of the target for Al Rayyan, who the spot. missed the speed and pace of Ahmed keen to stay atop when they take on Mikitani lavishing significant funds on his team. continued to miss the services of their Earlier, Al Wakrah defeated Al Hammoudan. However, the teams Umm Salal in their seventh QNB But Iniesta is hoping a change of scenery and ace player Yacine Brahimi through Sailiya 3-1 at the Al Ahli Stadium to took the breather goalless. Stars League (QSL) encounter today. the win over Guangzhou in the club’s first game illness. jump to fifth spot in the QSL The second half saw a flurry of The QSL points leaders will since arriving in Doha at the weekend can kick- For Al Ahli, Abdulrasheed standings. Mohamed Benyettou (49), attacks by Al Wakrah and they were receive a huge boost when they start an improvement in Kobe’s fortunes. Ibrahim, Mohammed Diame and Omar Ali (52) and Cristian Ceballos rewarded with two quick goals. welcome back their regular goal- “It’s our first win in Qatar, and we have six Shane Lowry were off-target. (75) scored for Al Wakrah, while Ceballos found the target with an keeper, Qatar international Saad Al points now. This is very important for us to go Both teams sustained the Abdulqadir Ilyas (90+1) scored Al angular shot and Omar deflected in Dosari who missed out their pre- to the next stage, and I think today we showed momentum in the second half. Sailiya's lone goal. a shot by Benyettou. Al Wakrah were vious League matches due to an that we deserved the result. I think it’s very Al Ahli’s Ali Qaderi had a goal dis- The victory lifted Al Wakrah's totally in control now and Ceballos injury. important for us now to keep going like this.” allowed for offside in the 66th minute points tally to 10 while Al Sailiya added his second and the team’s third Al Dosari was recovering from Fifteen clubs are playing in Doha in a when he was on hand to send in a remained on eight . Both teams had with an opportunistic goal. a head injury he had suffered during biosecure bubble as the AFC attempts to com- rebound off the left upright after dropped points in Week 6, Al Sailiya Ilyas reduced the margin for Al the Qatar national team’s friendly plete the competition with a format which rep- Nabil shot first. drawing goalless with Al Khor and Sailiya in the first minute of stoppage against Ghana last month. licates that used in September and October for Much to Al Ahli’s dismay, an Al Wakrah losing 0-1 to Qatar SC, so time, but it was too little, too late. “The return of Saad to training teams from the west of the continent. unmarked Kom took Al Rayyan they played an open game. Later, at the Qatar SC Stadium, after his injury makes me very Iranian side Persepolis have already qual- ahead by taking advantage off an Ceballos started it all with a long- the hosts blanked Al Arabi 3-0. happy. He completed his recovery ified for the final and the side from Tehran will assist by Yohan Boli. range shot in the 13th minute. Omar New recruit Youcef Belaili netted process well,” coach Xavi Hernandez meet the leading team from the east of the con- When it looked like Al Rayyan was off-target in the 27th minute fol- a brace (38 and 87) and Alejandro said during a pre-match press con- tinent in Doha on Dec 19. would seal an important victory came lowing a quick move and Benyettou Jimena (90+5) added a third as Qatar ference ahead of their Round-7 “We’ll keep fighting, and we’ll go as far as the breakthrough deep into stoppage headed over in the 44th minute. Al SC took their points tally to nine, match which will take place at Al possible in this tournament,” Iniesta said. time. Al Ahli’s substitute Nasser Wakrah’s Riadh Nasser too came while Al Arabi stood on five points. Gharafa Stadium.