BUSINESS | Page 1 SPORT | Page 1 Qatar won’t decide on 48-team World Cup until it has Qatar is stronger despite seen FIFA siege: Commerce minister study

published in QATAR since 1978

TUESDAY Vol. XXXIX No. 11036 December 18, 2018 Rabia II 11, 1440 AH

GULF TIMES www. gulf-times.com 2 Riyals

Amir invited to attend Arab Summit in Tunisia All set for Qatar National Day festivities today z National Day parade will begin at 2.45pm at Doha Corniche z More than 20,000 seats are available for the audience z 23 assembly points for more than 20,000 vehicles z Buses to transport the public to the celebration site z Fireworks for 10 minutes from 8pm z 5 large screens installed at diff erent locations along Corniche z Al Kass TV channel off icial broadcaster His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani received yesterday a written message from Tunisian President Beji Kayed Sibsi, inviting him to attend the 30th ordinary session of the Arab Summit to be held in Tunisia in March 2019. The message was delivered by Tunisian Defence Minister Abdelkareem Zubaidi when the Amir met him at the Amiri Diwan off ice yesterday. Zubaidi conveyed President Sibsi’s greetings and wishes of health and happiness to the Amir and to the people of Qatar further progress and prosperity. The Amir reciprocated the Tunisian president’s greetings and wishes. The meeting reviewed the fraternal relations and co-operation between Qatar and Tunisia and means of enhancing them.

Amir receives greetings on Qatar National Day His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani has beIN Media Group received a cable of greetings on the occasion of the Qatar National Day from HE the Advisory Council migrates to Eutelsat Speaker, Ahmed bin Abdullah bin His Highness the Personal Representative of the Amir, Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani, participated in Qatar’s Ardha, which Zaid al-Mahmoud. was held in the Amiri Diwan yard on Doha Corniche to celebrate Qatar National Day. His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa In his cable, HE al-Mahmoud eIN MEDIA GROUP, the home beIN SPORTS channels HD, HD5, al-Thani and a number of their excellencies Sheikhs, ministers, dignitaries and citizens took part in the Ardha. Page 36 said: “On the occasion of Qatar of sports and entertainment in HD6, HD7, HD8 and HD9 will be National Day, it gives me pleasure, bthe Mena region has announced available on Frequency MHz 11054. n an atmosphere fi lled with national on my behalf and on behalf of that it is migrating its transponder beIN SPORTS channels beIN pride and loyalty, the Qatar Nation- the Advisory Council’s members, capacity from Nilesat over to Eutelsat News, HD10, HD1 MAX and HD4 Ial Day 2018 will be celebrated to- to offer Your Highness the most 8 degrees West. MAX will be available on Frequency day across the country with gaiety and sincere congratulations and This move comes as part of beIN’s MHz 12604. pomp and a variety of activities. blessings. We take this glorious commitment to providing its viewers “The switch of satellites provides The Doha Corniche is decorated national occasion to renew the and fans with the best possible tech- an increase in platform security and to host the National Day parade from pledge of loyalty to Your Highness nology and uninterrupted coverage control, and improved resilience 2.45pm, the highlight of the celebra- and reaffirm our determination in satellite TV broadcasting, a state- overall. These eff orts were made to tions. The Organising Committee of to serve our nation and our loyal ment from the company said. ensure beIN MEDIA GROUP can Qatar National Day 2018 has completed citizens, asking Allah, the Almighty “Starting from December 15 until continue to provide its viewers and all preparations to ensure the festivities for many happy returns of such December 31, beIN subscribers can fans with its unrivalled library of take place in the best possible way. a dearest national occasion and watch content on all the available entertainment, live sport action and The main platform has been recent- wishing Your Highness the best frequencies. After the 31st of Decem- major international events in the ly expanded and beautifi ed. Qatar’s of health and happiness and ber, subscribers will need to ensure highest standards available across all fl ags (Al Adaam) have been raised on more progress and welfare to our their set top boxes are reconfi gured to its platforms,” the statement added. the lighting poles to fl utter in the sky, beloved country.” avoid any interruptions.” The majority of set top boxes will echoing the depth of national belong- His Highness the Amir has sent beIN SPORTS channels HD1, HD2, be reconfi gured automatically. For ing and evoking the history of ancient a reply cable of thanks to the HD3, HD4, HD2 MAX and HD3 MAX more information on beIN’s frequency Qatar and its modern progress. Advisory Council Speaker in which will now be available on Frequency change, please call +97444222000 or The parade is being organised under he exchanged good felicitations MHz 11013. visit: www.bein.net/serviceupdate. the motto of Qatar National Day 2018, with the Advisory Speaker and the ‘As long as it was proven by our deeds members on the happy occasion. … Qatar remains free’, and refl ects the The Amir expressed appreciation to vision of the Organising Committee so the precious feelings of the Advisory as to depict enhanced loyalty, unity and facilities have been provided along the 26 ambulances on standby along the Council Speaker and the members, pride in the Qatar national identity. parade route, starting from the Shera- Corniche and surroundings, to provide wishing them the best of health ‘Ties with Qatar deep, solid’ The palm trees along the Corniche have ton Doha to Fardat Al Shuyakh. the necessary medical services, in ad- and more welfare, progress and been decorated threefold compared to last More than 20,000 seats are available dition to public toilets and special toi- prosperity to the people of Qatar. year. The green spaces, which spans many for the audience to witness the parade. lets for the disabled. His Highness the Amir has received uwaiti Deputy Prime Minister He hoped Qatar would enjoy security, kilometres, have been decorated with roses There are approximately 23 assem- The National Day parade will be pre- cables of congratulations on Qatar and Foreign Minister Sheikh stability and sustainable development. and other fl owering plants and illuminated bly points, accommodating more than ceded by a classic car show along the National Day from leaders and KSabah Khaled al-Hamad al- Deputy Foreign Minister Khaled with dazzling lights. 20,000 vehicles. Also buses will be of- Doha Corniche. The festivities will presidents of sisterly and friendly Sabah yesterday termed the relations al-Jarallah also congratulated the The preparations also include the fered to transport the public from these conclude with fi reworks for 10 minutes countries. with Qatar as “deep and solid”. Qatari people and said he was look- towers areas that has been lit and deco- points to the celebration site along the from 8pm. Al Kass TV channel will be His highness the Deputy Amir Speaking to reporters during a re- ing forward to witnessing further ac- rated. The scenes in the sea also refl ect Doha Corniche. the offi cial broadcaster of the parade. Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al-Thani ception held by the Qatari Embassy complishments in Qatar. the national atmosphere with tradi- Five large screens, installed at diff er- received cables of congratulations to mark the country’s national day, Qatari ambassador to Kuwait Bandar tional boats spread along Corniche. ent locations along the Corniche, will from crown princes and deputy Sheikh Sabah al-Khaled said “big al-Attiyah said he was honoured to serve The National Day Organising Com- show visuals from the parade. Further, More National Day crown princes of sisterly and achievements in Qatar and the devel- in Kuwait, and praised the Amir Sheikh mittee has called upon all citizens of there are large screens inside the new Al stories on Pages 12, 15, friendly countries. opment of infrastructure all the way Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah for Qatar to participate in the parade and Bidda Park and Souq Waqif. HE the Prime Minister and Minister to the 2022 World Cup are a source of advocating the security and stability of enjoy the various military and civil- In addition, 31 food carts will be pro- 16, 17, 18, 19, 33, 34, 35, 36 of Interior Sheikh Abdullah bin appreciation that makes us happy.” the Gulf region.- KUNA ian shows. All necessary amenities and vided along the Corniche. There will be Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani received cables of congratulations from heads of governments of sisterly and friendly countries.

‘Justice’ named 2018 ‘Qatar Airways added 23 destinations in 18 months’ ‘Word of the Year’ “Justice” is what most people sought atar Airways has added some 23 nect passengers around the globe. Nang, Vietnam to begin on December 19. Business Class’ by the 2018 World Air- on Merriam-Webster, among the new destinations over the past Al-Baker said: “One of the advan- “New routes to both Isfahan (Iran) line Awards, managed by international world’s most popular dictionaries, Q18 months, something which tages Qatar Airways enjoys is having and Valletta (Malta) have already been air transport rating organisation Skytrax. as the US publisher named that has never been achieved by any other the fl exibility of diff erent aircraft types announced for 2019. This is further It was also named ‘Best Business Class principle of being fair as the Word airline said Qatar Airways Group Chief in our fl eet, which gives us a massive testament to our growth, and we will Seat’, ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’, and of the Year for 2018. Users looked Executive Akbar al-Baker. competitive edge. We have identifi ed continue to announce further new and ‘World’s Best First Class Airline Lounge’. up the word 74% more often than This, he said, is a “key indicator of many routes that our competitors have exciting destinations in 2019.” Qatar national carrier’s ‘Qsuite’ in 2017. the airline’s sustainability and resil- not yet considered, and we look for- Al-Baker also addressed the airline’s business class seat was also named ience”, al-Baker said at a global media ward to continuing our rapid expansion “proven” track record of creating a ‘Best Business Class’ by the AirlineR- roundtable hosted by Qatar Airways on as we start the new year. large hub in the midst of tough compe- atings’ Airline Excellence Awards 2019, Russian interference in the sidelines of the Doha Forum con- “A key indicator of the airline’s sus- tition, and emphasised the tremendous whilst the airline’s renowned dine- US election ‘massive’ ference at the Sheraton Grand Doha tainability and resilience is the addition potential the airline sees in launching on-demand in fl ight cuisine was also The social media tactics used by a Resort & Convention Hotel. of 23 new destinations over the past 18 new routes to under-served countries named ‘Best Catering’. Russian organisation to influence The award-winning airline has months, something which has never in Africa and Asia, to connect passen- Qatar Airways currently operates a the 2016 US elections were broader launched 23 destinations since the been achieved by any other airline. Just Akbar al-Baker addressing a global media gers around the world via the airline’s modern fl eet of more than 200 aircraft and more targeted than previously start of the blockade, and continues this month alone, Qatar Airways has roundtable hosted by Qatar Airways home and hub, HIA. via its state-of-the-art hub, Hamad thought, two new reports released with its significant programme of ex- launched fl ights to Mombasa, Kenya and on the sidelines of the Doha Forum A multiple-award-winning airline, International Airport (HIA) to some yesterday show. pansion of new routes to further con- Gothenburg Sweden, with services to Da conference at the Sheraton Grand Doha. Qatar Airways was named ‘World’s Best 160 destinations worldwide.

Gulf Times 10 Tuesday, December 18, 2018 QATAR

Amir greets Qatar-Italy defence ties reviewed Amiri Guard, Carabinieri sign pact king of Bhutan

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and His Highness the Deputy Amir Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al-Thani have sent cables of congratulations to King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan on the occasion of his country’s National Day.

Al-Mahmoud meets IPU president

HE the Speaker of the Advisory Council, Ahmed bin Abdulla bin Zaid al-Mahmoud, met the President of the Inter- Parliamentary Union (IPU) Gabriela Cuevas Barron, who is Amiri Guard Commander Major General Hazza bin Khalil al-Shahwani met the Commanding currently visiting Qatar. HE the Chief of Staff of the Qatar Armed Forces Lieutenant-General (Pilot) Ghanem bin Shaheen General of Italy’s Carabinieri Force, Giovanni Nistri, and his accompanying delegation, who are on They discussed the preparations al-Ghanem met Commanding General of Italy’s Carabinieri Force, Giovanni Nistri, and his a visit to Doha. During the meeting, they signed an agreement for military technical co-operation of the Advisory Council to host accompanying delegation during their off icial visit to the country. The meeting discussed the between the two sides, within the framework of strengthening bilateral relations between the two the 140th meeting of the IPU military relations between Qatar and Italy and ways to strengthen and develop them. countries in the military field and means of supporting and developing them. General Assembly to be held in Doha from April 6 to 10 next year. IPU president praises role Advisory Council reaffi rms of Qatari women in society its allegiance to Amir QNA Following the statement of for Relations with the Arabian Doha HE al-Mahmoud, the Council Peninsula headed by Michèle QNA continued its consideration of Alliot-Marie. Doha the items on the agenda and He pointed out that during he Advisory Council discussed a draft law amend- the meeting he raised the un- held its regular weekly ing some provisions of Law No just blockade imposed on Qa- he President of the Inter- Tsession yesterday under 7 of 2007 on administrative tar and the fl agrant violation Parliamentary Union the chairmanship of HE the disputes and decided to refer of international laws and hu- TGabriela Cuevas Bar- Speaker of the Council Ahmed it to the Internal and External manitarian norms by the siege ron praised Qatari legislation bin Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mah- Aff airs Committee for further countries. that ensures the rights of Qa- moud. study and a report. He then expressed his deep tari women and enables them to At the beginning of the Thereafter, the Council took appreciation to the European reach leading posts in all fi elds. meeting HE al-Mahmoud con- note of the letter of the Cabi- Parliament’s positions. This came during a meeting gratulated on his behalf and net on the recommendation of He added that he also dis- hosted by Qatar Chamber, in the on behalf of the members of the Council about the damage cussed with delegation of the presence of a number of leading the Council, His Highness the infl icted on the Qatari mothers European Parliament the stra- Qatari women working in public Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Ha- (divorcees/widowed women) tegic relations between the and private sectors. mad al-Thani, His Highness by the fathers of their children, Qatar and the European Union, The meeting reviewed the the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad who hail from the blockading and the role played by the Ad- role of Qatari women in the so- bin Khalifa al-Thani, His High- countries. visory Council and the Euro- ciety and ways of helping them ness the Deputy Amir Sheikh The Council expressed its pean Parliament in supporting to reach leading positions in all Abdulla bin Hamad al-Thani, gratitude to the government for and promoting these relations. fi elds - politics, economy, sci- and the people of Qatar, on the its consideration and positive HE al-Mahmoud also briefed ence and development. occasion of the National Day, response to the recommenda- the members of the Council on Gabriela Cuevas Barron said renewing allegiance and loyalty tions of the Council and for the the results of his meeting last that she managed to obtain the to the Amir. actions taken thereon by the Saturday with Maurice Leroy, position that she is in thanks to President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union Gabriela Cuevas Barron with Qatar Chamber’s board member HE al-Mahmoud expressed government. the President of French-Qatar perseverance and diligence, al- Ibtihaj al-Ahmadani. his pride at the country’s glo- Meanwhile, HE al-Mah- Friendship Group in the French though her country - Mexico - is rious past the foundations for moud briefed the members of National Assembly, and with not a major world power. they have realised Qatar National tives, and family businesses, she ticipation under the chairman- which was laid by the founder the Council on the outcomes of Jean-Marie, Deputy President She noted that she faced many Vision 2030’s goal of building a fu- added. ship of HE the Speaker Ahmed Sheikh Jassim bin Mohamed his meeting with the delegation of the French-Qatar Friendship challenges and obstacles before ture that relies on all of its society’s She stressed Qatar Cham- bin Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mah- bin Thani. of the European Parliament Group in the French Senate. she attained this post. capabilities,” assuring that Qatar ber’s role in support for produc- moud at the previous session of Qatar Chamber’s board mem- National Vision 2030 stresses the tive families by promoting their the union in Geneva last Octo- ber Ibtihaj al-Ahmadani said signifi cance of enhancing women’s products and setting platforms ber, which led to Qatar hosting that Qatari women have ex- role in society, specifi cally through for them to participate in the lo- the next session in April 2019. celled in all fi elds in the last two participation in the economic and cal and international markets. She emphasised the impor- decades, noting that they have political fi elds. Meanwhile, regarding her opin- tance of the 140th Assembly and Qatar, Moldova sign MoUs in attained leading roles in the Offi cial statistics stated that ion on Qatar’s stand on the Gulf related meetings, which will be transformation of the country’s the percentage of women in the crisis and its call for dialogue to held in Doha from April 6 to 10, economic, political, social, edu- workplace reached about 37% in resolve the issue, Gabriela Cuevas next year, and expressed confi - education and health sectors cational, and sports sectors. 25-29 age group. Barron said in a statement to Qa- dence that these meetings will Al-Ahmadani said that the That percentage increases to tar News Agency (QNA), that IPU be an important platform for State’s policies and initiatives 49% in the 30-34 age group. believes in dialogue and peaceful bilateral meetings, workshops, QNA was signed by HE the Minis- the two countries in the fi eld of promote the presence of women Al-Ahmadani said that offi - solutions to all crises, and wishes events and joint inter-parlia- Doha ter of Education and Higher higher education, scientifi c re- in the private sector. cial statistics indicated that the to prevent them, and not see peo- mentary work. Education Dr Mohamed Abdul search and technology, as well This resulted in a quan- representation of Qatari women ple suff ering. She said that the upcoming Wahed Ali al-Hammadi and as the development of co-op- tum leap in the participation in decision-making positions is In this regard, she stressed Doha meetings of the IPU con- atar and Moldova signed Moldovan Minister of Foreign eration between schools in both of women in the private sector currently 30%. that during her current visit to fi rm the commitment to provide memorandums of un- Aff airs and European Integra- countries. - up to four times since the un- Today women lead as min- Doha, she had learned about Qa- the best for the world in the fi eld Qderstanding (MoU) yes- tion Tudor Ulianovschi in the The MoU for co-operation in just siege on Qatar was imposed isters, members of the Advi- tar’s strength and capabilities, of parliamentary work. At the terday for co-operation in the presence of the Undersecretary the fi eld of health and medical in June 2017, affi rming that the sory Council, a board member making it a good example to the same time, it is an opportunity fi elds of education, higher edu- of the Ministry of Education Dr sciences was signed by HE the amount of investments of Qa- of Qatar Chamber, the Central world. to share experiences among par- cation, scientifi c research and Ibrahim al-Nuaimi. Minister of Public Health, Dr tari businesswomen is reaching Municipal Council, Qatar Foun- Gabriela Cuevas Barron liamentarians, to learn from each health and medical sciences. The MoU included the de- Hanan Mohamed al-Kuwari, QR25bn in the local market. dation, Hamad Medical Cor- praised the role played by the other and to seek solutions for The MoU for co-operation in velopment of co-operation in and Moldova’s Minister for For- Al-Ahmadani added: “Today, poration, Doha Film Institute, Advisory Council on an interna- many of the common problems the fi elds of education, higher the fi eld of public education, eign Aff airs and European Inte- together with their fellow men, entrepreneurial sports initia- tional level, and its positive par- facing the world. education, scientifi c research the deepening of ties between gration Tudor Ulianovschi.

Gulf Times 12 Tuesday, December 18, 2018 QATAR

Deputy premier meets delegation from European Parliament

HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Aff airs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani met a delegation from the European Parliament yesterday. The delegation led by Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Michele Alliot-Marie of France comprised fellow MEPs Rachida Dati of France, Wajid Khan of the UK, Gabriela Zoana of Italy, and Angela Vallina of Spain. During the meeting, they discussed co-operation between Qatar and the European Union. – QNA National Day marked with fun and culture ith a variety of events HMC’s celebrations highlight the held under the theme signifi cance of this prominent day WQatar Will Remain Free, to members of the public, our staff , Hamad Medical Corporation and our patients. (HMC) joined the country in com- “Everyone who attended one of memorating Qatar National Day HMC’s National Day celebrations with activities held across its net- had the opportunity to connect work of hospitals and facilities. with one another and celebrate HE the Minister of Public Health their collective pride in our coun- Dr Hanan Mohamed al-Kuwari at- try.” tended HMC’s National Day cel- On December 13, staff from a ebration activities, which saw par- number of HMC hospitals took ticipation from patients and their part in the Flag Relay organised by families, visitors, and staff . the Qatar Olympic Committee. The events were symbolic of This was the relay’s second year Qatar’s history, heritage and tradi- following its launch at last year’s tions, HMC said in a statement. Qatar National Day celebrations. Commenting on HMC’s activi- The relay encouraged a sense of ties, the minister said: “Qatar Na- national identity, pride, and unity. tional Day is an important occasion HMC staff had the opportu- for everyone in Qatar to come to- nity to raise the Qatar fl ag, and gether as a nation to celebrate our fl ag-bearers carried the fl ag to key country and recognise how far we landmarks across the country, in- have come through the vision and cluding seven of HMC’s leading drive of our wise leadership. hospitals and facilities. “It is also an opportunity to re- A wide range of recreational fl ect on how far we have come in and cultural activities were organ- terms of healthcare in Qatar. ised for patients, families and staff “Our facilities and services con- across HMC to showcase Qatar’s tinue to develop, improve, and traditions and history. grow year on year, and I am proud Some hospitals displayed Qatari to see staff from across HMC, who crafts and folklore, while others or- have all contributed to this growth, ganised performances highlighting paying tribute to our beloved na- various aspects of Qatari culture. tion. Some facilities treated visitors “The activities highlight the and patients to a traditional café pride that HMC staff , their patients off ering Qatari cuisine. HE the Minister of Public Health Dr Hanan Mohamed al-Kuwari attending HMC’s Qatar National Day events. and the public take in our country There were also silent character and in HMC as an organisation. performances, henna artists, and portation Departments yesterday. Volunteering Programme at HMC Service and the Hamad Injury Pre- “We see this through their cel- traditional poetry recitals. Those attending these events organised celebratory events for vention Programme, the commu- ebration of Qatar’s history and tra- Qatar National Day celebrations learned about healthy living from patients with special needs at the nity outreach arm of the Hamad ditions as well as a shared commit- at Al Khor Hospital, Hamad Gen- HMC staff , with clinical teams Communicable Diseases Centre, Trauma Centre, took part in Qatar ment to promoting and learning eral Hospital, Wakra Hospital, the providing information on nutrition the Enaya Centre in Muaither, the National Day activities at Darb Al about health and healthy living.” Cuban Hospital, and Hazm Mu- and exercise. Heart Hospital, and the Psychiatry Saai. Ali Abdulla al-Khater, chief baireek Hospital took place on De- Additionally, free basic health Department. Representatives of HMC’s Am- communications offi cer at HMC cember 16, with celebratory events checks were provided, including The group also organised an bulance Service educated the and chair of the Ministry of Public held at the Women’s Wellness and blood pressure and sugar checks. event on December 13 at the Na- public about the key messages of Health’s Healthcare Communica- Research Centre, the Qatar Reha- In recognition of both Qatar tional Centre for Cancer Care and its “Know the 5 to Save a Life” na- tions Committee, noted: “As well bilitation Center, the Ambulatory National Day and the World Day Research for patients receiving tional awareness campaign, and as expressing our pride in Qatar’s Care Centre, and the Human Re- for Persons with Disabilities, the cancer treatment. provided visitors with information history, heritage, and traditions, sources, Engineering and Trans- Health Professions Awareness and Staff from HMC’s Ambulance on the importance of road safety.

Lipault Paris launches latest capsule collection in collaboration with Jean-Paul Gaultier

Lipault, the young Parisian fashion house of bags, suitcases and accessories, has launched its latest collaboration with Jean- Paul Gaultier, a capsule collection “with an even balance of masculinity and femininity in its multi-textured products”, it has been announced. The new collection is exclusively available at the Lipault store in Doha Festival City, Blue Salon, and all Mosafer stores. “Lipault brings a whole new sense of style, colour and novelty to the classic world of luggage and leather goods – astonishing materials, an infinite palette of colours and One of the items from the collection. the freedom of the chic and bold Parisian style. must-haves such as weekend bags, tote “From handbags to weekend bags, Lipault bags, suitcases and toiletry bag. designs its collections keeping in mind all “Understated, stylish and graphic on the women who are free with their fashion style outside, a delicate and elegant powdery as they are in their lives,” according to a pink on the inside, with the fastenings of the press statement. iconic bustier,” the statement adds. After a first collaboration in 2017 with Inès The all-leather goods collection has unveiled de La Fressange, the Parisian chic icon, the its flagship design, the COMPIL bag, a fully young label now invites a haute couture expendable Boston style with a mixed fashion house to reinvent its design. silhouette. For its autumn-winter 2018 collection, Lipault To complete the range, there is a shopping joins forces for an exclusive collaboration bag, the essential backpack available in two with the “enfant terrible of fashion” – sizes, and the show stopper, a fanny pack well-known French designer Gaultier, the named SLOW. statement notes. “Extensible designs, tailored for everyday The travel collection named AMPLI, in silky life, thanks to a zip that reveals the stripes of nylon and soft leather, features Lipault travel a man’s suit.”

Ooredoo gifts business customers 1812MB free data

As part of the company’s Qatar National Day celebrations, Ooredoo business customers will receive 1,812MB data for free, Ooredoo said yesterday. Business customers with a postpaid account National Day and use the extra data to share will receive the extra data automatically and their best #QND2018 moments with the won’t need to take any further steps to avail world. the gift. “We hope they’ll enjoy the free data, as well Ooredoo Qatar chief operating off icer Yousuf as the rest of our Qatar National Day off ers.” Abdulla al-Kubaisi said: “We want our valued For more information, customers can visit business customers to celebrate Qatar Ooredoo.qa.

Gulf Times 14 Tuesday, December 18, 2018 QATAR Katara signs pact with Es’hailSat

atara — the Cultural Vil- to raise their interest in this im- lage has signed a memo- portant fi eld of science. Krandum of co-operation “We hope through this co- (MoC) with the Qatar Satellite operation to spread awareness Company Es’hailSat to share about this critical sector and to expertise and operate the new educate people in Qatar on as- planetarium at Katara. tronomy, which will assist the Katara officials ahead of the launch. The MoC was signed by Katara new generations keep up with general manager Dr Khalid bin the latest developments in the Ibrahim al-Sulaiti and Es’hailSat world,” Dr al-Sulaiti explained. CEO Ali bin Ahmed al-Kuwari at For his part, al-Kuwari the Thuraya Dome (Katara Plan- stressed that the agreement etarium), building 45, yesterday, will enhance and diversify the to announce its inauguration to- knowledge of the students and day in conjunction with the Qatar empower them. National Day 2018. “We also hope that the new Katara’s Al Thuraya “I am satisfi ed with the sign- planetarium – which is the fi rst- ing of the memorandum of co- of-its-kind in Qatar – becomes operation between Katara and a vital hub for teaching and in- the Qatar Satellite Company troducing space science and as- Es’hailSat which will enable us tronomy through its many high- to share expertise and promote tech facilities it is equipped knowledge in the fi eld of astron- with,” he concluded. planetarium opens today omy,” Dr al-Sulaiti said. The planetarium is located at He added that the co-oper- Katara in building 45 and fea- atara – the Cultural Vil- English and Arabic”, Dr al-Su- screen, equipped with state-of- very unique features such as an This includes more than 25 ation will include lectures and tures many high-tech equip- lage will today unveil its laiti said. the-art digital projectors featur- amazing tool to process 3D illus- terrestrial weather data, solar conducting of workshops for ment and also displays models of Kprominent project, the He stressed Katara is keen ing 2D and 3D tutorial shows. trations which is projected to the data sets and a number of aware- school and university students planets. There is also an astron- high-tech planetarium, which on educating young genera- A vast terrace overlooking the main screen of the dome. ness presentations by profes- to enrich their information and omy museum. will become the fi rst astronomi- tions with different cultural sea will serve as a platform for The system also features live sional trainers. cal dome in Qatar. and scientific fields to diver- events and activities. streaming feature ‘Domecast- There is also a museum within The opening of the planetar- sify their knowledge and un- This project is expected to be ing’, which enables other similar the planetarium displaying as- ium will be attended by several derstanding. completed in the last quarter of theatres and domes in the world tronomical fi gures and history diplomats and dignitaries as it Occupying 2,240sq m area, 2018. that are equipped with the same such as the story of the split- marks a signifi cant achievement the planetarium is expected The Planetarium is named Digistar system to broadcast ting of the moon in the era of for Qatar. to become one of the main at- after the Thuraya (Seven Sis- live presentations between each the Prophet Muhammad (peace Katara general manager Dr tractions at Katara. It will of- ters) which is a cluster of seven other. be upon him), and a number of Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti fer a rare experience to visitors, bright stars (the Pleiades M45). This system enables other models of the planets of the solar said the new planetarium is suit- blending education and enter- It is considered one of the most galleries to meet and watch live system in various sizes, in addi- able for all age groups as it has tainment, especially for stu- beautiful aspects of the sky and performances and experiment tion to models of space shuttles interactive features that pro- dents, families and astronomy the Arabs called it the Thuraya simultaneously, and live pres- and astronaut suits. vides visitors information on as- enthusiasts. (Wealth in Arabic). entations to be broadcast in the Katara noted that it had tronomy in an interesting man- The planetarium hall, the This cluster was known since Planetarium “Al Thuraya”. signed a memorandum of un- ner. main component of the build- prehistoric times, where ancient In addition, the planetarium derstanding with the Oman “The planetarium will take ing, will have a seating capacity astronomers had mentioned it a features information on Earth Oil Development Company in visitors on a journey around the of 200 people, four seats for the lot, and it had a signifi cant status Science which contains more November 2017 to train Qatari galaxies of the universe in a sim- disabled and another four for the among the ancient Arabs. than 200 unique data sets in fi ve youths in the field of planetari- Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti (right) and Ali bin Ahmed al-Kuwari plifi ed manner that fi ts children elderly. The operating system of categories: astronomy, atmos- ums and managing astronomy at the signing ceremony yesterday at the Thuraya Dome (Katara and adults in two languages, It will feature a huge 22m the Planetarium (Digistar) has phere, geology and the oceans. domes. Planetarium). Gulf Times Tuesday, December 18, 2018 15 QATAR

Lexus LS500 Qatari traditions on display at Kahramaa celebrations and LS500h models recalled The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, in collaboration with Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros Co, has announced the recall of Lexus LS500 and LS500h models of 2018 over the potential faulty reprogramming of the engine control unit. The ministry said the recall campaign comes within the framework of its ongoing eff orts to protect consumers and ensure that car dealers follow up on vehicle defects and repairs. The Ministry urged all customers to report any violations to its Consumer Protection and Anti- Commercial Fraud Department, which processes complaints, inquires and suggestions through the following channels: Call Centre: 16001, e-mail: info@mec. gov.qa, Twitter: @MOCIQATAR, Several cultural and historical traditions of the country were showcased at an event organised by the Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kahramaa) yesterday as part of the Qatar National Instagram: MOCIQATAR, Ministry Day celebrations. The function at Kahramaa headquarters in West Bay Towers Zone, was attended by many senior off icials, including president Essa bin Hilal al-Kuwari. Children of many Kahramaa staff of Commerce and Industry were also among those who performed at the function. mobile app for Android and IOS: MEC_QATAR QIC renews its Sealine Resort hosting commitment to variety of fun activities national vision ealine Beach, a Murwab and eff ort for a modern, unifi ed ily, including mascots, roaming atar Insurance (QIC), the Resort, is celebrating Qatar.” clowns, a festival parade, tra- leading insurer in Qatar SQatar National Day by He said “this cherished day ditional food makers as well as Qand the Middle East and blending the country’s rich cul- represents a heritage, culture face painting, henna and stilt North Arica (Mena) region, cele- ture and heritage with a variety and an endless stream of no- walkers. At the same time, the brated Qatar National Day by re- of entertainment segments de- ble values and meanings that hotel lobby will continue to newing its commitment towards signed for the whole family to empower generations with serve free tea, coff ee and sweets. the realisation of the Qatar Na- enjoy. strength and determination to To add a National Day fl a- tional Vision (QNV) 2030. This year, National Day cel- continue the path of the Found- vour to the entertainment pro- To celebrate the spirit of the ebrations at Sealine Beach are ing Fathers in order to build on gramme, the Grass Turf has also glorious day, QIC staff donned taking place today and on De- their legacy and achieve the de- hosted a ‘Freedom Wall’, where white and Anabi colours of the Al-Subaey cember 21. These include spe- sired success, comprehensive citizens and residents express Qatari national fl ag. cial events, games, decoration development and prosperity. their solidarity and cohesion “On this special day, we ex- Qatar’s prosperity, he said. and commemorative ceremo- “May God Almighty bless us by writing words or symbols press our gratitude to His High- Founded in 1964, QIC was the nies, and special room pack- The celebrations at Sealine Beach include special events, games, with more National Day cel- that express the spirit of the ness the Amir Sheikh Tamim fi rst domestic insurance com- ages and promotions for an decoration and commemorative ceremonies. ebrations to come, under the country’s National Day. At the bin Hamad al-Thani for his wise pany in Qatar. Today, QIC is all-round family entertainment wise leadership of His Highness same time, Al-Odaid restaurant leadership and his guidance. the market leader in Qatar and experience, according to a press society, Nawaf Ali al-Obaidly, and to our wise leadership rep- the Amir, wishing our beloved celebrates the occasion with a We refl ect on our glorious past a dominant insurer in the GCC statement. general manager at Sealine resented by His Highness the homeland and dear people more special ceremony to cut a Na- and map the journey that QIC and Mena region. QIC is one of Extending his congratulations Beach Resort, said: “Celebrat- Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad progress and prosperity.” tional Day cake made specially has accomplished over the past the highest rated insurers in the and best wishes to His Highness ing Qatar’s National Day is a al-Thani, as well as relive the As part of the celebrations, for the resort’s guests, as well 54 years alongside the growth Gulf region with ‘A/Stable’ rat- the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Ha- special occasion cherished by glory of the country’s Founder, the Grass Turf area at Sealine as international and Qatari food and development of the nation,” ing from Standard and Poor’s mad al-Thani, His Highness the every Qatari, and one in which Sheikh Jassim bin Mohamed bin Beach is hosting a variety of buff ets, which continue to off er Khalifa Abdulla Turki al-Subaey, and ‘A (Excellent)’ from A M Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin we renew our vows and reaf- Thani. May God bless his soul, fun activities and attractions promotions throughout the cel- Qatar Insurance Group president Best. Khalifa al-Thani and the Qatari fi rm our loyalty to the country who devoted his time, thought for young members of the fam- ebrations. and chief executive, said. In terms of profi tability and As the leading insurer of Qatar market capitalisation, QIC is also and the Mena region, QIC Group the largest insurance company in takes pride in its Qatari heritage the Mena region. It is listed on and continues to play a vital role the Qatar Stock Exchange and in fostering the insurance sector has a market capitalisation of Qatar Airways celebrates QND of Qatar and in contributing to over $4bn. with special menu, amenity kits

atar Airways is celebrat- serts will be off ered in both pre- are delighted to bring the cel- ‘Nappa Dori’ has gained global ing Qatar National Day mium and economy class cabins ebration of Qatar National Day recognition for its luxury hand- Qin the skies by provid- on all fl ights operated on Qatar on board our aircraft. Qatar’s crafted travel and fashion acces- ing a variety of limited edition National Day. National Day is a very important sories. The amenity kits contain items on board and special dis- First class customers will be event for us as a nation, and these a “molecular innovation” lip counts on tickets. off ered ‘Mejdool’ halwa, a des- special additions off er a way to balm from Italian cosmetic brand The on-board off erings include sert prepared in fi ne layers using show our commitment to cel- Castello Monte Vibiano Vecchio, custom-designed ‘Nappa Dori’ Qatari Mejdool dates, pistachi- ebrating this very special day to- along with an anti-ageing mois- amenity kits, a special Qatar Na- os and other fl avours inspired gether. We look forward to wel- turiser, hydrating facial mist, tional Day menu, as well as post- by the region. coming passengers on board and socks and eye shades. cards featuring photos of Qatar. Passengers in both business The amenity kits contain a off ering them a taste of Qatar.” In May 2018, Qatar Airways Artisan brand Nappa Dori and economy classes will be “molecular innovation” lip balm The award-winning airline is introduced an enhanced on- has created bespoke kits featur- “pleasantly surprised by the from Italian cosmetic brand also celebrating this special occa- board dining experience for its ing images from destinations modern twist” on a classic des- Castello Monte Vibiano Vecchio, sion with incredible off ers of up to business class passengers. The around the world served by Qa- sert – ‘Basbousa’ with orange along with an anti-ageing 25% off premium class tickets and new dining concept features tar Airways. In honour of Qatar sauce and saff ron clotted cream. moisturiser, hydrating facial up to 35% off in economy class. newly-designed tableware, in- National Day, the custom-made Special postcards will also be mist, socks and eye shades. Qatar Airways Privilege Club fl ight dining menus, cutlery amenity kits will feature images off ered on all outbound fl ights op- members can also earn triple and chinaware that are specially of popular sites in Qatar, such as erated on Qatar National Day, fea- president (Marketing and Cor- Qmiles in premium class and crafted to meet travellers’ high Souq Waqif and traditional dhow turing images infl uenced by local porate Communications) Salam double Qmiles in economy class expectations and elevate their boats lining Doha’s Corniche. culture and popular sites in Qatar. al-Shawa said: “As the national (off er valid until December 18 experience on board the air- Special award-winning des- Qatar Airways senior vice carrier of the State of Qatar, we for travel until August 31, 2019). line’s award-winning aircraft. QIC headquarters

Temporary diversion Vodafone deploys 5G in Souq Waqif at Al Luqta Street Ashghal will put in place a temporary traff ic change on 3km of Al Luqta Street (Khalifa n celebration of Qatar Na- Vodafone Qatar’s CEO Sheikh Avenue), between Tilted Intersection tional Day, Vodafone Qatar Hamad Abdulla Jassim al- and 300m after Gharrafat Al Rayyan Ihas deployed its 5G network Thani said: “We continue to Interchange to facilitate the completion of in Souq Waqif as the business make sure and steady progress road works. continues to develop its 5G in developing the digital sys- The diversion designed in collaboration footprint around the country. tem and infrastructure that will with the General Directorate of Traff ic is to Souq Waqif becomes the lat- contribute to Qatar’s contin- be implemented from tomorrow and will est popular city centre location ued growth and prosperity in be in place until next month. to be covered by Vodafone’s 5G the coming years. Such invest- During the period, Doha-bound traff ic from network and closely follows the ments in world-class infra- Dukhan and vice versa will be diverted to 5G deployment last week in Ka- structure are designed to fulfi l the two-lane service roads that run parallel tara Cultural Village, allowing most technologically advanced the objectives of Qatar’s Na- to Al Luqta Street (as shown on the map). thousands of visitors to expe- in the world, unlocking the tional Vision 2030 and support On December 21 and 22 and on December rience the superfast, seamless transformative potential of 5G, the country in becoming one of 28 and 29, all left turn movements on connectivity while enjoying the thus enhancing the quality of the most digitally connected Gharrafat Al Rayyan Interchange will be cultural activities. lives and helping to drive eco- in the world. We’re committed closed and road users will be required The news builds on Vodafone nomic growth and productivity to building out the necessary to make a U-turn at Tilted Intersection, Qatar’s extensive investment in Qatar. communications network as Bani Hajer Interchange or Al Wajbah and commitment to date in Souq Waqif follows the com- well as the solutions and serv- Interchange to get back on to Khalifa supporting world-class infra- pany’s 5G deployment in key ices that run on such technol- Avenue. Once back at Gharrafat Al Rayyan structure in Qatar and bringing locations across the country ogy in a bid to improve all our Interchange, they will be able to make a new technologies to life. including Katara, Abu Hamour, lives.” right turn towards their destinations. In support of the Qatar Na- Al Azizya, Al Mamoura, Al Vodafone Qatar’s interest in Ashghal will install road signs advising tional Vision 2030, the com- Rayyan, Salwa Road and Umm deploying 5G network refl ects motorists of the diversion. The authorities pany’s development of 5G serv- Salal Muhammed earlier this its strong commitment to fa- have urged all road users to abide by the ices will accelerate the country year. cilitating community-wide 50kph speed limit and follow the road signs towards becoming one of the Commenting on the news, connections. to ensure safety. Gulf Times 16 Tuesday, December 18, 2018 QATAR Sheikha Hind visits QF tent at Darb Al Saai Ashghal celebrates National Day with ‘Qatar will remain free’ slogan

shghal celebrated Qa- tar National Day (QND) Aunder the slogan “Qatar will remain free” at the Ash- ghal Village yesterday. President Saad bin Ahmed al-Muhannadi, along with a number of senior offi cials par- ticipated in the celebrations. While extending greetings of the QND celebrations to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al- Thani, the Government and the people of Qatar, al-Muhannadi said the slogan of this year’s QND celebrations, ‘Qatar will remain free’ is a reality we felt in the everyday life. “The slogan also shows that Traditional artists at the celebrations. the country’s citizens and resi- HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad al-Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation (QF), yesterday visited QF’s tent in Darb Al Saai dents also adhere to a free and together with members of QF’s senior leadership. QF is contributing to this year’s Qatar National Day celebrations by hosting a series promising future for Qatar, of engaging and educational activities at Darb Al Saai, under the theme of ‘Together for our homeland’. The tent – which showcases stressing that the country is QF’s work across its pillars of education, science, and community development – will be open to the public from 9am to 1pm and strong and unifi ed behind its 3.30pm to10pm - today and tomorrow; and from 9am to 1pm and 3.30pm to 11pm - on Thursday (December 20). wise leadership which is capa- ble of building a nation with strong willpower to confront all challenges and hurdles.” Ashghal’s QND celebration events were held in the tra- Doha Corniche decked up for celebrations ditional village that mirrored the traditional lifestyle of the people of the country. The tra- ditional art exhibits included a photo gallery, classic photog- rapher, craftworks, Ashghal’s mobile lab and enjoyable tradi- tional cuisine. An eye catching show at the village was of the young engi- neer who provided opportu- Ashghal president Saad bin Ahmed al-Muhannadi and others nity for children to experience leading the celebrations at the Traditional Village. the works of Ashghal with a team comprising a project Ashghal village warmly wel- unity and solidarity, to stand manager, project engineer coming them. Ashghal’s QND along its leadership and sup- and workers, followed by a events also included a thrilling port all development plans, design phase for sketching show of Al-Muradah dance by programmes and initiatives the plan of a home, hospital, the students of Juwairiyah Bint aimed at accomplishing the school or a new street etc. al-Harith School, reviving the Qatar National Vision 2030. This show opened oppor- Qatari heritage and bridging Infrastructure Affairs di- tunity for young students to communication between the rector engineer Mohamed work with Ashghal engineers new generation and their in- Masoud al-Marri, Build- to expand their knowledge digenous culture. ing Affairs director engineer about the engineering tasks Ashghal has chosen the Lahdan Sager al-Muhannadi, and boost their desire to heritage village to celebrate Assets Affairs director engi- choose engineering as their the QND as an expression of neer Ahmed Mohamed Sharif, future career path. pride in the heritage of the Technical Affairs acting di- As part of the QND events, land and the history of its rector Abdussamad al-Malki Ashghal also brought guests people. The QND celebra- and Shared Services Affairs of the Center for Empower- tion event aimed at restoring director Meshal Sultan al- The palm trees along Doha Corniche have been decorated with colourful lights as part of the Qatar National Day celebrations. ment and Elderly Care (Ehsan) and strengthening loyalty to Hitmi also extended their PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil with the inmates reliving their the wise leadership of the na- greetings to the country’s rul- memories, and the visitors of tion, to emphasise national ers. Qatari traditions on PHCC joins QND festivities display in Moscow conducting a slew of activities

three-day grand celebra- dor to Russia Fahad bin Moham- in Spring, 2019. The event also everal celebratory ac- commitment to Qatari values Dr Mariam Abdul Malik. population is a responsibility tion of Qatar National ed al-Attiyah. saw a retrospective exhibition, tivities have taken place and heritage, the activities are “I would like to share my that belongs to all of us and we ADay took place in Moscow The reception opened with “Discover Qatar” showcas- Sat Primary Health Care inspired by ideals illustrating warm congratulations with the look forward to more prosperity as one of the key events within The Frames, an exclusive per- ing key gains and symbols of Corporation (PHCC) facilities the national identity, a strong wise leadership of His Highness following the direction of our the Year of Culture Qatar-Russia formance created by renowned the cross-cultural collabora- through the week leading up to sense of citizenship, promoting the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin inspirational leadership,” the 2018. ballet dancer Sergey Polunin, tions during the year. Among 14 December 18 in celebration of Qatar’s culture and its rich tra- Hamad al-Thani, His Highness PHCC managing director said. The event was divided into and the famous contemporary items, provided for a Silent Auc- Qatar National Day (QND), it ditions, while embracing all the the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad Huda Bashwar, executive two parts: gala evening on De- composer Kirill Richter. Polunin tion for the Qatar National Day, has been announced. diff erent communities locally,” bin Khalifa al-Thani, as well as director of communication, cember 14 and danced to The Song of Distant were VIP invitations to Natalia The activities involve PHCC PHCC has said in a statement. the government of Qatar and added: “This is an opportunity Meet Qatar New-year charity Earth, an exclusive musical piece Vodianova’s Love Ball - a char- staff , patients and visitors. The activities include a cel- all its citizens. We are proud for us to honour our country’s fair - on December 15 and 16. written specially for the event ity event in the aid of the Naked PHCC has organised an ar- ebratory event held at the head- to be celebrating our country rich heritage, share its customs On December 14, the gala within the Year of Culture Qa- Heart Foundation that will take ray of cultural celebrations quarters, attended by HE the and recognising the important and show our appreciation to evening was organised for the tar-Russia 2018. place in Doha on March 28, 2019, across health centres under Minister of Public Health Dr roles we play in contributing to the current and past leadership friends and partners of the Year The Frames project will sup- a unique abaya created by Ulyana this year’s theme, ‘Qatar Will Hanan Mohamed al-Kuwari Qatar’s vision. Improving the that have built Qatar to what it of Culture Qatar-Russia 2018 plement the short movie by Sergeenko for an exclusive fash- Remain Free’. “Underlining its and PHCC managing director health and well-being of our is today.” and hosted by Qatar’s ambassa- Lado Kvataniya, set to premiere ion show in Doha also in March, a Noudar diamond set, Taus Ma- khacheva’s piece of art and many other objects. The funds were transferred to the offi cial partner of the event – Friends Charity Foundation. The Meet Qatar New-year charity fair had the second fl oor of the legendary Central House of Artists turned into a Qatari oasis bringing together tradi- tions and contemporary spirit. A total of 20 promising Qatari brands and startups presented their crafts and products in- cluding hand-made souvenirs, designer clothes and jewellery, home decor items, organic cos- metics and selective perfumery. More than 9,000,000 roubles were raised during three days of the event in the aid of the Friends Foundation for the implementa- tion of its charity programmes. Meet Qatar New-year char- ity fair was visited by more than A view of the retrospective exhibition, ‘Discover Qatar.’ 12,000 people. HE the Minister of Public Health Dr Hanan Mohamed al-Kuwari with PHCC off icials and others at the corporation’s National Day celebrations. Gulf Times Tuesday, December 18, 2018 17 QATAR Russia envoy hails Qatar’s fi rm India and positions in challenges it faces Qatar have he Russian ambassador ing countries, pointing out that Ambassador Khulouf ex- the fi eld of energy as one of the deep-rooted to Qatar, Noor Mohamed the strategy of gradually shifting pressed his appreciation for priority areas, underlying that TKhulouf, has stressed from reliance on exports from Qatar’s call to solve internal and the Qatar Investment Author- the commitment of Qatar to its friendly countries to domestic international disputes through ity is dealing with the Russian steadfast, fair and just positions producers (whatever the dif- dialogue, which Russia agrees Direct Investment Fund in one in the challenges it faces. fi culties involved) is a correct with. He also hailed the devel- hand and with the Russian re- ties: envoy Qatar has recently witnessed and promising strategy not only opment of Russian-Qatari re- gions without mediation on the serious challenges related to the from the point of view of sov- lations in recent years, which other. Further ways to develop blockade imposed by a number ereignty and security but also culminated in the eff orts of the military and technical relations, ndian ambassador to Qatar of Arab countries, the ambas- from the point of view of a com- leaders of the two countries, and exchange ideas and initia- P Kumaran has praised the sador said. prehensive development of the Russian President Vladimir Pu- tives on a regular basis in order to IIndian-Qatari deep-root- “During the crisis, Doha re- country’s economy. tin and His Highness the Amir fi nd new fi elds of joint coopera- ed ties, which “have nurtured mains committed to a stable, He also said that Russia is ready Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al- tion is also being reviewed. through history by active peo- just and fair position and it was to share projects with Qatari Thani. He said that celebrating the ple-to-people contacts, trade a priority it to protect its peoples friends aimed at developing the Noor Mohamed Khulouf He said that co-operation be- National Day is important for and commerce and cultural in one hand and its sovereignty methodology adopted by Qatar. tween the two countries is being any state that respects its sover- affi nities.” on the other,” the Russian am- The Russian ambassador not- goals that the State seeks paral- developed in various fi elds, and eignty and people and it symbol- In a statement to Qatar bassador said. ed the remarkable development lel with its rich heritage and its that one of the main issues today ises the best of what the citizen News Agency (QNA), the am- In his statement to Qatar witnessed by Qatar recently, es- relevance to modernity. is the joint handling of organis- boasts. bassador stressed that In- News Agency (QNA) on the oc- pecially in terms of infrastruc- He also hailed the conditions ing the 2022 FIFA World Cup in The ambassador expressed his dia has a vital interest in the casion of Qatar National Day, ture projects, social facilities of life in the country that suit the Qatar, noting in this regard the wishes to the friendly people of peace and security of the Gulf the Russian ambassador said and transport networks, which needs of all groups of society, es- exclusive relations of trust that Qatar for further prosperity and region, given the presence of that one of the main tasks of Qa- are huge projects carried out pecially foreign residents and brings together all the Russian to increase their strength and over 9mn Indian expatriates P Kumaran tar was to reshape the national by the State through long-term guests, as well as the increasing and Qatari parties. determination in the develop- in the region, adding that in- economy to make it completely planning, in order to ensure the attractiveness of Qatar for tourists He stressed the importance of ment of the State in all fi elds. ternational terrorism, violent ture, expecting that a series of independent from neighbour- achievement of the ambitious and businessmen day after day. continuing fruitful dialogue in (QNA) extremism and religious in- events will be organised dur- tolerance pose a grave threat ing the course of the year. to the stability and security of Kumaran appreciated the the region and beyond. impressive strides made by “We must all work together Qatar in a number of areas, to meet these challenges for including education, industry, the mutual benefi t and well- business, infrastructure, tour- Qatar has done very well on being of our peoples. We are of ism and social development, the view that GCC countries, stressing that the success of which are like one large family, Qatar is testimony to the qual- should resolve their diff erenc- ity of its leadership and to its es through a frank dialogue, ambitious vision. “These ef- self-reliance: ambassador based on mutual respect, sov- forts have yielded positive re- ereignty and non-interference sults largely due to the strong in each other’s internal aff airs, determination and identifi ca- he Singaporean ambas- try to come together in refl ec- taris are warm and welcoming. leading to a lasting resolu- tion of the Qatari people with British Ambassador Ajay Sharma sador to Qatar, Jai So- tion - to refl ect on their identity The ambassador said that tion of all outstanding issues. the goals set by its wise lead- Than praised Qatar as it and common values as a nation, Singapore welcomes the on- We welcome the eff orts of ership.” has done very well in many how far they have come, and the going eff orts to fi nd a peaceful the Kuwaiti Amir to promote He took the opportunity to areas over the past years, es- important journey that still lies resolution to the siege crisis a peaceful resolution of the renew gratitude to the lead- pecially the eff orts by the state ahead, as it is also an opportu- through diplomacy and dia- crisis. We join other world ership and the Government Year 2018 to strengthen its self-reliance, nity for the people to reaffi rm logue, asserting that Singapore powers in supporting Kuwaiti of Qatar for their hospitality, build up domestic industries the bonds of nationhood and support the eff orts of Kuwait on eff orts to mediate a solution,” support to the Indian commu- and food security. to re-commit themselves to the this count. he added. nity in Qatar over the years, successful The ambassador said, in collective eff ort of national de- Sohan stated that the diplo- He asserted that the multi- adding that it is a matter of a statement to Qatar News velopment. matic relations between Singa- faceted partnership between pride that the large and diverse Agency (QNA) on the occasion The envoy said that he thinks pore and Qatar, which were es- the two countries has intensi- Indian community in Qatar is for UK-Qatar of National Day, that Qatar’s that this is an important el- Singapore’s ambassador tablished in 1984, are excellent, fi ed in recent years, driven by appreciated for its discipline, expanding its diplomatic ties, ement in the celebration of Jai Sohan as they are underpinned by the a series of high-level visits, hard-work and law-abiding economic output, international National Days, expressing his warm ties between our leaders, specially that Qatar is one of nature and as a result, the size ties: envoy commercial linkages and in- warmest wishes and heartiest for World Cup 2022 which will and under the guidance of fi rst, India’s major energy partners of the Indian community has vestments have been extremely congratulations to His High- be a historic event for Qatar and His Highness the Father Amir and bilateral trade between the grown over the years to reach he British ambassador to impressive, adding that Qatar ness the Amir Sheikh Tamim the region as whole. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al- two countries has grown rap- nearly 700,000, giving us an Qatar, Ajay Sharma, has is also proceeding well with ef- bin Hamad al-Thani, the gov- He also pointed out that Qa- Thani, and now His Highness idly in recent years, as there opportunity to continue to Tcongratulated His High- forts to realise its goals for Na- ernment, and the people of tar has also developed excellent the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin are several areas of economic contribute substantially to the ness the Amir Tamim bin Hamad tional Vision 2030 in the areas Qatar on the joyous occasion of air and maritime connections Hamad al-Thani, and our Sin- co-operation that hold great growth and development of al-Thani, His Highness the Fa- of economic, social, human and the National Day. with a wide range of interna- gapore leaders, political rela- potential, such as investment Qatar. ther Amir Hamad bin Khalifa al- environmental development, He expressed his pleasure to tional destinations, making it tions have grown steadily over opportunities. The ambassador said, “I Thani, His Highness the Deputy and that these range from re- be working as an ambassador convenient hub for interna- the years. The ambassador pointed wish to convey to His High- Amir Sheikh Abdullah bin Ha- forms to the education system, in Qatar, saying that Doha is a tional trade and travel, and it is He stressed on the economic out that the recent visit of ness the Amir Sheikh Tamim mad al-Thani, and all residents and domestic labour laws to very liveable city with a wide also notable that Qatar has been relations between Singapore India’s External Aff airs Min- bin Hamad al-Thani, His in the country, in a statement is- economic diversifi cation and variety of goods and services building up partnerships with and Qatar and how they are ister Sushma Swaraj to Qa- Highness the Father Amir sued on the eve of the Qatar Na- policies to ensure the protec- on off er, and that he notice all many international organisa- also growing, as Qatar was tar witnessed the signing of a Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al- tional Day celebrations. tion of the environment, as it is around many projects that the tions to further a range of hu- Singapore’s third largest trad- Joint Declaration to establish a Thani and representatives of “The year 2018 has been a re- heartening to see. Qatari government is under- manitarian and cultural causes ing partner in the Middle East joint commission between the the Government of Qatar and ally successful year for Qatar and He pointed out that National taking to improve the local in- in countries around the world, in 2017, with bilateral trade two countries and that 2019 the people of Qatar our warm- also for UK-Qatar relations. And Days serve as important mo- frastructure and ambience of but most of all, it is the people amounting to QR20.3bn) - a has also been designated as est greetings on the occasion I’m confi dent that 2019 will be a ments for the people of a coun- the city, but also in preparation that makes a country; and Qa- rise of 78.3% from 2016. (QNA) the Qatar-India Year of Cul- of Qatar National Day. (QNA) similarly great year for the bilat- eral relations and that we - the UK- will continue to do more with our Qatari friends and partners in supporting a successful World Cup here in 2022 and working with Qatar makes great strides in local and global spheres: Vietnam envoy Qatar on our shared objectives of regional peace and stability, and of course, in working with Qatar on he ambassador of Vietnam, dor expressed strong belief that Highness the Amir Sheikh the remarkable progress of Qatar pendence, self-reliance, peace, with exchange of high-level its important and ambitious Na- Nguyen Dinh Thao, has under the wise leadership of Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, in terms of development, mod- co-operation and development, visits and signing of a number of tional Vision 2030,” he said. Tsaid that Qatar has been His Highness the Amir Sheikh and His Highness the Father ernisation, security and other multilateralising and diversifying re- agreements in areas of politics, “So as I look back on 2018, I able to overcome diffi culties, ac- Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa aspects of life. I highly appreciate lationships, and actively and proac- economy, investment labour look back with pride on what complish great achievements in the rapid growth will make Qa- al-Thani and the government Qatar’s views on the resolution of tively integrating into the world for and education, the ambassador we’ve achieved together, and I local and international spheres, tar to become a develop country and people on the occasion of problems and tensions between national benefi t,” he added. pointed out. look forward with great hope and which show the determination with further progress, stability Qatar National Day. states and within single state Over the past years, the dip- In 2018, Vietnam and Qatar expectation for a very successful and strength of the nation. and prosperity. “As a person living and experi- through peaceful means.” lomatic relation between Viet- celebrated the 25th anniver- 2019. Happy National Day In a statement to Qatar News He extended wholehearted encing what is happening daily in “Vietnam has always pursued nam and Qatar have seen signif- sary of the diplomatic relations. Qatar!’’ Agency (QNA), the ambassa- congratulations to the His Qatar recently, I have witnessed consistent foreign policy of inde- icant progress in various fi elds (QNA) Ethiopian ambassador outlines Qatar’s diplomatic and economic achievements

he ambassador of the Fed- resources and products.” The ambassador said that Qa- modernisation. Only civilised 2017. The visits have prompted and Ethiopia will cooperate in eral Democratic Repub- He congratulated His High- tar has expressed its principled country and society believes in further enhancement of the re- the establishment of, among Tlic of Ethiopia to Qatar, ness the Amir, His Highness the position in peaceful resolution of negotiation, insists on peaceful lations between the two coun- others, specialised hospital, Metasebia Tadesse Woldegior- Father Amir, as well as the peo- disagreements through negotia- resolution of problems.” tries. Ethiopia and Qatar have fi ve-star hotels, postgradu- gis, has affi rmed that Qatar has ple of Qatar on this special and tion and discussions. “Both, re- He added that the bilateral signed diff erent agreements in ate specialisation programmes accomplished great achieve- important day. gionally and globally, Qatar has relations between Ethiopia and political, economic and social as well as exchange of experi- ments in many fi elds, locally and He praised Qatar’s keenness been playing a signifi cant role Qatar have become more prom- areas. The two countries have ences in various fi elds. Yet, we internationally. “Qatar regis- and its fi rm commitment to de- for the maintenance of collec- ising and stronger, and grows agreed to have closer political do believe that there are ample tered incremental and magnifi - velop its national products using tive peace and security. As a law continuously, and the people to consultations on bilateral, re- opportunities for further co- cent diplomatic, economic, and its own natural resources. “Qatar abiding and peaceful country, it people tie is becoming stronger gional and international issues operation and ties between the political achievements, and its has started to register remark- is not surprising if Qatar insists overtime. The strong and unwa- of mutual concern. Both coun- two sisterly countries. economy is prospering fast.” able results in the fi elds of sci- on peaceful resolution of prob- vering cooperation and collabo- tries also share common views The ambassador believes that In statement to Qatar News ence, technology and innova- lems.” ration between the two sisterly on the promotion of peace and celebrating the National Day has Metasebia Tadesse Woldegiorgis Agency (QNA), on the occasion tions.” He said: “I view Qatar’s con- countries has clearly and widely stability and have similar per- extra-ordinary importance for of Qatar National Day, he said He said that Qatar is one of sistence and persistence on been proven by the offi cials state spectives on various regional and countries. By celebrating their Locally, celebrating National that Qatar has been registering the few safest, secure, stable peaceful resolution of problems visit. international issues. National Days, countries dem- Day enhances unity and commit- sustainable progress in all eco- and crime-free countries on and tension between states as a He said that the relations are Both countries have agreed onstrate their identity, inde- ment of the citizens to stand to- nomic sectors. “The country has earth. “Expatriates from all over symbol of greatness as a state, at an excellent level, particularly to further promote relations pendence, sovereignty and unity gether for their country’s growth been focusing on diversifying the world live in Qatar with full its full confi dence on regional after the visit of the His High- in investment and trade. Some among their people. Celebrating and prosperity. It helps countries its domestic economic sectors freedom and safety, and there is and international legal instru- ness the Amir Sheikh Tamim companies from Qatar have al- National Day creates an opportu- preserve its unique character and from time to time. The economy no security threat in the Qatar, ments, treaties and agreements, bin Hamad al-Thani to Ethiopia ready shown interest in invest- nity to promote and show the his- traditional heritage. Above all, is moving to be dependable, re- pointing to the educational and its commitment to ensure peace and the state visit by Ethiopia’s ing in Ethiopia’s agriculture, tory, culture, values, and success it fosters feelings of nationhood silient and self-reliant based on living standards of Qatari citi- and security of the world and the former prime minister Haile- hospitality and health sectors. achievements of the country to and patriotism among the people solid foundation of its domestic zens.” region. It is a sign of civility and mariam Desalegn to Qatar in As per the agreements, Qatar the world. of the country. (QNA) Gulf Times 18 Tuesday, December 18, 2018 QATAR Qatar praised for role in combating terror, supporting rights he ambassador of Aus- countries around the world. quality meat and livestock ex- tralia to Qatar, Dr Axel He said that in the past year ports which is very popular in Major General Hamad bin Abdullah al-Fetais al-Marri receiving the Guinness emblem and certificate. TWabenhorst, has congrat- the Qatar Airways increased the the Qatari markets. “There is a ulated His Highness the Amir number of direct fl ights to Aus- trade co-operation with Widam Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al- tralia, which paves the way to Food Company, to supply meat Thani, His Highness the Father promoting the relations between and livestock.” Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa the two countries on trade and The highest exports from Joint Special Forces enter Guinness al-Thani, His Highness the Dep- tourism level. Qatar to Australia are fertiliz- uty Amir Sheikh Abdullah bin Dr Wabenhorst said that ers, followed by aluminium, he Hamad al-Thani and the Qatari there are many Australian citi- said. “Australia welcomes Qatar record for parachute jumping government and people on the zens working in Qatar in many investments, where Qatar cur- occasion of Qatar National Day. sectors such as health, media, rently holds major and impor- In a statement to Qatar News education, construction, oil, gas tant investments in Australia es- n a historic achievement, on December 12. The team, ongoing Qatar National Day Agency (QNA), ambassador Dr and services, and the Australian pecially in agriculture, through the parachute jumping team which includes 25 paratroop- celebrations, the Directorate Wabenhorst said that Qatar has community is participating in Hassad Food Company.” Iof the Joint Special Forc- ers, has had several achieve- of Defence Communication, made great achievements on Australian ambassador building Qatar and achieving its The envoy highlighted the role es has entered the Guinness ments in 2018, including win- Ministry of Defence, said in a national and international lev- Dr Axel Wabenhorst National Vision 2030. played by Qatar in resolving con- World Records by breaking the ning nine gold, seven silver and statement. els. He highlighted the Qatari In trade, Australia off ers many fl icts noting its major role in me- record for the largest parachute four bronze medals in various “We do not wait for the determination which instilled ing terrorism, saying Qatar’s opportunities to invest in the diating the confl ict in Darfur of formation at night. competitions. opportunity but make it. the self-reliance policy which role on the matter is recognised agriculture, mining, infrastruc- Sudan. “I believe dialogue is the The feat was certifi ed by the Major General Hamad bin We raised the fl ag of Qatar has been established through the amongst international commu- ture and services sectors. Trade way to resolve confl icts because Guinness authorities after the Abdullah al-Fetais al-Mar- higher when we won med- support and development of the nities, in addition to its active between the two countries is es- it off ers the best opportunity to relevant bodies, including the ri, Commander of the Joint als and entered the Guinness national product. role in the area of humanitarian timated at $1.7bn, he added. address underlying causes and World Air Sports Federation Special Forces, received the World Records to continue The ambassador praised the assistance throughout the world Australia is the 14th most fi nding an mediator that has the confi rmed that all necessary Guinness emblem and cer- the success story, affi rming eff orts and support Qatar gives and its contribution to lessen important source of imports in trust of all parties to the confl ict conditions were met. The team tifi cate for the achievement that Qatar will remain free,” to human rights and combat- the obstacles faced by many Qatar and is famous for its high is important.” (QNA) entered the Guinness Records at Darb Al Saai during the he said. Qatar was able to Pakistan-Qatar ties based on strong foundations: envoy deal with Gulf crisis, It gives me great pleasure to man al-Thani, the government Government of Pakistan and its be present here in Doha as and the people of Qatar. people are ready to assist Qatar “the charge d’aff aires of the “I believe that bilateral re- in successfully achieving self- Islamic Republic of Pakistan and lations between the brotherly reliance. With the opening of the to be witnessing the National states of Pakistan and Qatar are new shipping lanes between the Murad Baseer says Chinese envoy Day of Qatar on December 18, based on strong foundations of two countries the two-way trade 2018. On this auspicious occa- mutual respect, common reli- has increased to 70.5% amount- dialogue with India over our core sion, I would like to congratulate gious heritage and new strategic ing to $89.9mn from $52mn in issues. Similarly, we believe that he Chinese ambassador with the wise leadership.” His Highness the Amir Sheikh and emerging commercial reali- the post blockade period. I am Gulf crisis can only be resolved to Qatar, Li Chen, has The ambassador said the Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, His ties. I am sure that these bilateral confi dent that bilateral trade be- when all stakeholders come on Tsaid that Qatar was able year 2018 marks the 30th an- Highness Father Amir Sheikh relations will further enhance tween our countries will further the table and mutually resolve to deal with the Gulf crisis and niversary since establishing Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, HE with the ever increasing bilateral increase in the coming years and their issues. mitigate its negative impact by diplomatic relations between the Prime Minister Abdullah bin trade between our countries. Pakistan will be able to cater for “I am looking forward to work- activating wide international China and Qatar. “For 30 years Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani, HE “Under the National Vision Qatar’s food security require- ing with my Qatari colleagues in relations and opening new and under the support of lead- the Deputy Prime Minister and 2030 of His Highness the Amir, ments and also provide a reliable all spheres to enhance the bilat- economic co-operation ties. erships of both countries the Minister of State for Defence Qatar is achieving great strides long term supply chain to Qatar.” eral relations to another level. In a statement to Qatar News friendly relations between Aff airs Dr Khalid bin Mohamed both locally and internation- “Regarding resolution of dis- “On behalf of the government Agency (QNA) on the occa- China and Qatar have seen al-Attiyah, HE the Deputy Prime ally and has shown immense putes, Pakistan believes in ami- and the people of Pakistan I pray sion of Qatar National Day, the continuous development and Minister and Foreign Minister foresight and worked on bring- cable resolution of issues. Like for the bright future, progress ambassador said the Qatari- fruitful results in all fi elds.” Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrah- ing self-reliance to Qatar. The in our case, Pakistan believes in and prosperity of Qatar”. Chinese relations have not Chen said the trade volume been aff ected by the crisis, but between the two countries has increased the co-operation in reached more than $10.3bn in energy and trade. “China has Li Chen 2017, registering a growth of been monitoring the situation nearly 200 times. “China is Qa- in the Gulf and saw that the On behalf of China’s leader- tar’s third largest trading part- Celebration of National Day represents stability of the GCC is in line ship, government and people, he ner and second largest source with the common interests of expressed his sincere congratu- of imports and Qatar is the sec- the region and world.” lations to His Highness the Amir ond largest exporter of liquefi ed He said China is a friend to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al- natural gas (LNG) to China.” unity of people: Austrian ambassador all Gulf states and believes in Thani, His Highness the Father He said the humanitarian, settling disputes through dia- Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Kha- cultural and tourism relations he Austrian ambassador tional identity and refl ecting on ernising legislation, these reforms logue and welcomes Kuwait’s lifa al-Thani and the government between China and Qatar have to Qatar, Willy Kempel, origins of the past and challenges meant implementing internation- mediation eff orts. and people for the National Day. seen great development which Thas stated that Qatar’s of the present and of the future. al human rights standards fully The ambassador said work- Chen said Qatar has and contributes to promoting ties celebration of its National Day In a statement to Qatar News recognised by the International ing on diversifying the econ- continues to make great between both people. Chinese refl ects the past when the Qatari Agency (QNA), he spoke about Labour Organisation.” omy and strengthening self- achievements in all fi elds and tourists visiting Qatar in 2017 people came together in 1878 for Qatar’s multifaceted role on fi elds He also said that Qatar, in 2017, reliance is one of the most has seen major developments has reached more than 45,000, a journey towards togetherness such as education, health and hu- took decisive measure to strength- important successes that Qatar in all aspects of life, express- increasing 26%. An agreement and national strength. man rights as well as abroad in en the rule of law and fi ght cor- achieved in the recent years, ing his appreciation to the suc- between China and Qatar has The ambassador wished Qa- supporting peacebuilding, hu- ruption by acceding to both to the especially after the Gulf crisis cesses made. been signed regarding mutual tar and its people well in their man rights mechanisms, recon- Willy Kempel Civil and Political Rights Covenant in 2017. “Qatar has decided to He said it is his fourth year to exemption of visas for citizens aspirations to achieve further ciliation and humanitarian as- as well as the Economic, Social and improve production and agri- join the Qatari people in cele- of the both countries in July, progress in their national de- sistance. “It seems beyond doubt forms in the rule of law, labour Cultural Rights Covenant and the culture, promote the national brating the National Day. “The and is due to enter into force velopment and international that Qatar will continue its con- and trade law and human rights. International Anti-Corruption product and establish major celebrations refl ect the joy and starting from December 21, engagements. structive engagement for better- “Qatar has used the last year and Academy located in Austria; fur- strategic projects which sup- pride of the Qatari people for this will give the opportunity He pointed out that National ing the life of many people living half to become more resilient as thermore, Qatar was re-elected to port its economic and social the achievements made and is to citizens of both countries to Day celebrations constitute an under distress.” well reform its labour law and the UN Human Rights Council for development.” an expression of their cohesion travel at any time. (QNA) important tool for fostering na- He praised Qatar’s recent re- commercial law. Apart from mod- the period 2017-2019. (QNA)

National Day asserts sovereignty, Qatar shows self-confi dence in dignity, ambitions: Gambian envoy all areas: Argentine ambassador he ambassador of Gambia continued protection, guidance terms of its domestic and for- rgentine ambassador to in all areas, overcoming the Qatar has also taken the initia- to Qatar, Foday Mulang, and blessings on the people of eign policy. Since the launch of Qatar Carlos Hernandez impacts of the blockade to a tive to increase its investments Tsaid that celebrating the Qatar under the leadership of Qatar National Vision 2030 by Ahas said that National large extent. in strategic areas abroad which National Day on December 18 His Highness the Amir Sheikh His Highness the Amir, usher- Day celebrations refl ect the The ambassador noted that for sure will make a good re- each year affi rms the keenness Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani,” he ing in a more modernised way Foday Mulanq strong feeling of people be- the country has managed to be turn to its economy,” the am- of Qatar and its people to com- said of thinking, opening new hori- longing to the same identity, at a stage of rapid transforma- bassador said. He also stressed memorate the founder Sheikh The envoy praised the bilat- zons and defi ned the features of peace haven with a high sense same culture, a common his- tion and at the same time look- that the ambassador made the Jassim bin Mohammed bin eral relations between the gov- the society that the government of security in addition to being tory and to a vision of a com- ing after and maintaining its country, and even the stock Thani, who, during his reign, ernments of Gambia and Qatar, and peoples of Qatar aspire to an economic giant, as records mon present and future no roots and traditions. “Qatar can market, stronger. managed to unite the tribes and describing the fi nancial and establish, a roadmap that is be- continue to indicate that Qatar matters what. now be defi ned that the coun- “Internally, we can observe establish the state. material support of Qatar to his ing gradually followed with un- is one of the richest countries in “From the very fi rst day try is already a modern state every day high living standards In a statement to Qatar News country as exceptional, adding, mistakable clarity and unity of the world in terms of the GDP.” my wife and I arrived we felt with a developed economy along with good human devel- Agency (QNA) on the occasion of “We want to assure the govern- purpose, he said. The ambassador said that the at home and this was the re- but still having human beings opment in work conditions, Qatar National Day, the ambas- ment and the peoples of Qatar “It is important to note that foreign policy objective of Qatar sult of the warm respect of focused on the development health and education,” the sador said that such celebration of our commitment to further the strides being taken by Qatar based on the principles of con- Qatari people the same warm plans, such an attitude is a clear ambassador said. renewed sovereignty, national strengthen and increase the to empower the citizenry and solidating international peace respect that Qatar shows to demonstration of hard work He added that Argentina pride, dignity and a common scope of the bilateral ties that expatriate community in the so- and security, by promoting the world day-by-day,” the and ethics.” shares many things with purpose for the peoples. happily exist for the benefi t of cio-economic development and peaceful settlement of interna- ambassador said. “The country is going Qatar since they are strate- “On behalf of the Gambia both brotherly nations in years other all spheres, has remarkably tional disputes that has over the In an interview with Qatar through a very interesting gic partners. He noted that president and the Gambian to come.” yielded a largely unprecedented years been reinforced by tak- News Agency (QNA), he said process looking for self-suf- this notion was emphasised community in Qatar, I would like The ambassador appreci- pace of development, moderni- ing practical steps in mediation that Qatar’s determination to fi ciency in some sectors, also by His Highness the Amir to extend our profound gratitude ated Qatar’s achievements and sation, security and peace for and the provision of platforms go ahead as a nation no matter diversifying its economy at the Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad and sincere appreciation to the national will of the peoples of the inhabitants which among to resolve tensions intra and in- which obstacles were put on its time that it looks for new part- al-Thani and President Mau- government and peoples of Qa- Qatar, which is based on the evi- other things has resulted in pro- ter states through diplomatic way resembles its capacity to ners, which are also willing to ricio Macri during their talks tar on the occasion of the Na- dence that Qatar has undergone pelling Qatar into a position of a and peaceful means in a truly go over them showing profes- participate in a work together in Buenos Aires a couple of tional Day. We pray for Allah’s signifi cant transformation in modernising regional and world exemplary manner. (QNA) sionalism and self-confi dence with this marvellous country. months ago. (QNA) Gulf Times Tuesday, December 18, 2018 19 QATAR Aspire Zone commemorates Commercial Bank celebration heritage of Qatar’s forefathers refl ects values of Qatar society spire Zone Foundation (AZF) commemorated the Aheritage of Qatar’s fore- n celebration of Qatar Na- fathers by holding an exclusive tional Day, Commercial event yesterday for its employees IBank held a special celebra- as part of the Qatar National Day tion yesterday in recognition of celebrations across the country. the achievements of Qatar un- AZF CEO Mohamed Kha- der the leadership of His High- lifa al-Suwaidi joined senior of- ness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin fi cials and employees from AZF’s Hamad al-Thani. member organisations – Aspire The bank’s chairman, Board Academy, Aspire Logistics, and of Directors, executive manage- Aspetar (orthopaedic and sports ment, employees and clients medicine hospital) – in a dem- attended the grand ceremony onstration of national unity and at its headquarters in West Bay. loyalty. AZF CEO Mohamed Khalifa al-Suwaidi during his remarks to employees. As part of the programme, a The celebration involved a traditional musical operetta, traditional Ardha sword dance Khalifa al-Kubaissi, safety and our achievements,” the AZF CEO ‘Hadza Al Dasha’, was presented and military parade performed security director; Ghanim Fay- told attendees. to guests. by members of the Qatar Armed sal al-Kubaisi, chief finance “Thanks to every one of you. The operetta told the story of Forces. officer at AZF; Badr al-Hay, Together, we are a role model in sailors preparing to depart for a Amongst the senior officials director of Education and Stu- loyalty and hard work in service voyage in search of their liveli- who took part in the event in- dent Affairs at Aspire Academy; of our beloved country, Qatar,” he hood at sea by saying goodbye to clude Abdulaziz al-Mahmoud, and Ali Sultan Fakhroo, director added. their family and loved ones, re- Top off icials of Commercial Bank cut a cake on the occasion of Qatar National Day celebrations yesterday. deputy president for Sport of Corporate Services at Aspire AZF’s week-long Qatar Na- fl ecting the values, traditions and Projects at AZF; Abdulla Nasser Academy. tional Day programme will con- culture of Qatari society with its to schools, hospitals and the al-Naemi, director general of “We are happy to gather today clude on the evening of Decem- emphasis on overcoming strug- Qatar Society for Rehabilitation Aspire Logistics; Ahmad Ib- to celebrate one of the most pre- ber 18 where Aspire Park visitors gles, patience and giving. of People with Special Needs. rahim al-Sulaiti, chief admin- cious moments for all AZF em- can enjoy a range of activities, In addition, Commercial The bank also produced a fi lm in istration officer at Aspire Lo- ployees from Qatar and across including cultural and heritage Bank showcased a new song Souq Waqif that features traders gistics; Mohamed al-Kuwari, the globe. We expressed our shows, movies under the stars (sheila) called ‘Yeslam Tamim’ talking about their memories chief marketing officer at AZF; pride and unity as we continue and more. and organised a wide range of and what Qatar National Day activities for its employees that means to them. celebrate the rich heritage, cul- Omar Hussain Alfardan, ture and history of Qatar and re- managing director of Commer- fl ect the love and loyalty of the cial Bank, said: “Commercial Bank’s employees towards His Bank has been part of Qatar’s Highness the Amir. banking industry for the last Commercial Bank chairman, 44 years and the Qatar National Sheikh Abdulla bin Ali bin Ja- Day activities that we have or- bor al-Thani, said: “The slogan ganised for our employees are A moment from the celebrations hosted by the bank yesterday. of this year’s Qatar National in line with our commitment to Day is ‘as long as it was proven Qatar and the community. The leadership. As a bank, we are continue supporting Qatar on by our deeds’, which is a verse activities allow our team to col- especially thankful for the gov- its journey towards sustainable in a poem by Qatar’s Founder lectively bond and express their ernment’s fi ne stewardship of development and prosperity for Sheikh Jassim bin Mohamed bin appreciation of Qatar. They are the economy and maintaining all its people.” Thani points to the importance purposeful activities that are international confi dence in Qa- Every year Commercial Bank of good deeds that build and designed to bring employees to- tar’s banking system. Despite holds several celebratory events strengthen the nation. gether to make a positive impact the blockade, Qatar’s economy at its branches to mark Qatar At Commercial Bank, this on the local community. That has proven its resilience in 2018 National Day. All its branches principle acts as our guiding is why we have included local and has become even stronger are decorated with Qatari fl ags light not only when organising schools in this year’s Commer- and more diversifi ed. We take to welcome customers and our Qatar National Day celebra- cial Bank celebrations, distrib- pride in being a Qatari bank visitors, serving popular Arabic tions, but throughout the year uted gifts to children at local and support all four pillars of coff ee and sweets. In-branch in all the Bank’s activities.” hospitals, and helped many the Qatar National Vision 2030 activities include gifts, henna In line with its corporate more people outside of the Bank through our activities, with drawing, and photography social responsibility commit- to enjoy the National Day joy.” a focus on strengthening the booths with traditional back- ments, Commercial Bank has Joseph Abraham, Group CEO, economy through our services ground and falconry activities. created and distributed a lim- Commercial Bank, said: “Qatar and investing in Qatar’s hu- Earlier in the week, more than ited edition set of National Day National Day is a time for us at man talent as one of the larg- 100 Commercial Bank employ- Senior off icials of AZF and its member organisations take part in a traditional Ardha sword dance yesterday to souvenirs for children. The Commercial Bank to celebrate est private sector employers in ees participated in the forma- mark Qatar National Day. Bank distributed the souvenirs Qatar’s achievements and its the country. We look forward to tion of a human fl ag of Qatar. Msheireb Properties hosts fl ag relay, lights show to celebrate QND

sheireb Downtown tors, and construction workers. tari business owners to partici- Doha (MDD), the fl ag- Team Msheireb carried the fl ag pate in the event, giving them Mship development through the main landmarks of a chance to market their prod- project by Msheireb Properties MDD and handed it over back ucts as part of the company’s (MP), witnessed an array of ac- to more than 300 cyclists at Al commitment to support and tivities last week in celebration Kahraba Street. encourage entrepreneurship. of Qatar National Day. MP also organised a special “We are thrilled and proud to On December 13, MDD was lights show at Barahat Msheir- have been a part of the offi - one of the landmarks that eb, the region’s largest covered cial celebrations of the Qatar proudly received the Qatar fl ag open-air square. It was fi rst National Day. MDD, itself, is a as part of the nation-wide re- time the square has been lit at year-round celebration of our The brilliant display of flags pays homage to the rich cultural history of the country, while illustrating the evolution of the design. lay event for the fi rst time, or- night to commemorate such heritage, culture and identity,” ganised by the Qatar Olympic a special occasion. Attended al-Kuwari said. Committee. by the company leadership, “The project is a revival of the The fl ag was brought to MDD key stakeholders, employees birthplace of the city of Doha, by a group of cyclists who car- and their families and friends, the spot where our modern so- ried it all the way from Hamad the lights show enthralled the ciety started taking shape. The International Airport. The audience with its amazing ar- fl ag relay and the lights show fl ag entourage was received by chitecture while rays of light have been a symbolic contribu- MP acting CEO Ali al-Kuwari, danced masterfully on its walls tion and a great way for all of us Flags display tells along with a big representa- drawing up symbols of Qatar’s to take a moment to appreciate tion of the company’s leader- culture. the country that has been pro- history at National ship, employees, hotel opera- MP also invited young Qa- viding for all of us,” he added. Museum of Qatar atar Museums (QM) has Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Kha- al-Thani. The immersive and ex- and heritage sites in Qatar and installed a collection of lifa al-Thani issued a decree that periential NMoQ tells the story creates the conditions for them Qhistorical fl ags outside brought back the original light of the people and the land of to thrive and fl ourish. of the National Museum of Qa- maroon colour of the fl ag, thus Qatar from earliest times to to- It centralises resources and tar (NMoQ) in celebration of the representing an ode to continuity day, giving voice to the country’s provides a comprehensive or- upcoming Qatar National Day. and tradition in the country. rich heritage and culture and ex- ganisation for the develop- The brilliant display of fl ags This initiative comes as part pressing a vibrant community’s ment of museums and cultural pays homage to the rich cultural of QM’s continued eff orts to in- aspirations for the future. projects, with a long-term ambi- history of the country, while il- crease awareness of Qatar’s his- The NMoQ embraces, as its tion of creating a strong and sus- lustrating the evolution of the tory, develop appreciation and centrepiece, the restored historic tainable cultural infrastructure design. respect for its heritage, and put Palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin for Qatar. The story of the birth and de- communities in touch with their Jassim al-Thani (1880-1957), son Under the patronage of His velopment of the national fl ag, past. of the founder of modern Qatar: a Highness the Amir, and led by its known as ‘Al Adaam’, highlights NMoQ is housed within a building that in former times was Chairperson, HE Sheikha Al Ma- many of the landmark events in spectacular new building de- both the home of the Royal Fam- yassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al- Qatar history. The fl ags on dis- signed by architect Jean Nouvel, ily and the seat of government Thani, QM is consolidating Qa- play outside of the NMoQ rep- which will open to the public on and was subsequently the site of tar’s eff orts to become a vibrant resent the journey of the country March 28, 2019 under the pa- the original National Museum. centre for the arts, culture and from approximately 1916 to 2012 tronage of His Highness the Qatar Museums connects the education, in the Middle East The flag entourage was received by MP acting CEO Ali al-Kuwari, along with a big representation of the when His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad museums, cultural institutions and beyond. company’s leadership, employees, hotel operators, and construction workers. Gulf Times 20 Tuesday, December 18, 2018 REGION/ARAB WORLD

Erdogan says Trump positive on Turkish military plan

Reuters Ankara/Washington

urkey may start a new military operation in Syria Tat any moment, President Tayyip Erdogan said yesterday, touting support from US Presi- dent Donald Trump even though the Pentagon has issued a stern warning to Ankara. Last week, the Pentagon said unilateral military action by any party in northeast Syria, where US forces operate, would be un- acceptable. But Erdogan suggested that Trump was more receptive to A man stands amidst the rubble yesterday, at a factory damaged during fighting and air strikes, as clashes recently raged between Yemeni Saudi-backed government forces and Houthis. Turkish plans to move east of the Euphrates river than his own US Department of Defence. “We offi cially announced that we will start a military operation to the east of the Euphrates,” Erdogan said in a speech in the central province of Konya. “We discussed this with Mr Trump Truce in Hodeidah to start and he gave a positive response.” The White House did not re- spond to requests for comment on Erdogan’s assertion but last Friday acknowledged that Trump and Erdogan spoke about Syria during a telephone conversation. today after new clashes Turkey and the United States have long been at odds over Syria Doctors Without Borders and that both pro-government policy, where Washington has AFP (MSF) voiced alarm about “the forces and Huthis pull out of backed the Syrian Kurdish YPG Dubai continuous fi ghting” in Hodei- the city completely by midnight militia against Islamic State. dah. The medical aid group said on January 7. Yemen has been Ankara considers the YPG a its teams on the ground were mired in fi ghting between the terrorist organisation tied to the ceasefi re in Yemen’s bat- treating victims of gunshots, Houthi rebels and troops loyal Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), tleground port city of shelling and air strikes, urging to President Abd-Rabbu Man- an outlawed group that has AHodeidah and its sur- warring parties “to respect the sour Hadi since 2014. waged a three-decade insurgen- roundings will start today, offi - presence of civilians and health The war escalated in 2015 cy in southeast Turkey. cials say, after renewed fi ghting infrastructures”. UN envoy Mar- when a Saudi-led military coa- Erdogan said last week that threatened the hard-won ac- tin Griffi ths said on Sunday that lition stepped in on the govern- Ankara would launch a new cord struck in Sweden. the UN was working with both ment’s side. campaign within days against The deal announced on sides to ensure the ceasefi re ac- The confl ict has since killed the YPG, although he has yet to Thursday between Yemen’s cord was “implemented timely nearly 10,000 people, according give a more defi nitive timeline. Saudi-backed government and and properly”. The truce is sup- to the World Health Organisa- Any new campaign is likely to the Houthi rebels included an posed to be followed by the with- tion. be complicated by the presence “immediate ceasefi re” in Hode- drawal of fi ghters from Hodeidah But some rights groups be- of US soldiers in northern Syria, idah, whose Red Sea port serves A prisoner swap involving some lieve the toll to be far higher. who have established observa- as a crucial gateway for human- 15,000 detainees is planned and UN chief Antonio Guterres tion posts along the Turkey-Syria itarian aid. a “mutual understanding” was warned on Sunday that “much border in a failed eff ort to assuage A UN offi cial, who requested reached to facilitate aid deliver- worse” lay in store for the im- Turkish security concerns. anonymity, said that the delay ies to Yemen’s third city Taiz — poverished country in 2019 un- Washington has communi- to the halt in hostilities until Yemeni pro-government forces gather in the port city of Hodeidah, yesterday. under the control of loyalists but less its warring parties strike cated the positions of those ob- midnight (2100 GMT) on Mon- besieged by rebels. a peace deal and head off a hu- servation posts to Ankara, and day was necessary for “opera- “were not clear at the begin- strikes in recent days, as clash- reached by telephone said that The two sides also agreed to manitarian crisis. warned that American forces tional reasons”. Yemen’s Foreign ning”. The coalition “has no es continued between Saudi- they could hear intermittent meet again in late January for Severe food shortages mean will defend themselves if fi red Minister Khaled al-Yamani also intention of violating the agree- backed government forces and clashes to the east and south of more talks to defi ne the frame- that a high number of Yemenis upon, offi cials told Reuters. The told state-run television late ment...unless the Houthis vio- the Houthis. the city yesterday. work for negotiations on a com- have been dying in “very dra- Pentagon yesterday denied re- Sunday that the ceasefi re would late and dishonour it,” the offi - At least 29 fi ghters, includ- A pro-government military prehensive peace settlement. matic circumstances”, Guterres ports that it was sending rein- begin at midnight Monday. cial said, speaking on condition ing 22 Houthi rebels, were killed offi cial said that there were spo- The coalition offi cial said yes- told a news conference in Doha. forcements to the border, in a An offi cial in the Saudi-led of anonymity. on Saturday night in Hodeidah radic clashes, adding that a fi re terday that the agreement stip- Diplomats said Guterres may sign that it is comfortable with coalition confi rmed the tim- Residents in Hodeidah and province, a pro-government erupted in one of the factories in ulated the rebels should with- propose a surveillance mecha- the risk level to US troops even ing to AFP, adding that details the surrounding areas have re- military source said. the east of the city due to strikes draw from all ports in Hodeidah nism comprising 30 to 40 ob- as Ankara heightens the threat of on implementing the truce deal ported fi erce fi ghting and air Two Hodeidah residents on Sunday night. by midnight on December 31 servers. military action.

Mistura to host top envoys from Russia, Turkey and Iran

The outgoing UN envoy for Syria will meet top attendees. The planned constitutional commit- Army destroys Palestinian diplomats from Iran, Russia and Turkey this week, tee was agreed at a Russia-hosted conference in his off ice said yesterday, in a final bid to make January. The centrepiece of UN peace eff orts in headway towards a new Syrian constitution. Syria, the committee would be tasked with negoti- The talks scheduled for today in Geneva will likely ating a new post-war constitution that would pave be one of Staff an de Mistura’s last meetings with the way to elections aimed at turning the page on fi ghter’s West Bank home major players in the Syrian conflict, as the veteran seven years of devastating war. UN diplomat is due to step down in the coming But it has run into objections from the Syrian days. Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov will government. AFP attend, a spokesperson from his off ice said. The opposition has pushed for an entirely new Nablus A Turkish diplomatic source said that Ankara’s top constitution, but Damascus has said it will only envoy Mevlut Cavusoglu will be in Geneva along discuss altering the current one. In October, with Iranian foreign minister Mohamed Javad Damascus rejected a list presented by de Mistura sraeli forces destroyed the Zarif. of 50 civil society representatives and technical home of a Palestinian ac- The UN did not immediately confirm the list of experts. Icused of killing two Israelis, in an army raid that triggered clashes overnight yesterday, an AFP journalist said. Three people were injured by rubber bullets, offi cial Palestin- ian news agency Wafa said. Hundreds of soldiers sur- UN in joint appeal for rounded the house in a suburb of Tulkarm in the north of the West Bank, the AFP journal- ist said. The army destroyed the aid after funding cuts walls of Ashraf Naalwa’s home on the ground and fi rst fl oors of the house, before withdrawing Reuters But local aid work took a of the work of the humanitarian yesterday morning. Ramallah particularly hard hit this year actors”. More than three quar- The Israeli military did not when the United States ended ters of the funds sought would immediately comment on the funding for the UN agency that go to Gaza, the appeal organis- operation. he United Nations and helps 5mn Palestinian refugees. ers said, because the densely Naalwa, 23, was killed by the the Palestinian Author- “Humanitarian actors are populated coastal strip faced a Israeli army last Thursday after a Tity (PA) appealed yester- faced with record-low funding “dire humanitarian situation” two-month manhunt. day for $350mn in aid for Pales- levels of this year, at the same after years of an Israeli-led He was accused of killing two tinians next year, saying much time we face massive and in- blockade, Palestinian political Israeli colleagues in an industrial more was needed but they had creasing needs,” McGoldrick divisions and casualties from zone near the northern West to be realistic after a year of said in Ramallah in the Israeli- demonstrations and hostilities. Bank Jewish settlement of Bar- funding cuts. occupied West Bank. Washington promised kan. The 2019 Humanitarian Re- “We will be able to assist $365mn to UNRWA — the UN The Palestinian movement sponse Plan focused on Pales- fewer people this year, 1.4mn agency that looks after Pales- Hamas claimed Naalwa as one of tinians most in need of food, people are being targeted as op- tinian refugees — in 2018, but its fi ghters. Palestinian people inspect the flat of Ashraf Naalwa after Israeli forces destroyed it in the village of healthcare, shelter, water and posed to 1.9mn last year.” paid only a fi rst instalment of Speaking at a cabinet meeting Shuwaykah, near the West Bank city of Tulkarm, yesterday. sanitation, said Jamie Mc- He said agencies faced many $60mn before announcing in on Sunday, Israeli Prime Minis- Goldrick, the UN humanitarian diffi culties, including the po- August that it would halt all fu- ter Benjamin Netanyahu said he Late Sunday, Israeli minis- ferent West Bank location. be fi ghters. “The fi ghters have co-ordinator in the Gaza Strip, liticisation of aid by “political ture donations. had ordered “the acceleration of ters gave initial approval to a Education Minister Naftali stopped fearing us,” he said in a West Bank and East Jerusalem. forces which are using aid or The move was widely seen the demolition of homes” in the bill that would allow the army Bennett, whose Jewish Home statement, noting that the jus- Donations were down in tampering with aid” and at- as a means of pressuring the wake of the recent wave of at- to move family members of faction was behind the bill, tice ministry opposes the pro- many areas around the world, tacks on their work by those Palestinian leadership to enter tacks. Palestinian attackers to a dif- said it would help deter would- posed legislation. he said. intent on “delegitimising some peace negotiations with Israel. Gulf Times Tuesday, December 18, 2018 21 AFRICA

62 militants died ‘after Amnesty says over 3,600 air strikes in Somalia’

Reuters killed in Nigeria violence Nairobi AFP tensions by embarking on a Lagos blame game along political he US military said yes- party lines.” The Nigerian terday it had killed 62 army yesterday rejected the Tmilitants in six air strikes ore than 3,600 peo- Amnesty report, accusing on Saturday and Sunday in the ple have been killed in the global watchdog of “un- vicinity of Gandarsh in Somalia’s Mclashes between farm- founded allegations against south-central Banaadir prov- ers and herders in Nigeria since the leadership of the Nigerian ince. 2016, Amnesty International military”. The military’s Africa Com- said yesterday, blaming the Army spokesman Sani Us- mand (Africom) said four strikes government’s failure to punish man said in a statement that were carried out on Saturday, the perpetrators for fuelling the Nigerians should ignore the killing 34 militants, and two violence. report which he said was in- more on Sunday, which killed 28. The international human tended to “destabilise and “Africa Command and our So- rights organisation said more dismember” the country. mali partners conducted these than 2,000 were killed in 2018 “The Nigerian Army has air strikes to prevent terrorists alone, while the bloodshed had no option than to call for the from using remote areas as a safe made thousands of other peo- closure of Amnesty Interna- haven to plot, direct, inspire and ple homeless. Violence between tional offices in Nigeria, if recruit for future attacks,” Afri- farmers and nomadic herders is such recklessness continues,” com said in a statement. on the increase in Nigeria over he warned.The farmer-herd- The air strikes, among the access to fertile land and water, er violence is putting further deadliest this year, did not kill which is becoming scarce in the pressure on President Muha- any civilians, the statement said. face of drought and rapid popu- madu Buhari, who is battling “At this time we assess these lation growth. a nine-year insurgency by air strikes did not injure or kill “The Nigerian authorities’ the Boko Haram group in the any civilians.” failure to investigate commu- northeast. The United States carries out nal clashes and bring perpe- The 76-year-old retired regular air strikes in Somalia in trators to justice has fuelled a general has come under fire support of a UN-backed gov- bloody escalation in the confl ict for his inability to end the ernment there, which has been between farmers and herders country’s security challenges fi ghting against an Al Shebaab across the country, resulting in as he seeks a second term in insurgency for years. at least 3,641 deaths in the past February elections. Last month, the US military three years and the displace- Boko Haram has stepped up said it had killed 37 militants. ment of thousands more,” Am- attacks on farmers and log- nesty said in a statement. Osai Ojigho, Amnesty International’s Nigeria director, attends the launch of the report: “Harvest of Death: Three Years of Bloody Clashes gers in recent months, accus- It said that of the 310 attacks Between Farmers and Herders” in Abuja, yesterday. ing them of passing informa- recorded between January 2016 tion about the group to the and October 2018, 57% were in positioned close to the attacks, homes. “The Nigerian gov- “Our research shows forces, competition over re- military. 2018 and were most frequent which can sometimes last for ernment has displayed what that these attacks were well sources is used as a pretext to In the latest attack, four Fastjet in Adamawa, Benue, Kaduna, days, and yet have been slow to can only be described as gross planned and co-ordinated, kill and maim along ethnic or farmers were shot dead as Taraba and Plateau. act,” it said. incompetence and has failed with the use of weapons like religious lines,” she said. they slept in rice fields in The rights group also accused In some cases, forces were in its duty to protect the lives machine guns and AK-47 ri- “The conflict has been a village outside the Nige- suspends Nigerian security forces of not warned of an imminent raid of its population,” said Osai fles,” Ojigho said. dangerously politicised by rian city of Maiduguri, sur- doing enough to stop the kill- but did nothing to prevent the Ojigho, Nigeria’s director of “In some places, because some state government of- vivors and local militia said ings. “Security forces are often killings, looting or burning of Amnesty International. of the failures of the security ficials who have inflamed yesterday. fl ights in Tanzania

Man dies, 80 hurt as rival Bowing out as president, Kabila Reuters raises prospect of a return act Dar Es Salaam activists clash ahead of vote frican low-cost airline Fastjet has suspended all Reuters Kabila succeeded his slain father, Laurent, the Adomestic fl ights within AFP Kinshasa now bulked-up president sporting a billowy Tanzania until the end of January Tshikapa grey beard has traced an unlikely trajectory after the country’s aviation au- from accidental and apparently reluctant lead- thorities warned they are likely month before his scheduled departure er to the defi ning Congolese fi gure of his time. to revoke its licence, the com- t least one person was after nearly two decades as Congo’s pres- Whether the vote due on Dec 23 brings down pany said yesterday. killed and over 80 injured Aident, Joseph Kabila received a proces- the curtain on the tumultuous Kabila era, which The airline, launched in 2012, Ain weekend clashes be- sion of foreign reporters at his heavily guarded began when Laurent seized power in 1997, or has faced tough conditions in tween supporters of rival can- riverside palace for a rare series of interviews. triggers a new phase in which Joseph becomes Tanzania, its home market, in didates just days ahead of DR If the timing suggested a valedictory, the the power behind the throne of his preferred recent years and warned on Dec Congo’s crucial presidential 47-year-old leader’s words indicated other- successor, Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, re- 7 that it may have to go into ad- election, sources said yesterday. wise. He vowed to remain in politics and, in one mains unclear. It depends in part on how the ministration, close down or sell The country is on edge ahead A crowd campaign under a downpour for a candidate to the interview after another, left open the possibil- Congolese refl ect on his rule. itself because it only had enough of the December 23 vote to re- Congolese parliament, Christian Ngelebeya Papy, yesterday, in Kinshasa. ity of running again in 2023 when the clock re- There were early accomplishments — ending a cash to keep it in business for a place President Joseph Kabila, sets on presidential term limits. regional war and holding the fi rst open presiden- week. who has ruled the resource-rich apart. Sources with observers at The man was rushed to hospi- “My role will be to make sure that we don’t tial elections — but also incessant confl ict, lethal “Fastjet Tanzania would like to nation since 2001. the scene said at least one person tal but later died of his injuries, go back to square one, square one meaning crackdowns on pro-democracy protesters and inform all customers who booked Unrest erupted in Tshikapa, had been killed and around 20 ar- he said. where we found the Congo 22 years ago,” he told corruption that the government acknowledges si- air tickets for December 2018 a city in the restive central Ka- rested. But others in the region The attack prompted a furi- Reuters inside an ornate reception room with phoned off billions of dollars of potential revenue. and January 2019 that it has sus- sai region, on Sunday when the said the toll could be higher. ous reaction from other Mwangu high ceilings and sweeping views of the churn- Foreign investment has propelled Democrat- pended its fl ights for a while due planes of two rival candidates “A young local chief who was supporters, who then attacked a ing Congo River. ic Republic of Congo to the status of Africa’s to operational issues,” the airline — opposition heavyweight Felix among Maker Mwangu’s sup- motorcycle driver “whom they “In politics, in life, you shouldn’t rule out top copper producer and the world’s leading said in a notice seen by Reuters. Tshisekedi and former education porters was attacked with stones,” took for an activist of (Tshiseke- anything,” he said when asked about a potential miner of cobalt, a crucial component of electric Fastjet operates in Tanzania, minister Maker Mwangu — land- Faustin Dostin Luange of the local di’s) party and beat him to death”, return.”There are still other chapters to write.” car batteries, but militia violence has persisted Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozam- ed at the airport just a few hours community radio station said. he said. In the 18 years since a youthful, clean-shaven in the east. bique and South Africa. Madagascan former presidents face off in election clash

AFP Both camps alleged they were “It’s very good to do this, the And the election battle could Antananarivo victims of fraud and cheating. prices are too expensive in the further damage the country’s Ravalomanana was fi rst elect- market,” said Pauline Lalao, 42, chances of development. ed as president in 2002 but was one mother jostling in line, con- “The stakes are enormous, adagascar heads to forced to resign seven years later fi rming she would vote for Ra- and both men have invested the polls tomorrow by violent demonstrations sup- joelina as “he understands our heavily, including fi nancially, Min a crunch head-to- ported by Rajoelina, the then problems.” in this election,” said analyst head election between two mayor of the capital Antanan- Ravalomanana, who is known Marcus Schneider of the Bonn- arch-rivals who have domi- arivo. by his nickname “Daddy”, has based Friedrich Ebert Founda- nated political life on the pov- Rajoelina was installed by the not been shy with promises ei- tion. “If the results are tight, the erty-stricken Indian Ocean army and ruled until 2014. ther. loser could challenge the results island for years. Both candidates have spent In Antananarivo on Saturday, and plunge the country back into The showdown between Marc lavishly on campaigning in a he unveiled kit that he said he crisis.” Ravalomanana and Andry Ra- country that suff ers dire poverty, would give to all schoolchildren “I was hoping for a debate joelina could revive instability sweeping away their 34 oppo- if he wins. of ideas, I saw a violent duel of in the country if a close result is nents in the fi rst round. “Here are the backpacks for egos,” said Sahondra Rabenarivo rejected by the losing candidate, Outgoing president Hery Ra- the children,” he told thousands of the Observatory of Political analysts warn. jaonarimampianina collected of supporters.”If they all have the Life in Madagascar (Sefafi ) civil The two contenders will com- just 8.82% of the vote. same uniforms, they will be able group. pete in the run-off election af- Campaigning for tomor- to study well...I would love your “Everything needs rebuilding ter coming fi rst and second, far row’s election has been per- children as if they were mine”. in this country, but it will only ahead of their competitors, in sonal, with Rajoelina dismiss- And for Laza Rabaromanana, 34, happen if people work together.” the preliminary vote in Novem- ing his rival as an old man who the choice was clear. Ravalomanana is a former ber. should “retire and go milking “He is the only one able to milkman from a peasant fam- Ravalomanana and Rajoelina his cows.” develop Madagascar,” Rabaro- ily who went on to build a busi- were both banned from running Ravalomanana has cast his manana said. ness empire, while Rajoelina is a in the 2013 election as part of an rival as a “destroyer” and de- “When he was president, he former mayor, party planner and agreement to end recurring cri- nounced his “provocations”. was the only one who got all the successful entrepreneur with ses that have rocked Madagascar About 45 % of the 10mn reg- People walk by the Malagasy presidential candidate Andry Rajoelina private broadcasting building children into school...he really slick communication skills. since independence from France istered voters abstained from yesterday, in Antananarivo, Madagascar. knows how to do everything.” Madagascar is well known for in 1960. the fi rst round, and the two sur- With the personalities of the its vanilla and precious redwood, In the fi rst round, Rajoelina, viving contenders have criss- been distributed liberally to vot- Rajoelina’s campaign activists restaurant in Fort Dauphin that two contenders dominating the yet is one of the world’s poorest 44, took a slight advantage by crossed the country via helicop- ers who are among the poorest in openly distributed cheap rice hosted the event. election, issues such the coun- countries, according to World winning 39.23 % of the vote, ter as they pull out all the stops Africa. and oil. “It’s not for propaganda, “This is the realisation, ahead try’s dire poverty, corruption Bank data, with 76% of people compared with 35.35% for Rav- to secure votes tomorrow. In the south of the country, it’s just to help the population,” of time, of the promises of Presi- and lack of basic services have living in extreme poverty. alomanana, 69. Promises and handouts have hit by perennial food shortages, said Serge Serge, owner of a dent Rajoelina.” been pushed to one side. Gulf Times 22 Tuesday, December 18, 2018 AMERICAS UN adopts global Washington heading agreement to manage refugees

AFP/DPA no new agreement was needed. United Nations The US said recently that towards shutdown it backed most of the refugee pact, but not the part aimed at AFP Democrats are united in their have told US media that they see he UN General Assem- limiting detentions of asylum- Washington opposition to Trump’s $5bn ask, little chance of reaching a com- bly has adopted by a seekers. saying that their intent is to of- promise in the coming days and Twide majority a Global Ahead of the vote, two coun- fer no more than $1.6bn in border have advocated for a short-term Compact on Refugees aimed tries facing massive population S lawmakers were scram- security funding as laid out in stopgap spending bill that would at improving eff orts to man- fl ight addressed the assembly. bling yesterday to avert bipartisan legislation earlier this punt the problem until January. age large refugee movements – Syria said that the debate Ua partial government month. Complicating the stalemate, but without the support of the should not be politicised and shutdown, with Republican and Yesterday Trump launched a several of the 100-plus lawmak- United States and Hungary. asked the UNHCR to do more Democratic leaders locked in a fresh attack on the opposition ers who are either retiring at year The refugee pact, which did to help Syrian refugees return stalemate over President Donald party and its off er of wall-less end or lost their seats in Novem- not provoke the controversy to their war-wracked country. Trump’s demands for border wall border security funding. ber’s midterm elections may not unleashed over a similar pact Crisis-hit Venezuela, which funding. “Anytime you hear a Democrat be fully motivated to return to on migration, was approved by has seen massive fl ight as its As Washington barrelled to- saying that you can have good Washington this week for a fi nal 181 countries. economic quagmire has deep- wards a shuttering of key fed- Boarder (sic) Security without a thrashing out of federal spend- Only two voted no – the US ened, urged the assembly to eral agencies in just four days, Wall, write them off as just an- ing. and Hungary. ensure that the new pact did the White House appeared dug other politician following the Should a shutdown occur, it It does not set out any kind not become a way for other in on Trump’s call for Congress party line,” Trump tweeted. would be relatively limited, as of quota system for how many countries to intervene in inter- to budget $5bn in 2019 to fund “Time for us to save billions of Congress has already funded refugees countries should ac- nal matters. a wall on the US-Mexico border dollars a year and have, at the most government operations cept. The document has four key that he insists will check illegal same time, far greater safety and through September 2019. Three others abstained – the objectives: ease pressure on immigration. control!” Trump: said he would be ‘proud’ to shutter the government over However, the American public Dominican Republic, Eritrea, refugee-hosting nations; im- If no breakthrough is reached, White House senior adviser border security. has little appetite for the stand- and Libya. prove refugee self-reliance; the shutdown would occur over Stephen Miller said that the wall off , and Trump would likely suf- Much like the Global Com- expand access to third coun- the Christmas holiday – when – the last sticking point in fund- comes to it, absolutely.” be up to Trump to repeal his de- fer if the government did close pact for Safe, Orderly and Reg- tries for refugees via resettle- most lawmakers fl ee the US Cap- ing negotiations – remained a top Last week a defi ant Trump mand. temporarily, polls show. ular Migration – the refugee ment; and, support conditions itol – leaving Washington red- priority. alarmed Democrats, and some The window for action is nar- Forty-three per cent of re- pact is not legally binding. for refugees to go home. faced at the end of the year. “We’re going to do whatever is in his Republican Party, when row. spondents said they would blame The two global agreements The compact is meant to set The closure could potentially necessary to build the border wall he said he would be “proud” to The House does not meet until Trump and Republicans for a stem from the so-called New up a framework: national and spill into early January, when to stop this ongoing crisis of ille- shutter the government over tomorrow evening, leaving little shutdown, compared to 24% York Declaration adopted regional solutions are support- the new Congress – including a gal immigration,” Miller told the border security. time before funding for the De- blaming Democrats, according to unanimously by the UN Gen- ed, and it discusses fi nancing Democrat-controlled House of CBS Sunday talk show Face the Top Senate Democrat Chuck partment of Homeland Security a USA Today/Suff olk University eral Assembly in September and possible partnerships, as Representatives – is sworn in. Nation. Schumer said there are not and Justice Department expires poll. 2016, with the goal of better well as data sharing among na- Congressional leaders say they Asked if that means a shut- enough votes in Congress to pass on Friday at midnight. Thirty per cent would blame handling migrant and refugee tions. are opposed to a shutdown. down, Miller was fi rm: “If it wall funding, and that it would Some members of Congress both equally. fl ows worldwide. It also includes systems to The compact – written un- monitor progress, including der the auspices of the Gene- a Global Refugee Forum held va-based UN refugee agency at ministerial level every four (UNHCR) – hopes to ensure years. an adequate international re- Unlike the talks on the mi- Google to spend $1bn on new campus in New York sponse to large-scale refugee gration pact, the United States movements and extended dis- remained in the negotiations placement of refugees. for the refugee pact. AFP ganiation”, Porat wrote in a blog of the city’s largest commercial General Assembly president The fi nal text of the Global Washington post. tenants, the Wall Street Journal Maria Fernanda Espinosa told Compact for Safe, Orderly and “New York City continues reported. AFP that the pact would help Legal Migration was agreed on to be a great source of diverse, Alphabet, Amazon and Ap- “strengthen the assistance to in July, and it is to be formally oogle became the lat- world-class talent – that’s what ple are three of the world’s most and protection of the 25mn ratifi ed by the General Assem- est US tech giant to brought Google to the city in valuable corporations and have refugees globally” and was bly tomorrow. Gannounce a major ex- 2000 and that’s what keeps us been outgrowing their home based on burden – and respon- Since July, a number of pansion plan, unveiling a $1bn here,” she said. bases even with new headquar- sibility-sharing. countries have either quit the investment yesterday to create Alphabet earlier this year said ters building. “Refugee-hosting countries pact or expressed serious res- a new campus that could double it was buying the Manhattan Google this month released continue to show extraordi- ervations, including Hungary, its New York City workforce to Chelsea Market for $2.4bn, and an updated plan for expanding nary levels of generosity and Australia, Israel, Poland, Slo- 14,000. planned to lease space at Pier 57 its Mountain View, California, commitment to refugee pro- vakia, the Czech Republic, The announcement by Goog- on the Hudson river. headquarters to create a new tection,” said Espinosa, who is Austria, Switzerland, Bulgaria, le comes following Amazon’s The company currently em- village-type campus with more from Ecuador. Latvia, and Italy. announcement of new head- ploys some 7,000 people in New than 6,000 new homes, some “It’s a known fact that low In Belgium, the migration quarters sites in New York and York. of which would be available to and middle-income countries pact sparked the collapse of the suburban Washington DC worth “With these most recent in- low-income residents. host over 85% of all refugees. country’s government. some $5bn, and Apple’s $1bn vestments in Google Chelsea Both Google and Apple han- I believe that we must support About 165 countries reaf- expansion to Texas and other and Google Hudson Square, we dled their expansion plans qui- the communities and states fi rmed their commitment to areas. will have the capacity to more etly, while Amazon asked for A view of 550 Washington Street (left), where Google plans to lease that host refugees.” the migration pact earlier this Google parent Alphabet’s than double the number of municipalities across North off ice space, in the Hudson Square neighbourhood of Lower Manhattan. In voting no, Hungary said month in Morocco. chief fi nancial offi cer Ruth Po- Googlers in New York over the America for proposals, prompt- rat said that it would lease large next 10 years,” Porat said. ing critics to call it a Hunger nomic and social rifts. offi ce buildings in lower Man- She said that the company’s Games contest. Porat said that the latest in- hattan, which will become the “investment in New York is a All three companies have vestment “is a huge part of our centrepiece of a campus of more huge part of our commitment to been struggling to attract work- commitment to grow and invest than 1.7mn sq feet (160,000sq grow and invest in US facilities, ers with technology skills, and in US facilities, offi ces and job”, Study: Russian troll Biggest m). offi ces and jobs”. that appears to have been a key and added that “we’re growing The new campus, which The new site is a former in- factor in the three expansion faster outside the (San Francis- should be operational starting in dustrial area adjacent to the moves. co) Bay Area than within it, and farm targeted black, North 2020, will be known as Google Greenwich Village and Soho The massive growth in the this year opened new offi ces and Hudson Square and “will be the districts. tech sector has however passed data centres in locations like primary location for our New The expansion would make over much of America’s indus- Detroit, Boulder, Los Angeles, liberal US voters American York-based Global Business Or- California-based Alphabet one trial heartland, creating eco- Tennessee and Alabama”.

AFP campaigns pushed a message diamond Washington that the best way to advance the cause of the African Amer- ican community was to boycott found Canada proposes redress for airline delays he Russian troll farm the election and focus on other that disrupted the 2016 issues instead.” TUS presidential election Separately, a portion of the AFP AFP and the stench of a sick child’s are beyond their control, we’re baggage, including a refund of sought particularly to demor- 3,841 IRA accounts on Face- Montreal Ottawa vomit in the air. going to make sure that airlines baggage fees. alise Africa-Americans and book, Instagram, Twitter, and The long wait in sweltering treat their passengers with the Ottawa reviewed US and EU discourage them from voting, YouTube studied by the re- heat on that July 2017 fl ight led respect they deserve and live up rules when drafting its own, according to a comprehensive searchers sought to provoke Canadian mining com- irline passengers in Can- one passenger to dial emergency to their commitments.” Garneau said. new report for the Senate. Republican-leaning white pany says it has discov- ada could soon be eligible services for help after being in- The rules – subject to a pub- According to the government The primary goal of the Americans to get out and vote. Aered the largest gem- Afor signifi cant compen- formed that they could not dis- lic consultation – would apply statistics agency, there are an Saint Petersburg-based Inter- While the study did not quality diamond ever found sation for delayed fl ights or lost embark. to fl ights to, from and within average of 5.5mn take-off s and net Research Agency (IRA) was draw any lines between the in North America, a yellowish baggage, under proposed regu- “We all know someone who Canada, and provide for up to landings at Canada’s 91 airports to deepen divisions in US so- IRA propaganda and the elec- stone roughly the size of a small lations unveiled by the govern- has had a negative fl ight experi- C$1,000 ($750) in compensa- each year. ciety and convince Democrat- tion results – Republican Don- chicken egg. ment yesterday. ence or we have seen stories in tion for delays or cancellations, Due to its vast geography, favouring liberals – including ald Trump stunned Clinton to The 552-carat stone, found in The draft rules follow a rising the news,” Transport Minister and C$2,400 for customers air transportation is crucial for Latinos, youths and the LG- take the White House – post- a mine in Canada’s Northwest number of complaints, includ- Marc Garneau told a news con- bumped from a fl ight due to connecting parts of the country. BTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, election data suggests some Territories near the Arctic Cir- ing from one fl ight stuck on the ference in the baggage area of overbooking. A fl ight from easternmost transgender, and queer) com- impact. cle, is nearly three times the size tarmac in Ottawa for nearly six Ottawa’s international airport. Compensation would also to westernmost Canada takes munity – not to vote, the re- According to the Pew Re- of the previous record holder, a hours, with no air conditioning “Except in circumstances which be required for lost or damaged about eight hours. port said. search Centre, white voter 187-carat gem called the Foxfi re, However, the most extensive turnout surged in 2016 while Dominion Diamond Mines said analysis yet of thousands of black turnout sank by fi ve per- in a statement on Saturday. IRA ads and posts across social centage points, to 59.6%, from “A diamond of this size is media platforms in 2015-2017 four years earlier. completely unexpected for this showed a special emphasis on The IRA was set up by Yevg- part of the world,” said Domin- Prada apology over ‘Pradamalia’ products provoking the anger of black eny Prigozhin, a businessman ion, 40% owner of the mine. Americans so that they would close to Russian President Dominion said that the rough stay home on election day. Vladimir Putin, as a domestic stone – with some abrasion AFP deep regret and sincere apolo- or shoe polish and drew on ex- called for a boycott of the label, The IRA-created account social media propaganda op- markings on its surface due to New York gies for the Pradamalia products aggerated lips in a caricature of Prada went farther in its apol- “Blacktivist” sent out messag- eration. “the diffi cult journey it under- that were off ensive. blacks. ogy. es on the Democratic candi- The study showed the IRA went during recovery” – would They have been removed from The problem for Prada began “The resemblance of the date such as: “No lives matter US campaign began in 2015, be polished and cut by a master talian fashion label Prada the market and will not be sold,” with its Soho store display – one products to blackface was by no to Hillary Clinton. Only votes aiming to mobilise conserva- cutter before its ultimate value has said that it will set up an Prada said in a statement re- lawyer who passed by the store means intentional, but we rec- matter to Hillary Clinton.” tive voters, with no specifi c can be determined. Iadvisory council on diversity leased on Sunday on Twitter. slammed the fi gurines as rac- ognise that this does not excuse Another IRA account, “Black backing for Trump at the time. The Foxfi re, which came from issues after being forced to pull “Going forward, we pledge to ist in a Facebook post, posting the damage they have caused,” Matters”, posted on Facebook: However, as the then-can- the same Diavik mine, was said monkey-like keychain fi gurines improve our diversity training photos of the objects. it said on Sunday, adding that it “Cops kill black kids. Are you didate gained support, and to glow bright blue in the dark. from its shelves over accusa- and will immediately form an At fi rst, the company defend- would probe how the problem- sure that your son won’t be the especially when he drove his The huge gem was exhib- tions of racism. advisory council to guide our ef- ed itself, saying its “Pradama- atic product reached the market next?” anti-immigrant message, the ited at a Smithsonian museum The so-called “Pradamalia” forts on diversity, inclusion and lia” were “fantasy charms com- in the fi rst place. “It is evident that the cam- IRA posts turned in his favour. in Washington along with the creatures – featured promi- culture,” the label said. “We will posed of elements of the Prada Prada also said it would do- paigns sought to demobilise The IRA had “coherent iconic Hope Diamond before be- nently in the window display learn from this and do better.” oeuvre”, and adding: “They are nate any proceeds from Prad- African Americans, LGBT, teams”, formed around specifi c ing cut into two stones and sold of its Soho store in New York The problematic custom of imaginary creatures not in- amalia already sold to a “New and liberal voters,” said the ideologies such as gun rights for $1.3mn. – sparked outrage for their ex- blackface dates back to about tended to have any reference to York-based organisation com- report by the Computational and LGBTQ issues, that direct- The largest diamond ever aggerated red lips that brought 1830, and so-called “minstrel the real world and certainly not mitted to fi ghting racial justice, Propaganda Project at Oxford ed posts using user profi le data found was a 3,100-carat mon- blackface caricatures to mind. shows”, when white performers blackface.” which is a value that we strongly University and social media provided by advertising arms ster, the Cullinan, unearthed in “We would like to convey our caked their faces in greasepaint But when some consumers believe in”. specialists Graphika. “These of the social media companies. South Africa in 1905. Gulf Times Tuesday, December 18, 2018 23 ASIA

Lanka India and Maldives to deepen PM holds talks with president security ties, increase trade Reuters Colombo IANS leaders agreed to strengthen co- New Delhi operation to enhance maritime security in the Indian Ocean he Sri Lankan rupee region through coordinated strengthened yesterday ndia and the Maldives yes- patrolling and aerial surveil- Twhile bond yields dropped terday agreed to deepen lance, exchange of information as a seven-week political crisis Ico-operation to maintain and capacity building. appeared to ebb after President peace and security in the In- “The two leaders reaffi rmed Maithripala Sirisena reinstated dian Ocean region as New Delhi their unwavering commitment the premier he had initially sacked extended lines of credit worth and support for increased co- in a widely criticised move. $1.4bn to the archipelago na- operation in combating terror- Ranil Wickremesinghe, who tion following delegation-level ism in all its forms and manifes- was sworn into offi ce on Sunday, talks between Prime Minister tations both within the region held discussions with Sirisena Narendra Modi and Maldives and elsewhere,” it stated. about forming a cabinet and re- President Ibrahim Mohamed “Both sides agreed to en- storing stability in the island na- Solih. hance bilateral co-operation tion of 21mn people just off the The two sides also signed on issues of common concern, southern coast of India. four agreements, including on including piracy, terrorism, Wickremesinghe’s reinstate- cultural co-operation, IT and organised crime, drugs and ment, which is expected to end a electronics cooperation and on human traffi cking.” political crisis that began in late improving the ecosystem for Prime Minister Modi called October when he was surpris- agribusiness. for boosting connectivity be- ingly sacked, is seen as an em- “President Solih and I agree tween India and the Maldives barrassment for the president. that to maintain peace and se- saying that better connectivity Yields on Sri Lanka’s dol- curity in the Indian Ocean re- will lead to exchange of goods lar bonds due in 2022, which gion, we need to deepen our and services, information, had risen more than 1 percent co-operation,” Modi said while ideas, culture and people. since the crisis started in Octo- jointly addressing the media He assured Solih of strength- ber, fell 40 basis points to 7.6%. with Solih after the talks. ening the two nations’ partner- The rupee edged up to 179.60 “Both India and the Maldives ship in health, human resource per dollar from Friday’s close of share equal interest and stake in development, infrastructure, 179.90/180.10. the development and stability agriculture, capacity building, “The market has taken Wick- of our region,” he said. ICT and tourism. remesinghe’s appointment posi- Stating that the security in- In this connection, Modi of- tively. But investors will have terests of the two countries are fered additional 1,000 seats in to wait and watch whether the related to each other, Modi said India for Maldivian nationals for president and prime minister that there is also unanimity on training and capacity building. will get along with each other,” the sustainability of this region The prime minister also a currency dealer said, request- and to be conscious of each called for boosting commercial Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, right, Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, second left, his wife Fazna Ahmed, left, India President ing anonymity as he was not other’s interests and concerns. relations and bilateral trade. Ram Nath Kovind and his wife Savita Kovind pose for a picture during ceremonial reception at the Presidential Palace in New Delhi yesterday. authorised to speak to media. “We will not allow the use “I welcome the growing op- Preparations for a vote on of our countries to harm each portunities for investment technology, new and renewable Solih reaffi rmed his gov- sector involvement in devel- Relations between India and account will begin as soon as other,” he said. by Indian companies in the energy and communications. ernment’s India-First Policy, opment of housing and infra- the Maldives deteriorated af- Wickremesinghe names a fi - “I want to work together with Maldives,” he said. On his part, Solih said and commitment to working structure, water and sewerage ter Solih’s predecessor Abdulla nance minister, treasury secre- President Solih for the bright According to the joint state- that during the discussions, together closely with India. systems in the outlying islands, Yameen imposed an internal tary S R Attygala said. future of our region, and uti- ment, both leaders agreed to both sides reaffi rmed their “He appreciated the gen- healthcare, education and emergency in February this year. The vote on account has be- lise all possibilities in the re- promote closer economic co- commitment to democracy. erous assistance provided by tourism,” it stated. Yameen was also seen as leaning come mandatory after parliament lationship between India and operation in sectors such as “We agreed on the mutual the government of India to External Aff airs Minister towards China sidelining India. approval for the budget for 2019 Maldives.” fi sheries development, tourism, need for regional stability and Maldives, and identifi ed vari- Suhma Swaraj also called on the Solih defeated Yameen in the (January-December) was derailed According to a joint statement transportation, connectivity, security in the Indian Ocean,” ous areas for developmental visiting dignitary and discussed elections in September to take following Wickremesinghe’s issued following the talks, both health, education, information he said. cooperation, including private all aspects of the bilateral ties. over as president. ouster in October. Bangladeshi opposition pledges Cambodia PM opens country’s to remove media curbs, raise pay largest dam despite opposition Reuters the election scheduled for De- week, and at least six BNP can- Dhaka cember 30, has been accused by didates have been injured while AFP the opposition and human rights they were out seeking votes. The Stung Treng groups of becoming increasingly party has called for the army to angladesh’s main opposi- authoritarian. take over to restore order. tion group promised yes- While she is credited for im- The BNP alleges scores of BNP leader Mirza Fakhrul Islam ambodian premier Hun Bterday to remove curbs on proving the economy and has its workers have been detained Alamgir is pictured during a media Sen yesterday opened free speech and the media and been lauded internationally for by police on fi ctitious charges, briefing in Dhaka yesterday. Cthe country’s largest to rein in the police if it unseats providing refuge to hundreds of or even killed, under Hasina’s hydropower scheme, swatting Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina thousands of Rohingya Muslims rule, especially over the past few Jamaat-e-Islami, the country’s aside dire warnings about the from her decade-long rule in fl eeing violence and persecu- months, and say that the Elec- largest Islamic party, many of environmental impact of the this month’s national election. tion in Myanmar, she has also tion Commission has turned a whose members have been con- $780mn project and its eff ect Presenting its manifesto in cracked down on dissent, stifl ed blind eye. victed of war crimes and sentenced on local communities. Dhaka, the Jaitya Oikya Front, the opposition and introduced a Asaduzzaman Khan, minister to death or life imprisonment Backed by Chinese funding, or National Unity Front alliance, tough new media law. for home aff airs and also a senior under Hasina’s rule. the impoverished Southeast Prime Minister Hun Sen, centre, inaugurates the 400 megawatt also pledged to bring in a series With less than two weeks to leader of Hasina’s ruling Awami Bangladesh’s Election Com- Asian nation has embarked on Lower Sesan 2 hydropower plant during a ceremony in Stung of checks and balances on cen- go before the polls, the opposi- League, denied the allegations. mission scrapped Jamaat’s reg- a dam-building spree in recent Treng province yesterday. tral government power. tion alliance has complained of “No workers of BNP have istration following a Supreme years, as it tries to boost its en- It would create an upper house harassment. been detained or arrested with- Court judgment. Even so, at ergy capacity and jump-start at the offi cial opening in the Maureen Harris, Southeast of parliament, introduce a rule “It is doubtful that the elec- out an arrest warrant or specifi c least 22 members of the party are its economy. northeastern province of Stung Asia programme director with that would bar a prime minister tion will be free and fair,” said charges, the question of killing contesting in the upcoming polls But the 400 megawatt Lower Treng, saying aff ected villagers the group, said the threat is from running for offi ce for more Kamal Hossain, leader of the al- or murder does not arise at all,” under the BNP banner, and three Sesan 2 is one of several dams were compensated with houses “especially acute in Cambodia”, than two consecutive terms, liance that includes the main op- Khan told Reuters. as independent candidates. criticised by environmentalists and land. where local people get up to and give the central bank more position party, the Bangladesh The alliance said it would form Hossain has said the alliance for threatening crucial fi sh stocks The United Nations has previ- 80% of their animal protein in- autonomy. Nationalist Party (BNP). an independent commission to has no links to the Jamaat, but along Mekong River waterways. ously raised concerns about the take from freshwater fi sheries. The alliance also promised to “In every district our can- investigate suspected plitically Hasina has accused the alliance An estimated 5,000 people dam while some scientists had Built along tributaries of the raise the minimum wage of gar- didates are being arrested...in motivated cases under Hasina’s for fi elding “war criminals”. – mostly from marginalised joined calls for it to be halted over Mekong, the Lower Sesan 2 is ment workers and freeze gas and the last 50 years of my politi- rule and punish police involved The media policy perhaps goes indigenous groups – have been fears for the region’s food supply. a joint venture between Cam- electricity prices for the fi rst cal life, I have never seen such a in them. It also promised to stop further than most in rolling back resettled due to the project, ac- The NGO International Riv- bodia’s Royal Group (39%), year that it is in power. situation.” disappearances and extrajudicial Hasina’s recent moves. cording to activists, while a few ers has warned it will have a Chinese state-owned Hydro- Hasina, who is Bangladesh’s Clashes have broken out in killings. Khan also called those There will be no direct or in- hundred remain. “costly catastrophic impact on lancang International Energy longest-ruling leader and is several parts of Bangladesh since allegations baseless direct control on mass media,@ Hun Sen strongly defend- the Mekong River’s fi sheries (51%) and Vietnam-based EVN seeking a third straight term in campaigning offi cially began last The BNP has close links to the the manifesto said. ed the controversial scheme and biodiversity”. International (10%).

Endangered rhino returned to Nepal An endangered rhino that was Critics cast doubt on credibility of Thai poll swept away by floods into India last year has been returned to its Reuters drafted constitution that was smaller centrist parties. party with four cabinet minis- Thaksin-linked political par- one for groups like the Future home in Nepal’s largest national Bangkok publicly ratifi ed in 2016, two Some critics say the regime has ters, the Palang Pracharat Party ties, known for their populist Forward Party, which are likely park, off icials said yesterday. years after the coup. tried to infl uence everything from (PPRP). social welfare policies like a gen- to fall into an anti-junta coalition Off icials found the rare rhino, a “The reason this (election) electoral boundaries in favour of At least two smaller parties erous rice subsidy scheme and appealing to millennials disillu- female aged around 20 years, hailand will soon hold its has a crooked feel more than pro-junta parties and hand-pick- have also declared their support universal healthcare, have won sioned with a semi-authoritarian near a protected area in the fi rst election since the mili- others is because it pretends to ing the entire upper house of par- for Prayuth. every general election since 2001. regime and years of instability. Indian state of Bihar on Sunday Ttary seized power in a 2014 be democratic, clean and fair liament, down to plans to re-de- One senior government of- Puea Thai faces increasing Some political groups remain and tranquilised it using a dart coup and many hope the vote will when it is completely rigged,” sign ballot papers to remove party fi cial admitted the aim of the pressure from the junta which unaligned with either side, the gun, said Bed Kumar Dhakal, chief return Southeast Asia’s second- Thitinan said. names and symbols attached to PPRP was to keep Prayuth in of- has launched legal cases against biggest of which is the Demo- warden of Chitwan National Park largest economy to democracy. The military government has candidates – which will be likely fi ce, saying, “or else everything members of the Shinawatra clan crat Party of former premier in south-central Nepal. The government lifted a ban denied accusations it has been to confuse voters. that this government has done and pro-Thaksin politicians, Abhisit Vejjajiva, who hopes to “Then, she was transported by a on political activity when it engineering a path to prolong its The Election Commission is would be wasted”. and threatened to disband the off er voters a third alternative. truck. After she was brought to announced the February 24 stay in power. expected to fi nalise ballot de- Thailand has lurched between party pending an Election Com- “The people get to decide the the shore of the Narayani River, election last week, but critics “If the government wants to sign later this week. civilian and military governments mission investigation. direction of the country in this we loaded her onto a wooden say the junta has taken several extend its power beyond this Members of major opposition for decades, and has among the Still, Puea Thai and several election,” Abhisit told Reuters boat and released her into the steps to remain in power after point then what would be the parties like the Shinawatra- highest number of coups of any off shoots remain optimistic last month. park,” he said. the vote, casting doubt on how point of holding an election? linked Puea Thai Party and the country – 13 successful ones – about their chances. No party is likely to mus- Some 35 wildlife experts and credible the poll will be. This is the roadmap that we new, millennial-oriented Future since 1932 when the kingdom be- “We have been under pres- ter enough votes on its own to hundreds of locals participated in “We have seen a systematic have promised to the people,” Forward Party are among hun- came a constitutional monarchy. sure like this before and we have control a parliamentary ma- the operation, he said. manipulation and distortion said government spokesman dreds of government critics who Since 2001, former prime prevailed so this time it is not so jority in the 500-seat lower Dhakal said it was the 11th rhino of the electoral process, of the Puttipong Punnakan. have been slapped with lawsuits minister Thaksin Shinawatra disheartening,” party spokes- house, pointing to a probable that they had brought back from will of the people, starting from But one or more military- under the computer crimes act. and his family’s allies have regu- woman Laddawan Wongsiwong scenario of a coalition govern- the Indian side of the border after the constitution,” said Thitinan backed parties are likely to be in Prime Minister Prayuth larly rallied the masses for sup- told Reuters. ment. Nominating a candidate the devastating floods of 2017 Pongsudhirak, a political ana- the fray, pitted against the anti- Chan-ocha has made his long- port and today remain a major “Puea Thai is not fi ghting for prime minister requires the swept them away. lyst at Chulalongkorn Univer- establishment populists led by term political ambitions clear, political force that irks the roy- alone against dictatorship.” support of the majority in both Plans are under way to bring two more sity, referring to the military- the Shinawatra family and some even going so far as to set up a alist establishment. The message is an attractive houses of parliament. rhinos back home, he said. (DPA) Gulf Times 24 Tuesday, December 18, 2018 ASIA/AUSTRALASIA Wife of detained China activist goes bald for justice

AFP lessness” of the country. “We who defended political activists answers as to why the authorities want to urge the Supreme Peo- under constant surveillance,” she years after what activists say was Beijing can go bald, but the country can- and victims of land seizures, dis- aren’t following due process. I ple’s Court to perform its super- said. The third woman was Yuan a co-ordinated attempt to quash not be lawless,” the four women appeared in the sweep aimed at want to know why they aren’t al- visory duties and investigate why Shanshan, wife of lawyer Xie China’s rights movement, most shouted outside the courthouse courtroom critics of Communist lowing the family’s lawyer to visit the second intermediate court in Yanyi. of those detained are in prison or he wife of a detained Chi- after they were prevented by po- authorities. Wang,” she said. Tianjin that is handling my hus- Xie, who defended practition- under house arrest. nese lawyer and three sup- lice from entering the premises. Charged in January 2016 with Li said over the past three band’s case is dragging its feet,” ers of the banned Falun Gong Some of them made public Tporters shaved their heads The Chinese words for being alleged “subversion of state pow- years she has submitted over 30 Li said. “The court has surpassed spiritual movement, was released confessions and were sentenced yesterday and attempted to sub- completely bald and having a er”, Wang is the only one of over freedom of information requests the time limit prescribed by law on bail pending trial in January in what their families say were mit to a Beijing court a petition state of lawlessness—“wufa”— 200 lawyers and activists arrest- to police, which have been sent for dealing with such cases,” she 2017. He has since shed light on either secret or scripted trials. protesting her husband’s indefi - are homonyms. ed in the so-called “709 crack- back unanswered. said. the torture of detained lawyers. Some of the cases have attracted nite detention. The four women Their husbands were all tar- down” who is yet to be tried or In April, Li attempted to march Liu Ermin, wife of rights ac- Wang Qiaoling, wife of lawyer Li international attention. German went to the Hongsecun People’s geted during a sweeping crack- released. “My husband is being 100km to a detention facility in tivist Zhai Yanmin, said she was Heping, also joined the protest. Chancellor Angela Merkel met Li High Court in south Beijing in a down on activists and lawyers on detained incommunicado with- neighbouring Tianjin to high- protesting her husband’s torture Li Heping was given a three-year Wenzu during a May visit to Bei- symbolic protest against what July 9, 2015. out a proper explanation,” his light her husband’s plight before while in detention. “His health suspended jail term in April 2017 jing — a rare show of solidarity they said highlighted the “law- Attorney Wang Quanzhang, wife Li Wenzu told AFP. “I want she was thwarted by police. “I has deteriorated and we are still for subverting state power. Three from a world leader.

Beached N Korea warns on US sanctions

AFP Seoul

uclear-armed North Ko- rea condemned the United NStates over its latest sanc- tions measures, warning Wash- ington’s approach could “block the path to denuclearisation on the Korean peninsula forever”. After a rapid diplomatic rapprochement this year that culminated in the Singapore summit in June between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and US President Donald Trump, progress has stalled in talks on Pyongyang’s nuclear arsenal. In Singapore the two men signed a vaguely-worded state- ment on denuclearisation, but have since disagreed on what it Korean People’s Army (KPA) soldiers carry flowers as they walk to pay their respects before the means. Now Pyongyang is de- statues of late North Korean leaders Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il during National Memorial Day on manding sanctions relief and Mansu Hill in Pyongyang. North Korea is marking the seventh anniversary of death of Kim Jong-il. condemning US insistence on its nuclear disarmament as “gang- acronym for the North’s offi cial year, with the US leader facing commemorative events across ster-like”, while Washington is name. In recent months high- criticism over the planned talks the country, the Rodong Sinmun pushing to maintain the measures ranking US politicians including since North Korea has taken newspaper, the mouthpiece of against the North until its “fi nal, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo few concrete steps to abandon the ruling Workers’ Party, pub- fully verifi ed denuclearisation”. had “almost every day slandered its nuclear and ballistic missile lished a lengthy editorial laud- Washington last week added the DPRK out of sheer malice”, programmes. ing Kim Jong-il’s eff orts to se- three senior North Korean of- added the Sunday statement by Pyongyang has long said it cure a “fi rm military assurance fi cials to those subject to sanc- the policy research director of needs the weapons to deter a pos- for peace and prosperity”. tions over human rights abuses, the foreign ministry’s Institute sible US invasion, and has spent A year earlier, the same including Choe Ryong Hae, who for American Studies. decades developing them, at a newspaper praised his “immor- has been considered a right- Using sanctions and pres- heavy cost in both resources and tal feat” in building a “Juche hand man to Kim. In a state- sure “to drive us into giving up the imposition of multiple sets of nuclear power state”. Its front ment carried by the offi cial nuclear weapons” would be UN, US, EU and other sanctions. page was dominated by a large KCNA news agency, the North the “greatest miscalculation”, But yesterday its nuclear as- picture of soldiers and offi cials said Trump had repeatedly ex- it added, and would “block the sets were conspicuous by their including Kim paying their re- pressed his desire to improve path to denuclearisation on the explicit absence from coverage spects at his father’s mauso- relations with Pyongyang, but Korean peninsula forever”. of the seventh anniversary of leum, a sprawling palace on the the US State Department was A second summit between the death of Kim’s father and outskirts of the capital. It was “bent on bringing the DPRK-US Trump and Kim — who ex- predecessor Kim Jong-il, on the leader’s fi rst public activ- relations back to the status of changed personal insults and whose watch Pyongyang carried ity in two weeks after visiting a last year which was marked by threats of war throughout 2017 out its fi rst two nuclear tests. shoe factory in Wonsan earlier An elephant seal rests on Mission Bay Beach in Auckland, New Zealand, exchanges of fi re”. DPRK is the — is expected to be held next Alongside extensive coverage of this month.

Actress accuses Geoffrey Rush of inappropriate behaviour

A female star of hit television Stone was 25 at the time, the Monday evening. In previews show Orange is the New Black article added. of the interview, Stone said, levelled misconduct allegations Rush’s lawyer was not “I immediately put myself at against actor Geoff rey Rush, immediately available for the bottom of the ladder. I Japan police probe cause the second Australian actress comment. The New York Times didn’t advocate for myself.” to accuse the Oscar-winner ran a statement from Rush The allegations coincide with of behaving inappropriately which said Stone’s allegations a defamation lawsuit Rush during an Australian theatre were “incorrect and in some has filed against News Corp’s production. In a New York instances have been taken Australian arm over articles it of explosion that hurt 42 Times article entitled ‘The Cost completely out of context”. published after another actress of Telling a #MeToo Story In “I sincerely and deeply regret if allegedly filed an internal AFP Australia’, actress Yael Stone I have caused her any distress,” complaint about his actions Tokyo said the Pirates of the Caribbean Rush said in the statement. during a production of King Lear actor danced “totally naked” “This, most certainly, has never in 2015 and 2016. in front of her in their dressing been my intention. When we Hearings in that defamation apanese police were investi- room in a “playful, clownish performed in The Diary Of action have concluded and gating yesterday the cause of manner” and used a mirror to A Madman eight years ago, I the judge is due to deliver Ja powerful blast that ripped watch her showering during a believe we engaged in a journey findings in early 2019. Media through a restaurant in the coun- Sydney production of The Diary as artistic comrades.” Stone’s commentators and academics try’s north overnight, injuring 42 of A Madman in 2010 and 2011. agent in Australia, Lisa Mann argue Australia’s tough people and damaging surround- “I believe that it was meant Creative Management, told defamation laws make it diff icult ing buildings. with a playful intention, but the Reuters the actor declined for people in the country to The explosion in the city of eff ect was that I felt there was to comment further and she speak out about allegations of Sapporo on Sunday night start- nowhere for me to feel safe stood by her public statements. sexual misconduct by public ed fi res and caused the partial and unobserved,” the New York The actress gave a television figures in the same way they collapse of some neighbouring Times quoted Stone as saying of interview to the Australian have in other jurisdictions. buildings, forcing dozens of resi- the shower allegation. Broadcasting Corp, to air on dents into shelters, offi cials said. The cause of the blast was still under investigation, police said, but there were reports that it may Lion Air to resume search for victims of Indonesia crash have been a gas leak. Some reports said fumes were leaking from spray Lion Air announced yesterday that filled some 200 body on Wednesday. Bad weather cans that had been collected for Firefighters carry on rescue works after an explosion at a restaurant in Sapporo, in the northern Hokkaido it was funding a multi-million bags. Following requests had delayed its trip from the disposal at a real estate company prefecture on Sunday. Dozens have been injured and no casualties have been reported. dollar search eff ort using a from victims’ families, Lion Malaysian port of Johor Baru. in the building. But investiga- Dutch company for the second said it had allocated 38bn News that the hunt for the tors were also looking into at least Sapporo fi re department offi cial fell, then the entire second fl oor happened around 8.30pm, and black box and missing victims rupiah ($2.6mn) to hire a wreckage would continue with nine propane tanks installed in the told AFP. collapsed and we were all stuck. the city government opened a from doomed flight JT-610. Dutch company to continue the new vessel was welcomed building for the various businesses Police said 42 people had been We managed to escape after eve- shelter to house dozens of people The Boeing 737 MAX vanished the search with its ship the by Evi Syamsul Komar, whose located inside. injured, but there were no fa- ryone kicked through the wall,” a whose homes were damaged. from radar 13 minutes after MPV Everest. “The search nephew was aboard the Numerous customers at the talities. Among the injured were person who was in the restaurant The explosion also caused a taking off from Jakarta on operation will focus on the flight. “We have heard many restaurant on the building’s fi rst several children, as well as a man at the time told Kyodo. temporary black-out, with 250 October 29, crashing into latest co-ordinates of the promises before, we don’t fl oor said they smelled gas at who suff ered burns and a woman The fi re from the blast spread buildings losing electricity, but waters off the north coast of crash... with an operational know who to trust anymore, the time of the explosion, Kyo- who jumped from the building to neighbouring buildings, and power was later restored, he said. Indonesia’s Java Island and time of 10 consecutive days in but our family is still waiting,” do News agency reported. The to escape, breaking her leg in the debris blasted out by the explo- The three tenants in the building killing all 189 people onboard. December,” the airline said in a Komar told AFP. blast produced large fl ames and process. sion shattered the windows of were poorly prepared for possible Authorities called off the grim statement. Dozens of family members sent plumes of smoke rising in “There was an enormous nearby apartments and restau- fi res, Sapporo fi re department task of identifying victims of The MPV Everest, a 142-m long whose loved ones were killed the night air, with witnesses de- sound, ‘bang’, then when I looked rants, according to local reports. offi cial Takashi Shida told AFP. the crash last month, with only vessel with state-of-the-art in the crash protested in scribing a terrifying boom. up at the sky it was fi lled with “We are investigating details “We instructed them to improve 125 people off icially identified remotely operated vehicles, Jakarta last week, demanding The two-storey wooden plumes of smoke,” an elderly about the damage together with these points during an on-site after tests on human remains will arrive near the crash site the search continue. building, which also housed a woman said in footage on public police at the scene,” the fi re de- inspection in October but they clinic, was seriously damaged, a broadcaster NHK. “The ceiling partment offi cial said. The blast had not made progress,” he said. Gulf Times Tuesday, December 18, 2018 25 BRITAIN Many pupils hungry and badly clothed, say teachers

Guardian News and Media ing and unsuitable clothes are to the social security system, often callous” austerity policies dren were going hungry com- The report also raised con- and paying for school trips as well London overwhelming pupils and cash- and its failure to address the in- driven by a political desire rather pared with three years ago, with cerns about in-work poverty and as travel to and from school. It even strapped schools. work poverty faced by one in fi ve than economic necessity. only 2% saying the situation had housing issues such as high rents, found some schools are providing Mary Bousted, joint general workers.” Bousted said yesterday’s re- got better. homelessness and insecurity, as household items, such as beds, bed eachers have warned that secretary of the union, described Schools have been hard hit by port backed up those findings z Two-thirds of teachers said well as fears about how the roll- linen and curtains. growing levels of poverty “a Dickensian picture” of pov- per-pupil funding cuts imple- and revealed the true cost of the more families were unable to af- out of universal credit would ex- But the union said that as Tacross England are having erty: “The government is out of mented by central government. government’s cuts. “The gov- ford adequate winter clothes or acerbate the problem. schools were already being hit a devastating eff ect on pupils, touch with the distressing new Three out of 10 maintained sec- ernment must stop hiding from shoes compared with three years It found that schools across by funding cuts it was becoming with more children going hungry reality of children’s daily lives: ondary schools now have budget the facts. Children can’t escape ago. England were doing what they more and more diffi cult to pro- and being unable to aff ord warm with what it means to live with- defi cits of nearly £500,000. the poverty trap without an ur- z Teachers reported schools could to help, off ering free break- vide this level of extra support. clothes this winter. out enough money for basics Last month the UN published gent change to national poli- having to provide children with fast clubs, running foodbanks, And it warned that these con- The fi ndings from the National such as food, shoes and adequate a devastating report on levels of cies.” coats as the cold weather kicked giving hampers to families and ditions were having a crippling Education Union paint a har- clothing. poverty in the UK, fi nding that The study was based on a poll in; others said pupils regularly providing meals during holidays. eff ect on the children’s capacity rowing picture of day-to-day “(It) has failed to recognise the the UK government had infl icted of 1,026 teachers in England. It came to school with holes in their In addition, it found schools to learn and grow, with increas- poverty in schools. Teachers say human cost of its cuts to schools “great misery” on its people with found: clothes and shoes that were held were providing pupils with sani- ing absences, behaviour prob- that a lack of food, poor hous- and other children’s services and “punitive, mean-spirited, and z Almost half said more chil- together with tape. tary items and Christmas presents, lems and feelings of shame. Amputations Disney event at 10 Downing Street soar in UK amid diabetes epidemic

Daily Mail astating. A minor amputation London can still involve losing a whole foot.” Unhealed ulcers and foot in- mputations caused by fections are the leading cause of diabetes have soared to diabetes related amputations, Arecord levels amid the with ulcers preceding more than obesity epidemic, offi cial fi gures 80% of operations. show. Howarth said: “Many diabetes The number of foot and leg amputations are avoidable, but amputations linked to the condi- the quality of foot care for people tion has risen almost 20% in only living with diabetes varies sig- four years, according to Public nifi cantly across England.” Health England. The fi gures show minor lower Some 169 operations are tak- limb amputations – defi ned as ing place every week – the equiv- those below the ankle, includ- alent of one an hour – up from ing the loss of toes – have risen 142 four years earlier. by 26.5% over the four years. A member of the Welsh Guards, a regiment of the Household Division’s Foot Guards, looks on as women dressed as characters from Disney films leave after attending an Diabetes UK, which analysed Major lower limb amputations event at 10 Downing Street in central London yesterday. the fi gures, found there were – defi ned as below the knee – 26,378 diabetes-related lower limb have risen by 4.1%. Total fi gures amputations over three years from for minor operations stand at 2014-15 to 2016-17. This was an 19,073 for 2014-15 to 2016-17, increase of 19.4% from 22,092 be- with 7,305 major procedures. tween 2010-11 and 2012-13. Diabetes is the most common Diabetes is the country’s fast- cause of lower limb amputa- est growing health crisis, with tion in the UK. Someone living the number of people suff ering with diabetes is 20 times more from the disease doubling over likely to have an amputation than Meghan’s dad asks Queen 20 years from 1.9mn to 3.7mn. someone without the condition. The problem is largely being Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes driven by obesity, with 90% of pa- cause poor circulation because tients suff ering from the type 2 form high blood sugar levels can dam- which is linked to lifestyle and diet. age blood vessels. This aff ects how But the charity said that even tak- blood fl ows to the feet and legs. for help to end family feud ing the scale of the problem into ac- Diabetes costs the NHS almost count, most amputations could be £9bn a year and one in six hospi- Reuters US TV soaps and sitcoms, who they could at some time build and I’ll get to see a little Meg- avoided if people with diabetes were tal beds at any one time is occu- London pulled out days beforehand after their relationship. han or a little Harry — that given the necessary care. pied by someone with the condi- undergoing heart surgery. He urged Meghan to “please would be very nice and I look They say many doctors miss tion. But if the number of cases Thomas Markle said he had reach out to me”. forward to that happening,” the early signs of problems with continues to rise, the cost of the eghan Markle’s father not had contact with his daugh- “I love my daughter very Markle said. “I think she’ll feet and hands, and patients disease will soar far higher. yesterday appealed to ter for months and that repeated much and she has to know make a great Mom.” themselves underestimate the An additional 5mn people in MQueen Elizabeth to in- text messages to her had gone that,” he said. “Just send me a Thomas Markle dismissed seriousness of foot care. the UK are living with pre- dia- tercede to end his estrangement unanswered. text.” reports that Meghan could at The NHS advises people with betes, or ‘borderline diabetes’, in from his daughter, the wife of When asked what message “All I can say is that I’m here times be rude. She was, he said, diabetes to see a doctor urgently which people have raised blood Prince Harry. he had for Queen Elizabeth, 92, she knows it and I’ve reached very polite as she had been if they notice a change of colour sugar but are not yet considered The former US actress, now Thomas Markle said: “I would out to her and I need her to raised on Hollywood stages. in their foot, extra swelling, red- to have full-blown type 2. the Duchess of Sussex, married appreciate anything she can do “All families, royal or reach back to me. I love her very When asked if she was a social ness or broken skin. Pre-diabetes is reversible with Harry, the Queen’s grandson and I would think that she would otherwise, are the same much,” Markle said. “This can’t climber, her father said: “She’s Dan Howarth, from Diabe- good diet and exercise – while type and sixth in line to the British want to resolve the family prob- and they should all be continue forever.” always been a very controlling tes UK, said: “The shocking 2 diabetes is considered incurable. throne, in a glittering ceremony lems.” together certainly around Harry, 34, and Meghan are person and that’s part of her number of lower limb amputa- Foot ulcers and amputations are at Windsor Castle in May. “All families, royal or oth- the holidays” expecting their fi rst child in the nature, but she has never been tions related to diabetes grows hugely costly for the NHS, with But the immediate build-up erwise, are the same and they spring of 2019. rude.” year on year. An amputation, at least £1 in every £140 of NHS to the wedding was overshad- should all be together certainly Markle said that Meghan, 37, “I am certainly hoping that A spokeswoman for Kensing- regardless of whether it’s de- spending going towards foot care owed by her father, Thomas, around the holidays,” Markle had not sent him a Christmas everything goes well and that ton Palace declined to comment fined as minor or major, is dev- for patients with diabetes. a former lighting director for added. card but that he was hopeful that they produce a beautiful baby on the interview. Hotel cancels booking Muddy bath Zoo thanks public for £120,000 donations for homeless people Guardian News and Media zoo wrote: “We’re totally over- London whelmed by the love and concern from everyone wanting to help in Guardian News and Media more than discrimination, espe- rough sleepers a roof over their any way they can. London cially after we was (sic) so open heads in time for Christmas. hester zoo has said it is “With such a huge number of about what it was for.” The cafe owner, who runs the “totally overwhelmed” you asking what you can do to The hotel, which is part of the Raise the Roof Hull homeless Cafter more than support, we’ve set up this page hotel chain has been Britannia group, said no one was project, said he had been hop- £120,000 was raised in dona- so anyone who wants to donate heavily criticised after it able to comment when contacted ing to “repeat the success of last tions following a devastating has the opportunity to do so. All Acancelled a charity book- by the Guardian yesterday morn- Christmas” when he booked 28 fire that killed rare species of the incredible supporters who’ve ing for 28 homeless people over ing. homeless people into an Ibis ho- birds and fish. given are providing us with a Christmas. tel for two nights. Members of the public helped fund which will help us continue A fundraiser had paid £1,092 “I asked for a reason and “After the stay they were so more than double the zoo’s with our mission to prevent ex- for the rough sleepers to stay in was told there isn’t one. grateful,” he told the BBC. “Some £60,000 target 48 hours after tinction. 14 twin rooms at the Britannia In my eyes this is nothing left staff gifts using the very little fl ames engulfed the £40mn in- “Thank you so much for your Royal hotel in Hull on Christmas more than discrimination, money they had, and one asked door forest. kindness. Our teams have been Eve and Christmas Day. especially aft er we was if he could vacuum the rooms Zookeepers have revealed how working around the clock and Carl Simpson, who raised the (sic) so open about what it to show his appreciation. This six orangutans, four gibbons and knowing how much support money through donations, said was for” means the world to homeless 18 macaques were saved by being there is behind them has made he told the hotel when he made people. Last year we had tears of tempted away from the fi re with this awful time a little easier to the booking that it was a goodwill The decision prompted out- joy from someone who stood on bananas. bear.” gesture for homeless people. rage online. Some users called for the edge of the Humber Bridge Some orangutans were seen Zookeepers said reptiles in- He said he was “absolutely a boycott of the Grade II-listed the night before. We have to wrapped in “comfort blankets” cluding extremely rare sunda gutted and very angry” when Victorian hotel, while others said break the news to people that the after being led from danger gharial crocodiles, whose popu- he received a call from a hotel they were “disgusted” and “ap- hotel has been cancelled.” when the monsoon forest went lation number in the wild is not manager informing him that the palled”. Simpson said he was yet to up in flames on Saturday morn- known, were not harmed in the booking had been cancelled. No Emma Hardy, the Labour MP receive a refund for the booking ing. blaze as they live on the other reason was given, Simpson said. for Hull West and Hessle, said so was unable to rebook another On Sunday the zoo said all side of the building. “I asked for a reason and was she would be willing to contact hotel. mammals had survived but that “The sundas spent all their told there isn’t one,” Simpson the hotel and “appeal to them to “Our Xmas hotel campaign some rare frogs, birds, fi sh and time underwater when it hap- wrote in a Facebook post that reconsider”. is now in serious doubt being so Hamish the polar bear plays in a frozen muddy pond in insects had perished. pened,” Mike Jordan, the animal has been shared more than 1,000 Simpson, 50, said he would close to Xmas we need a miracle,” the Highland Wildlife Park in Kincraig, Scotland. As the fundraising eff ort and plant director at Chester times. “In my eyes this is nothing now “need a miracle” to get the he wrote. topped £120,000 yesterday, the Zoo. Gulf Times 26 Tuesday, December 18, 2018 BRITAIN/IRELAND

LAW AND ORDER DATA CRIME ANNIVERSARY PEOPLE Supermarket evacuated Restaurant closures surge Serial rabbit-killer Lockerbie marks 30 years TV star denies fake over suspicious package as consumers cut spending terrorises village since deadly attack licence allegation

Police yesterday evacuated an Asda supermarket More than 1,000 restaurants went bust in A serial rabbit-killer who has been spreading terror Memorial services in the Scottish town of Motorbike racer and TV presenter Guy Martin in Chelmsford after reports that a suspicious pack- Britain in the year through September, a 24% around a village in Brittany has struck again. Police Lockerbie will this week mark the 30th an- has denied having a fake Irish driving licence. age had been found. The police said that they had rise on the previous 12 months as the industry were called after the bodies of seven rabbits were niversary of the bombing of a Pan Am jumbo Martin, 37, appeared at Lincoln Crown Court contacted a ministry of defence explosives unit to grapples with overcapacity as consumer spend- discovered slaughtered and dumped on the ground jet that killed 270 people. The jet exploded over earlier and pleaded not guilty to two charges. examine the package. “A cordon remains in place ing slows, accountants Moore Stephens said at a home in the village of Minihy-Treguier on the Lockerbie on route from London to New York He is charged with possession of a driving li- as a precaution and the store has been evacuated yesterday. Restaurant chains such as Carluc- Cotes-d’Armor coast. Shocked locals had hoped on December 21, 1988. All 259 people on board cence with intent to deceive and making a false as a precaution,” Essex Police said. Asda, which is cio’s, Prezzo, Jamie’s Italian and Strada have the killings, which reportedly began in March, had were killed. Another 11 people were killed on the statement by claiming he had an Irish licence. owned by US retail giant Walmart, referred to the closed outlets in the last year, and there are few stopped after several weeks passed without any ground. It is the deadliest ever militant attack in Martin, of Barnetby, Lincolnshire, was granted police statement when contacted. A young mum signs of any pick-up in demand. “Closures in the animals being killed. Off icers say the mystery killer Britain. Libyan intelligence officer Abdel Basset unconditional bail ahead of a trial on July 1, posted on Facebook she felt “sick” after rushing to restaurant sector are at epidemic levels now,” leaves few if any clues but has the same modus op- al-Megrahi was jailed for life in 2001 after being 2019. He denied possession of a document with pick up her child from the nursery next to Asda. The Jeremy Willmont, head of restructuring and erandi each time: he or she sneaks into private gar- found guilty of the attack, in association with intent to deceive between December 4, 2017, pre-school nursery was evacuated after the alert, insolvency at Moore Stephens, said in a state- dens at night, takes the rabbits from their hutches others who were never identified. Megrahi was and May 15, relating to “a document so closely with the military bomb squad later removing the ment. “The impact is visible on almost every and either stabs them with a needle or sharp object later released because he was suffering from resembling an Irish driving licence as to be suspect package. high street of a major town or city.” or crushes them underfoot. cancer. calculated to deceive”.

Guards attacked Premier sets at Irish farmhouse January date Guardian News and Media London

oliticians and local resi- dents have appealed for Pcalm after masked vigi- for MPs’ vote lantes attacked security guards at an Irish farmhouse whose inhabitants had earlier been for- cibly evicted at the behest of a bank. Under cover of darkness, doz- ens of men, some masked and on Brexit carrying baseball bats, sealed off a rural road in County Ros- Guardian News and Media from both Labour and a series “a constitutional crisis and the common with bales of hay and London of backbench MPs, who accused prime minister is its architect”. approached the farmhouse in May of pushing the vote back to May’s words had seemingly Falsk, near Strokestown, 85 use up time, and thus create a little eff ect on her unoffi cial coa- miles west of Dublin. he Commons will vote on false choice between her plan and lition partners, the DUP. They surrounded the build- Theresa May’s Brexit plan leaving without a deal. Nigel Dodds, the party’s dep- ing, attacked the occupants, Tin the week starting Janu- May insisted she had won some uty Westminster leader, said injuring eight, and set three ary 14, the prime minister said, as concessions at the Brussels sum- he was not reassured about the cars on fi re. A dog injured in the she once again urged MPs to back mit over the vexed issue of the backstop. “Will the prime min- melee was later put down. Three her proposals, saying the alter- Irish backstop, saying: “They do ister tell us exactly and precisely people were treated in hospital. native was no deal or no depar- not want to use this backstop. what she is actually asking for to The eviction and the violent ture from the EU. They want to agree the best pos- deliver on the key concerns about backlash have kindled memories Making a statement to MPs sible relationship with us. There is the legally-binding and indefi - of the Land League movement, following her diffi cult appear- no plot to keep us in the backstop.” nite nature of the backstop with which in the late 19th century ance at the EU summit in Brus- But, she added, today’s Cabi- no right for this country to exit it tried to stop the eviction of small sels last week, May announced net would discuss “the next on its own terms?” he said. tenant farmers, stoking resist- the date, immediately after phase” in no-deal planning, in Andrew Mitchell, the Conserv- ance to British rule. Labour promised to push for a case MPs rejected her plan. ative former international devel- Gardai are reportedly inves- no-confi dence vote in the prime She said: “But let us not risk opment secretary, prompted some tigating whether dissident re- minister if she failed to do so. the jobs, services and security of jeers from colleagues by asking if it publicans were involved in the May called off the scheduled the people we serve by turning might be “wiser to seek an exten- attack. vote last week amid near-unani- our backs on an agreement with sion to Article 50 rather than to There is also widespread mous predictions she would lose, our neighbours that honours the leave with no deal?” criticism of KBC Bank, which, and Jeremy Corbyn was due to an- referendum and provides for a Another Conservative ex- after obtaining a court order nounce the no-confi dence plan in smooth and orderly exit.” minister, former education sec- last Tuesday, dispatched the se- his response to her statement. May added: “Avoiding no deal retary Justine Greening, said: “At curity guards to evict Anthony, But May instead named a ten- is only possible if we can reach an the moment we have no deal and David and Geraldine McGann, tative date for both the resump- agreement or if we abandon Brexit no plan B. This is a constitutional siblings in their 50s and 60s, tion of the debate, halted after entirely.” Responding to May, Cor- crisis, because this house is not from the house they had lived in three of its fi ve scheduled days, byn dropped his call for a no-con- being allowed to express its will all their lives. and for a vote. fi dence vote, briefed in advance. on behalf of our communities Video of the eviction shows “It is now only just over 14 Instead, he accused May of seek- who around the country are tell- black-clad bailiff s scuffl ing with weeks until the UK leaves the EU, ing to make a false choice between ing us that they reject this deal.” several people. When one is and I know many members of this her plan and no deal. Other Tories such as former heard on the video being told he house are concerned that we need “The prime minister ran away Brexit secretary Dominic Raab should be ashamed to be Irish, to take a decision soon,” May said, from putting her deal before instead urged May to prepare for he replies that he is British. After prompting jeers from many MPs. parliament because even her a no-deal departure, which he the McGanns were ousted, the The leader of the Commons, own Cabinet has doubts and she said would cause only “short- bailiff s occupied the property. Andrea Leadsom, would an- herself admits parliament won’t term disruption”. The video went viral, prompt- nounce the timetable for the back it,” he said. Some interventions expressed ing anger on social media and in weeks after the Christmas re- “So we are left edging closer to open anger at the prime minis- the Dail. cess, which begins on Thursday the March 29 deadline without a ter’s tactics. Labour’s Liz Ken- Michael Fitzmaurice, an in- “in the usual way”, May said. deal and without even an agreed dall said: “Let me tell the prime dependent Dail member for the She added: “But I can confi rm plan in Cabinet to get a deal. The minister what is irresponsible: Roscommon-Galway constitu- now that we intend to return to prime minister has cynically run delaying a vote on her agreement ency, complained that the secu- the meaningful vote debate in the down the clock trying to ma- not because she’s going to get rity staff “pegged three people week commencing January 7, and noeuvre parliament into a choice any changes to it but because she out of a house, two of them eld- hold the vote the following week.” between two unacceptable out- wants to run down the clock and erly, and left them on the side of Prime Minister Theresa May leaves from 10 Downing Street in central London before heading to the The announcement nonethe- comes: her deal and no deal.” try and intimidate MPs into sup- the road”. House of Commons to make a statement on her attendance at last week’s EU summit. less prompted angry responses It was, the Labour leader said, porting it, to avoid no deal.”

Garden bridge donors plan Walk on the beach MPs ‘misled about to sue over failed scheme rail project cost’ Guardian News and Media Thornton said HS2’s manage- London ment ignored warnings about Guardian News and Media is estimated at £46mn. was poured down the drain by the faulty estimates, before he London Private donors are owed about a bunch of incompetents and I left his post. Another whistle- £7mn and, according to Archi- feel conned,” said Michael Gross, he decision to approve blower told Panorama that HS2 tects’ Journal, the trust faces a the owner of Sydney and London the HS2 high-speed rail was using higher estimates about he charity behind Lon- potential class action suit from Properties. Tproject was based on cost the cost of land than MPs had don’s garden bridge those who fear the money will Gross was critical of the char- estimates that were hundreds when they voted to approve the Tproject faces being sued not be returned in full. ity’s trustees and Boris Johnson, of millions of pounds too low, a project. by wealthy donors who fear their The Nottingham-based law who as London mayor was sup- former senior staff member of HS2 denied it misled parlia- money might not be returned fi rm Freeths told the publication portive of the garden bridge. the company has claimed. ment and insisted it followed the even after the much-criticised it was acting for one donor, who Johnson has struggled to defend Doug Thornton told the correct procedures for updating scheme collapsed, with a loss to had not been named. Freeths said decisions he made, which critics BBC’s Panorama programme MPs on the changing budget. taxpayers of almost £50mn. the donor gave £250,000 to have say contributed to the scale of the company had misled MPs Last week, Sir Terry Morgan, One individual donor claimed a bench on the bridge named af- public losses. about a project whose budget the chairman of both Crossrail the money he gave to the Garden ter them and had yet to receive “Boris has got a big mouth but spiralled from an original esti- and Hs2, resigned amid anger Bridge Trust had been “poured the money back. The fi rm in- he doesn’t deliver,” Gross said. mate of £34bn to £56bn amid about cost overruns of the two down the drain by a bunch of in- tends to launch a class action on “There should be a parliamenta- leaked Treasury worries that the projects. competents”, and that he wanted behalf of them, and other donors. ry inquiry and a criminal inquiry eventual cost will be more than The HS2 chief executive, Mark it returned. Christopher Clayton, a solicitor as well – the amount of money £100bn. Thurston, told Panorama: “I’m While £60mn in public funds at Freeths, told Architects’ Journal lost demands it.” Thornton said he was “ap- not worried about overspending. was provided for the planned he understood donations were made The Garden Bridge Trust, palled” that inaccurate estimates I’m confi dent we’ve got a budget tree-fi lled link across the on the basis they would be returned which recently published its lat- about purchasing land needed we can stand by.” Thames, the rest was supposed if the project did not take place. est accounts, is being wound up for the project could be put for- The government has vowed to to have been given by corporate “There are a number of both private and, as part of the process, seeks ward in a “such a loose and slap- press on with HS2 despite fears and individual private donations. and corporate donors who gener- £5.1mn in fi nal funding from dash fashion”. about rising costs. The project collapsed in ac- ously donated signifi cant sums of Transport for London. “There was a gap of almost Last week, answering ques- rimony last year without con- money on the same basis,” he said. A spokeswoman for the trust 100% in terms of the wrong tions on behalf of the govern- struction work beginning, after The publication also spoke to said it had “taken great care to numbers of properties that the ment in the House of Lords, Lord the trust in charge of the bridge a commercial property developer ensure that the funds it has re- organisation had not budgeted Young acknowledged the project was unable to raise suffi cient who gave £50,000 to the project ceived have been correctly ap- A man walks along the coast in front of beach huts in for,” he told the programme, was expensive but said phase one funds or complete planning ap- and who was highly critical of the plied in accordance with the legal Walton-on-the-Naze, Britain, yesterday. which was broadcast yesterday funding had not increased since provals. The loss of public money way it was handled. “The money advice it has received.” night. 2015. Gulf Times Tuesday, December 18, 2018 27 EUROPE

Canada considers cancelling Macron calls off trip to Saudi arms deal over focus on ‘yellow vests’ Khashoggi DPA – but has since raised a wider mentioned as a possible issue for 2019 to 3.2% of gross domestic Paris range of demands including the consultation earlier in the product (GDP), the premier said higher wages, tax cuts, and a week. – over the EU’s offi cial ceiling of AFP constitutional amendment to Some on the French left react- 3%, which Macron had previ- Montreal rench President Em- allow voters to initiate referen- ed with dismay after the presi- ously insisted on sticking to. manuel Macron has called dums on policy issues. dent raised the issue in the con- France got its defi cit below 3% Foff a planned visit to the Thousands of protesters took text of France’s national identity. last year for the fi rst time since anada is looking into south of France in order to kick- to the streets again across France Macron’s remarks in Paris before the global economic cri- ways to cancel a giant start a major public consultation on Saturday. yesterday came after Prime sis of 2008. C2014 weapons deal with he has promised in response to Their numbers were, how- Minister Edouard Philippe con- As a result, in June, the EU Saudi Arabia, Prime Minister the Yellow Vest protest move- ever, sharply down on previous fi rmed on Sunday evening that ended a disciplinary procedure Justin Trudeau said on Sunday, ment. weeks, according to offi cials. the total cost of the immedi- over excessive defi cits launched as criticism mounts over the He told reporters in Paris that In Paris, protests were largely ate concessions would be about against Paris in 2009. kingdom’s role in the murder of he had cancelled today’s visit to calm, after violent clashes with €10bn. However, French ministers journalist Jamal Khashoggi and Biarritz, where he was expected police on previous Saturdays. A series of tax measures and have said the defi cit hike will be the Riyadh-led war in Yemen. to discuss the G7 summit that Macron has also promised cuts to public spending would for one year only, as next year’s Trudeau had earlier said that France will host there next year, measures to meet protesters’ recoup about €4bn of that cost, defi cit fi gure includes 0.9 per- it would be “extremely diffi cult” in order to hold talks with min- more immediate concerns, in- Philippe told business newspa- centage points attributable to to withdraw from the contract, isters about the planned public cluding a €100-per-month per Les Echos. a one-off change in employers’ signed by the previous conserv- consultation. ($113) pay rise for low-paid The government intended social charges. ative administration, “without The president said that it was workers and tax breaks on over- to cut €1bn to €1.5bn of pub- Philippe rejected any com- Canadians paying exorbitant a “normal re-prioritisation of time payments, end of year bo- lic spending, as well as saving parison with neighbouring Italy, penalties”. my agenda” as he wanted to “fi - nuses and some pensions. €1.8bn by delaying planned cuts whose populist government However, as evidence emerged nalise and clarify the rules” for The government said last to corporate taxes, Philippe said. recently backed down in a row of direct Saudi involvement in the process by tomorrow. week that the national consul- Another €500mn would come with the European Commission Khashoggi’s murder on October Protesters wearing yellow tation would focus on four main from a new tax on major dig- over plans to raise its defi cit to Macron: wants to ‘finalise and clarify the rules’ for the public 2, Canada in late November an- safety bibs have taken to streets areas, including housing, heat- ital economy fi rms, the premier 2.4% in an expansionary budget. consultation. nounced sanctions against 17 and blocked roads and rounda- ing and transport costs; fairer said, confi rming that France Italy’s public debt, at more Saudi nationals linked to killing. bouts around France since mid- and simpler taxation; democ- planned to put its own tax in than 130% of GDP, is much “Our plans are very consist- modernising the country with “The murder of a journalist November. racy and citizenship; and the re- place ahead of any agreement at higher than France’s, at just ent, unlike the ideas proposed by important reforms such as is absolutely unacceptable and The largely leaderless move- organisation of public services. European level. under 100%, although both are the various parties in the Italian [those to] unemployment in- that’s why Canada from the very ment initially opposed planned The list did not include im- The overall impact would well over the EU target fi gure of government,” Philippe argued. surance, the public service and beginning had been demanding fuel tax rises – now cancelled migration, which Macron had bring France’s budget defi cit in 60%. “We are going to continue pensions.” answers and solutions on that,” Trudeau said Sunday in an in- terview with CTV. “We inherited actually a C$15bn contract signed by (former prime minister) Stephen Bomb explosion at Athens Harper to export light-ar- moured vehicles to Saudi Ara- bia,” he said. “We are engaged with the export permits to try headquarters of media group and see if there is a way of no longer exporting these vehicles to Saudi Arabia.” AFP Tsipras condemned the blast as building, which contains the of- The penalty for breaking the Athens “an attack on democracy” while fi ces of Skai, a group owned by contract could exceed C$1bn, his administration decried an the Alafouzos shipping family, Trudeau said in an interview act of “terrorism”. as well as those of Kathimerini, a with CBC Radio in October. bomb blast early yester- In a statement, Tsipras centre-right daily critical of the He has been criticised by po- day damaged a building slammed what he termed “an government. litical opponents and Human Ain Athens housing the attack on democracy by cow- Police said that the bomb was Rights activists for failing to headquarters of Greece’s private ardly and dark forces”, vowing placed in a narrow street near a cancel the contract. radio and television network that “they will not realise their fence around the building and London, Ontario-based man- Skai, but there were no casual- goal of terrorising and disorien- smashed windows on the facade. ufacturer General Dynamic Land ties, police said. tating”. Skai said in a statement the Systems Canada inked the deal Anti-terrorist police opened He further off ered his “sincere blast caused “major damage”. in 2014 to supply 928 LAV 6 ar- an investigation into the attack support to journalists and all “The terrorist attack will not moured personnel carriers to that focused on Greek extremist those who work at the station” discourage us,” it said, accusing A man looks out from a broken window at the Greek Skai TV building in Athens. Saudi Arabia. groups. targeted. the government of failing to do The deal, worth $11.5bn, was Attacks targeting broadcast- The homemade device went enough to protect the media de- the site with police. bombing bore the hallmarks of bombing outside the Athens the largest arms deal in Cana- ing groups, public companies or off around 2.30am (0030 GMT), spite “recurrent threats against “Democracy is not threat- an attack by the far-left Popular Court of Appeal in December dian history. embassies have been frequent in 45 minutes after an anonymous the station”. ened,” she said, while warning Fighters Group (OLA). 2017, which caused extensive However, the contract was Greece in recent years, and have telephone warning to another Government spokesman against those who “leave the way It has previously claimed to be material damage. scaled back earlier this year, been blamed on anarchist or far- TV network. Dimitris Tzanakopoulos rejected open to terrorism or fascism”. behind at least fi ve other similar Last month, police defused a amid protests, to 742, dropping left groups. Police cordoned off the neigh- the accusation. There were no claims of re- blasts, none causing fatalities, bomb outside the Athens home heavy assault versions equipped The coalition government led bourhood in the Athens suburb The minister for civil protec- sponsibility by late afternoon since its formation in 2013. of a prosecutor following two with cannons that activists and by leftist Prime Minister Alexis of Neo Phaliro and evacuated the tion, Olga Gerovassili, visited but some analysts said the The group last claimed a telephoned warnings. opposition politicians warned could be used against civilians and to help Riyadh wage war in Yemen. Khashoggi, a US resident who wrote for the Washington Post Hungarians stage protest at state television building and had been a critic of Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman, was lured to the Saudi consulate Reuters answer to the government. ent public media and courts and in Istanbul, killed and dismem- Budapest “I hope we will see more pro- for Hungary to join the European bered, according to Turkish of- tests with several thousands of Union’s prosecutors offi ce. fi cials. people and I can only help by A Fidesz spokesman criticised After lengthy denials, Saudi bout 2,000 Hungarians coming here.” the lawmakers for going to the authorities admitted responsi- protested yesterday at the Sunday’s march, dubbed state TV building and said they bility for the murder and said 21 Astate television building “Merry Xmas Mr. Prime Min- were abusing their parliamenta- people had been taken into cus- to demand independent public ister”, in eff ect united weakened ry powers by seeking to “meddle tody. media and courts in the latest opposition groups in action in editorial operations”. However, a US Central Intel- gathering uniting a fragmented against Orban for the fi rst time Independent lawmaker Ber- ligence Agency (CIA) analysis opposition in action against since 2010 when he came to nadett Szel posted video foot- leaked to the US media went fur- right-wing Prime Minister power. age on her Facebook page that ther, pointing the fi nger at the Viktor Orban. The protests pose no im- showed the security guards tus- crown prince, Saudi Arabia’s de Protesters shouted “Dirty mediate threat to Orban, who sling with her fellow lawmaker facto ruler. Fidesz” referring to Orban’s rul- has strong core support which Akos Hadhazy and pushing him In October, German Chancel- ing party, and held up banners helped him return to power in out of the building. lor Angela Merkel said that her like “TV has lost its public tel- April. Szel said she had also been country would suspend arms evision character”, saying that However, Peter Kreko, direc- ejected. sales to Saudi Arabia over the public TV had become a govern- tor of the think tank, Political Szel read out the petition to murder. ment mouthpiece. Capital, said the government’s the demonstrators. Relations between Canada They faced hundreds of po- reaction to the protests showed Fidesz said on Saturday, in and the Saudi kingdom have lice. “short-sighted arrogance”. reaction to the protests, that it been in crisis in the past few Earlier, security guards eject- He added: “This is stepping was “increasingly obvious that months. ed two independent lawmakers People hold up their cellphones during a protest outside the headquarters of the Hungarian state up one level in the regime’s au- criminals have been part of the Riyadh expelled Ottawa’s am- from the building after they tried television in Budapest. thoritarian logic.” street riots organised by the So- bassador and severed all trade to get into a studio to read out a In the petition, the opposi- ros-network”. and investment ties in August petition against what they say is of parliament who spent the 10,000 people on the streets. Gabor Hacsi, 35, a lawyer. tion lawmakers backed the pro- A spokesperson for George to protest Canada’s rigorous de- an authoritarian regime. night in the building rallying “I have mainly come to defend He referred to a law passed test in calling for the withdrawal Soros’s Open Society Founda- mands that jailed human rights The two lawmakers were against Orban’s policies, after the independent courts,” said last week that would set up new of a new labour law that boosts tions said that Soros had not activists be released. among about a dozen members a protest on Sunday that saw one of the protesters at state TV, administrative courts that will overtime hours, for independ- stoked the protests. Russia to move soldiers into new barracks on disputed islands

Reuters ministry of defence, said that low them to sign a World War II islands at the end of World War Tokyo says it is concerned by lands if it ever got any of them others on the island of Kunashir Moscow Moscow planned to shift troops peace treaty, something the disa- II, and Moscow and Tokyo both what it regards as an unhelp- back and that Moscow could only (Kunashiri in Japan), on Decem- into four housing complexes on greement over the Pacifi c islands claim sovereignty over them. ful Russian military build-up on countenance a deal if it received ber 25. two of the four disputed islands, has long prevented. Diplomats on both sides have the islands – which has included a cast-iron guarantee that ruled It said troops were moved into ussia said yesterday that it known as the Southern Kurils in There was no immediate reac- spoken of the possibility of reviv- warplane, missile defence and out such a scenario. two such similar facilities last had built new barracks for Russia and the Northern Territo- tion from Japan. ing a Soviet-era draft agreement other deployments. In the meantime, Moscow is year with three more barracks Rtroops on a disputed chain ries in Japan, next week. Tokyo said in July that it had that envisaged returning two of Moscow, meanwhile, says it is fortifying the islands. planned for 2019. of islands near Japan and would The news came after the asked Russia to reduce its mili- the four islands as part of a deal. perturbed by Japan’s roll-out of The defence ministry said yes- “Also on both islands we have build more facilities for armoured Kremlin said Japanese Prime tary activity on the islands, a plea President Vladimir Putin and the Aegis Ashore US missile sys- terday that it wanted troops and modern and heated storage facil- vehicles, a move likely to anger Minister Shinzo Abe might visit Moscow dismissed as unhelp- Abe have held numerous face- tem. their families to move into the ities for weapons and armoured Tokyo after it urged Moscow to Russia on January 21 as the two ful megaphone diplomacy at the to-face meetings to try to make Russian politicians say they two new housing complexes on vehicles,” the ministry said in reduce its military activity there. countries step up a push to de- time. progress. fear Japan might agree to deploy one of the four islands, Iturup a statement, adding that more The announcement, from the fuse the territorial dispute to al- Soviet forces seized the four Tensions have remained high. US missile facilities on the is- (Etorofu in Japan), and into two such facilities were planned. Gulf Times 28 Tuesday, December 18, 2018 INDIA

TRAGEDY TECHNOLOGY RELIGION POLITICS CONTROVERSY Hospital fire kills six, Google Maps introduces Transgenders allowed to Kerala CM is arrogant, Adityanath slams Congress 145 rescued in Mumbai auto-rickshaw feature pray at Sabarimala temple says NSS president over AgustaWestland deal

At least six people died and more than 145 were Google yesterday introduced a new feature Four transgenders, who were denied permission Kerala’s influential Nair Service Society (NSS) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath rescued after a fire ripped through a government where commuters in Delhi will be able to see to visit the Sabarimala temple a day ago, were yesterday called Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan yesterday accused the Congress of playing hospital in Mumbai yesterday, off icials said. auto rickshaws under the “public transport” yesterday allowed to pray at the shrine, one “arrogant” but said they have no disagreement with the country’s security and said that the The fire broke out on the fourth floor of the mode in Maps. By selecting the mode, of them said. Ananya said they approached a with the state government except on the opposition party was shying away from a Employees State Insurance Corporation Hospital commuters will be able to view suggested Kerala High Court-appointed police off icial in the Sabarimala issue. NSS president G Sukumaran debate in parliament on the AgustaWestland in the suburb of Marol, filling the five-storey routes for the ride as well as the estimated morning and insisted that they wanted to visit Nair launched a sharp attack on the CPM leader. and other defence deals signed during the structure with smoke. “Six people have died,” auto-rickshaw fares, making it easier for them the shrine wearing saris. Ananya said they were “Pinarayi Vijayan does not see people, the way a chief Congress-led United Progressive Alliance a police off icial said. “Almost all patients have to plan their trips, Google said in a statement. happy that their eff orts had paid off . On Sunday, minister should see. He does not agree with anyone. (UPA) regime. Addressing a press conference been rescued. Operations are still on and the The new feature can be found within the the four-member transgender team, who He is arrogant,” Nair said in Thiruvananthapuram. in Guwahati, Adityanath said the Congress fire brigade is checking whether anyone is still “public transport” and “cab” modes in Google came from Ernakulam, was stopped by police Over the years the NSS has often taken an equidistant was responsible for delaying the Rafale deal trapped inside,” the off icial added. Mumbai Maps and is based on the expected trip route at Erumely, the first base camp of the temple policy politically. Yesterday, Nair said if there was a which was initiated in 2007. “Post Kargil Mayor Vishwanath Mahadeshwar said that the and the official fare model shared by the town. The police first told them that if they need, they might take a position during the upcoming war, the country’s security forces needed cause of the fire was not immediately known and Delhi Traffic Police. Google, however, did not change into men’s attire, they would be allowed. Lok Sabha polls. NSS and Vijayan have not had the modernisation and the induction of the 4th would be investigated. One fireman was injured say whether the feature, currently available However, later the police refused to let them best of relations since Sabarimala town witnessed and 5th generation fighter jets. However, the during operations and patients were being in Google Maps app for Android devices, visit the shrine. Ananya said they were subjected protests by Hindu groups following the September 28 UPA regime kept the deal on hold from 2007 moved to a nearby hospital, the police off icial will be rolled out to other cities in the near to ridicules, threats and asked to return by the Supreme Court verdict allowing women of all ages to to 2014, jeopardising the country’s security,” added. future. police. enter the temple. he said.

Legislators are servants, not slaves Sajjan Kumar of people, says court jailed for life

IANS Panaji

egislators are servants and over bloody not slaves of people, the LPanaji bench of the Bom- bay High Court said yesterday. It gave the ruling while dis- missing a petition fi led last month by an ally of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, which anti-Sikh riots sought disqualifi cation of two former Congress legislators who Agencies years. But we are not satisfi ed, quit their party to join the BJP in New Delhi other guilty Congress leaders October this year. must also be punished,” Nirpreet While imposing a cost of Kaur told reporters. Rs100,000 on the petitioner, he Delhi High Court yes- “I heard Sajjan Kumar giving the Maharashtrawadi Goman- terday jailed for life Con- speeches and inciting mobs that tak Party, Justices R M Borde Tgress leader Sajjan Kumar not a single Sikh behind Gandhi’s and Prithviraj Chavan expressed for his role in anti-Sikh riots that killing be left alive. There were their displeasure at political erupted after the 1984 murder of false cases lodged against me. My parties burdening courts with the then prime minister Indira mother also wasn’t spared and petitions for political objectives. Gandhi and killed nearly 3,000 had to spend three years in jail. My The court said there was people. life became hell since then”. nothing in the constitution The ruling Bharatiya Janata The court ordered him to sur- which takes away the right of an Party hailed the conviction of Sajjan Kumar: jailed render by December 31. elected member to resign from the former MP as a confi rmation Kumar, who pleaded not his seat. of justice, just months before a ties are still being felt,” the court guilty, was not available for “Denial of such a right to an general election when it will face observed in its 207-page order, comment. elected member would be de- off against the Congress. referring to the mass killings as a His lawyers said they would structive of the principles of Anti-Sikh riots broke out in “genocide” and “crimes against appeal the conviction in the Su- democracy. A legislator is a serv- Delhi after the assassination of humanity”. preme Court. ant, not a slave of the people. It Gandhi by her Sikh bodyguards Although many witnesses and Gandhi’s assassination was in is true that frequent resigna- in 1984. survivors testifi ed that Con- revenge for her decision to send tions and frequent by-elections Most of those killed in one of gress leaders incited mobs and the army in against Sikh sepa- are a drain on the fi nances of the India’s bloodiest outbreaks of ri- targeted Sikhs, Kumar is the the ratist militants holed up in the state and may prove irksome,” oting were Sikhs. fi rst top leader from the party to Golden Temple - Sikhism’s holi- the court said. At the time, Congress sup- have been convicted in the over est shrine - in the northern city “But that is no reason to com- porters were widely suspected of three-decade long case. of Amritsar. pel an elected member who has egging on the mobs. “In the summer of 1947, dur- Hundreds of people were killed no desire to continue his mem- The court found Kumar, 73, ing the partition of India the in the army assault, including the bership to continue as such. A guilty in the killing of fi ve mem- country witnessed horrifi c mass leader of Sikh militants, and the person, after getting elected, bers of a family in the Indian capi- crimes where hundreds of thou- temple was badly damaged. may, for a variety of reasons, tal and sentenced him to jail “for sands civilians were massacred. The court convicted the desire not to continue as a mem- the remainder of his natural life,” Thirty-seven years later, the Congress leader under various ber,” the court said. lawyer H S Phoolka, who repre- country was again witness to an- counts of Indian Penal Code In its petition last month, the sented the victims, told reporters. other enormous human tragedy,” (IPC) including murder, criminal MGP sought the disqualifi ca- The judges cancelled a lower the judges said. conspiracy, delivering provoca- tion of now former Congress court ruling from 2013 which ac- “The criminals enjoyed politi- tive speeches instigating vio- legislators Subhash Shirodkar quitted Kumar of charges of murder cal patronage and were aided by lence against Sikhs, mischief by and Dayanand Sopte and setting and instigating mobs in the riots. an indiff erent law enforcement fi re or explosive substance with aside Speaker Pramod Sawant’s “It is important to assure agency,” the court noted, adding intent to destroy house and in- acceptance of their resignations those countless victims waiting there was an “abject police fail- juring or defi ling place of wor- claiming the two had been lured patiently that despite the chal- ure” in the cases. ship with intent to insult the re- by the BJP using unfair means. lenges, truth will prevail and It said the trial court had erred ligion of any class. The petition also said that justice will be done,” the court in acquitting Sajjan Kumar as he The Central Bureau of In- the two had been lured into a said in its judgement, referring instigated the mobs. vestigation had fi led an appeal switch-over in order to ensure to Jagdish Kaur, whose husband, Jagdish Kaur and Nirpreet challenging the acquittal of Ku- that the Congress – which after sons and three cousins were the Kaur, whose father was burnt mar and said that the trial court the defection has 14 legislators, fi ve killed and who fought for ac- alive, wept as the verdict was “erred in acquitting Sajjan Ku- the same number as the BJP – People burn placards and eff igies of Congress Party leaders Sajjan Kumar and Kamal Nath during a tion against Kumar. announced. mar as it was he who had insti- cannot claim a majority and a protest in New Delhi yesterday. “The aftershocks of those atroci- “I have got justice after 34 gated the mob during the riots”. right to form a government. Ailing Parrikar’s inspection Hopes fade for visit not a stunt, says BJP trapped miners Agencies with locals illegally extracting Shillong coal using dangerous so-called IANS public declaration of his health Parrikar’s private residence de- rat hole mines. Panaji status. manding a meeting with him last This involves digging pits on On Sunday, images of Parri- month, no leader from that party ope has all but faded for the side of hills and then bur- kar wearing medical parapher- would be allowed to meet the 13 miners trapped deep rowing small horizontal tunnels he Bharatiya Janata Party nalia – a tube running from the chief minister henceforth. Hunderground four days into the hill to reach a coal seam. yesterday rejected the nasal passage into the stom- The BJP leader also said that ago when an illegal “rat hole” Earlier this month, anti- Tcriticism that ailing Goa ach – while inspecting a bridge Parrikar’s recovery was for peo- coal pit fl ooded in remote north- mining activist Agnes Kharshi- Chief Minister Manohar Par- near Panaji, came under both ple to see and that the chief min- eastern India. ing was attacked by alleged coal rikar’s visit to an under-con- praise from his supporters as ister was fi t to govern the coastal Emergency crews have been miners in the the same district. struction bridge near Panaji was well as criticism from several state. pumping water from the site “The incident where 13 miners a stunt. political leaders. Meanwhile Goa Congress since the accident last Thurs- have been trapped in mines in Goa BJP leader Sadanand Shet Tanavde, addressing a press president Girish Chodankar has day in mineral-rich Meghalaya East Jaintia Hills is really unfor- Tanavde said Congress leaders conference at the party’s state said the former defence minister state, but no contact has been tunate,” Meghalaya Chief Minis- will not be allowed to meet Par- headquarters in Panaji, also must unfurl the tri-colour on the made with the workers believed ter Conrad Sangma said. rikar henceforth because of the said that Parrikar wished to occasion of Goa Liberation Day trapped below, police say. “We’re very concerned about “inhuman politics” played by conduct the inspection on his tomorrow. Authorities have declined to the individuals and their lives. them over his health. birthday (December 13), but Chodankar said Parrikar comment on their fate, but con- NRDF (National Disaster Re- “There is no question of a “for some reason, that could should show the “same spirit” cede the operation was fraught sponse Force), district adminis- stunt. If we had to do a stunt, it not happen”. tomorrow as shown on Sunday with diffi culty. tration and the police are doing could have been done 15 days or Parrikar is suff ering from ad- while inspecting the bridge and “We can’t say anything now as all they can to save the lives of a month ago... Court matter is vanced pancreatic cancer and honour Goa’s Liberation.”Will rescue operations are still on,” said these miners,” he added. diff erent and this is diff erent,” has been in and out of hospitals appreciate @goacm eff ort to Sylvester Nongtnger, local police This is not the fi rst time that Tanavde told reporters. in Goa, Mumbai, New York and personally visit & inspect the superintendent in the area, said. labourers engaged in illegal min- He was asked if Parrikar’s Delhi since February. bridge, if the same spirit is dis- “The coal pit is very deep, some ing of coal have been trapped in a surprise appearance on Sun- The opposition has demanded played on 19 Dec to unfurl our 350ft. We are trying our best.” mine, a police offi cer said. day was a “stunt” carried out his resignation due to his pro- tri-colour & deliver Liberation- A court had banned coal min- At least 15 miners were killed because of a petition before longed ill-health. Day address & honour Goa’s ing in the area in 2014 after envi- after they were trapped inside a the Panaji bench of the Bombay Tanavde said that due to the Liberation. To unfurl tricolour ronmental activists complained fl ooded rat hole mine elsewhere High Court, which has sought “inhuman” and “insensitive” is much easier & honourable job Emergency workers gather around a crane after 13 miners were it was responsible for severe wa- in Meghalaya in 2012. formal medical examination of politics played by the Congress, than visiting bridge,” Chodankar trapped in an illegal coal mine in Ksan village in Meghalaya’s East ter pollution. Their bodies were never re- the ailing chief minister and which had staged a march on tweeted. Jaintia Hills district. But the practice continues covered. Gulf Times Tuesday, December 18, 2018 29 INDIA

Slavery victims pushing for the passage of anti-traffi cking bill

Reuters by parliament in the coming when she was a teenager, told the were women and girls, the latest humanity. This must stop,” said lead to the latter being held in have sent letters to state MPs, New Delhi/ Chennai months. Thomson Reuters Foundation on government data shows. Akhilesh Prasad Singh, a Rajya rehabilitation shelters against another 12,000 have signed or The Traffi cking of Persons Bill condition of anonymity. The proposed law prioritises Sabha MP from the main oppo- their will. put their thumbprints on a pe- was passed by the Lok Sabha, the “It is high time traffi ckers survivors’ needs and prevents sition Congress Party. Survivors and activists are de- tition – each accompanied with rom letters and postcard lower house of parliament, in pay for their crimes, they must victims, such as those found in “All parties should discuss manding that the bill be debated a personal story of entrapment, campaigns to meetings July and is expected to be tabled be convicted and punished,” brothel raids, from being ar- this bill in this winter session in the current session to iron out torture and despair – to press Fwith lawmakers, mod- in the upper house Rajya Sabha the mother-of-one, who is part rested and jailed like traffi ckers, and pass it with necessary provi- any such diff erences, and pave parties to greenlight the bill. ern slavery victims across India in the ongoing session that ends of the survivors’ organisation who would face prison sentences sions.” the path for its passage before “The bill aside, what this are pushing for the passage of a on January 8. Vimukthi, said on the sidelines ranging from 10 years to life un- While the bill has been hailed political attention starts to turn campaign has done is to main- long-pending anti-traffi cking Campaigners, survivors and of a meeting in New Delhi be- der the legislation. by many campaigners, it has towards general elections which stream human traffi cking,” said bill amid fears it could be side- lawmakers alike fear the pro- tween survivors and several law- Activists and lawmakers say faced resistance from some are due in 2019. Uma Chatterjee, co-founder of lined as general elections take posed law will be stalled or even makers. the bill unifi es existing anti- sectors over fears that it could That is why unlike ever before, non-profi t Sanjog that works on centre stage in parliament. shelved if it is not passed soon as India is home to the larg- traffi cking laws and aims to make unfairly target consenting survivors – who often hesitate to gender equity and justice. Survivors from 11 states have political attention turns to next est number of slaves globally, India a leader in the fi ght against adults working in the sex in- share their stories fearing social “The survivors have brought turned campaigners in the last year’s general elections. with 8mn out of a global total such crimes in South Asia – one dustry. stigma – have teamed up and the issue out in the open,” she few months by roping in their “It needs to pass this time of 40mn, according to the Glo- of the world’s fastest-growing Sex workers’ organisations stepped up eff orts to drum up said. communities to write more so that victims fi nally get all bal Slavery Index by Australia- regions for forced labour, beg- say the proposed law does not support for the bill during one “Suddenly, common peo- than 110,000 postcards to Prime the help and facilities to start based Walk Free Foundation. ging and forced marriage. distinguish between victims of of the fi nal parliament sessions ple are stopping, listening and Minister Narendra Modi, urging a new life,” a 29-year-old who Most of the 23,000 traffi cking “It is sad to see how for the lust traffi cking and women doing sex before elections. pledging their support. That is him to ensure the bill is passed was traffi cked into prostitution victims rescued in India in 2016 of money, people have shamed work out of choice, and could While about 1,000 survivors huge.” Several issues in Rafale deal not decided by SC: Congress

IANS legedly misleading the Supreme New Delhi Court in jet deal. In his notice, the MP accused Modi of deliberately “mislead- New Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Ghelot (right) looks on next day after Finance Min- ing” the court and the parlia- to Deputy Chief Minister Sachn Pilot during the swearing-in Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia (left), outgoing chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan (centre) and ister Arun Jaitley ruled ment by presenting “wrong ceremony at the Albert Hall in Jaipur. his successor Kamal Nath raise their hands before Nath’s oath taking ceremony in Bhopal yesterday. Aout a Joint Parliamentary facts” about the deal. Committee (JPC) probe into the The notice was submitted to Rafale deal saying the Supreme Lok Sabha Secretary General Court verdict in the case was a Snehlata Shrivastava. “clean chit” to the government, “Under rule 222 or the rule of his predecessor P Chidambaram procedure of Lok Sabha, I sub- yesterday wondered if the issues mit to give a notice of breach of not decided by the apex court privilege against Narendra Modi would go “unexamined”. ji for having deliberately misled Congress veterans take Jaitley, hailing the court’s the Supreme Court and the par- Friday verdict dismissing peti- liament in connection with the tions seeking a probe into the recent judgment on the Rafale alleged procedural and fi nancial fi ghter jet deal,” said the notice. irregularities in the Rafale deal, “It is clear now that to defend on Sunday had questioned the the controversial stand on the powers of a parliamentary com- pricing details and guidelines over as CMs of 3 states mittee to “review issues already of the defence deal, the govern- decided by the Supreme Court”. ment has presented wrong facts IANS Kamal Nath in Madhya Pradesh the riots in the national capital. oath of offi ce and secrecy in the Taking to Twitter, Congress before the Supreme Court. And Jaipur/Bhopal/Raipur and Baghel in Chhattisgarh With the BJP and ally Shi- presence of Gandhi, Manmo- veteran Chidambaram ques- on that basis, the court made an were administered the oath of romani Akali Dal attacking the han Singh, former Jammu and tioned Jaitley’s assertions. assertion,” it added. offi ce and secrecy by the gover- Congress for its choice in Mad- Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq “Finance minister asks ‘Is a Venugopal said the basis of the ongress veterans Ashok nors in the presence of Gandhi, hya Pradesh, Kamal Nath re- Abdullah and a host of other top Committee of Politicians fi t to Supreme Court verdict was the Gehlot, Kamal Nath and former prime minister Manmo- sponded to the charges alleging Congress leaders. review issues decided by SC? report of the Comptroller and CBhupesh Baghel were han Singh and a number of op- “politics” behind the attacks. Besides Baghel, Ambikapur “When Government/ Parlia- Auditor General (CAG), which yesterday sworn in as new chief position leaders. “I took oath in 1991 and sev- MLA T S Singh Deo and Durg ment amended the Atroci- is non-existent and not shared ministers of Rajasthan, Madhya Among those present from eral times after that, no one said lawmaker Tamradhwaj Sahu ties Prevention Act to overrule with Public Accounts Commit- Pradesh and Chhattisgarh re- the “anti-BJP camp” included anything. There is no case, FIR, took oath as ministers. the judgment of the SC, was it tee (PAC) of the parliament. spectively, ending the Bharatiya Nationalist Congress Party or charge-sheet against me. After the swearing-in cer- not a review by politicians of “This is a serious misrepre- Janata Party’s rule in the Hindi chief Sharad Pawar, Andhra Today they are raking up this emony, Gandhi took to Twit- a judgment of the SC,” asked sentation of the vital and signifi - heartland. Pradesh Chief Minister and Tel- matter. You can understand the ter to thank the people of the Chidambaram. cant fact to the Supreme Court. The occasions were marked ugu Desam Party chief N Chan- Baghel gestures after he took politics behind this,” said Kamal state and vowed to build a “new “Besides, several issues in the Thus, the government misled by opposition bonhomie, with drababu Naidu, former prime oath as the third chief minister Nath. Chhattisgarh”. Rafale deal were not decided by the Supreme Court over the Ra- a host of prominent opposition minister and Janata Dal (Secu- of Chhattisgarh in Raipur Credited with steering the Baghel had taken over the the SC. Who will examine those fale deal by placing wrong facts leaders sharing the stage with lar) supremo H D Deve Gowda, yesterday. party to victory in the saf- reins of party nearly a year- issues? Or will they go unexam- in the affi davit under oath, to Congress president Rahul Gan- National Conference patriarch fron stronghold, Kamal Nath, and-half after the top state ined?” hide their dubious role and also dhi. Farooq Abdullah, Loktantrik sembly elections, was sworn in immediately after assuming leadership was wiped out in a Chidambaram’s attack comes cast aspersion on parliament.” Coming days after leaders Janata Dal leader Sharad Ya- as the deputy chief minister. power, cleared fi les for waiving Maoist attack in 2013, including amid the Congress’ persistent Venugopal said that the judg- of 21 opposition parties on De- dav and Dravida Munnetra Ka- Riding on huge anti-incum- loans of farmers to the tune of the then state unit chief Nand demand for a JPC probe into ment of the Supreme Court, as cember 10 resolved to work to- zhagam leaders M K Stalin and bency against the BJP govern- Rs200,000 each. Kumar Patel and party veteran the deal which it claims to be regards the pricing aspect, is gether to “defeat the BJP-RSS”, Kanimozhi. ment of Vasundhara Raje, the With this, the Congress Vidya Charan Shukla. the country’s “biggest defence based on the statement of the the swearing-in ceremonies The Rashtriya Janata Dal was Congress with farm loan waiver which won 114 seats in the He led from front in scripting scam”. government that the CAG report turned into a platform to show- represented by Tejashwi Yadav, as its major poll plank came to 230-member assembly, de- the rout of Raman Singh-led The Communist Party of In- had been examined by the PAC. case the opposition unity ahead Trinamool Congress by former power in the state winning 99 of livered its pre-poll promise of BJP which was in power for 15 dia (Marxist) too has joined the “If the CAG report is in fact of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. railways minister Dinesh Trive- the 199 seats at stake. cancelling farm loans within 10 years, enabling the Congress to chorus for a JPC, alleging Prime available, the same ought to have However, the Mayawati-led di and Jharkhand Vikas Morcha In Bhopal, nine-time MP days of coming to power. win 68 seats in the 90-member Minister Narendra Modi’s gov- been presented before the par- Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and chief Babulal Marandi as well as and former federal minister In Raipur, state Congress assembly. ernment was trying to “hide be- liament and it is the parliament Akhilesh Yadav’s Samajwadi Aam Aadmi Party leader San- Kamal Nath became Madhya president Bhupesh Baghel, With the 2019 Lok Sabha hind half-truths and lies” in the which should have referred the Party – both of which support- jay Singh were among those Pradesh’s 18th chief minister, credited with powering his par- polls only months away, the deal to purchase 36 fi ghter jets same to the PAC.” ed the Congress in government present. on a day the Delhi High Court ty to a landslide victory, became Congress’s victory in the three from France. The BJP too gave notices of formation in Madhya Pradesh Congress general secretary convicted Congress leader Saj- the third chief minister of the Hindi heartland states is be- In a related development, privilege motion against Con- – were conspicuous by their ab- and former federal minister jan Kumar in the 1984 anti- tribal-dominated state. ing perceived as a big boost for Congress MP K C Venugopal gress president Rahul Gandhi in sence. Gehlot took over the reins of Ra- Sikh riots, prompting attacks Baghel, who represents Patan the grand old party in taking on submitted a notice of breach of the Lok Sabha over the contro- Gehlot, along with his dep- jasthan for the third time, while from the BJP which alleges assembly constituency in Durg Prime Minister Narendra Modi privilege against Modi for al- versial deal. uty Sachin Pilot in Rajasthan, Pilot, who won his maiden as- Kamal Nath’s involvement in district, was administered the and BJP chief Amit Shah.

Forces lock down Kashmir, Court bans online detain separatist leaders sale of medicines

IANS CEO of Netmeds.com said: Agencies parts of Srinagar to try and curb to stop them marshalling other Chennai “We would be fi ling an appeal Srinagar any unrest. protesters. and taking the required re- Mobile Internet services were Businesses and schools across course available under the law. also suspended in some areas, the state were closed for a third he Madras High Court The benefi ts of aff ordable and uthorities locked down and train services shut down to straight day, with fi nal year yesterday banned the accessible medicines through parts of Jammu and prevent protesters from massing school exams delayed. Tsale of medicines online our services have been appre- AKashmir yesterday as in numbers. The army urged the public to ig- till the central government no- ciated by customers across the police fi red tear gas at protest- “Restrictions are in place in nore the call to protest and blamed tifi es the regulations. country, and as a fully licensed ers defying a curfew to march some city areas and in Pulwa- Pakistan for stoking unrest. The court set January 31, pharmacy, Netmeds.com is against the shooting death of ma,” Inspector General of Po- “Indian Army strongly con- 2019 as the deadline for the committed to adhering to all seven civilians. lice Swayam Prakash Pani said, demns this call by Pak(istan) central government to notify the guidelines and standards Separatist leaders had urged referring to Srinagar and the proxies and advises people not the rules. as prescribed under the Drugs the public to march on military southern district where Satur- to fall prey to such designs of The court passed the order and Cosmetic Act of 1940.” headquarters in the state, af- day’s shooting occurred. anti-national forces,” an army on a plea by the Tamil Nadu TNCDA general secretary K ter seven people were killed and Police fi red tear gas to drive spokesman said in a statement Police try to detain Mohamed Yasin Malik, chairman of Jammu Kashmir Chemists and Druggists As- K Selvan welcomed the order dozens wounded in army fi re on back dozens of protesters led by issued late Sunday. Liberation Front (JKLF) during a protest march in Srinagar yesterday. sociation. and said that the organisation Saturday. a key separatist leader who tried Saturday’s shooting ignited According to the associa- had submitted its representa- Authorities took no chances to reach the base in central Sri- fresh anger across the state, merger with Pakistan has grown and a soldier killed in a shootout. tion, online purchases may be tion regarding the draft rules in a region where protests fre- nagar. which has witnessed its bloodi- in recent years and villagers, Meenakshi Ganguly, South convenient but there exists the for online sales, calling for it quently descend into bloodshed, Yasin Malik, chief of the Jam- est year since 2009 and increas- sometimes in their thousands, Asia director at Human Rights risk of unlicensed online out- to be helpful and safe for the barricading roads to the key mu Kashmir Liberation Front, ingly violent public opposition swarm the sites of gunbattles Watch, said Indian authorities lets selling fake/expired/unap- public. If there are any aspects army base with razor wire and was detained by police. to Indian rule. with government forces to assist should investigate and prosecute proved medicines. which are against the safety armoured vehicles. Other key separatist lead- Popular support for rebels insurgents. The weekend vio- those responsible for “indis- Reacting to the court order of the public, the association A total curfew was imposed in ers were put under house arrest fi ghting for independence or a lence also saw three armed rebels criminate use of force”. Pradeep Dadha, founder and would look at legal action. Gulf Times 30 Tuesday, December 18, 2018 LATIN AMERICA

LAW AND ORDER ECONOMY CRIME MILITANCY PEOPLE Brazil releases photos in bid Brazil leaves key interest Guatemalans seize cocaine Colombia’s ELN rebels call Marquez’s kidnapped to catch, extradite Italian rate untouched at 6.5% abandoned at sea for temporary ceasefire relative rescued

Brazilian police, now co-operating with a longtime Brazil’s central bank left its key interest rate at Guatemalan anti-narcotics agents with US Colombia’s largest active rebel group, the National A relative of late Colombian writer Gabriel Garcia Italian demand, has released a photo montage of 6.5%, in its board’s last meeting before far-right military support have seized 4.3 tonnes of Liberation Army (ELN), has called a 12-day Marquez, who won the 1982 Nobel Prize for Cesare Battisti, an Italian sought by Rome for four president-elect Jair Bolsonaro takes off ice on cocaine found floating in Pacific waters, unilateral ceasefire for the holiday period, while literature, was rescued from kidnappers yesterday murders attributed to a far-left group in the 1970s. January 1. The rate has been kept at that level prosecutors said. The drugs, which were reiterating its intention to seek a negotiated by members of the armed forces, President Ivan The series of 20 images show the 63-year-old since March, after several preceding cuts. Market believed to have originated in Ecuador, were solution to the armed conflict. President Ivan Duque said. Garcia Marquez’s great niece, Melissa Italian with a variety of accessories to help citizens analysts had expected it to remain untouched. found floating in 113 packages and were taken to Duque has conditioned peace talks to the ELN Martinez Garcia, 34, was seized at the end of or police identify him. Italy has repeatedly sought The bank said in a statement that, even though a military base in the southern town of San Jose, suspending hostilities, releasing all hostages and August by a group of armed men who intercepted the extradition of Battisti, who has lived in Brazil for Latin America’s biggest economy was on the path according to prosecutors. The seizure followed locating its fighters in specific geographical area her vehicle near the northern city of Santa Marta years under protection accorded him by former to growth after a 2015-2016 recession that was its “a combined operation of Guatemalan naval before demobilising. The rebel group, accused of along the Caribbean coast. They demanded a leftist president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, now in worst on record, “conditions still require monetary forces with the armed forces of the US, through financing its war through kidnapping, extortion, ransom of $5mn for her release. “In a co-ordinated prison for corruption. But during the country’s policy stimulus.” It said austerity reforms brought information provided by Ecuador,” prosecutors drug traff icking and illegal mining, began peace operation by the armed forces, Melissa Martinez recent presidential campaign, far-right candidate in under outgoing President Michel Temer needed said. The would-be traff ickers tossed the drugs negotiations with the government of former Garcia was freed,” Duque told reporters. “It was Jair Bolsonaro — now president-elect — vowed that to continue to keep inflation under control and set overboard “on the high seas” when they saw president Juan Manuel Santos, but Duque an impeccable operation of human and strategic if elected he would “immediately” extradite Battisti. the groundwork for a durable economic recovery. authorities approaching. There were no arrests. postponed the talks until it agrees to his terms. intelligence for several months to preserve her life.” Raising cattle Migrants cross border a risky venture for Venezuela ranchers

AFP overhead is a warning that Barinas, Venezuela the poachers have struck once again. When they arrive, only otting hides on the road bones and skin remain, the are all that is left of meat cut up and taken away to Rthree butchered cows. feed a hungry black market. Such carnage is common in In a 2016 survey, three- Venezuela’s cattle country, quarters of Venezuelans re- where thieves, squatters and ported they had lost weight government policy threaten a since the economic crisis be- vital food resource. gan, by an average of 19 pounds Venezuela’s severe econom- (8.5kgs). Chronic shortages ic crisis is felt keenly in cit- of protein in the cities should ies — where food sources are provide an opportunity for the limited — but it’s also cutting country’s farmers, but farms a swathe through what should are producing less and less. be the country’s food basket. Meat produced in Venezuela Seeing the hides on the now barely accounts for 40% road — the handiwork of cat- of domestic consumption, tle poachers — Jose Labrador less than half the 97% of two stops his truck and explodes decades ago, according to the Migrants from Central America cross the US-Mexico border fence before turning themselves in to the US Border Patrol in Tijuana, Mexico, yesterday. Many of the thousands with rage. National Federation of Cattle of migrants who have arrived at the border in a caravan had planned to request political asylum in the US. “It’s as if they were telling Ranchers. us: ‘We are killing your cat- Per capita meat consump- tle, so what?’” the 46-year tion went from 20kgs per year old rancher says, fuming that in 1999 to only 7kgs at present, complaining is useless — po- the federation says. lice and local authorities will Even then, farmers can’t do nothing. fulfi l demand. “We are go- Labrador and other farmers ing backwards... even though in the cattle-rearing region of those of us who remain on San Silvestre, in the western the land work tooth and nail,” Cuba forecasts slow growth state of Barinas, say they are in federation president Armando a state of siege — from squat- Chacin said. ters, gunmen and government Chacin warned that govern- price controls that make their ment policies, far from easing farms unprofi table. the problem, have served only “I can’t sleep on the farm to strangle growth. as economic woes continue anymore because I’m scared,” Venezuela, a country of said Jose Antonio Espinoza, more than 30mn people, raises Reuters Trump administration’s tight- year were dashed mainly by Hur- These include cuts in energy lems,” he was quoted as stating. owner of a 600-head herd in less than 10mn head of cattle, Havana ening of sanctions. ricane Irma and other weather- and fuel to state companies and Diaz-Canel also blasted US San Silvestre. the federation says; in 1999, Cuba’s economy is notori- related events that hurt tourism, reduced imports of inputs for the sanctions, which he said cost “They have come around when the population was ously ineffi cient and dependent sugar production and agriculture, economy, which have led to scat- Cuba $4.3bn this year. here and tied people up, and 20mn, there were 14mn cattle. uba’s economy will grow on foreign revenues. all of which should improve next tered shortages of everything But he focused on domestic then stolen everything — Dwindling resources makes next year at about the The government also spends year, as well as domestic ineffi - from bread and medicine to eggs economic woes and the need to chainsaws, water pumps, cat- meat more expensive in the Csame sluggish 1% pace a large amount of its revenue on ciencies and tighter US sanctions. as production sputters for lack of push forward reforms begun by tle.” He said as many as 74 capital Caracas, 560kms away, it did in 2018 and an austerity a free healthcare system, educa- Cuba’s economy grew 1.8 % spare parts and raw materials. former president Raul Castro, bulls have been stolen over the where it costs the equiva- programme begun in 2016 will tion and other services. in 2017 and 0.5% in the previous Cuban President Miguel Diaz- whom he replaced in April. past year from his family farm. lent of the minimum monthly continue, the country’s econo- Economy Minister Alejan- year. Canel, who was also present at Diaz-Canel called for fur- Cowboys on horseback herd wage to buy 2kgs of meat. my minister said, according to dro Gil Fernandez, speaking The country has been late the closed-door session, said ther loosening of government his traditional Venezuelan Since the arrival in power in state-run media. at a closed door session of the paying suppliers and its debt, improving the economy was the controls over the state-run Brahman and Carora breeds, 1999 of Hugo Chavez, the so- The communist-ruled coun- National Assembly’s economic and some investors report they government’s top priority. companies that dominate the as well as buff aloes, to and cialist government has expro- try has been hard hit by the eco- commission, said export earn- have had problems repatriating “Most of our time must be economy and which remained from their fertile grazing land. priated 5mn hectares (12.4mn nomic collapse of its strategic ings declined further this year, profi ts from Cuban banks. used in how we unblock things, “hamstrung” and the formation But they are powerless when acres) of agricultural land, ally Venezuela, a decline in ex- though no fi gures were provided Gil said austerity measures, in how we remove litter from the of better ties between them and the rustlers strike. the cattle ranchers federation port earnings over four consecu- by the media. which began in 2016, would con- road that leads to the solution of foreign investors and a growing The wheeling of vultures says. tive years, bad weather and the Gil said plans for 2% growth this tinue in 2019. economic and fi nancial prob- private sector. Amazon rainforest under Healer accused of siege by illegal mines abuse surrenders AFP His lawyer Alberto Toron told Sao Paulo reporters he would seek Faria’s Reuters were apprehended for ques- Brazil is home to 453 illegal release and hoped he could be Brasilia tioning by camoufl aged agents Amazon mines, according to a assigned to house arrest. bearing machine guns. mapping project as part of the amed Brazilian “spiritual Faria has insisted on his inno- The real target is not the Amazon Socio-environmental, healer” Joao de Deus, ac- cence. nvironmental enforce- muddy and often barefoot Geo-referenced Information Fcused of sexually abusing But on Wednesday, according ment agents deep in miners, who work in slave-like Project, a joint initiative be- hundreds of women under the to O Globo newspaper, he with- Ethe Amazon rainforest conditions for unknown local tween Instituto Socioambien- pretext of treating them, has drew 35mn reais ($8.9mn) from swooped down on an illegal strongmen, according to agents tal and other environmental surrendered to authorities, Bra- several bank accounts. mine in a dawn raid in early No- of Brazil’s environmental agen- groups. zilian media reported. That suspiciously large with- vember, in a campaign to tamp cy Ibama. The fi rst-ever attempt to An arrest warrant was issued drawal prompted authorities to down on such activities that map all of the region’s illegal on Friday for the 76-year-old issue the arrest warrant on Fri- environmental groups say have One aim of the project mines has recorded 2,500 such whose real name is Joao Teix- day to prevent Faria from fl eeing reached epidemic scale. is to call attention to the operations across six Amazon eira de Faria. For years, he had the country or hiding the money, The operation was carried “epidemic” scale of the countries, said co-ordinator received thousands of followers news media reported. out against a handful of what illegal mining problem, Alicia Rolla. each week — including numer- The scandal erupted after TV are now known to be hundreds which pollutes local One aim of the project is to ous celebrities — at his temple in Globo, Brazil’s largest television of illegal Amazon mines in Bra- communities’ water with call attention to the “epidemic” the town of Abadiania, in Goias network, broadcast an investi- zil that have been cataloged for mercury and contributes scale of the illegal mining prob- state, near the capital Brasilia. gative report on Faria, including the fi rst time in a study released to deforestation lem, which pollutes local com- A cell-phone video fi lmed by testimony from women who said on Monday. munities’ water with mercury a journalist and broadcast on the he had sexually abused them. The project, co-ordinated Ibama said its primary tar- and contributes to deforesta- Globo news channel showed a Following the broadcast, hun- by Brazilian advocacy group get is the excavators and other tion, Rolla said. weary-looking, downcast Faria dreds of women came forward Instituto Socioambien- heavy machinery that is expen- She said she hopes envi- stepping out of a car on an un- with similar complaints. tal, maps all illegal mines in sive and harder to replace. ronmental agencies will use paved road before surrendering The prosecutor’s offi ce in Goi- the Amazon rainforest that Unable to haul away the ma- it as a tool to help police the to waiting police. as said it had received 330 com- sprawls across Brazil, Vene- chines, the agents set fi re to mines. Several television stations plaints from all parts of Brazil, as zuela, Colombia, Peru, Ecua- them, sending black plumes of Ibama needs more resources then broadcast live scenes of his well as from Australia, Belgium, dor and Bolivia. smoke hundreds of feet into the if it is to break up the hundreds arrival in a police cruiser with Bolivia, Germany, Switzerland As government helicopters air. of mines, she added. tinted windows at police head- and the US. descended along a river that The raids last month targeted “The studies show that ille- quarters in Goiania, the capital Faria’s reputation reached far had become stagnant pools several illegal mines in two na- gal mining is increasing a lot,” of Goias. beyond Brazil. ravaged by miners digging for tional parks in Brazil’s Amazon. Rolla said. “I think the govern- An illegal cassiterite mine is seen during an operation conducted by In the video, Faria is heard American TV superstar Oprah gold, many of the miners fl ed While the battle was won, ment needs to be more worried agents of the Brazilian Institute for the Environment and Renewable saying that when he learned of Winfrey visited him in 2012, and deep into the rainforest. this week’s study indicates the about giving Ibama more re- Natural Resources, or Ibama, in national parks near Novo Progresso, the accusations against him, “I the last three Brazilian presi- Shortly after, half a dozen war is far from over. sources to do their job.” southeast of Para state, Brazil. surrendered as promised.” dents had consulted with him. Gulf Times Tuesday, December 18, 2018 31 PAKISTAN

79% of girls quit primary schools in tribal districts: offi cial report Imran approves Internews Peshawar

nly one-fi fth of the girls enrolled in public sector Oschools in seven districts of the erstwhile-Federally Ad- major education ministered Tribal Areas (Fata) in northwest of Pakistan continue their education from preparatory class till Class V, as overall 73% of students – 69% of boys and 79% of girls – quit schools during the early years of education, an offi - cial report of government educa- system reform tional institutions in the region bordering Afghanistan shows. Internews that was introduced a few years prime minister had asked for The situation at the middle and Islamabad ago, and insisted that it should equality in the education sys- secondary school levels is equally be implemented more eff ec- tem, by creating a single edu- discouraging, as the dropout rate tively in all public and private cation system through single of girls at these stages is 50%, ac- rime Minister Imran Khan schools. curriculum, so the people can cording to the 102-page statisti- has given go-ahead to a Khan directed that the Qur’an compete on the same level of cal report compiled by the Edu- Pcomprehensive plan to Scheme, which was introduced education. cation Management Information overhaul the country’s educa- by the Centre and in Khyber Pa- These sources said that Khan System (EMIS), the directorate tion system, including the in- khtunkhwa (KP) a few years ago, also urged taking all possible of education of newly-merged troduction of a uniform cur- should also be implemented in measures to attain the objective tribal districts. riculum, launching literacy Punjab and Baluchistan – the of enrolling each and every out- The dropout rate in the mili- emergency, enrolling out-of- provinces ruled by the Khan’s of-school child. tancy-aff ected North Waziris- This picture taken on September 18, shows girls attending a class school children, extending the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) It was also decided to launch tan district is 63% (73% among at a school in Mingora, a town in Swat Valley of KP province, which Qur’an Scheme to all provinces, and allied parties. a literacy emergency campaign. girls), which is the highest among borders the Fata region. and ensuring skill development The Sindh government, it is The prime minister, it is said, the seven districts, but the report for all. said, will also be persuaded to also directed for the improve- does not highlight reasons be- ants) in the schools, following an troduced in schools in former Offi cial sources said in a re- introduce the Quran Scheme in ment of the quality of educa- hind the high dropout rate. unoffi cial ban on the recruitment Fata. cent cabinet meeting, the prime their educational institutions. tion, for which the importance The tribal districts have 5,890 of teachers in the former Fata. Teachers in tribal belt are un- minister instructed that the Under the Qur’an Scheme, Prime Minister Khan: wants a of merit-based appointment of schools in the public sector with The directorate of education able to follow the new teaching National Curriculum Council the Qur’an is taught in Arabic single education system so that teachers is underlined. a total enrolment of 677,157 stu- had requested that the federal methods and textbooks. (NCC), which will formulate (Naazra) to Muslim students the people can compete on the Following the 18th Amend- dents. government fi ll these positions. “A majority of the teachers like uniform curriculum for all, be of class I to V, and with simple same level of education. ment, education is a provincial While the current budget for According to the report, the me cannot understand the new- set up. translation for classes VI to XII. subject, but the federal govern- education is Rs12bn, the offi cial total number of sanctioned ly-introduced textbooks. I feel An offi cial notifi cation on this Although the scheme was Centre, it is the PTI government ment is trying to take all the study portrays a bleak picture of posts of teachers at the primary, (stuck) because we can’t teach council is expected this week. conceptualised by the previous in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) provinces into confi dence to the state of education in public middle and secondary levels is these new textbooks, and wait- The prime minister, it is said, Pakistan Muslim League – Na- that decided to introduce it fi rst. introduce a uniform education sector schools, with most of the 22,030, but the existing teacher ing for retirement,” said a female is keen on the Qur’an Scheme waz (PML-N) government at the The sources said also that the system. schools in the districts having no numbers is 18,621. teacher from a tribal district. electricity, drinking water facil- The report shows that the stu- The provincial government ity, or toilets. dent-teacher ratio is 1:59 at the had fi xed a teacher-student ratio Only 43% of the schools have primary school level. at 1:40, with six teachers and six electricity, 45.2% have drinking As the EMIS study does not classrooms for primary schools. water facility, 45% have toilets, highlight reasons behind high On the contrary, primary Indian spy freed after three years in jail and 70% of the schools have dropout rate where the literacy schools still have just two rooms boundary walls, the EMIS study rate is claimed to be 33.3% (49.7% and one veranda, and no criterion indicates. among males, and 12.7% among is being followed for the teacher- DPA/Internews On December 13 a Peshawar a woman in the northwestern Soon after Shahzadi’s “disap- The report, which is yet to be females), offi cials concerned students ratio. Islamabad High Court bench directed the district of Kohat via social me- pearance”, government agencies made public, suggests that the said that the prime reason of the “Unfortunately, it seems tribal interior ministry to make ar- dia. admitted that the missing In- number of teachers in public dropout at primary level is “non- districts are still passing through rangements for Ansari’s depor- A military court convicted dian was in their custody. sector educational institutions in qualifi ed and outdated” teachers the 1940s, as more than 100 stu- akistan said yesterday tation within one month of the him on charges of espionage and It later emerged that Ansari these districts is on the decline, who could not teach new sylla- dents are taught in two small that it is releasing an In- completion of his three-year anti-state activities in Decem- had been in the army’s custody and there is acute shortage of bus designed by the Khyber Pa- rooms by two teachers. Pdian spy following the prison term, which was Decem- ber 2015, and he was sentenced and convicted by a Field Gen- teachers. khtunkhwa Textbook Board. “The government should in- completion of a three-year sen- ber 15. to three years imprisonment. eral Court Martial on charges of The total number of teachers “Offi cials at diff erent forums troduce national-level policy of tence handed down on charges The high court bench said Ansari denied the charges and espionage and anti-state activi- in schools was 20,709 in 2009- blame the high dropout rate on 1:40 teacher-student ratio,” said of espionage. that government departments claimed that he visited Pakistan ties on December 15, 2015. 10 which has dropped to 18,621 in militancy, insecurity and dis- the offi cial. Hamid Nehal Ansari is being should make all arrangements to help a female Facebook friend He had been sentenced to 2017-18. placement to justify their argu- Offi cials have said that insur- released from jail and repatri- before the completion of Ansa- in Kohat who was in trouble. three years. “There is shortage of teachers ment. But these are lame excuses gency and military operations ated to India, foreign ministry ri’s prison term, as keeping him In 2012, a freelance Pakistani Shahzadi was recovered in and other technical staff in tribal … the basic reasons are unquali- took heavy toll on the education spokesman Mohamed Faisal in detention beyond the sen- journalist who began investi- October 2017, but has been off districts due to slow recruitment fi ed teachers and overcrowded sector in the tribal belt. wrote on Twitter. tence would tarnish the image gating Ansari’s disappearance the radar along with her family process,” said an offi cial dealing classrooms,” the offi cial said. Over 1,500 schools were de- Ansari had illegally entered of the country. from Kohat, Zeenat Shahzadi, ever since. with the education sector in the The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) stroyed during the past decade. Pakistan and was involved in Ansari was arrested in 2012 went missing soon after. India and Pakistan, both area. government had introduced all A large number of teachers had anti-state crimes and document when he crossed the border on Her kidnapping was consid- nuclear-capable South Asian The offi cial said that there are textbooks in English for primary retired, and the government have forgery, the spokesman said. fake documents from Afghani- ered by human rights activists nations with a history of bitter nearly 5,000 vacancies for teach- level in public sector schools. not fi lled the vacant posts, creat- The spokesman did not share stan. as a case of “enforced disap- relations, routinely accuse one ers and technical staff (lab assist- These textbooks were also in- ing a gap. details of the repatriation. He had reportedly befriended pearance”. another of espionage.

PML-N indecisive over foundation Pakistan elected vice-president day convention on December 30 All in a day’s work of UN climate conference

The Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz (PML-N) appears to be Pakistan has been elected as the vice-president and the Rapporteur indecisive about holding a party convention on December 30 to of the Conference of Parties (COP) to the United Nations mark the foundation day of the All India Muslim League, in view of Framework Convention on Climate Change, at the COP24 in the expected judgment in the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Katowice, Poland. reference against Nawaz Sharif on December 24. Pakistan was one of the two countries elected to the position from Former interior minister Ahsan Iqbal had maintained that the the Asia-Pacific Group, by acclamation on December 15, a Foreign programme to hold party convention on December 30 was Off ice statement said. confirmed, and that Lahore chapter of the party is working out the The other bodies in which Pakistan secured seats are the Executive details of the event. Board of Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), the Standing However, the PML-N Lahore chapter leader, member of the National Committee on Finance (SCF), the Adaptation Committee (AC), the Assembly (MNA) Malik Pervaiz, said that they are not preparing for Consultative Group of Experts (CGE), and the Technology Executive the event as yet. Committee (TEC). Another leader, Javed Latif, said that they had heard of discussions Adviser to the Prime Minister Malik Amin Aslam, who led the taking place about such an event, but they did not know anything delegation to the COP24, said: “Pakistan’s election to the second about it for sure. highest position at the UN Climate Convention, as well as to the five Meanwhile, party spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb said that other bodies related to climate change, is a strong reaff irmation by the party would make a decision about the event, most likely at a the international community of both Pakistan’s strong credentials meeting this week. within the multilateral arena, and a strong vote of confidence in She said that as per the schedule, Sharif would be meet his brother Pakistan’s substantial contribution towards international eff orts Shehbaz in Parliament House to discuss party aff airs. aimed at tackling climate change.” Aurangzeb said that the final decision would be taken in that “Pakistan’s election to these important bodies also reflects the meeting. acknowledgement among member states of the United Nations The PML-N intends to hold a convention to mark the foundation day about Pakistan’s constructive engagement in this important area as of the All India Muslim League, with the aim connecting the roots of well as its role as an ardent advocate of dialogue and co-operation,” the PML-N with its parent party, the Muslim League. he remarked. In the pre-partition days the Muslim League was known as the All A vendor sorts corn cobs in baskets, before roasting them for sale along a road in Karachi. Representatives of the ministries of foreign aff airs and climate India Muslim League. change assisted the Aslam during the COP24. Sitting members of election commission ‘improperly’ appointed

Internews member of a law commission or as judge of the Peshawar High abroad with a delegation headed stitution for judicial and quasi- appoint election tribunals [Ar- stan Peoples Party (PPP). Islamabad of chairman or member of the Court on June 14, 2016. by the Chief Election Commis- judicial employment of retired ticle 219(c) of the Constitution] Procedurally, the prime min- Council of Islamic Ideology, be- The member from Punjab, sioner. judges. which exercise judicial powers ister, in consultation with the fore the expiration of two years retired Justice Altaf Ibrahim The commission’s secretary, Some judgments of the Su- under Article 225 of the Con- opposition leader, sends three hree out of the four mem- after he has ceased to hold that Qureshi, had retired as judge of Babar Yaqub Fateh Mohamed, preme Court have, however, stitution, the ECP itself is a su- names each for a position of ECP bers of the Election Com- offi ce.” the Lahore High Court on March declined to comment on the dic- made it clear that the Election pervisory body which exercises member for confi rmation to a Tmission of Pakistan (ECP) None of the three retired 5, 2015, and thus had more than tate and spirit of Article 207 of Commission is not a judicial fo- regulatory and administrative parliamentary panel, with sepa- had been appointed in con- judges who had been appointed seven months to go before the the Constitution, saying that the rum. powers under the Constitution rate lists sent in case they fail to travention of a constitutional as ECP members had completed completion of the two-year appointment of ECP members is An 11-member bench held in and the law. reach a consensus. provision that bars the re-em- two years after their retirement. post-retirement period when he a “past and closed” transaction. the Benazir Bhutto v. Federation “Undoubtedly, the ECP is not a While an impression had been ployment of judges of the supe- The most glaring case was that was appointed to the Election “Let bygones be bygones,” he of Pakistan case that the Elec- court or a tribunal, as argued by created as if a consensus could rior judiciary within two years of of retired Justice Shakeel Ahmad Commission in July 2016. remarked, adding that half the tion Commission is not a judicial the learned counsel for the PTI not be reached, in both 12-name their retirement, it has emerged. Baloch, who took his oath as Analysts believe that Abdul term of the members would be body. (the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf lists, all four successful nominees Article 207 (2) of the Consti- member of the ECP from Balu- Ghaff ar, the fi rst-ever retired bu- end next month, while two of In its judgment in a recent party of Prime Minister Imran were mentioned by the PML-N tution reads: “A person who has chistan fi ve days after resigning reaucrat to have been picked as them are retiring on January 26. case, a three-member bench of Khan).” as its second-choice candidates, held offi ce as judge of the Su- as judge of the Baluchistan High member of the ECP, was also not Asked as to who was responsi- the apex court, headed by Chief The ECP members who are while two of the confi rmed mem- preme Court or of a high court Court on July 21, 2016, some 10 a good choice as his name was on ble for violation of the Constitu- Justice Saqib Nisar, said: “The otherwise ineligible for appoint- bers were the PPP’s fi rst-choice, shall not hold any offi ce of profi t days before his retirement date. the exit control list (ECL) due to a tion, Mohamed initially said that ECP is an independent and au- ment had been brought in, it is and two were its second-choice. in the service of Pakistan, not be- Likewise, retired Justice Ir- Rs2bn corruption scam. that question should be put to tonomous body which exercises alleged, under a covert under- So the panel picked all the four ing a judicial or quasi-judicial of- shad Qaiser became the fi rst- Months after his appointment senior members of the previous executive and regulatory powers standing between the former names that were common in the fi ce or the offi ce of Chief Election ever woman member of the ECP as ECP member, Ghaff ar received government, but then suggested derived from the Constitution. ruling Pakistan Muslim League lists in an exercise that took less Commissioner or of chairman or within 45 days of her retirement a one-time permission to travel that there is room in the Con- “Although it has the power to – Nawaz (PML-N) and the Paki- than two hours. Gulf Times 32 Tuesday, December 18, 2018 PHILIPPINES

Former Cabinet member ‘parked’ Miss Universe project fund in national budget

By Glee Jalea latter had bagged government Manila Times contracts worth billions. “In Region 5 alone, P2.2bn was added to national fl ood- former Cabinet member related projects from 2017 to crown for Filipina who will seek an elec- 2018. We will fi nd out based on Ative post in the midterm the investigation of the House AFP of marijuana, refugees and the elections next year “parked” rules committee how much Bangkok #MeToo movement. This year’s at least P300mn worth of in- goes to CT Leoncio and the event drew positive feedback for frastructure projects in the Aremar Construction. It looks themes of inclusivity and an all- proposed national budget for like these are the favoured con- iss Philippines was women panel of judges made up 2019, House Majority Leader tractors of the DBM,” Andaya crowned Miss Uni- of business leaders and former Rolando Andaya Jr has claimed. said. Mverse yesterday in Miss Universe titleholders. Andaya said a mayor in- In the proposed 2019 budget, Bangkok after a trailblazing Miss Spain’s Angela Ponce formed him that the former P114.4bn was allotted for fl ood ceremony praised for featuring made history as the fi rst trans- Cabinet member parked the control projects under the De- its fi rst transgender candidate gender candidate in a competi- allocation for fl ood-mitigation Rolando Andaya Jr: revelations partment of Public Works and but marred by gaff es about the tion once owned by President projects for Region 5, with the Highways (DPWH). English-speaking ability of two Donald Trump, whose admin- funds “to be released anytime Peter Cayetano, and former Public Works Secretary Mark Asian contestants. istration has attempted to block soon.” cabinet secretary Leoncio Villar had claimed that he was Catriona Gray, 24, fi nished military recruitment of trans- Region 5 or the Bicol Region Evasco Jr. not aware of the additional fi rst ahead of the South African gender people. is composed of the provinces of Go, Tolentino, and Roque are budget given to his depart- and Venezuelan fi nalists in the She added she wanted her ap- Albay, Camarines Norte, Ca- running for senator. Evasco will ment. glittering televised event hosted pearance to be empowering and marines Sur, Sorsogon, Catan- run for Bohol governor, while Last week, the House of Rep- by American comic turned TV that she hoped for a “new gen- duanes and Masbate. Cayetano seeks to represent resentatives passed a resolu- host Steve Harvey and super- eration of human beings who are “A mayor from Region 5 ap- the fi rst district of Taguig City- tion urging President Rodrigo model Ashley Graham. raised a lot better, more tolerant proached me over the weekend Pateros. Duterte to sack Diokno. In the fi nal round, Gray earned and respectful.” and intimated that a former Andaya said the involvement Diokno admitted that the applause describing her work in But issues of tolerance and re- Cabinet offi cial now seeking an of the unnamed Cabinet offi cial P51.7bn initially allocated the slums of the Philippine capi- spect came centre stage during elective seat was responsible and the Department of Budget for DPWH projects actually tal Manila. the competition when Miss USA for ‘parking’ at least P300mn and Management (DBM) in the amounted to P75bn, and is part After winning she told report- Sarah Rose Summers appeared in infrastructure projects in the parking scheme may explain of the “President’s budget.” ers she would like to expand her to poke fun at Miss Vietnam and proposed 2019 national budg- the huge spike in budget for “We want an infrastructure work with an organisation in the Miss Cambodia on social media et,” Andaya said in a text mes- fl ood mitigation projects — budget (that is higher) and we Philippines that promotes edu- for not being able to speak Eng- sage to reporters. from P79bn in 2017 to P133bn have fi scal space, so we de- cation on HIV and Aids. lish.The comments went viral “The mayor approached me this year. cided to augment or add to the “A few years ago I lost a close but Summers later posted an because he said that he only Budget Secretary Benjamin P480bn another P75bn, not friend to health complications apology on Instagram, saying understood what has been hap- Diokno is being linked because P51bn,” Diokno said. with HIV,” she said. she did not “intend to hurt” her pening now. They agreed to the since his in-laws, Mayor Edwin He maintained that the ad- “So spreading awareness on fellow competitors. parking scheme because they Hamor of Casiguran, Sorsogon ditional amount is not an in- that cause and encouraging peo- Gray’s victory was closely fol- believe that it will benefi t their and Sorsogon Vice Governor sertion as it was part of the ple to get the simple test and lowed in the Philippines, where constituents. He also clarifi ed Ester Hamor, are said to be President’s budget. However, knowing their status is defi nitely beauty pageants are hugely pop- that he did not earn anything the “end benefi ciaries” of the Andaya said Duterte did not one of my fi rst projects that I’d ular. from the project,” the Majority multi-billion infrastructure have an idea where the amount like to pursue.” Social media exploded with Leader said. projects connected to CT Le- came from. Gray — a student of music clips of fans jumping for joy and Five Cabinet members re- oncio Construction and Trad- Andaya’s revelation comes theory — beat more than 90 hugging each other as the Filipi- signed to seek elective posts ing which is allegedly tied to a few days after he announced contestants from around the na contestant went through each next year include former Spe- the unidentifi ed former Cabi- that the House Committee on globe in the 67th instalment of successive round and eventually cial Assistant to the President net offi cial. Rules would conduct an inves- Miss Universe, which was held in won. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” A daughter of the Hamors, tigation on the issue on January the Thai capital’s Impact Arena. A spokesman for President Go, former presidential ad- Maria Minez Hamor, owns 3. They also intend to summon During the competition, Rodrigo Duterte in a statement viser on political aff airs Francis Aremar Construction Corp, Diokno regarding the ques- which was broadcast live, can- praised Gray’s win for putting Tolentino, former presiden- which got P550mn after con- tionable budget allocations on didates were asked questions the Philippines on the world map Catriona Gray of the Philippines waves to the audience after being tial spokesman Harry Roque, ducting at least four joint ven- infrastructure projects by the on press freedom, legalisation “for its beauty and elegance”. crowned the new Miss Universe 2018 in Bangkok, yesterday. former Foreign secretary Alan tures with CT Leoncio. The DBM. Pangasinan town Festive shopping councillor shot dead

By Demsey Reyes Jr, was gunned down at about 10.30 am after at- Manila Times tending a Mass at a Catholic church. Sapitula iden- tifi ed the gunman as Jun-jun Vidal from Barangay Tepo, Bataan, who was arrested after the shooting. councillor of Santo Tomas, Pangasinan who Vidal was found carrying an armalite but the type is running for vice mayor in the 2019 mid- of fi rearm or bullet used in shooting the councillor Aterm elections, was shot dead on Sunday, was not mentioned. Investigation showed that Oc- according to the Philippine National Police. ulto was on his way to his vehicle after attending Chief Supt. Romulo Sapitula, director of the Po- mass at the Jesus Christ Church in Barangay Pobla- lice Regional Offi ce in Ilocos, said Benjamin Oculto cion West, Santo Tomas when Vidal shot him.

Charges fi led against Faeldon’s son

Manila Times for allegedly maintaining a drug den in Naga City. Manila Sr Supt. Felix Servita, chief of the Naga City Police, said Nicanor Faeldon Jr was charged for violating Section 6 of Republic Act 9165 or he police filed criminal charges against the the “Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of Shoppers pack CM Recto Street in Divisoria, Manila as the rush to buy Christmas gifts continues. Since the start of December, throngs son of Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Di- 2002” before the Naga City Prosecutor’s Office of shoppers have flocked to Divisoria, dubbed the country’s shopping hub. Trector Nicanor Faeldon and several others on Saturday. Motorbike riders protest against government policy

Agencies ily and my three kids,” he said. whether it is legal. Angkas also as PUVs. But Jobert Bolanos, Manila “That’s why we are doing all promised to shoulder all the head of the Motorcycle Rights’ we can to knock on the doors of penalties to be slapped on its Organisation, said the refusal to whoever can help us.” apprehended riders. If caught, regulate bike taxis was rooted in wo years ago, Ryan Rillera On Sunday morning, thou- a rider could face up to P6,000 the deep-seated stigma against was the branch manager sands of motorcycle riders — in fi nes in addition to the im- motorcycles, which were being Tof a well-known fast food driving in pairs in a mile-long pounding for three months of unfairly tagged as “crime ma- joint. motorcade across Edsa — took their motorcycles. chines.” Although the salary was ad- part in a unity ride. “We are here to abide by the This much was clear, he said, equate, his work took him away They stood in solidarity with, law. Time and time again, we following a Senate proposal re- from his family. among others, comrades whose have told our drivers to comply, quiring motorcycles to have two It was the thought of spending livelihoods are threatened by the not to argue with traffi c enforc- larger license plates supposedly more time with his loved ones crackdown, as well as to protest ers,” Royeca told reporters. to help identify riders involved that made him decide to trade a proposal to introduce double But he also urged anew law- in criminal activities or acci- his crisp white uniform for a license plates for motorcycles, makers to amend Republic Act dents. light blue safety vest and helmet supposedly to prevent crime. No. 4136, or the Land Trans- Bolanos argued that having to become a full-time rider for “Those are just some of the portation and Traffi c Code, that a refl ectorised license plate in Angkas, the popular motorcy- disturbing ways they discrimi- bans motorcycles from being front of a motorcycle that could cle-hailing app, Philippine Daily nate against motorcycle riders,” used as public utility vehicles easily be torn up and break off Inquirer reported. Rillera said. “We’re unfairly tar- (PUVs). Since it began operating could pose more risks to both On a good day, he earned geted by policies that criminal- in 2016, Angkas has positioned driver and rider. around P1,500 to P2,000 as he ise us, as if we’re not legitimate itself as one of the alternative By legitimising motorcy- took harried commuters to their workers trying to eke out a liv- modes in the absence of viable cle services such as Angkas, he destinations. ing.” mass transit options in Metro said, riders would not only have However, the intensifying Rillera is among the 25,000 Manila. stable jobs, but could also con- crackdown against Angkas riders Angkas riders aff ected by the However, it is still not rec- tribute to easing up worsening — brought on by a recent Land LTFRB resolution issued on Dec Thousands of Angkas riders hold a rally along Edsa in Quezon City to protest the decision of the Land ognised as a transport network traffi c. “It’s a big deal for motor- Transportation Franchising and 12. It was prompted by a Su- Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board’s decision to shut down the ride hailing firm’s operations. company which will authorise it cycles to be considered PUVs,” Regulatory Board (LTFRB) reso- preme Court order putting on to off er rides to passengers. Rillera said. lution ordering their apprehen- hold the implementation of a Department of Transporta- But while Angkas has said it According to its public af- The DOTr cited the high “The law is the only thing sion — has placed Rillera’s main Mandaluyong court ruling that tion (DOTr) has warned Ang- would continue operations, it fairs head George Royeca, the number of road accidents in- stopping us. It’s high time it source of income at risk. allowed the motorcycle-hailing kas against disobeying the high denied allegations that it was company will exhaust all legal volving motorcycles as an argu- should be amended to favour the “It’s a huge blow to my fam- app to operate. The LTFRB and court’s order. defying the LTFRB. remedies until a court decides ment against classifying them poor like us.” Gulf Times Tuesday, December 18, 2018 33 COMMENT Transport ministry keeping up with country’s rapid growth

QNA which the Ministry of Transport population and economic expansion, Regarding international road The ministry also launched a Doha and Communications renews its which requires infrastructure transport, a number of bilateral and number of new studies for the next determination to complete the march updates, in addition to improving the multilateral agreements have been fi ve years to develop a new plan for the of the forefathers to build a modern logistics support and using the latest signed to facilitate trade and transport development of the bus network and E the Minister of Transport state that looks to the future and technology to improve the quality of of goods and passengers, as well as provide a number of new services and and Communications adheres to its heritage and past. land transport services. to benefi t from the conventions of routes, including serving the opening Jassim Seif Ahmed He emphasised that the celebration The ministry completed the strategy international organisations concerned of the Doha Metro. Hal-Sulaiti stated that is a clear embodiment of the strong of the land transport sector, which with the activation of international The ministry is also completing the the ministry continues to work on bond between the people and their included a number of objectives. transport. design of 18 new stations, warehouses developing and improving transport leadership. The most important objectives were The ministry also completed the and bus stops, as well as developing and communication services, as well The minister stressed his the establishment of an integrated draft laws on rules for car rental an online website and mobile phone as upgrading the technological and determination to move forward in transport system and the planning of agencies and its executive regulations applications to serve bus users. information infrastructure of the accomplishing more for this country a network of roads with international and referred it to the competent The ministry has also completed telecommunications sector. and implementing the vision of standards to ensure effi ciency at legislative bodies to complete the the preliminary engineering designs The minister said, in a statement to the Amir of promoting Qatar and HE Jassim Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti various levels, including high quality necessary procedures for issuing it, for roads in the West Bay region Qatar News Agency on the occasion continuing the great developments integrated public transport networks with the aim of regulating limousine (package 20A), and work is underway of the Qatar National Day, that that are taking place in all fi elds. for the training and development of its that ensure suffi cient options for and car rental activities. to complete a number of preliminary ministry will continue to build on past This year, the Ministry of Transport employees who have been registered diff erent users. The law also develops the engineering designs for a number of achievements and make all eff orts to and Communications continued its in many training courses since its Additionally, the strategy will requirements, conditions and road projects, the most important of support the development process and hard work in organising land and sea establishment. cover environmental sustainability, standards required to issue licenses for which is linking the city of Lusail in the renaissance and achieve further transport, developing and improving The ministry also obtained providing transport for long-term leasing limousine activities. ways that are free and traffi c fl ows. development and prosperity for the transport and communication the ISO 9001: 2015 International sustainable development and The ministry has also been keen to The technical conditions for the Qatari people. services, studying its projects and Quality Management Certifi cate, development of land transport policies put public policies and strategies for project “Initial Design of the New It will also present the tremendous supervising and following up on their which is considered one of the most and plans to achieve these goals. the development and improvement Sealine Road” have been completed achievements and successes that implementation in order to expand important international certifi cates In this context, a number of of public transport networks in Qatar and the fi nalisation of the project is contributed to Qatar’s international the economic movement and serve to be awarded to institutions in legislative laws have been approved to and to improve the quality of its under way to launch a public tender. standing as a model for comprehensive national development requirements. recognition of their compliance with regulate the land transport sector. services and to identify programmes The ministry is also working on a and sustainable development. The ministry also worked on the ICT the standards set by the International The most important laws was the and priorities for the implementation project that includes traffi c accident He stated that National Day is an sector and its development. Organisation for Standardisation draft law regulating road transport and of these projects through the strategic analysis to determine its causes and occasion to be proud of belonging to The ministry has taken important (IOS). At the legislative and regulatory its executive regulations, which aims to planning of bus transport networks. propose suitable engineering solutions this country and its long history that steps to study and its infrastructure level, the Ministry of Transport and set the conditions and procedures for Routes and timetables for public bus to minimise the negative eff ects of was made by its ancestors, in particular projects in the transport and Communications sought to develop licensing the activity of land transport transportation are being developed, traffi c accidents. the Founder Sheikh Jassim bin communications sectors in order to legislation related to the transport and and determine the obligations of the in addition to improvements to serve As part of its strategic plans to Mohamed bin Thani, who laid down achieve the objectives of the Qatar communications sector in the country those with licenses, in addition to regular buses and bus services. maintain the State’s investment in road the country’s path for development National Vision 2030. through the issuance of laws and ensure safety on the roads. A new transport service is being infrastructure and supporting services, and prosperity. The ministry adopted Qatarisation ministerial decisions, as well as signing Additionally, there was a draft law provided to areas developed within the the ministry is currently preparing On this occasion, the minister strategy and has worked to attract agreements and memorandums of on the regulation of railways and urban renaissance. a fi eld survey of 21,000km of road congratulated His Highness the Amir qualifi ed national employees from understanding with a number of their executive regulations, which In addition, an integrated system network assets, including lighting, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani both genders to fi ll administrative and countries . aims to regulate the establishment for the payment and issuance of signs and other assets using specialised and His Highness the Father Amir specialised positions in the transport In the fi eld of land transport, the and operation of railways according public transport tickets in Qatar was technical devices to measure the Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani. and communications sectors in the ministry sought to keep up with to safety requirements set by the best established in order to facilitate the condition and performance of road He pointed out that the National country. the rapid growth witnessed by international standards and practices mobility of all means of transport assets based on the best international Day is an annual occasion on The ministry also took responsibility Qatar during the past few years in in this regard. using the unifi ed smart card. standards and specifi cations.

Ashghal continues infrastructure Three-day forecast TODAY Maximum Temperature : 260c Minimum Temperature : 180c

WEDNESDAY development despite blockade Maximum Temperature : 260c Minimum Temperature : 180c

THURSDAY QNA Asghal projects on schedule sewage infrastructure in southern Doha, Maximum Temperature : 240c Doha Ashghal began a projects that would Minimum Temperature : 170c The President of the Public Works infrastructure and become a benefi t a total of 150km in the area. Fisherman's forecast Authority (Ashghal), Dr Saad bin destination that makes every citizen The current plan also includes he Public Works Authority Ahmad al-Muhannadi confirmed and resident proud to live in. He said building two new plants. WARNING Inshore : Expected poor horizon- (Ashghal) continues its his keenness to accelerate the that despite the current situation As For Buildings, Ashghal tal visibility at places by achievements in 2018, and work pace, complete the ongoing imposed by the unjust siege, established four new health centres early morning implements national plans of projects and to implement the Ashghal was able to complete large in Muaither, Al Wajbah, Al Waab, and Offshore : Expected poor visibility T at places at first the State related to infrastructure and national plans related to the and vital sections of its projects, Qatar University. WEATHER integrated projects despite the unjust infrastructure and comprehensive based on the directives of His Ashghal is also working on Inshore : Misty to foggy at places blockade imposed on the country. projects to achieve a true legacy Highness the Amir and HE the Prime developing the Corniche, Al Khor, by early morning The Commission was able to for the future generations. Minister and Minister of Interior. Al Shamal, in addition to Al Wakrah becomes mild daytime with some clouds, and provide all the materials used in its In a statement to Qatar News Agency Al-Muhannadi off ered his sincere beach. relatively cold by night projects either by self-reliance and (QNA) on the occasion of Qatar congratulations to His Highness In line with the leadership Offshore : Misty to foggy at support to national industries or National Day, al-Muhannadi said that the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad directives, President of Ashghal Saad places at first becomes partly cloudy with c of imported from other countries. Ashghal continues to complete its al-Thani and His Highness the Father bin Ahmed al-Mohannadi signed rain to the east As a result of this policy, projects as per schedule, without Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al- contracts to establish six new medical WIND Ashghal was able to open regional the unjust siege aff ecting its Thani as well as the government and centres. Inshore : Northwesterly-South- westerly 05-13 KT infrastructure projects this year. performance. all the Qatari people on the occasion They will be build in areas such as Al Offshrore : Northeasterly-North- It also developed main and internal It also provides all alternative of National Day. Khor, South Al Wakrah, Al Sadd, and westerly 03-13 KT roads with a total length of about resources either through self- He expressed his appreciation for Ain Khalid. Visibility : 4-8/2 KM 175km and the establishment and suff iciency and supporting local the endless support provided by the That is in addition to building a Offshore : 1-3/4 FT development of a sewage network of industries or through importing it wise leadership to Ashghal which national health labs building. Around the region about 90km and a network of drainage from other countries. has encouraged and increased the The six projects are worth close to Weather Weather of surface water and groundwater of Al-Muhannadi reiterated his perseverance of the employees to QR1bn. today Max/min tomorrow Max/min about 330km. commitment and that of Ashghal’s complete the projects assigned to Ashghal continues to supervise Baghdad P Cloudy 17/08 Sunny 18/11 More than 5,600 lighting poles and employees to complete the them, despite the unjust siege on the projects it carries out after Kuwait CityM Sunny 22/12 Sunny 21/12 about 14,000 parking spaces were development of the State’s Qatar. its completion through the Sunny 24/18 installed. implementation of maintenance Manama Sunny 24/19 Sunny 26/17 Part of the road improvement and operation operations, which are Muscat Sunny 26/17 Sunny 12/03 projects saw Ashghal open the Shura residential plots for citizens in E and F Ring Roads, the authority carried out through the Department Tehran Rain 11/03 and Fareej Kulaib intersections. diff erent regions of the country opened the entrances from the F of Road Maintenance and operation It also opened Al Mahadheed street between 2017 and 2021, the authority Ring Road to the H Ring Road in both and maintenance of sewage in Al Mamoura among other streets. signed fi ve contracts for land plots in a directions. networks. The authority is continuing to work number of areas such as Al Kharatiyat, It also opened a 3km service lane at Response rates at the customer on about 70 diff erent local roads and Lubain, Muaither, and West Muaither the F Ring Road. service and at emergencies reached infrastructure projects. among others. Ashghal also completed six as high as 97%. With regard to the Within the area infrastructure The fi ve projects will serve 5,192 kilometres of service roads along the development and rehabilitation of programme, the authority is land plots. Industrial Area Road. the streets in some areas, Ashghal is implementing a surface water network One of the more important Work is under way to open a tunnel improving and rehabilitating main and in Al Sailiya and Al Ham Street, a infrastructure projects that was linking those arriving from Doha to side roads. sewage network in Al Kharatiyat and completed in 2018 was the Bani Hajer Barwa. As part of its strategy to enhance another one in Al Khesa. project, which is 1,070mn meters and The authority also opened a new traffi c safety, Ashghal began installing That is in addition to the authority’s serves 380 land plots. bridge linking Al Gharafa to the North 15 electronic boards in a number of the projects in industrial and logistical It also serves four schools, two of Madinet Khalifa. main roads such as the Corniche and areas. mosques, and two malls. Ashghal started the construction February 22 among others. Around the world The authority also fi nished turning As for the highway projects, year work of the development project of The aim of these boards is to inform Weather Weather the Golf Club roundabout to traffi c 2018 saw many new ones. East Industrial Road in the distance commuters on the state of traffi c in the today Max/min tomorrow Max/min lights. Ashghal fi nished 100km of between the intersection of 33 East roads ahead of them. Athens Showers 12/08 Cloudy 11/04 It also opened a footbridge on the E highways, bringing the total to more Road and Industrial Area Road. With a view to delivering world- Beirut S Showers 19/16 Rain 19/15 ring road, in addition to inaugurating than 500km. The project will be completed in the class infrastructure that meets Bangkok Sunny 33/23 M Sunny 33/24 the Equestrian and Muaither It also opened 10 intersections that fi rst quarter of 2020, at a total cost of Qatar National Vision 2030, Ashghal Berlin Cloudy 04/-1 M Cloudy 02/01 intersections as part of renovating Al brings the total number to 88 then QR730mn. has launched an initiative for road Cairo P Cloudy 22/12 Sunny 21/13 Forouseya street. launching the programme. The construction of the Wakra main maintenance. Cape Town S Showers 22/17 P Cloudy 22/17 It also opened a number of projects The authority fi nished 240km worth road project has also commenced with The initiative aims to establish Colombo P Cloudy 31/23 P Cloudy 31/23 in preparation for the academic year of footbridges and crossings. a length of 9km and a total cost of partners that can carry out the Dhaka Rain 21/16 P Cloudy 25/15 2018/2019. Renovations to more than 1mn about QR600mn. maintenance work. Hong Kong M Sunny 18/17 P Cloudy 21/19 Ashghal started this year with meters have been completed, more As for the construction of sewage In the area of health and safety, Istanbul Showers 11/07 Rain 08/04 the implementation of A Ring Road than what has been achieved from networks, work on 85km of sewage Ashghal reported 3,992,730 hours Jakarta S T Storms 32/25 T Storm 32/25 development project, which aims to 2010 to 2017. networks has been completed. without any accidents. Karachi Sunny 26/12 Sunny 26/12 enhance the capacity of the road. The total area of renovated localities Ashghal implemented of 34 It also reported 200 accidents that London Rain 11/07 S Showers 09/06 The aim is to expand the road itself reached 1.8mn metres. projects between 2012 and 2018 and were about to happen. Manila P Cloudy 31/24 P Cloudy 31/24 and some of the roads that cut across In Al Khor highway, there were is currently working on another 15 The Health and Safety Team also Moscow Cloudy -10/-12 Cloudy -8/-13 it as well. three main bridges that the authority projects worth about QR8.5bn. conducted special training courses for New Delhi Fog 22/07 Fog 22/06 The authority also started opened. In this context, treatment plants management staff to improve their New York Sunny 04/-2 M Sunny 07/02 turning the Passports (Immigration) A total of 6km of Khalifa Avenue with a capacity of 938,500 cubic knowledge about various safety issues. Paris P Cloudy 08/07 S Showers 10/06 Roundabout to a traffi c light, in were completed, including the Bani metres of sewage water have been In preparation for the rainy Sao Paulo S T Storms 34/22 S T Storms 33/22 addition to developing the service lane Hajer intersection. established, in addition to the second season, Ashghal has been upping its Seoul P Cloudy 07/-2 M Sunny 07/-4 of February 22 Road. This intersection helps traffi c fl ow phase in expanding the industrial area preparation for that for more than Singapore S T Storm 31/26 T Storm 31/26 As part of Ashghal’s commitment to between Doha, Dukhan, Bani Hajer, plan and lifting the capacity of the three months. Sydney M Cloudy 24/19 S Showers 22/19 implement its road and infrastructure and Al Rayyan. West Doha plant. This included doubling the number Tokyo Clear 12/06 Clear 15/05 development plan for 10,400 As part of the development of the And on projects to develop the of vehicles, equipment and crew. Gulf Times 34 Tuesday, December 18, 2018 COMMENT

CHAIRMAN Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Attiyah EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka Deputy Managing Editor K T Chacko P.O.Box 2888, Doha, Qatar [email protected] 44350478 (News), 44466404 (Sport), 44466636 (Home delivery) 44350474 facebook.com/gulftimes twitter.com/gulftimes_Qatar GULF TIMES United defeat spells trouble for Mourinho Will the defeat to Liverpool hasten the exit of Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho? The possibility cannot be discounted after the Premier League giants fell 19 points behind the leaders, revealing a chasm between the two sides few thought was possible when the 2018-19 season kicked off . Manchester United had not lost to Liverpool in the Premier League for eight games and over four years prior to Sunday’s 3-1 defeat, causing widespread anguish among their legions of fans across the globe. 2018, a year marked by Match-going United fans have been reluctant to turn on Mourinho, instead often pointing fi ngers at executive vice- chairman Ed Woodward’s reluctance to back the manager in the transfer market this summer or the club’s American owners, the Glazer family. However, by the end of proceedings on Sunday, as two successes and excellence defl ected Xherdan Shaqiri strikes in the fi nal 17 minutes sealed a thoroughly deserved victory for the hosts, it was Liverpool fans who sarcastically sang “don’t sack Mourinho”. QNA order to highlight the strong economic Education Excellence Day ceremony. The Portuguese coach said he accepted responsibility for a Doha potential of the State and the major He also patronised the inauguration development projects that are imple- ceremony of the Qatar National Library fi fth defeat of the season that leaves the 20-time champions of mented to achieve the Qatar National (QNL). England 11 points adrift of even a top-four fi nish. atar celebrates its National Vision 2030 as well as the projects The Water Security Mega Reservoirs But he also pointed the fi nger at what he described as Day today remembering the related to the 2022 World Cup. Project, which was inaugurated recently “permanently injured” players and claimed both sides played glories of the past and the Earlier this year, the inaugural stra- by the Amir, is another achievement of “in relation to their qualities”. Qachievements of the present tegic dialogue between Qatar and the Qatar and the largest of its kind in the US was held in Washington, DC, aimed That does not say much for Mourinho’s management as and with hope for a bright future fi lled world. with peace, accomplishment and suc- at strengthening the strategic partner- The Amir launched the web portal despite Liverpool spending more than any other Premier cess. ship between the two friendly countries of the Doha Historical Dictionary of League club this summer The motto of this year’s celebrations in various fi elds and consolidating the Arabic, the fi rst of its kind in the history to mount a title challenge, is “As long as it is proven by our deeds... historic relations between Doha and of Arabs and Arabic, and refl ects Qatar’s Manchester United’s transfer spend under Qatar remains free.” Washington at all levels. keenness to protect the Arabic language Qatar also held two rounds of strate- Mourinho in recent years still On this signifi cant day in the history and promote the identity of the Arab United had not of our country, we recall the wonder- gic dialogue with Britain and China. nation by promoting its language. dwarfs that of any side other ful biography of the Founder Sheikh Regarding the defence sector, there In the framework of the Qatari interac- lost to Liverpool than champions Manchester Jassim bin Mohamed bin Thani, who were remarkable Qatari moves and tion with international concerns, the City. laid the foundation of our modern state, events during the current year in order Amir, Prime Minister of Malaysia and in the Premier “Not one of the United protected the dignity of its people and political, economic, military and de- to fortify Qatar and protect its gains, the UN Secretary-General honoured the midfi elders can pass a made the country united, cohesive and fence successes along with the strategic sovereignty and capabilities. winners of Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad League for eight independent when he took offi ce on 18 alliances it made through its active, In this context, a new airbase called Al-Thani International Anti-Corruption football,” said former United December 1878. calm diplomacy, which is based on the “Tamim Airbase” was established. Excellence Award, during a ceremony games and over captain Gary Neville on Sky The State united by the Founder policy of mutual respect and common The Amir, Commander-in-Chief held in Kuala Lumpur this month. Sports. became feared by the adversaries, interests. of the Qatari Armed Forces, launched In the fi eld of energy, Qatar Petrole- four years prior “Not one of them. I fi nd embraced its siblings and friends, These achievements were outlined by the operations of the Qatar’s Amiri Air um (QP) was able to achieve rapid steps it staggering. United were respected covenants and rights of its His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim Force and the British Royal Air Force locally and internationally in the oil and to Sunday’s 3-1 neighbours and adhered to values, mor- bin Hamad al-Thani through his guid- joint squadron which will play a promi- gas sector especially in 2018. awful.” als and principles. ance to build the economic independ- nent and eff ective role in protecting the QP conducted an international defeat The wasted millions that The National Day celebration this ence of Qatar and protect its national Qatari airspace during the 2022 World technical study to assess the various have led United to this year is important as the country is security and strengthen bilateral rela- Cup. sedimentary basins at a global level, in position were laid bare at Anfi eld as Paul Pogba, who cost a then currently facing major challenges from tions with all countries of the world. HE the Deputy Prime Minister and co-operation with French Petroleum world-record £89mn in 2016, was left on the bench for the full hateful and greedy adversaries. The year 2018 was marked by the Minister of State for Defence Aff airs Dr Institute (IFP). The study will be used to The celebration also comes at time Amir’s visit to Turkey, Germany, Khalid bin Mohamed al-Attiyah also direct QP future plans towards the fi eld 90 minutes. when various indicators are confi rming Belgium, Bulgaria, Russia, the United inaugurated the production lines of Ty- of global exploration and production. Another near £100mn of attacking talent in Juan Mata and that Qatar has overcame all challenges States, Kuwait, France, United King- phoon and Hawk T2 for Qatar in Warton In terms of acquisition and global Anthony Martial also started on the sidelines, while £50 million and continued its journey with clear vi- dom, Ecuador, Peru, Paraguay, Argen- in the United Kingdom. exploration agreements, a consortium close-season signing Fred did not even make an injury-hit sion, plans supported by strong will and tina, Croatia, Italy and Malaysia. In Boeing Company plant in the US including QP won the bid for explora- matchday squad. ambition to fortify our nation against Qatari interests were high on the State of Missouri, he inaugurated the tion and production of off shore in the all risk and crises and to complete its agenda of discussions during these F-15 aircraft production line for the Sultanate of Oman, Brazil, Mexico, Liverpool dominated United, England and most of Europe in march and renaissance under the lead- visits. Amiri Air Force. Argentina and South Africa. the 80s, but have not won a league title since 1990. ership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Additionally, the Amir participated in The signing ceremony for the estab- QP signed an agreement with Shell As Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp bounded onto the fi eld to Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and his the Munich Security Conference held in lishment of the Qatari squadron of the to develop LNG marine fuelling or hug his players and rouse the home fans in one fi nal celebration government. Germany last February. NH90 helicopter, and a contract for the bunkering infrastructure at strategic after the fi nal whistle, the German epitomised the diff ering The National Day is a great occasion, It is important to point out that Qatar construction of seven new-generation shipping locations across the globe. in which we recall the glory of the past will host the Munich Security Confer- naval vessels took place in Rome. For the rest of the achievements, Qa- mood at the two clubs personifi ed by their managers. and sacrifi ces of our ancestors. ence next year 2019. In January, it was agreed to establish targas and RasGas have been merged to Mourinho had successfully parked the bus to come away from It is also an occasion to renew our In May, the Amir participated in the a joint operation fl eet between Qatar create a world-class operator of scale, Anfi eld with 0-0 draws in each of the two previous seasons. loyalty to our leader His Highness the Extraordinary Session of the Islamic and the UK to ensure mutual combat service and reliability that will create Yet, this United side are not even capable of mastering that Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al- Summit Conference in Istanbul, which readiness, increase joint measures in signifi cant opportunities for operating gameplan anymore with a defence that has conceded 29 goals in Thani. was dedicated to the development in the fi ght against terrorism and develop cost savings of nearly QR2bn annually. The unity between the people and the Palestine. strategic eff orts towards stability inside Qatar Petroleum has also announced 17 Premier League games. leadership led to the development of the In September, the Amir participated and outside the region. that drilling operations to expand LNG United must now watch their two fi ercest rivals battle it out State in a record time and enabled Qatar in the 73rd session of the UN Gen- Qatar, represented by the Ministry of production in Al Shamal fi eld will begin for the title, while already a top-four fi nish looks like a tall order to become a model and an example for eral Assembly in New York, where he Defence, signed a security agreement in 2019. for Mourinho’s men. welfare, economic and social develop- delivered a comprehensive speech on with Nato at the alliance’s headquarters Regarding the area of athletic Ultimately, it was failure to qualify for the Champions League ment based on the foundations inher- Qatar’s position on the unfair blockade in Brussels. achievements, His Highness the Amir ited from previous generations. imposed on it, as well as its position and This agreement seeks to establish a Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani that cost Mourinho’s predecessors Louis van Gaal and David Thanks to God and the wisdom, vision on the most important issues. bilateral military strategy to consolidate patronised the ceremony of reveal- Moyes their jobs. guidance and policies of our leader- The Amir also announced that Qatar security and peace in the region and ing the design for Lusail Stadium, the The same fate is likely to meet Mourinho, despite extending ship, Qatar is proceeding on the path of will provide good education for a mil- strengthen the eff orts of Qatar and the venue at which the opening and fi nal his contract to 2020 earlier this year. development and is moving steadily and lion girls by the year 2021. Nato in confronting the security chal- games of the 2022 FIFA World Cup confi dently towards the future, for the Furthermore, the Amir attended the lenges in the world. Qatar will take place. sake of the nation’s prosperity. opening of the Paris Peace Forum in As part of the land, air and naval All the projects are proceeding in ac- Qatar is also preparing the Qatari response to the invitation of French defence exercises, Qatari forces car- cordance with a timetable. To Advertise citizen to be able to give, achieve, excel, President Emmanuel Macron. ried out a series of exercises with the In July 2018, the Amir offi cially build the nation and protect it through Emphasising the importance, re- participation of the forces of a number received the mantle of hosting the 2022 [email protected] education, dedicated work and self- spect and appreciation of the leaders of friendly countries. FIFA World Cup Qatar and in October Display reliance in various fi elds. of brotherly and friendly countries, a In order to enhance military action, 2018, the Amir was re-elected as a 2018 was a bright year due to Qatar’s number of heads of state have visited the Ministry of Defence has established member of the International Olympic 44466621 44418811 achievements, successes and excellence Qatar this year. a company named Barzan Holdings that Committee (IOC). On Qatar’s sports in various local and foreign sectors. Amir also met many senior Arab and aims at enhancing the military capa- team, Qatar National Teams (Al- Classified The country is one of the fastest foreign organisations’ offi cials. bilities and investment in the defence Ada’am) have made a series of achieve- 44466609 44418811 growing economies in the world. In order to strengthen Qatari rela- industry. ments and many titles contributing to It is the world’s largest liquefi ed tions with major international actors, The company also supports research raising the fl ag of Qatar in international Subscription natural gas producer and has become Qatar’s economic tour took place across and development eff orts in the field of forums. a major force in foreign investment, in the United States this year. military technology. Qatar had hosted the 48th World [email protected] addition to its achievements in political, It included four economic forums With regard of the State’s keenness in Artistic Gymnastics Championships for cultural, social and legislative spheres. between Qatar and the United States in the educational process, His Highness the fi rst time in the Middle East with the The most important achievements Miami, Washington, DC, Charleston in the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al- participation of more than 700 players of © 2018 Gulf Times. All rights reserved this year were Qatar’s foreign relations’ South Carolina and North Carolina, in Thani patronised the 11th edition of the 80 countries around the world. Gulf Times Tuesday, December 18, 2018 35 QATAR Environment ministry contributing to overall development of Qatar

QNA other hand vegetable spaces to mar- and improving the economic effi ciency To strengthen the security and noise in Qatar, the development of Doha ket local product were provided in Al of the sector. It also aims at improving radiological and nuclear safety in- the Marine Environment Monitor- Mazrou’a, and Al Khor and Al Wakrah the genetic specifi cations and pres- frastructure, the CPF document ing Programme, with the issuance of for 7 months from November 1 un- ervation, besides equipping the Al adopted for the period 2016-2021 periodic and updated reports of the he Ministry of Municipal- til the end of May each year. A pro- Ghishaya research station to research was signed between Qatar and the country’s air, water and soil monitor- ity and Environment is one gramme was launched to set up more the production of pastoral plants. International Atomic Energy Agency ing programmes. T of the largest service minis- than 80 local farms to market the Qa- The report included the establish- (IAEA) and is consistent with Qatar’s With regard to protection and wild- tries in the country that contribute tari vegetables, in co-operation with ment of several projects and research Vision 2030 to achieve sustainable life, conservation of the environment to the development process and the the Ministry of Economy and Com- studies in the fi elds of water conser- social, economic and environmental and biodiversity balance, the ministry overall renaissance witnessed by merce, and to promote their products vation in agriculture and saline agri- development. adopted a project to establish a na- Qatar in the fields of municipal af- to match the imported variety, in the culture, the use of waste resources and It aims to identify the needs and tional biodiversity database to monitor fairs, urban planning, agriculture, major commercial complexes with soil improvement, and the introduc- interests of the initial development of the status of Qatar’s natural resources environment, waste treatment and prices different from those of man- tion of highly effi cient and drought- work in diff erent areas of the peaceful and preserve them within the national others, in line with the Qatar Na- agement of quality licenses and mar- resistant plants such as aloe. applications of nuclear energy, in addi- strategic development projects 2017- tional Vision 2030 that aimed at ket control. In the environmental sector, the tion to technical co-operation between 2022. placing the State among the devel- The Ministry of Municipality and ministry developed the national sys- the two sides and the implementa- Adopting a programme to rehabili- oped countries based on the pillars Environment, in co-operation and tem for the regulation and control of tion of several national and regional tate the Qatari mainland and re-culti- of human, economic, social and en- co-ordination with the Ministry of radioactive, chemical and hazardous projects in all sectors of priority, in- vate some Qatari wild trees in several vironmental development. Economy and Commerce, launched ment of many small and medium en- waste activities by reviewing and up- cluding the environment, health, agri- villages, and in the framework of con- On September 23, 2018, the Ministry the “Qatar Farms” initiative, with the terprises for aquaculture in the next dating national laws and regulations, culture, food and radiation and nuclear serving Qatari wild trees, about 500 launched its sustainable strategic plan. aim of supporting and stimulating the few years as Qatar is in the process of strengthening the fi eld of border con- emergencies. local wild trees were moved from the This plan of action for the years 2018 to local agricultural produce. becoming fully self-sufficient in fish trol and customs clearance of hazard- In the fi eld of environmental moni- infrastructure project sites to some of 2022, centres around key domains that The initiative gives the local produce supply within a period that doesn’t ous chemicals and wastes and radioac- toring, “the State of the Environment the roads. lead the ministry to excellence in the priority to be displayed and marketed exceeds 5 years. tive and nuclear sources. in Qatar” report has been prepared and On the conservation and protection performance of its various sectors in as their quality is better than the im- Under the guidance of His Highness The ministry opened offices of the reviewed. of endangered Qatari trees from over- the service of society. ported variety. the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Radiation Protection and Chemi- It is the fi rst environmental report grazing, the ministry adopted a project In a report on the occasion of Qa- As part of the initiative a festival was al-Thani, the Technical Committee cals Department at all air, sea and of its kind in the country and most im- to study the impact of the ministerial tar’s celebration of its National Day on held, in co-operation with Souq Wa- for the stimulation and participation land ports of the State and equipping portantly meets international require- decision banning camels grazing on December 18, the Ministry confi rms qif, to promote local dates. The initia- of the private sector in economic de- them to inspect the shipments of ments and provides updated data on natural vegetation in Qatar since 2011, its achievement through its sectors by tive supports the owners of farms and velopment projects, launched a public hazardous materials received by the the state of the environment in Qatar, formed a committee to study the posi- implementing of the wise directives of those interested in growing dates, and auction for investors in March 2017 to State and release them in the event of taking into account environmental in- tive and negative eff ects of the deci- His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim upgrading the varieties of dates in the establish three fl oating cage fi sh farm- their fulfilment. The offices are lo- dicators, guided by the international sion, in addition it adopted a draft land bin Hamad al-Thani. country. ing projects in the sea, in addition to cated at Hamad Port, Hamad Airport, dimension and regional levels, in addi- map for the identifi cation and classifi - As in the report, these achievements The Ministry of the Municipality bidding in January for a shrimp farm Al Ruwais Port, and Abu Samra port, tion to the start of the steps to estab- cation of Qatari plants. have been in several sectors, includ- and the Environment is keen to organ- construction project in Al Arish area while work is underway to activate lish a national network for continuous The ministry is supervising and ing agriculture and fi sheries, where, ise the Qatar International Agricul- by the private sector. the other outlets. monitoring of air quality. participating in many projects re- with regard to livestock, in recent years tural Exhibition (Agritec) every year In the fi eld of agricultural research, In addition, in co-operation with Eleven stations have been connected lated to marine life such as sea turtles there has been remarkable growth in in March. In its sixth edition in March, the ministry has implemented many the Internal Security Force (Le- to the air quality environment, and conservation project, in addition the the register of pastoralists and the size 2018, some 313 local, regional and in- activities and programmes to support khwiya) and the General Authority more stations are expected to be con- environmental protection, reserves of the national herd. ternational companies participated, and develop agricultural techniques, of Customs, the radiation detectors nected in the coming months to more and wildlife department is partici- In the area of agricultural aff airs, with an increase of 100% compared to both in terms of water conservation are installed in the border gates and than 20 stations distributed through- pating in other projects that aim to the honey bee national project was the fi fth exhibition in 2017. and in the development of the use cargo detectors at all ports. As per out the country. protect marine life such as the sharks launched in 2013, and 1,500 cells were In the field of fisheries, the Min- of agriculture methods. These come the Radiation Protection Law No 31 Approximately 10,000 environmen- and whales protection project with distributed as a grant in three stages, istry of Municipality and Environ- within the programmes and projects of of 2002, a national monitoring sys- tal, physical, chemical and biological Maersk and Total companies and the 10 per farm, along the follow-up of the ment has paid great attention to fish the fi rst and second national develop- tem and environmental radiological analyses of various samples are carried sea cows preservation project with farmer benefi ting from the project, and farming as one of the most important ment strategy. measurements system have been es- out annually in the laboratory. ExxonMobil. the total amount of honey production pillars of the national strategy for The ministry has also established tablished, consisting of the Central Moreover, steps have also been The ministry also cultivated coral last year reached 20.5tonnes. development. It has completed the the animal production research station Radiation Laboratory, the air radia- taken to establish an integrated en- reefs in a number of areas in the coun- As part of the Qatari Land reha- establishment of the Water Research in Shihaniyah. This station specialises tion monitoring network (the Early vironmental database, as well as the try following the completion of several bilitation project, 11 degraded Raw- Centre in Ras Matbakh. This will be in conducting research on the develop- Warning Network) and the Radiation development of air quality monitor- campaigns to clean the seabed from da were rehabilitated, while on the the basic nucleus for the establish- ment of animal production techniques Monitoring of the Borders. ing stations, and the monitoring of waste. Gulf Times 36 Tuesday, December 18, 2018 QATAR

Amiri Diwan hosts Ardha performance

His Highness the Personal Representative of the Amir, Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani, participated in Ardha performance, which was held in Amiri Diwan yard on the Corniche of Doha, to celebrate Qatar National Day. His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Thani and a number of their excellencies Sheikhs, ministers, dignitaries and citizens took part in the Ardha performance. PM attends operetta Dance, drone show ...at Katara

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani attended yesterday an operetta organised by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education at Katara – the Cultural Village to mark National Day celebrations. The ceremony was attended by a number of their excellencies ministers, ranking off icials, education off icials, school principals, and parents. The operetta focused on the history of education, and the period that first saw the introduction of education in Qatar and the developments that took place since then. The ceremony had many musical and poetry numbers, in addition to the many number of educational themes. The operetta stressed that the State Katara – the Cultural Village yesterday hosted the ‘All united of Qatar have put a lot of eff ort over the past 50 years, which eventually saw education an icon for hand in hand’ operetta, reflecting the solidarity and co- the country’s development and the renaissance it is undergoing. Another theme of the operetta was existence between expatriates and citizens in Qatar. The show that Qatar was growing thanks to the eff orts of its students, who give their all to ensure the country was held as part of the Qatar National Day celebrations and does the best possible in education and in all fields. The operetta also stressed on the importance of was followed by a fireworks display at the Katara esplanade. loving one’s country and supporting its wise leadership. More than 200 students from nine schools Meanwhile, more than 300 drones put up a scintillating participated in the operetta. show in the sky above Katara. The drone show illustrated symbolic figures in Qatar accompanied by national songs – all highlighting the patriotic spirit. Also, visitors enjoyed a dance show by a Russian band that included the ‘Flower Dance’, accompanied by prominent local Qatari songs, Katara said in a statement. The show was followed by a performance by an Asian band that performed a dance with handheld fans dressed in their traditional costumes involving 30 dancers. Further, visitors witnessed military musical performances from countries such as Turkey, Jordan and Italy, in addition to a performance by the Amiri cavalry, followed by fireworks.

MME unveils largest Qatar flag made of flowers

The Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME)’s Public Parks Department has unveiled the largest Qatari flag made of flowers on the Doha Corniche, as part of its participation for the Qatar National Day celebrations. Mohamed Ali al-Khuri, director of the department, said nearly 225,000 flower seedlings – 150,000 burgundy flowers and 75,000 white flowers – were used to create the flag, which is 110m long and 20m wide. He also noted that the Corniche area has been decorated with a large number of flowers, including flower ‘towers’, vases and flower basins. AZF fireworks

A view of the fireworks display organised by Aspire Zone Foundation yesterday at Aspire Park as part of the Qatar National Day celebrations. PICTURE: Sajin Orma