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Saturday 14 December 2019 | 17 Rabia II 1441 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 24 | Number 8105 | 2 Riyals

Amir sends Amir to open congratulations to Boris Johnson Doha Forum QNA/DOHA Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani sent yesterday a cable of congratulations to H 2019 today E Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Boris Johnson, on the victory of the Conservative Party QNA & THE PENINSULA/DOHA The Forum’s programme, in the UK general elections. which attracts 3,000 The Deputy Amir H H Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin participants from Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Hamad Al Thani will open today different countries of Thani, and Prime Minister and the Doha Forum 2019 that is the world and more Interior Minister H E Sheikh being held under the theme Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa than 250 speakers, ‘Reimagining Governance in a Al Thani also sent similar cables Multipolar World’. includes a set of plenary of congratulations. The Forum will be attended and discussion sessions Boris Johnson’s Conservative by H E President Paul Kagame and keywords centred party has won 365 seats in par- of the Republic of Rwanda, H E on global topics and liament, giving it a majority of 80, President Armen Sarkissian of issues. while the main opposition the Republic of Armenia, H E Labour party won 203. President Nayib Bukele of the Republic of El Salvador, H E the new global balances. This The Prime Minister of Malaysia, H E Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, being conferred with Honorary Doctorate of Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dr. edition will also see the launch Philosophy by the President of Qatar University, Dr. Hassan Rashid Al Derham, at Qatar University yesterday. Amir congratulates Mahathir Mohamad, H E Vice- of the Doha Forum Award, given Algerian President of the Republic of for the first time in 2019 to an Ecuador, Otto Sonnenholzner, H E individual or organisation that President-elect Chairman of the Presidential demonstrates outstanding Mahathir conferred with Honorary Council of Libya, Fayez Al Sarraj, H achievements rooted in the core QNA/DOHA E the Prime Minister of the Federal values of Doha Forum — dia- Doctorate by Qatar University Republic of Somalia, Hassan Ali logue, diplomacy and diversity, Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Khairi, H E the Prime Minister of said a statement issued earlier SIDI MOHAMED Islamic University Malaysia.” Government and the people of Hamad Al Thani and Deputy Antigua and Barbuda, Gaston by the Doha Forum. THE PENINSULA The ceremony was attended Malaysia as well. I feel truly Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Browne and H E the President of Doha Forum 2019 will also by Minister of Commerce and honoured.” Hamad Al Thani sent cables of the General Assembly of the see the return of last year’s stra- Qatar University (QU) has Industry, H E Ali bin Ahmed Al “This award that the Qatar congratulations to H E Abdel- United Nations, Tijjani tegic partners including Inter- awarded an Honorary Doctorate Kuwari; Minister of Justice and University has accorded to me madjid Tebboune on the Muhammad-Bande. national Crisis Group, European of Philosophy to the Prime Acting Minister of State for will be remembered as a symbol occasion of his victory in the H H the Amir will deliver a Council for Foreign Relations, Minister of Malaysia, H E Dr. Cabinet Affairs, H E Dr. Issa bin of the strong bonds between our presidential elections of the speech at the opening session of and Munich Security Con- Mahathir Mohamad at a special Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi; along two countries. As the top uni- People’s Democratic Republic the Forum, in which His Highness ference, each of which will ceremony held yesterday at Ibn with a number of members of versity in the country, Qatar Uni- of Algeria, wishing him success will touch on the danger of a curate panel discussions and Khaldoon Hall at QU. the Board of Trustees, Vice-Pres- versity has distinguished itself and the Algerian people further multipolar world becoming a offer expertise into some of the “It is a great honour to idents, Deans of faculties, Qatar as the nation’s premier uni- development and growth. fragmentation as a result of the world’s most pressing challenges welcome Dr. Mahathir Mohamad University students, faculty versity on many fronts including Abdelmadjid Tebboune has major powers shirking their around security, defence, in this historical visit that for sure members, and interested in the field of arts and sciences, been elected President of Algeria responsibilities, especially law humanitarian crises and foreign will strengthen the ties between members of the general business and economics, edu- with 58.15 percent of the votes enforcement and international relations. Qatar and Malaysia,” said the community. cation, engineering, law, Shariah in the presidential election held legitimacy. The 2019 Forum will tackle President of Qatar University, Dr. During his acceptance and Islamic Studies,” the Prime on Thursday. The final turnout The Forum’s programme, key themes including; Trends Hassan Al Derham, on the speech, the Prime Minister of Minister of Malaysia said. hit 39.93 percent, the head of the which attracts 3,000 partici- and Technology; Trade and occasion. Malaysia H E Dr. Mahathir “Relations between National Independent Authority pants from different countries Investment; Human Capital and Speaking at the ceremony, Mohamad, said: “First of all, let Malaysia and Qatar has for Elections (ANIE) Mohamed of the world and more than 250 Inequality; Security, Cyber Gov- Al Derham added: “At Qatar Uni- me reciprocate the warmness of remained warm and friendly Charfi said yesterday. speakers, includes a set of ernance, and Defence; Interna- versity we have a great rela- that welcome by expressing my throughout the years since the Tebboune was Prime Min- plenary and discussion sessions tional Organisations, Civil tionship with the educational deepest thanks and appreciation establishment of diplomatic ties ister of Algeria from May 2017 and keywords centred on global Society and Non-State Actors; institutions in Malaysia as we to Qatar University for con- in 1974. Both countries have to August 2017. Previously, he topics and issues such as and Culture and Identity. Last have signed MoUs with five ferring upon me this honorary consistently worked together to was Minister of Housing from migration, refugees, extremism, edition brought together Malaysian universities including, doctorate. I am humbled by the broaden and deepen our 2001 to 2002 and again from global governance challenges, decision-makers, heads of state, the University of Malaya, the acknowledgements and it is existing cooperation. I must say 2012 to 2017. Abdelmadjid Teb- agency wars, as well as regional ministers, business executives Universiti Teknologi Malaysia indeed a great privilege, not only that the relation now is at an all- boune is the eighth President cooperation mechanisms and and advocates. (UTM) and the International for me but for my wife, the time high,” he added. `P2 of Algeria. `P4

Qatar influential country with huge Boris Johnson to form new govt in UK potential: El Salvador President AGENCIES/LONDON their best result for three decades on Thursday night after prom- QNA/DOHA architecture, adding that the Queen Elizabeth II of Britain ising to get Britain out of the State of Qatar is a very inter- yesterday instructed Boris European Union on January 31. The President of the Republic esting and very influential Johnson to form the new But in a victory speech in of El Salvador, H E Nayib country, and it has one of the government following the Downing Street, the former Bukele, said that the State of largest media in the world. He victory of his Conservative party London mayor vowed to listen Qatar is a very influential explained that his visit to Doha in Thursday’s parliamentary to those who opposed Brexit and country in the world and has aims to strengthen diplomatic, elections. lead an inclusive, “One-Nation” huge potential in the cultural political, and commercial rela- Johnson had met with Queen government. and sports fields. tions, as well as cooperation Elizabeth II at Buckingham “I urge everyone to find In press statements, the and investment relations with Palace, where she handed him closure and to let the healing President expressed his great the State of Qatar and partic- the mandate to form the new begin,” he said, a few hours after admiration for the volume of ipate in the Doha Forum 2019. British government. visiting Queen Elizabeth II to be infrastructure projects taking The President of El Sal- Johnson called the election reappointed prime minister. place in the State of Qatar, the vador expressed his happiness to break the deadlock in par- Johnson said his party had construction of stadiums eve- to visit the State of Qatar, liament over how to implement an “overwhelming mandate rywhere, and the rebuilding of which started its official rela- the 2016 referendum vote for from this election to get Brexit areas with new architectural tions with his country more Brexit, in which he had played a done — and we will honour that styles that preserve the origi- than a decade ago. He pointed leading part. It delivered a mandate by January 31”, the next nality and culture of the out that the two countries have stunning victory for the Tories, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson making a speech outside EU deadline. country, stressing that these potentials that are not yet who secured 365 seats in the 650- No 10 Downing Street following a meeting with Queen Elizabeth He promised to then focus funds and the investments are explored. He explained that his seat House of Commons — the II to form a government, in London, United Kingdom, yesterday. on other public priorities, going to put the State of Qatar visit is witnessing many biggest majority since the 1980s notably by increasing investment in a new international position, meetings and discussions with heyday of Margaret Thatcher. in healthcare, schools and infra- which is very interesting for a government officials, adding By contrast, the main oppo- seats. The anti-Brexit Liberal divisions over the country’s EU structure. “The work is now developing country like El that his country will give a sition Labour party suffered its Democrats also had a dismal membership behind them as he stepped up to make 2020 a year Salvador. presentation at the Doha worst result since 1935, forcing night, falling to just 11 seats and vowed to use his resounding of prosperity and growth and The President of El Sal- Forum related to the new gov- leader Jeremy Corbyn to losing their leader, Jo Swinson. election victory to finally deliver hope,” he concluded, to cheers vador expressed his admiration ernance and how the world announce he would be stepping Boris Johnson called on Brexit next month. from aides and activists outside for the National Museum of develops in the post-globali- down. Labour Party won 203 Britons to put years of bitter Johnson’s Conservatives won Number 10. `P9 & 11 Qatar and its wonderful zation era. `P2 02 HOME SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER 2019

PRAYER TIMINGS Mahathir conferred with Honorary Doctorate OFFICIAL NEWS FAJR 04. 49 AM SHOROOK 06. 11 AM FROM PAGE 1 Amir, Tajikistan President H E Dr. Mahathir Mohamad also exchange greetings ZUHR 11. 28 AM MAGHRIB 04. 48 PM affirmed that Malaysia and Qatar share on 25th anniversary ASR 02.26 PM ISHA 06. 18 PM the same beliefs and commitment with of diplomatic relations regard to education. “Malaysia believes DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim that the pursuit of education is a lifelong WEATHER TODAY process and it is the right of every indi- bin Hamad Al Thani, and H E vidual to have access to education. President of the Republic of Therefore, I am pleased to have this Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon opportunity to address the students of this exchanged greetings on the University.” occasion of the 25th anniver- “There is no doubt that the students sary of the establishment of here today will be the leaders of tomorrow, diplomatic relations between the next torch bearers of your country and the two brotherly countries. the hope for the future generation. Edu- In two cables exchanged on cation enhances one’s capability and can this occasion, H H the Amir and be an important determinant in improving H E the Tajik President expressed one’s socio-economic status. I believe uni- satisfaction with the develop- versities play a significant role in providing ment and growth witnessed by opportunities and support for students to the solid Qatari-Tajik relations explore new knowledge and realise their during the past decades. potential,” he added. The Minister of Commerce and Industry, H E Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari (second right); They also affirmed mutual The event marks the second hon- the Minister of Justice and Acting Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs, H E Dr. Issa bin determination to support and ourary doctorate awarded by Qatar Uni- Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi (fourth right), and other dignitaries during the ceremony strengthen those relations in versity (QU) after the President of Turkey, for Malaysian Prime Minister H E Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, held at Qatar University, various fields for the good of H E Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, received it in yesterday. PIC: BAHER AMIN/THE PENINSULA the two peoples. QNA December 2015. In his speech, Dr. Hassan Al Derham pointed out that QU has also Islamic World, who has achieved a great fruitful political career that led the President of Armenia been working with more than 36 different deal and was a pioneer in so many fields. country to prosperity,” Al Derham added. arrives in Doha institutions in Malaysia since 2014 that Today, we witness the success of The Way The QU President further said: “We resulted in 274 research paper and project Forward plans that placed Malaysia in a are honored to award you the Honorary DOHA: President of the in different fields. leading position globally. From a rich aca- Doctorate of Philosophy and we are Republic of Armenia H E Armen o o “We take pride in welcoming a demic contribution, that included 16 grateful for your acceptance and your visit Sarkissian arrived in Doha yes- 19 C 27 C national symbol and a figure of the books and research paper to a long and to Qatar University.” terday morning to participate Minimum Maximum in Doha Forum 2019 which will be held today and tomorrow. Scattered cloud with chance of rain at H E the President and the some places at first, becomes moderate accompanying delegation temperature daytime and relatively cold National unity and pride on display as by night. were welcomed upon arrival at Hamad International Airport

HIGH TIDE 06:07 – 16:46 LOW TIDE 13:40 – 00:00 QF hosts stage of Team Qatar’s Flag Relay by HE Ambassador of the State Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department of Qatar to Armenia Moham- DOHA/THE PENINSULA opportunity for all of us in our community med bin Hamad Al Fuhaid Al to unite. Whether we are Qatari nationals Hajeri and HE Ambassador Qatar influential A celebration of national pride united the or from outside Qatar, we have come of the Republic of Armenia people of Qatar as the third edition of together to raise Qatar’s flag high, and to Qatar Gegham Gharibja- country with huge Team Qatar’s Flag Relay weaved its way this is the least we can do to show our nian. QNA through the country – including Qatar love and loyalty to this country.” potential: Bukele Foundation’s Education City. Farid’s fellow Qatari athlete Abdul- Qatar condemns The event, organised by Qatar rahman Samba said: “As we head toward FROM PAGE 1 explosion in Afghanistan Olympic Committee, forms part of the Qatar National Day, the Flag Relay is an H E Bukele indicated that El Salvador Qatar National Day celebrations and sees extremely important and exciting expe- DOHA: The State of Qatar has seeks to cooperate with the State of Qatar athletes, public figures, celebrities, and rience, and it is an honor for any athlete strongly condemned the bomb- in various sectors, especially the oil and people from all corners of the Qatar com- to participate in carrying the flag across ing in Ghazni province, eastern gas sector, pointing out that his country munity participate in carrying Qatar’s the country. Afghanistan, which resulted in has great oil wealth and needs Qatari com- national flag through the country, with Hamad Abdullah Al Naimi, a Grade 6 deaths and injuries. panies to cooperate in benefiting from it. Education City forming a stage of the relay student at Qatar Academy Doha, part of In a statement issued yes- He reviewed investment opportunities route. QF’s Pre-University Education, said he terday, the Ministry of Foreign in El Salvador, especially the agricultural On its arrival at Education City, the was delighted to be part of the relay stage Affairs reiterated that the field, pointing out that his country is a flag was carried to Oxygen Park and at Education City. “It is the first time I have State of Qatar’s firm stance on gateway to Latin American markets because received by Machaille Al Naimi, President participated in this event,” he said. “I am rejecting violence and terror- it is located in the centre of the continent. of Community Development at Qatar very happy that it is taking place at Edu- ism, regardless of the motives The President of El Salvador looked Foundation. It was then taken forward to Athlete Abdulrahman Samba (right) during cation City, and I hope that I can partic- and causes. forward to seeing Qatari investments in Al Shaqab equestrian centre, before being the Qatar’s Flag Relay. ipate again in the future.” The statement expressed the El Salvador, especially as it is one of the carried on horseback to the Education Cyclist Ammar Mohammed said: “This State of Qatar’s condolences to most stable countries in the region and a City Stadium and passed to the Qatar is the third year in a row that we have the families of the victims and signer of a free trade agreement with the Cyclists team, who rode the flag to its next Qatar Foundation (QF) stage of the relay participated in the Flag Relay, and the the Government and people of US and enjoys great relations with China relay destination. was Qatari athlete Mariam Farid, who event is constantly developing, especially Afghanistan, wishing the injured and various countries of the world. Among those participating in the said: “The Flag Relay is a great in terms of the number of participants.” a speedy recovery. QNA Prominent pianist to perform with Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra tonight

RAYNALD C RIVERA fourth prize at the 17th Interna- and one of the great symphonists Baroque to contemporary music, THE PENINSULA tional Fryderyk Chopin Compe- of his generation. Particularly Fu has conducted numerous tition in Warsaw, and first prize gifted for melodies and a master orchestras in Europe, America, Topping the list of five pianists at the Moscow International of lyricism and sentimentality, Asia and Oceania. He has con- to look out for in 2019 by The Chopin Competition for Young Tchaikovsky composed some of ducted Chinese premieres of Pianist Magazine, Eric Lu is back Pianists in 2014, among others. the most popular themes in all western classic music in China, in Doha to play Tchaikovsky’s He has performed in world of classical music. and has also premiered contem- First Piano Concerto together renowned venues like the The concert culminates with porary music pieces in different with the Qatar Philharmonic Carnegie Hall, Auditorio Jean Sibelius’s Symphony No. 2 music festivals at home and Orchestra tonight at Qatar Nacional de Madrid, Beijing in D Major, a bold and uncon- abroad. National Convention Center. Concert Hall, Seoul Arts Center ventional piece which Sibelius Qatar Philharmonic’s next Winner of the prestigious and Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre. started writing in Italy in 1901 show is a chamber music concert Leeds International Piano Com- Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s and whose memorable melodies at the Museum of Islamic Art petition, last year, the 21-year- First Piano Concerto is a com- and heroic character present a Atrium on January 9. It will be old American pianist is hailed for position of high stature in piano bright witness to the composer’s followed by the opening concert his distinctive musical voice and literature, holding a position of creativity. for France-Qatar 2020 Year of enormous potential on the inter- great significance in the reper- Maestro Renchang Fu, the Culture to be held at Katara national stage. toire of the instrument. artistic director and principal Opera House on January 10 with Lu bagged prestigious prizes Tchaikovsky was a major conductor of Xiamen Philhar- Marc Piollet as conductor and around the world such as first Russian composer of the late monic Orchestra, will lead Lise De La Salle on piano playing Multi-awarded American pianist Eric Lu will perform with Qatar prize at the 2015 US National 19th century considered a key tonight’s concert. With a very Qatari and French Philharmonic Orchestra tonight at Qatar National Convention Center. Chopin Competition in Miami, figure of Russian Romanticism wide repertoire ranging from compositions. Siemens Cerberus PRO fire detectors offer ‘no false alarm’ guarantee

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The festive spirit of Qatar National Day is vious years is on display for the seventh Meanwhile, the Amiri Air Force has in the air at Katara Cultural Village with consecutive year. their Air Ambulance on display. still several days before the actual day as Katara is also hosting a cultural market, Mawater Center, on the other hand, a large number of events and activities heritage collections, “Qadimek Nadimak” have put up a ‘Classic Cars’ display. begain in Katara on Wednesday. an exhibition of antiquities, national shows, The Supreme Committee for Delivery Events ranging from various shows, competitions offering gifts, and PlayStation and Legacy is showcasing Qatar as the operettas, and displays of national culture championship (FIFA 2020). world’s sports destination with a folkloric and heritage to drone and fireworks shows A National Day operetta titled “This is show on the occasion of the FIFA Club have been lined up in co-operation with Qatar”, directed by Nasser Abdul-Reda, is World Cup Qatar 2019 now being hosted various ministries, and government and one of the highlights of this year’s in Doha. private entities until December 19. celebrations. The show has participation of 15 inter- The celebrations, which run for over a Fireworks display and drones show are national communities including Pakistan, week, were officially launched by Katara also taking place every evening at the Korea, Japan, Palestine, Bangladesh, General Manager, Dr. Khalid bin Ibrahim amphitheatre. Uganda, Nepal, Kenya, Tanzania, Morocco, Al Sulaiti and events are being held from Al Thuraya Planetarium is holding Jamaica, Tunisia, Mexico, Sudan, and 3pm to 10pm every day. astronomy shows, colouring workshop, and Ghana. Qatar’s national dance, the “Ardha”, “Phases of the Moon” workshop. Apart from presenting an exhibition of being performed at the Katara waterfront The Qatari Joint Special Forces have ancient vehicles, Qatar Media Corporation provides an atmosphere of festivity while paratrooper show, ‘Show of Paramotor’, has a live broadcasting studio, and display different activities are enjoyed by visitors and parachute fireworks. of radio booth model. leading to the National Day on December The Ministry of Defense – Armed The Ktateeb Company is organising 18. Forces are showcasing the best of its Arabic language workshops for children. Hamad Medical Corporation is presenting its institutional history, and the ambulance service. Amal Center for Special Needs has a programme with participation of youth over 15 years old. Alfaisal Social Responsibility Centre is conducting Qatari heritage activities and popular games com- petitions while Al Shabhanah Asso- ciation has educational workshops for children. In another interesting feature, Nebras Power Company has installed air fans on the Katara Hills. Ooredoo has an electronic football game with interactive pres- entations based on 3D technology being held on the stairs of Katara H E President Paul Kagame of the Republic of Rwanda arrived in Doha Beach Club. yesterday evening to participate in Doha Forum 2019, which starts today The general public will have free and will continue for two days. H E the President and the accompanying access to all the beach games. The entire Cultural Village delegation were welcomed upon arrival at Hamad International Airport premises have been decked up in by Minister of Transport and Communications H E Jassim bin Saif al The Ardha dance being performed at the Katara waterfront provides a festive atmosphere national colours and lights in super- Sulaiti; H E Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Republic of Rwanda, while visitors enjoy the different activities at Katara’s National Day celebrations which run vision of the Ministry of Municipality Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Sayed, and Ambassador of the Republic of until December 19. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA and Environment. Rwanda to the State of Qatar, Francois Nkulikiyimfura. Wanda’s FIFA Flag Bearer QA to sponsor All Nepal Football Association League 2019-2020 DOHA global brand, Qatar Airways, Programme kicks off THE PENINSULA and we look forward with great anticipation to an exciting two DOHA Qatar Airways (QA) is delighted months of football in the Qatar THE PENINSULA to announce a new partnership Airways ‘A’ Division Martyr’s with the All Nepal Football Memorial League. This FIFA Partner Wanda’s FIFA Flag Bearer Programme, which provides Association (ANFA). agreement builds upon our inspirational moments for youth, kicked off with six young people The Qatar Airways ‘A’ existing collaboration with the from Qatar Foundation’s sport and community programmes partic- Division Martyr’s Memorial Qatar Football Association and ipating as flag bearers in the opening game of the FIFA Club World League, the biggest annual we are delighted to forge even Cup Qatar 2019 at Jassim bin Hamad Stadium. football event in Nepal, will run closer ties with Qatar with this Their involvement in the Wanda FIFA Flag Bearers program is from December 14, 2019 to partnership.” part of an ongoing partnership between Qatar Foundation (QF) and February 15, 2020. Qatar Airways holds an the Wanda Group – an official global partner of world football’s The partnership will see the extensive global sports port- governing body FIFA, aimed at inspiring the next generation of QA logo feature on all 14 League folio, sponsoring top-level football fans and players in Qatar, China and all over the world. club shirts, as well as providing sporting events and some of the One of the participants, 12-year-old Yusif Saad, said: “It was brand awareness through biggest football clubs around really fun and exciting. It wasn’t scary at all – it was really cool. But perimeter boards, stadium the world including AS Roma, holding up the flag was really hard. It was probably the best day of flags, LED screens and online Boca Juniors and FC Bayern my life in Qatar.” digital content as well as other Qatar Airways and All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) officials Munich. As official FIFA Featuring seven teams from around the world, the first game activity. during the announcement of their partnership, recently. partner, Qatar Airways of the FIFA Club World Cup Qatar 2019™ saw Qatar’s Al-Sadd Sports Qatar Airways Group Chief sponsors the FIFA Club World Club beat Hienghène Sport 3-1. The second round, taking place on Executive, H E Akbar Al Baker, Cup Qatar 2019 and the FIFA December 14, will see Al Hilal FC go head-to-head against Espérance said: “We are very pleased to country. We are continually power to bring people World Cup Qatar 2022, Sportive De Tunis, while Monterrey face Al-Sadd Sports Club. The announce this new partnership, striving to boost our global together.” reflecting the values of sport as tournament, which also includes European champions Liverpool which will see Qatar Airways sporting sponsorship portfolio, ANFA President Karma a means of bringing people FC, will conclude on December 21. increase its exposure in Nepal and this partnership is just one Tsering Sherpa said: “We are together, something at the core Today, a further 12 QF youth ambassadors will participate in whilst supporting the devel- more example of our dedication extremely grateful for the of the airline’s brand message the double-header. opment of football in the to sport and our belief in its support of the award-winning - Going Places Together. World-class Korean musicians enthrall Katara audience RAYNALD C RIVERA “Peer Gynt Suite No.1 Morning” Qatar, in addition to four Korean THE PENINSULA and “Holberg Suite Op. 40” by and Qatari Ministers’ visits to Edvard Grieg as well as Arirang each other’s capitals. Talented members of the Seoul of the eight provinces and a “Economically, while main- Flute Choir, one of the finest flute medley of Korean children’s taining close cooperation in orchestras in the world, songs. energy and construction sectors, enthralled the audience at Katara Speaking at the event, the two countries are moving Drama Theatre on Thursday with Ambassador of the Republic of forward to areas of future coop- their exceptional performance Korea to Qatar, Kim Chang-mo eration, as shown by ten MOUs of an eclectic reperttoire of clas- said the special event aimed at and Action Plans signed this sical Western and Korean pieces. sharing Korean culture to the year,” he said. “A Winter Night of Classical people of Doha, while he hailed “In line with ever-growing Music–Song of Wind from the longstanding diplomatic ties political and economic relations Korea” was yet another suc- between Korea and Qatar. between us, my Embassy is cessful show presented by the “The Republic of Korea and introducing a number of Korean Korean Embassy in Doha in the State of Qatar established cultural events to the people in cooperation with Katara Cultural diplomatic relations 45 years Doha, including traditional and Village. ago, and since then, the relations classical concerts and Taek- The nine talented Korean have developed in various per- wondo demonstration,” added musicians including Seoul Flute Talented Korean musicians perform at “A Winter Night of Classical Music” concert at the Katara Drama spectives,” he said. the ambassador. Choir members Bae Jaeyoung, Theatre on Thursday evening. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA In the political front, the Founded in 1992, the Seoul Shim Jaeyoen, Choi Yongseok, ambassador highlighted the suc- Flute Choir has been hosting Kim Junghyun, Im Jinyoung, Kim to Grieg and Mancini. Letter” and “Autumn Letter,” the Mozart’s “Andante in C major for cessful exchange of high level charity concerts every year, and Eunjung, and Ro Youngju along Starting with Wolfgang well-applauded concert pro- Flute” and Antonio Vivaldi’s visits which occurred this year their innovative repertoire with pianist Chu Kyojun and Amadeus Mozart’s “Overture vided a glimpse into the wealth “Concerto in D major Op.10 Il between the two countries coupled with their outstanding Doha-based flutist Shin Jihoon from Marriage of Figaro” and of Korean talent in the world of Gardellino” with prominent including the visit of Amir H H performing skills has earned impressed music lovers as they concluding with a medley of classical music. soloist Bae Jaeyoung. The Sheikh Tamin bin Hamad Al them high reputation demon- played wide-ranging composi- famous songs “Moon River”, “Try Among the highlights of the audience also enjoyed their Thani to Korea and Prime Min- strated by featuring in a number tions, from Mozart and Vivaldi to Remember”, “I’ll Send You a show were the performances of impeccable performance of ister H E Lee Nak-yon’s visit to of high profile concerts. 04 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER 2019

Sultan Qaboos Former PM elected Algeria’s new President back home after Abdelmadjid medical checkup Tebboune, 74, in Belgium received 58.15% of the vote in this North AP/DUBAI African country, H M Sultan Qaboos bin Said of according to the Omanhas returned to Muscat head of the National after traveling to Belgium for a Independent Electoral medical checkup, the sultan- ate’s state-run news agency Authority. Turnout was reported yesterday. just 41%, reflecting H M Sultan Qaboos bin the frustration of Said left for some medical checks that will take a limited many Algerians who period, God willing,” the hoped to see new Oman News Agency reported faces among the a week earlier, citing a royal candidates. court statement. A similar royal statement announced his return, without elaborating. H M AP/ALGIERS Sultan Qaboos has taken medical trips abroad in the Abdelmadjid Tebboune, a former past. prime minister and loyalist of Algeria’s influential army chief, IS group claims was elected the oil-rich nation’s Algeria’s newly-elected President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. RIGHT: A protester lifts a placard in the capital Algiers as he takes part in a new president in a vote boycotted attack on Niger demonstration to reject the results of the presidential elections. by members of a vibrant pro- democracy movement, electoral military; 71 dead authorities said. favor of the old regime. chosen in advance by the elite. man in charge of his campaign entourage who are now also in AP/DAKAR Tebboune, 74, received Tebboune is reportedly close This election’s low turnout financing, Omar Alilat, has been prison for graft. 58.15% of the vote in this North to powerful army chief Gaid compares to the nearly 52% in jailed on corruption charges. And Tebboune during his cam- The Islamic State (IS) group has African country, according to the Salah, a much-criticized figure 2014, when Bouteflika won with Tebboune’s son will be ques- paign tried to put forward an claimed responsibility for an head of the National Inde- among members of the protest 81% of the vote. Former minister tioned in a drug case, according image of a man who went after attack on a military camp in pendent Electoral Authority, movement that began in Feb- Abdelkader Bengrina came in to Algeria’s national television. oligarchs in Said Bouteflika’s Niger that killed at least 71 Mohamed Charfi. Turnout was ruary. They seek fresh elections, second in Thursday’s vote with Tebboune held ministerial circle, but he had a hard time soldiers. just 41%, reflecting the frustration new leadership and an end to 17%, with former Prime Minister posts in successive Bouteflika making voters forget his ties to the The extremist group carried of many Algerians who hoped to corruption. Algeria is one of the Ali Benflis third with 10%. governments, responsible for Bouteflika clan. For two decades, out the assault near the town of see new faces among the most youthful countries in the Tebboune endured insults issues including communications Algeria was ruled by Bouteflika Inates not far from the border candidates. world, with two-thirds of the and protests during the 22-day and urbanism. He was prime and other survivors of the 1954- with Mali, it said in a statement Tebboune served briefly as population under 30. A quarter campaign and he canceled his minister between May and 1962 War of Independence against late on Thursday. prime minister in 2017 under ex- of those youth are out of work, final rally in the capital, Algiers. August 2017 but was fired by Said colonial power France. French Niger’s military has said President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, leading to discontent with the Thousands of protesters took to Bouteflika, the ex-president’s all- President Emmanuel Macron that 12 others were wounded who was ousted in April by country’s veteran rulers and the the streets on election day powerful younger brother, who refrained from congratulating in the attack earlier this week. peaceful protests that have been opaque policies that have left chanting “No to elections of was convicted in September on Algeria’s president-elect, instead The Islamic State group called Algeria’s Arab Spring. them behind. shame” and “Generals in the corruption charges and is serving saying that “I simply wish the aspi- claimed its fighters held the The election of Tebboune, an The electoral authority was garbage.” Algerian media 15 years in prison. Tebboune rations Algerian people expressed camp for several hours and establishment figure, provided recently created in an attempt at reported numerous arrests. reportedly made decisions that are answered in a dialogue that seized a large cache of weapons little hope to protesters who transparency in a nation where The president-elect has ran counter to powerful busi- must open between authorities and ammunition. Its jihadists believe the poll was rigged in leaders have been thought to be already suffered setbacks. The nessmen in Bouteflika’s and the population.” took 16 vehicles and set the camp on fire before leaving, it said. Niger’s government has Turkey protests US Senate vote declared three days of Top Iraq cleric denounces mourning following the attack, recognising Armenian genocide which was the deadliest of its killing, abduction of protesters kind in years. AP Washington was undermining AFP/KARBALA place,” Sistani said in a sermon Such actions “reaffirm once ANKARA relations with a key Nato ally. Hezbollah: New delivered by his representative again the importance of what the Historians estimate that up government must Iraq’s top Shia cleric Grand Ayat- in the shrine city of Kerbala marjaiyah (Shia religious lead- Turkey summoned the ambas- to 1.5 million Armenians were ollah Ali Sistani yesterday during the weekly Friday prayer. ership) has repeatedly called for sador from the United States killed around World War I, a include everyone denounced the murder and Protesters accuse pro-Iran and that is that all weapons must yesterday to protest the US mass loss of life that many abduction of anti-government armed factions of playing a role be placed under the control of Senate’s approval of a reso- scholars regard as the 20th REUTERS/BEIRUT protesters, calling for weapons in the killing and abduction of the state”, he said. lution that recognises as century’s first genocide. Turkey to be placed under the control of protesters. Sistani mentioned Sistani urged authorities to genocide the mass killings of disputes the description, saying Lebanon’s Hezbollah said the state. specifically an attack late last assume their responsibilities and Armenians by Ottoman Turks the death toll was inflated and yesterday that the country’s Around 460 people have Friday when unidentified prosecute those responsible for a century ago, an official said. those killed were victims of a next government must bring all been killed and 25,000 have gunmen stormed and torched a the violence, and called on pro- US Ambassador David Sat- civil war. sides together so that it can been wounded — most of them multi-storey building known as testers to keep their demonstra- terfield was summoned to the Turkey has called for a joint tackle the country’s worst protesters — since anti-gov- Al Sinek Garage in Baghdad tions peaceful. Turkish Foreign Ministry, where committee of historians to economic crisis in decades. ernment rallies erupted on where protesters had camped The mostly young protesters Deputy Foreign Minister Sedat investigate the slayings. The leader of Hezbollah October 1 in Baghdad and the out for weeks. are angry at a government they Oney conveyed Turkey’s “strong The Senate resolution said his Iran-backed movement Shia-majority south. At least 20 protesters and see as corrupt and inefficient. reaction” to the Senate action, a was blocked three times at insists on its ally the FPM - Leb- And since then demon- four police officers were killed They have complained of ministry official said. the request of the White anon’s largest Christian political strators in the capital and and about 80 demonstrators unemployment in the oil-rich The official provided the House before it passed on bloc - taking part in the cabinet. southern cities have disappeared abducted, medical sources and country and poor infrastructure information on condition of Thursday. In a televised speech, almost daily, in most cases taken witnesses said. The revered Shia including chronic power and anonymity in line with gov- The Senate vote follows a Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah also from near their homes as they cleric also denounced Thursday’s water cuts. Despite Iraq being a ernment protocol. vote by a Senate committee to said he hoped a new prime return from protests. lynching by demonstrators of a major oil producer, one in five The Senate’s unanimous impose sanctions on Turkey minister would be designated “We strongly denounce the teenager accused of attacking of its people live in poverty and vote on Thursday drew angry over its offensive in Syria and on Monday, but added that even killings, abductions and attacks protesters in Baghdad, calling it youth unemployment stands at denunciations from Turkish purchase of a Russian S-400 so, forming a new cabinet of all kinds that have been taking “an atrocious crime”. 25 percent, the World Bank says. leaders and accusations that missile system. would not be easy. Israel bars Gaza’s Christians Mnangagwa wants party dissidents to be ‘flushed out’

from visiting Bethlehem AFP/GOROMONZI, ZIMBABWE country’s economic troubles on the opposition but said he was REUTERS of two million in the narrow coastal Zimbabwe’s President unfazed by “attempts by our GAZA strip. Emmerson Mnangagwa urged detractors to derail the course of This year’s decision is a break his party members to be wary our reforms and economic Christians in the Gaza Strip will not with usual policy. Last year, Israel of rivals of the ruling party recovery.” Mnangagwa has be allowed to visit Bethlehem and granted permits for close to 700 seeking to divide the party claimed that the re-intro- Jerusalem to celebrate Christmas Gazan Christians to travel to Jeru- which has been dogged by lfac- duction of a local currency after this year, Israeli authorities said. salem, Bethlehem, Nazareth and tionalism. 10 years of using foreign cur- Gazan Christians will be other holy cities that draw thou- “I am aware that our rencies would lead to economic granted permits to travel abroad sands of pilgrims each holiday detractors are trying to divide stability and growth. but none will be allowed to go to season. the party by attempting to “The party should never be Israel and the occupied West Bank, Gisha, an Israeli rights group, recruit from within the rank detracted by those who are home to many sites holy to Chris- said the ban points “to the intensi- and file of our membership,” making irritating noises within tians, a spokeswoman for Israel’s fying of access restrictions between Mnangagwa told provincial the country and those on twitter military liaison to the Palestinians the two parts of the Palestinian ter- leaders attending the ruling and other social media plat- said. Israel tightly restricts move- ritory,” calling it “a deepening of ZANU PF party’s annual forms. They will tweet and ments out of the Gaza Strip, ter- Israel’s separation policy” for the national conference in tweet while we rule and rule.” ritory controlled by Hamas Islamist West Bank and Gaza. Goromonzi, 40km east of the The conference was held group. The Palestinians seek to set up capital Harare. as the country tries to stave off The spokeswoman said that a state in the West Bank and Gaza, “Let us remain vigilant, a major economic downturn that Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa (centre) arriving under following “security orders”, Gazans territory Israel captured in the 1967 steadfast and loyal to the prin- has provoked biting shortages of heavy guard for the Zimbabwe African National Union Patriotic would be allowed to travel abroad Middle East war. ciples of the party. Wolves, fuel, medicine, and currency as via Israel’s Allenby Bridge border Israel in the past has defended among us in sheep’s clothing, Front (ZANU PF) annual people’s conference in Goromonzi, well as surging prices. State crossing with Jordan but not to visit its restrictions on Gazans traveling must be flushed out.” yesterday. doctors have been on strike for cities in Israel or the West Bank. to the West Bank, saying many Pal- Mnangagwa’s remarks more than two months after Gaza has only around 1,000 estinians from Gaza stay on ille- came after exiled former min- Kasukuwere announced last Mnangagwa in the next presi- rejecting a pay rise offered by the Christians — most of them Greek gally when granted short-term ister and ZANU-PF political week that he was planning to dential election in 2023. Mnan- government that they said failed Orthodox — among a population permits. commissar Savious return home and challenge gagwa blamed the to meet everyday costs. SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER 2019 ASIA 05

People making their way among the remains of gutted vehicles on a road in Guwahati in Assam, yesterday, after protests against the government’s Citizenship Amendment Act broke out across northeastern state. RIGHT: Police detain students outside Jamia Millia Islamia University in New Delhi during a protest against the Citizenship Amendment Act. Protests spread in India over citizenship law

Japan’s PM cancels visit to Assam amid unrest Home Minister’s visit put off,

AFP & REUTERS Amritsar and other rallies were police and hundreds of university in with injuries but all had been train services hit in Assam NEW DELHI held in Kolkata, Kerala and Prime students yesterday over the discharged. IANS/SHILLONG Minister Narendra Modi’s home enactment of a new citizenship Parvez Hashmi, a local poli- Protests in India against a new state Gujarat. law that critics say undermines tician who went to the protest site Union Home Minister Amit Shahs scheduled visit to Meghalaya citizenship law that opponents The protests in Guwahati in India’s secular foundations. to speak to police, said about 50 and Arunachal Pradesh on December 15 to attend separate func- say is anti-Muslim spread to other the northeast, where medical The unrest has already led students had been detained. tions has been postponed in view of the “law and order situation regions yesterday, a day after two staff earlier confirmed two people Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Students said it was meant to in the region” following agitation against the citizenship law, people were shot dead by police were shot dead out of 26 who Abe to cancel a planned visit to be a peaceful protest, with them officials said yesterday. in the northeast of the country, were admitted to hospital with India from tomorrow. trying to go from Jamia University An official in the Arunachal Pradesh Home Department said the epicentre of days of demon- gunshot wounds on Thursday The new law offers a way to to Parliament Street to show their that Shah’s visit to the state tomorrow to take part in a festival strations. night, prompted Modi and Jap- Indian citizenship for six opposition to the legislation. But in Tawang has been cancelled, considering the ongoing violent Police with batons and firing anese counterpart Shinzo Abe to minority religious groups from police pushed them back, leading protests in the region over the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, tear gas clashed with hundreds postpone a summit in the area neighbouring Bangladesh, to clashes. which has now become a law after getting clearance from both of students in New Delhi, tele- slated for tomorrow. Pakistan and Afghanistan Critics of Prime Minister the Houses of Parliament earlier in the week. vision pictures showed, as Muslim Violent clashes erupted in including Hindus and Christians, Narendra Modi’s government say protesters set fire to placards in India’s capital New Delhi between but not Muslims. it is promoting a Hindu-first UN: New citizenship law Police fired tear gas and used agenda for India and that the citi- baton charges to disperse scores zenship law excluding Muslims discriminatory against Muslims Citizenship Amendment Bill of students demonstrating at showed a deep-seated bias against Jamia Millia Islamia university in India’s 170 million Muslims. 2019 gets President’s nod the heart of Delhi over the law. Imran Chowdhury, a REUTERS/GENEVA Protesters attacked cars in the researcher, said “either give cit- AGENCIES/NEW DELHI capital, and several people were izenship to refugees of all reli- The United Nations human rights office voiced concern yesterday injured and taken to hospital. gions or none at all. The consti- that India’s new citizenship law is “fundamentally discriminatory The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 received President Ram Zakir Riyaz, a PhD student in tution is being tampered with in in nature” by excluding Muslims and called for it to be reviewed. Nath Kovind’s nod late on Thursday, and hence became an Act. social work, said the new law the name of religion.” “We are concerned that India’s new Citizenship (Amendment) The President’s assent comes amid intense outrage across Assam made a mockery of India’s reli- Japan’s Prime Minister Act 2019 is fundamentally discriminatory in nature,” UN human and Tripura, where curfew has been extended indefinitely in some gious openness. Shinzo Abe cancelled a trip to rights spokesman Jeremy Laurence told a Geneva news briefing. parts. The Army was also deployed to disperse protestors. “It goes against the whole Assam for a summit with his The new law does not extend the same protection to Muslim The bill was passed by both Houses of Parliament earlier this idea of a secular India,” he said, Indian counterpart Narendra migrants as to six other religious minorities fleeing persecution, week with a clear majority. speaking by phone from the Holy Modi that had been due to begin thereby undermining India’s commitment to equality before the The Act aims to provide citizenship to those who had been forced Family Hospital in New Delhi tomorrow. law, enshrined in its constitution, he said. “We understand the new to seek shelter in India because of religious persecution or fear of where 15 of his fellow students Japan has stepped up infra- law will be reviewed by the Supreme Court of India and hope it will persecution in their home countries, primarily Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, were admitted after being injured structure development work in consider carefully the compatibility of the law with India’s interna- Buddhists, Parsis and Christians from Afghanistan, Pakistan and in a police baton charge. Assam in recent years, which the tional human rights obligations,” Laurence said. Bangladesh. Police barricades were two sides were expected to high- This is a drastic shift from the provisions of the Citizenship Act knocked down and streets were light during the summit. Abe had of 1955 that labels a person an “illegal immigrant” if he or she has strewn with shoes and broken also planned to visit a memorial “With reference to the pro- to a mutually convenient date entered India without travel documents or has overstayed the date bricks. An official at the university in the nearby state of Manipur posed visit of Japanese PM @ in the near future,” Indian specified in the documents. dispensary said that more than where Japanese soldiers were AbeShinzo to India, both sides foreign ministry spokesman 100 students had been brought killed in World War Two. have decided to defer the visit Raveesh Kumar said in a tweet. 30 more services in CPM, Cong in Kerala to jointly Delhi’s Doorstep Delivery Scheme protest against CAA on Monday IANS/THIRUVANANTHAPURAM IANS/NEW DELHI In a show of unity against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, People living in the national traditional political rivals in Kerala — the ruling CPM-led Left and capital can now avail 30 more the Congress-led UDF — will stage a joint protest here on Monday, services at their doorstep, under Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said. the Doorstep Delivery Scheme, Vijayan quickly responded to the request put up by Leader of along with the existing 70 Opposition and Congress veteran Ramesh Chennithala, earlier in services. the day that it would be much better if they can organise a joint Delhi Chief Minister Arvind protest. In a statement issued here, Vijayan said the joint protest Kejriwal yesterday announced would take place at the Martyrs Column, here and would begin at that now a total of 100 services 10 am and all his cabinet colleagues, leaders from the Left, besides of 14 Delhi government depart- the Congress-led UDF would take part. ments will be provided under “The protest is to demand that the anti-Constitutional CAA be the government’s doorstep cancelled and to see that the Constitution is protected. The CAA will delivery scheme. only help to divide our country and the secular fabric of our country Among the additions are will be in danger,” said Vijayan. issuance of monthly Bus Passes for several categories, Regis- Kerala High Court apologises to Heavy snowfall in Srinagar tration and Renewal of Con- A man walks on a footbridge during a snowfall in Srinagar in the north Indian state of Kashmir, struction Workers under family of road accident victim yesterday. Heavy snowfall continues across Kashmir as flight operations at Srinagar Airport remained Building and other Construction Workers (RE&CS) Act, 1996, and IANS/KOCHI affected for seventh straight day due to low visibility. Delhi Pension Scheme to Women in Distress (Widow In a show of empathy, the Kerala High Court apologised to the Pension Scheme). family members of a 23-year-old youth who died on Thursday after Speaking to the media, his bike hit an iron barricade warning people of a hole and was run BJP women MPs file complaint against Rahul Gandhi Kejriwal said the Doorstep over by a truck. A student at a nearby institute, the deceased was Delivery of Public Services working part-time as a delivery boy and the accident occurred IANS/NEW DELHI Election Commission seeking commission. The commission scheme has a higher success when he was on his way to pay his fees. He was the breadwinner action against him. has assured action against him rate compared to other for his family while his mother is a cancer patient. After a ruckus in the Lok Sabha Talking to mediapersons on the complaint filed by the methods due to the involvement Justice Devan Ramachandran made the apology when he was over Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Rape in outside the Election Com- women MPs of the party on of Mobile Sahayaks (mobile hearing a petition on poor road conditions and numerous pot holes India’ remark at a rally in mission, Irani said, “Rahul behalf of angry families.” assistants) to ensure that all which have surfaced on roads. When Advocate General C P Sud- Jharkhand, women Members of Gandhi is using rape as a political Maneka Gandhi, Debasree documents are complete while hakara Prasad, appearing for the state government, pointed out Parliament of the Bharatiya tool. Chaudhuri, Saroj Pandey, Bhu- applying. The Chief Minister that a sum of Rs 10 lakh will be given as compensation to the vic- Janata Party (BJP) led by Union The women MPs have filed pender Yadav were also present called it a “revolutionary initi- tim’s family, Ramachandran shot back: “How many more should Minister Smriti Irani yesterday a complaint against him over his outside the Election ative in governance”. die before the concerned authorities act?” filed a complaint with the derogatory remark with the Commission. 06 ASIA SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER 2019

Pakistan lawyers US-Taliban talks strike over arrest of take pause after colleagues in assault AP LAHORE airbase attack Pakistani lawyers went on strike yesterday, demanding authorities to release dozens of Taliban spokesman meeting was “very good and their colleagues arrested after storming a Suhail Shaheen said friendly”. hospital this week in the eastern city of yesterday’s meeting “Both sides decided to Lahore and beating up doctors and medical was “very good and resume the talks after a few days staff there. of break for consultation,” he Three patients at the cardiology hos- friendly”, adding said. pital died when the physicians and medical that, “Both sides The assault on Bagram base staff left them unattended for several hours decided to resume came despite the resumption of on Wednesday to escape the mob of about the talks after a few talks between the United States 500 lawyers who had descended on the and the insurgent group days facility. days of break for before, as the parties look for a Police used tear gas and eventually consultation.” path to reduce violence or even brought the situation under control but much reach a ceasefire, allowing a of the hospital was trashed. gradual withdrawal of US and The lawyers claim they were enraged by REUTERS Nato troops from Afghanistan. alleged misbehaviour by some of the doctors KABUL Peace negotiations began at the state-owned hospital toward one of earlier this year, though US their colleagues last month. US negotiators are taking a President Donald Trump unex- Authorities on Thursday raised charges “brief pause” from talks with the pectedly suspended talks in Sep- of treason against 250 of the lawyers. So far, Taliban after the militants tember citing an attack in Kabul 80 of those charged have been arrested, People participate in a candelight vigil for the victims who lost their lives during an attack launched a suicide attack on a in which an American soldier police said. by a group of lawyers on Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC), in Lahore, yesterday. US airbase outside Kabul killing was killed. The harsh charges reflect the authorities’ two civilians, Special Envoy for Trump paid a surprise frustration over the violence. ishment will be sought for them. the strike on Friday, the last day of the Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad Thanksgiving visit to Afghan- The incident drew nationwide condem- The lawyers claim the police took one- workweek in Pakistan. said yesterday. istan last month and said the nation and the government says those sided action against their colleagues. The lawyers said yesterday that they Khalilzad had renewed talks United States and the Taliban linked to the violence will be tried in anti- The Pakistani Bar Council, the country’s would consider whether to continue the with the Taliban earlier this had been engaged in ongoing terrorism courts and that maximum pun- main representative body of lawyers, called strike after the weekend. month on steps that could lead peace talks and the Taliban to a ceasefire and a settlement wanted a ceasefire. of the 18-year-long war in Tens of thousands of Afghan Nepal’s largest Afghanistan. civilians, security officials and 14 dead in van crash in southwest Pakistan “I met Talibs today, I more than 2,400 American AFP Quetta, the capital of Balochistan official, confirmed the incident literary festival expressed outrage about attack service members have been QUETTA province. and the death toll, adding that begins in Pokhara on Bagram,” Khalilzad wrote on killed in the almost two-decade- The van caught fire after the truck appeared to be car- Twitter, referring to the attack old war. At least 14 people were killed hitting the truck, Abdul Jabbar, rying fuel smuggled from Iran. ANATOLIA on Bagram air base on There are currently about in southwestern Pakistan a police official at the scene Pakistan has one of the POKHARA Wednesday which killed two 13,000 US forces in Afghanistan yesterday when a passenger said, adding police had world’s worst records for fatal people and injured more than as well as thousands of other van hit a truck loaded with recovered 14 bodies, several of traffic accidents — blamed on Nepal’s largest annual literary 70 others. Nato troops. smuggled fuel, police said, in which had been severely burned poor roads, badly maintained festival began yesterday in the “We’re taking a brief pause US officials have said US the latest fatal accident on the and could not be immediately vehicles and reckless driving. tourist city of Pokhara. for them to consult their lead- forces could drop to 8,600 and country’s notoriously identified. Pakistan’s far-flung Balo- Prithvi Subba Gurung, the ership on this essential topic,” still carry out an effective, core dangerous roads. The remains have been chistan province bordering Iran chief minister of the central he added. counter-terrorism mission as The early morning collision taken to the civil hospital in and Afghanistan is notorious for Gandaki Province, inaugurated Taliban spokesman Suhail well as some limited advising for took place in Qila Saifullah dis- Quetta, according to officials. the smuggling of oil and other the four-day festival in the city Shaheen said yesterday’s Afghan forces. trict, about 200km northeast of Fasih Ullah, another police foreign goods. that lies in the shadow of Mount Annapurna, the world’s 10th highest mountain. “I’m not into literature, but Document reveals US position on Pakistan’s F-16s I’m committed to provide support for its empowerment INTERNEWS raised both points in a letter non-US government authorised Trump administration wanted Both points are specifically and growth,” Gurung told ISLAMABAD then-undersecretary of State for bases concerning and incon- to avoid. mentioned in a message the then participants. Arms Control and International sistent with the F-16 Letter of The experts also noted that US ambassador in Islamabad Nepal’s former Finance Min- The United States understood Security Affairs Andrea Thomson Offer and Acceptance”, it added. the Trump administration was Anne Patterson sent to the State ister and prominent civil society Pakistan’s need to use F-16 wrote to Air Chief Marshal Several diplomatic officials now attempting to repair its con- Department on April 24, 2008. activist Devendra Raj Panday fighter jets to defend itself during Mujahid Anwar Khan. and analysts noted that the letter tentious relations with “An enhanced F-16 pro- delivered a keynote speech in an Indian intrusion in February “We understand from you did not expressly mention the Islamabad, which was once a gramme also has deterrence which he touched upon the issue this year, shows a document. that these aircraft movements Indian complaint that using the close US ally in the wars against value by giving Pakistan time of inequality across the world. The document, obtained by were done in support of national F-16 to shoot down the Indian the Soviets and militants. and space to employ a conven- The 9th edition of the the US News and World Report defence objectives,” said the fighter jet was a violation of the In March this year, Pakistani tional, rather than nuclear, annual Nepal Literature Fes- magazine, however, also shows letter sent to Islamabad in terms of use for US-supplied officials pointed out that the F-16 reaction in the event of a future tival, inspired by India’s Jaipur that Washington was not happy August, months after the dog- weapons. contract not only acknowledged conflict with India,” wrote Literary Festival, will host more with Islamabad’s decision to fight in which a Pakistani F-16 They argued that acknowl- the aircraft’s “deterrence value” Thompson, a military intelli- than 40 sessions featuring deploy these US-supplied air- brought down an Indian jet in edging this in a formal State to Pakistan in a future conflict gence officer who first entered authors, journalists, activists, craft and missiles to forward Azad Kashmir. Department transmission would with India, but also noted that it the administration as Vice-Pres- intellectuals, and public per- positions. But “the US government con- have triggered procedures to could prevent a nuclear clash ident Mike Pence’s national sonalities from India, Pakistan The US State Department siders the relocation of aircraft to reprimand Islamabad, which the between the two neighbours. security adviser. and Nepal. Suu Kyi urges World Court to drop genocide case Pakistan govt believes in REUTERS Rohingya minority, free flow of information THE HAGUE dismissing calls from Suu Kyi for the court to INTERNEWS Myanmar leader Aung San Suu wait for the outcome of ISLAMABAD Kyi called on World Court judges accountability efforts to dismiss an accusation of and local trials. The National Assembly of Pakistan was informed yesterday that genocide against the country’s Gambia lawyer government fully guarantees right to freedom of expression and Rohingya minority, saying its Paul Reichler said right to access to the information and it has not put any sort of ban own justice system should be Myanmar had not on freedom of expression. given the chance to work first. even tried during the Responding to a question during Question Hour in the House, Gambia has accused hearings to deny most Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Ali Muhammad Khan Myanmar of violating the 1948 of the accusations of said government believes in free flow of information and freedom Genocide Convention in a mil- extreme violence to report and does not believe in press advice and censorship. itary campaign that expelled against its military, He said government always welcomes the objective and healthy more than 730,000 Rohingya known as the Tat- criticism from the media. from Myanmar and it has asked madaw, nor of the The minister added that the government expects self-regu- the International Court of Justice mass deportation of lation by the media and believes in persuasive approach to implement to order “provisional measures” Rohingya following a code of ethics and conduct. to prevent more harm. 2017 crackdown. Myanmar’s leader Aung San Suu Kyi leaves the International Court of Justice He said liberal media policy of the government resulted in expo- But Suu Kyi, who has denied Statements from (ICJ) during court hearings, in The Hague, on Thursday. nential growth of newspapers, TV and Radio Channels in private genocide, said the UN court Myanmar that it was sector. should not have jurisdiction. taking action to prosecute sol- out killings and mass abuse with laureate argued Myanmar did The Minister of State further informed the House that the gov- “Myanmar requests the court diers accused of wrongdoing “genocidal intent” in the 2017 investigate and prosecute sol- ernment is in the process of finalising Journalist Welfare and Pro- to remove the case from its list,” were not credible, he said. “How operation. Gambia’s legal team diers and officers accused of tection Bill, 2019 to ensure safety and security of journalists and Suu Kyi said on the third and can anyone possibly expect the had outlined graphic testimony crimes. She said that under those their families. final day of hearings in The Tatmadaw to hold itself from their report at the first day circumstances, the court should “The government is providing financial assistance to the deceased Hague. “In the alternative (the accountable for genocidal acts of hearings on Tuesday. not intervene. journalists’ families in education and healthcare”. court should) reject the request against the Rohingya, when six Suu Kyi, once championed “Steps that generate sus- To another question, Ali Muhammad Khan said PTV has become for provisional measures sub- of its top generals including the in the West for her decades-long picion, sow doubts, or create an earning institution from a loss making institution and the state mitted by the Gambia.” commander-in-chief, Senior fight for democracy for resentment between commu- TV has earned a profit 350 million rupees during the last fiscal year. Presiding Judge Abdulqawi General Min Aung Hlaing, have Myanmar, told the court on nities who have just begun to Responding to a question, Parliamentary Secretary for Federal Yusuf said the 17-judge panel all been accused of genocide by Wednesday the military-led build a fragile foundation of trust Education and Professional Training Wajiha Akram has said 50,000 would render an order “as soon the UN fact-finding mission and “clearance operation” in western could undermine reconciliation,” youth belonging to less developed areas will be provided technical as possible”, but gave no specific recommended for criminal Rakhine State was a counterter- she said in closing remarks. hands-on skills. date. prosecution”. rorism response to coordinated She added that even if there She said Skills For All strategy has been launched to provide Gambia insisted earlier that He was referring to the Rohingya militant attacks against had been violations of humani- market oriented skills training to the poor and unemployed Myanmar could not be trusted to findings of UN investigators who dozens of police stations in tarian law during the conflict, persons especially residing in less developed areas like Balo- hold its soldiers accountable for in an August 2018 report said the August 2017. they did not rise to the level of chistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir southern Punjab and rural alleged atrocities against its Myanmar military had carried The Nobel Peace Prize genocide Sindh. SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER 2019 ASIA 07 China ramps up campaign to redefine ‘human rights’

AFP China’s response to a recent barrage of existence of detention camps, left 31 dead in 2014. poverty since the 1970s. BEIJING international condemnation over its mass Beijing acknowledged it had “The most fundamental China’s efforts to redefine detention of ethnic Uighurs shows its efforts to opened “vocational education human right is the right to a safe human rights have been gaining China is ramping up a global frame development and security as the most centres” aimed at preventing life, and only by ensuring peo- momentum in international campaign to promote its own extremism after years of unrest ple’s safety can human rights be forums. vision of human rights, inviting important human rights. in the region. protected,” the official Xinhua Beijing introduced a reso- the likes of North Korea and English-language state news agency said in a com- lution at the UN Human Rights Syria to a forum on the topic and development path,” Chinese allegations of human rights broadcaster CGTN last week mentary last week. Council last year that “gutted drafting other countries to back vice-foreign minister Ma Zhaoxu abuses, which it says are used to released a documentary series The documentaries reinforce procedures to hold countries its policies at the UN. told delegates at a summit . undermine the country’s on deadly attacks blamed on reli- the narrative that “Uighurs are accountable for human rights Western nations have con- One of the speakers at the sovereignty. gious extremists and separatists discontented because they don’t violations, suggesting ‘dialogue’ demned China’s rights record, forum was a political adviser to Beijing’s global push seeks to defend China’s policies in have the proper economic instead,” Human Rights Watch including a security crackdown President Bashar Al Assad, who “to counter criticisms on its Xinjiang. opportunities,” Hong Kong- researcher Maya Wang said. that has detained an estimated has been accused of a series of failure to respect international It followed the leak of official based political analyst Willy Lam In October, 23 nations one million in re-education chemical attacks and indiscrim- human rights standards”, documents describing how said. “The main purpose (of the backed a British statement at the camps in northwest Xinjiang inate bombings of civilian targets Amnesty International authorities run the internment crackdown) is suppression of the UN condemning China’s human region. in Syria’s civil war. researcher Patrick Poon said. camps and the US House of Rep- political aspirations of the rights record in Xinjiang. China is responding with an “I believe China can, with the China’s response to a recent resentatives passing the Uighur Uighurs, but they are trying to But China’s allies countered increasingly strong counter-nar- help of all developing countries, barrage of international con- Act of 2019 to target Chinese offi- put an economic spin on this”. with a statement of their own rative, which emphasises redefine human rights,” demnation over its mass cials with sanctions. A September white paper by that won even broader support, security and economic devel- Bouthaina Shaaban said in a detention of ethnic Uighurs in The footage includes graphic the government called poverty with some 54 nations backing a opment over civil and political speech that blasted Western Xinjiang shows its efforts to images of a car ramming into a “the biggest obstacle to fulfilling text that heaped effusive praise freedoms. countries for wanting to “create frame development and security crowd at Beijing’s Tiananmen the human rights of the Chinese on Beijing’s “remarkable “The people of each country all of us in their own image”. as the most important human Square in 2013 and a mass knife people,” and emphasised that achievements in the field of all have the right to decide for Shaaban’s comments echoed rights. attack at a train station in China had lifted hundreds of mil- human rights”. themselves their human rights China’s fiery responses to After initially denying the Kunming in southwest China that lions of people out of absolute

Malaysia confirms New Zealand troops firts case of polio recover six bodies after Philippines declares epidemic from volcanic island BLOOMBERG KUALA LUMPUR REUTERS protective equipment they WHAKATANE needed to wear slowed down the Malaysia has confirmed its first tricky operation. case of polio in almost three A New Zealand military team “It has been an incredibly decades, sparking fears that the recovered six bodies yesterday difficult operation but it has been disease is spreading across the from the volcanic island that such a priority,” New Zealand region after the Philippines fatally erupted earlier this week, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern declared an epidemic in in a high risk operation watched told Australian Broadcasting September. by dozens of grieving family Radio Corp yesterday morning. A test by the World Health members waiting on the “We just want to bring loved Organization (WHO) found that mainland. ones home.” the virus, detected in a three- An bomb disposal squad New Zealand Police Com- month-old boy from the eastern worked as quickly as possible missioner Mike Bush said dive state of Sabah, is linked to the after using helicopters to land on teams have been deployed in the one found in the Philippines, White Island, which experts have waters around the island, which according to Malaysia’s health said still has a 50 to 60 percent is also known by its Maori name ministry. chance of another eruption in the of Whakaari, and another aerial Elite soldiers taking part in a mission to retrieve bodies from White Island after the December 9 The last polio case in coming hours. search would be conducted volcanic eruption, off the coast from Whakatane on the North Island, yesterday. Malaysia was in 1992. In 2000, Six of the eight bodies on the later. the country had declared itself island were successfully “It’s not over yet,” Bush said, day-trippers, erupted on island have been classified as as they had been viewed from free of the crippling and poten- retrieved and taken to a naval the mainland coastal town where Monday, spewing ash, steam and missing until they are formally the air but had cautioned there tially fatal disease. patrol vessel for transfer to the about 100 family and local com- gases over the island. Among the identified. More than two dozen would be limited opportunity to The Philippines, which lies mainland for disaster victim munity members prayed and 47 people on the island at the more people are in hospitals search for the other two. across a narrow sea from identification, New Zealand sang together as they watched time were Australian, US, across New Zealand and Aus- “The New Zealand author- Sabah, declared an outbreak in police said. helicopters fly to and from the German, Chinese, British and tralia, most with severe burn ities have indicated they will September. The WHO has con- The eight-person team was island. Malaysian tourists. injuries. return as soon as it is possible to firmed at least nine cases in the unable to recover the remaining The volcano, a popular The official death toll stands Police had been confident of do so,” Australian Foreign Min- country this year. two bodies as the cumbersome tourist destination for at eight as the bodies on the the location of six of the bodies, ister Marise Payne said. Malaysia, following a similar move by the Philippines, is embarking on an aggressive Malaysian court immunization drive to prevent Indonesia to reduce marine plastic waste by 2025 the virus from spreading approves US further. ANATOLIA As one of the countries with implement policies limiting The latest research from LIPI The health ministry issued bid to extradite JAKARTA the longest coastlines in the single-use plastic. shows that 59% of the marine public notices and held sem- North Korean world and the world’s fourth “We will gather regional waste released from nine rivers inars to encourage parents to The Indonesian government most populous country, Indo- heads to encourage this in Jakarta, Bekasi and Tangerang vaccinate their children, calling AFP plans to implement a policy nesia is also the second biggest restriction policy to be imple- consists of disposable plastics it a “sign of true love” and citing KUALA LUMPUR aimed at limiting single-use marine plastic polluter after mented early next year.” that have polluted Jakarta Bay. a religious leader who said it’s plastic in an effort to reduce China. Indonesia has made several Several ministries have also a sin not to ensure children are A North Korean man is likely to ocean plastic waste by 70% by According to the Indonesian assertive initiatives so far such been assigned to handle waste protected from preventable face money-laundering charges 2025, a government official said. Institute of Sciences (LIPI), 0.27 as bans on plastic bags in several in Indonesia’s leading tourist diseases. in the United States after a Among the regulations that to 0.9 million tons of waste localities including the cities of destinations such as Labuan The strain detected in Malaysian court approved his will take effect in early 2020 is one enters the oceans every year Banjarmasin, Balikpapan and Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara and Sabah came from a weakened extradition yesterday, in a case requiring packaging producers to through river flows with plastic Bogor and in Bali province. Lombok. polio virus used in vaccines, his lawyers claim is politically reduce plastic waste production bags and polystyrene foam (Sty- The policy has succeeded in Indonesian Maritime Affairs which could infect those motivated. by at least 30% in 10 years. rofoam) the most common items reducing plastic waste by two to and Fisheries Minister Edhy without immunity in unsan- Mun Chol Myong has denied “This is mandatory. They found in the ocean. three tonnes per day in Prabowo said Labuan Bajo pro- itary conditions, the ministry FBI claims that he led a criminal may limit, reuse, redesign the Tahar said the data would be Banjarmasin. duces as much as 12 tonnes of said. group that violated sanctions packaging or take it back for used as a reference for policies In contrast, the capital city waste per day. The ministry found that 12 by supplying luxury goods to his recycling,” Novrizal Tahar, to reduce plastic waste. of Jakarta, which has the highest Prabowo assured that the percent of children age 2 isolated homeland and laun- director of waste management He added that the central population density in the government would find ways to months through 15 years in the dered funds through front at the Ministry of Environment government would also ask country, has not imposed restric- manage the waste properly so it affected area weren’t companies. and Forestry, said. regional governments to tions on single-use plastic. would not end up in the oceans. vaccinated. The 54-year-old, who has lived in Malaysia with his family for a decade, was arrested in May following an extradition Hong Kong court orders counselling for request from Washington. His defence team claims he girl after burning Chinese flag: Report was involved only in the supply of palm oil and soybean oil to REUTERS/HONG KONG former British colony, they have not to expect a lenient sentence the North. met a backlash from protesters if she committed a more serious “I am sad and disappointed A Hong Kong court yesterday who accuse Beijing of offence next time, the broad- with the court action,” said his ordered a 13-year-old girl who encroaching on the freedoms caster said. lawyer Jagjit Singh, who previ- burned a Chinese flag at an anti- promised to Hong Kong when Young people and teenagers ously criticised the extradition government protest to undergo it returned to Chinese rule in have been at the forefront of the bid as “solely based on group counselling and it put her 1997. Hong Kong protests. politics”. on probation for a year, local The city, a major hub of Since June, police have Jagjit said his client would broadcaster RTHK said. global finance, has been rocked arrested people as young as 11 not be deported before a final The girl, who set fire to the by six months of often violent and as old as 84 in connection appeal, likely to be heard early flag at an anti-Beijing rally in demonstrations against a now- with the protests. next year. September, pleaded guilty to withdrawn extradition bill that The protests have regularly Mun has been in custody desecrating the flag, RTHK said. widened into demands for more featured ranks of riot police since his arrest. Hong Kong has outlawed the democratic freedoms. firing volleys of tear gas or He is accused of four desecration of national flags and The girl’s lawyer submitted baton-charging protesters, often charges of money-laundering emblems, crimes that attract jail letters from her secondary in central business or tourist and two of conspiracy to terms of three years. school and her football coach areas. Police in turn have been launder money, mainly in While Chinese authorities urging the court to give her a targets of petrol bombs and relation to his work for a firm have striven to foster greater second chance, RTHK said. other projectiles hurled by often Students attending an anti-government protest in Hong Kong, yesterday. in neighbouring Singapore. patriotism among citizens in the The magistrate told the girl masked protesters. 08 VIEWS SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER 2019 Aspire Zone Foundation contributes to ESTABLISHED IN 1996 achieving Qatar National Vision 2030

CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

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

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected]

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI [email protected]

QNA institutions involved in it are part of national occasion, AZF confirms that EDITORIAL DOHA the larger system of the national vision celebrating this occasion is the most for development. valuable to everyone’s hearts, and a spire Zone Foundation (AZF) There is a close link between AZF’s source of pride and honor, as it cele- has been striving since its vision, mission, and the tasks it carries brates the history of the ancestors who Strengthening relations inception to improve sports out, and QNV’s four pillars, especially had the greatest credit in building atar has strengthened its relations with Malaysia performance by using concerning human development. The Qatar and laying the foundation stone A vision of the Foundation, which has for its endless aspirations to place further. This was evident when the Amir H H Sheikh capacity development to achieve its QTamim bin Hamad Al Thani and H E the Malaysian strategy thanks to the spirit of cooper- gone a long way in achieving it, aims to Qatar in the ranks of developed Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir Mohamed witnessed the signing ation and support to occupy the fore- become the reference in global sports countries. of a memorandum of understanding on the establishment front by applying best practices and excellence by 2020. AZF’s societal goal The National Day is a special day, of a high-level joint committee between Qatar and Malaysia. commitment to scientific methods and is to promote an active healthy lifestyle which expresses the ability of the Prior to the signing of MoU, H H the Amir and H E Prime Min- respecting the values of others and and make physical activity and sport an leadership and its generous people to ister of Malaysia held official talks at the Amiri Diwan. Both their rights and needs as well as integral part of the daily routine of indi- give, redeem, and dedicate for the sides discussed the close bilateral relations and ways of devel- accepting what is provided by indi- viduals’ lives, which contributes sake of the nation’s development. A oping and boosting them in different spheres, in addition to viduals from different cultures directly to achieving QNV 2030. day that raises the feelings of love and the Kuala Lumpur Summit 2019 scheduled on December 19, regardless of culture, orientation, race, AZF contributes to the progress of loyalty that inhabit the hearts of all in which H H the Amir will participate at the invitation of the class, and gender. the State of Qatar as the Foundation’s Qataris for their country and society. Malaysian Prime Minister. The Foundation continued to vision is to be a reference for global The National Day is an incentive Qatari-Malaysian relations culminated in several historical achieve many successes related to its sports excellence. Where the belief in for all who live on this good land so visits by H H the Amir to Malaysia in 2015 and 2017, the last strategies and vision and achieved in the values of innovation and creativity that they spare no effort to follow the of which was in December 2018 that opened the doors to devel- 2018-2019 a lot of achievements in in the work, motivates AZF to provide path of the ancestors and fathers, who oping relations between the two countries and pushing them cooperation with strategic partners. more research and innovative appli- preserved and developed Qatar. The to a wider strategic level, especially in the economic, com- The AZF cations in the fields of sports science, best expression of love and loyalty to mercial exchange, investment opportunities and human and follows the sports medicine, stadium, and event the homeland is to work sincerely to social development fields, in a way that serves the common path of the management. AZF has many of the achieve prosperity for Qatar. interests of the two countries and two brotherly peoples. political lead- leading research centers in the Middle The past period has already wit- Qatar and Malaysia stand on one line, confirmed by the ership in East in these fields, such as the sta- nessed many accomplishments. The convergence of views between Qatar and its dium’s natural grass management and wise leadership was keen to provide the two countries on various Aspire Zone enlightened research center. all logistical capabilities such as regional and international issues, Foundation’s and insightful In a relatively short time, the Hamad International Airport, which and a common determination to societal goal is to vision, which Foundation was able to prove its lead- comes at the top of the list of the best enhance their cooperation in promote an active makes ership in the world of sports, through airports in the world, and the giant international forums and con- human the efforts of its three members: Aspire capacity Hamad Port, and the Doha The future of tribute with the international healthy lifestyle development Academy, Aspetar Hospital, and Aspire Metro project, which opened in a Qatari-Malaysian community in efforts to maintain and make physical and Logistics. The Foundation has become record time and witnessed a large cooperation is international peace and security, activity and sport upgrading it a a destination for everything related to turnout of citizens and residents. In promising in light combat terrorism, protect human an integral part of central hub the world of sports in the region and addition to, other major strategic rights and solve disputes through for the the world. There are many indications projects that made the various state of the economic dialogue and peaceful means in the daily routine various of this, including the Qatari athletes, institutions eligible to achieve several potential of both accordance with the provisions of individuals’ development who achieved advanced positions in successes and remarkable achieve- countries, which of international law and the rules lives, which processes various sports, and the most famous ments at the national and interna- will bolster trade of international legality. witnessed in clubs and international teams that tional levels, defying the obstacles The visit of H E Dr. Mahathir contributes directly the country choose Aspire Zone to establish their imposed by the blockade on the that reached Mohamed has contributed to the to achieving QNV recently. training camps, as well as interna- movement of land, sea and air $291m in the first strengthening of relations 2030. AZF tional sporting events organized by the transport. half of 2019. between the two countries, always puts Foundation throughout the year in All international economic indi- pushing them towards broader the human being in mind, whether it is Doha and abroad. cators have praised the extent of prospects, especially in the eco- from the students of the academy, Also, AZF has launched Sports growth achieved by the State of Qatar nomic, commercial and investment fields. The future of professional athletes, or members of Business District, the first of its kind in in the past years, due to its strong Qatari-Malaysian cooperation is promising in light of the society who are offered innovative the Middle East and the opening of investment portfolio, diversified economic potential of both countries, which will bolster trade community programs aimed at pro- 2022 building to attract major leading economy, and unique business envi- that reached $291m in the first half of 2019. More than 85 moting a healthy and active lifestyle. companies in the sports industry and ronment that has guaranteed growth Malaysian companies, including 13 fully-owned Malaysian Qatar National Vision (QNV) aims to create an ideal sporting investment at rates exceeding the usual growth firms and 72 jointly-owned Qatari-Malaysian companies, prepare a knowledge-based society, climate that complements the sports rates in the countries of the region. are currently operating in Qatar’s engineering, construction, which is what AZF is keen on in all its system in Qatar by supporting and In 2019, Qatar won the Asian Cup oil and gas and information technology sectors. programs, which are built on a scien- developing the sports economy, as of Nations for the first time of history, Malaysian economy ranks third among the countries of tific basis and best practices. well as signing several agreements where most of the Qatari players were Southeast Asia after Indonesia and Thailand. With foreign Also, the QNV 2030 for compre- with international sports and notable Aspire graduates. investment, heavy industries flourished within years, and its hensive development was issued in medical institutions, including the Also, Mutaz Barshim, an Aspire exports became the main growth engine. The electronics 2008, the same year that the Amiri agreement signed with the United graduate, won the gold medal in the industry’s contribution amounts to about 24.5 % in the coun- decree was issued, which brought States to create a model that simulates 2019 World Athletics Championship in try’s GDP. Malaysia has natural resources in agriculture, for- together the Aspire Academy, Aspetar Aspetar in Texas, and other cooper- Doha. Besides, Qatar hosted a series of estry and minerals fields. It is one of the leading exporters Hospital, and Aspire Logistics under ation and partnership agreements. successful tournaments including the of natural rubber and palm oil, among others. one umbrella, the AZF. This indicates Regarding Qatar National Day, World Athletics Championship, and The relations between Qatar and Malaysia are strong, that the formation of the integrated which falls on December 18, and the Arabia Gulf Cup. The FIFA Club World deep, progressing and continuously growing. Qatar is also future vision for sport and the lessons learned from this precious Cup will be in Doha this month. an important economic partner to Malaysia where the volume of trade exchange between the two countries is increasing by the day. Developing Ebola vaccine can boost power of research JAPAN NEWS-YOMIURI developed the vaccine by using an Domestic production vital This vaccine Ebola virus that, through genetic mod- is initially expected to be used to inoc- s the modern world becomes ifications and other steps, had lost its ulate doctors and other personnel QUOTE OF THE DAY more globalized, the risk of the infectious capacity and ability to mul- involved in providing medical spread of infectious diseases is tiply. It can be expected that adminis- treatment should a case of Ebola be At this stage it does growing. It is important to tering the vaccine will build up detected in Japan. In August, a woman look as though this A have preparations in place should such immunity within the body and make it developed a fever after returning to one-nation Conservative an emergency occur. This month, a harder for a vaccinated person to Japan from Congo. Tension ran high government has been University of Tokyo research team will become sick from the disease. among medical personnel until a test start a clinical trial of a vaccine for Thirty healthy men will receive for Ebola came back negative. given a powerful new Ebola hemorrhagic fever. This is an injections of the vaccine and be Having a domestically produced mandate, to get Brexit effort to develop the first Ebola vaccine checked for side effects and other vaccine would be useful for main- done and not just to get to be produced in Japan. developments. Due consideration taining medical systems during emer- Brexit done but to unite Ebola is a dangerous infectious must be given to safety as research on gencies and for preventing the spread this country and take it disease that in some circumstances this vaccine moves ahead. of the disease. has a fatality rate of almost 90 percent. If the clinical study confirms the It is important to take the per- forward. At least 10,000 people died during a vaccine works, further research will be spective of independently securing major outbreak in western Africa from conducted to check its effectiveness in methods to protect the public from Boris Johnson 2014 to 2016. Even now, Ebola con- Africa, where Ebola is still spreading. dangerous diseases. The nation must British Prime Minister tinues to spread in the central African The researchers should cooperate with boost its ability to develop and nation of the Democratic Republic of pharmaceutical companies and aim to produce vaccines without relying on the Congo. The research team put the vaccine to practical use. other countries. SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER 2019 OPINION 09 How Boris Johnson’s election gamble paid off

t was a straight forward message: repeated failed promises during the voted Labour for generations, would not fight for 317 Conserv- “Get Brexit done.” The mantra of year to deliver Brexit by the end of including places like Bishop Auckland ative-held seats to avoid splitting British Prime Minister Boris October “do or die.” He faced allega- and Sedgefield, the seat held by the Leave vote. Johnson and his Conservative tions of failing to disclose close per- former Labour Prime Minister Tony Labour, meanwhile, pursued a I Blair. However, Johnson’s party had Party during the national election sonal ties with a US businesswoman compromise position on Brexit. campaign was aimed at harnessing who had received thousands of pounds lost seats in some more pro-EU con- In an effort to unite his party, ELIZABETH PIPER voter frustration at a parliamentary in public business funding while he stituencies, such as Putney in London. which was also divided over REUTERS logjam over Britain’s exit from the had been mayor. Jennifer Arcuri pub- “This election means that getting Europe, Labour’s leader Corbyn European Union. It worked. licly said during the campaign she had Brexit done is now the irrefutable, settled on a policy of negotiating a Beyond the traditional strategy of had “a very special relationship” with irresistable, unarguable decision of new deal to leave the EU followed swaying voters in swing districts held Johnson, who has denied any impro- the British people,” said an ebullient by a second referendum - a stance by the main opposition Labour Party, priety. A government audit report Johnson on Friday morning. that was unpopular with the party’s Johnson wanted to strike directly at ruled that a ministerial department’s He also addressed those who had Brexit voters and even some in his Labour’s heartlands in the hopes of decision to award a 100,000 pound voted Conservative for the first time own team. winning support from people who ($128,000) grant to a company run by by saying “you may only have lent us He instead sought to focus the had never voted Conservative but for Arcuri was appropriate. your vote” and “you may intend to campaign agenda on a manifesto whom Brexit had come to trump even The plan early in the campaign return to Labour next time round.” He that included widespread national- traditional party allegiances. was to target around 40 traditionally added: “I and we will never take your ization and spending on public The Conservatives secured a com- Labour supporting seats in northern support for granted.” His often-ruffled services such as the National manding victory, winning 365 of the and central England, a party source appearance, including a distinctive Health Service, which the Labour 650 seats in the House of Commons - close to the campaign said. Johnson mop of blonde hair, marks a contrast Party established in 1948 and pro- the party’s largest majority since under launched the Conservative campaign to the discipline and ruthlessness he vides health care to all free at the Margaret Thatcher in the 1980s. The battle bus in Middleton in northwest displayed to get to this point. point of delivery. result handed Johnson his first national England, in a district with a slim Johnson - full name is Alexander Johnson’s pitch included a election victory but also delivered a Labour majority but which saw 62% Boris de Pfeffel Johnson - took office pledge to lower immigration and dramatic blow to his main competitor, of voters back Brexit in 2016. in July after winning a Conservative that Brexit would free up money Beyond the traditional opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn, “The strategy is to woo Brexit Party leadership contest triggered by that Britain would otherwise pay to strategy of swaying whose Labour Party suffered a crushing Party supporters of all colours and to the resignation of former Prime Min- the EU that could be redirected to defeat with just over 200 seats. specifically court Labour leave voters ister Theresa May. She had failed to spending on public services, voters in swing For 55-year old Johnson, who only especially in the North and Midlands,” win backing by parliament for a Brexit including the NHS, at home. districts held by the entered Downing Street this summer said the source, speaking on Oct. 29, divorce agreement she had negotiated One pledge was to add 50,000 main opposition after his Conservative predecessor the day the House of Commons with the EU. more nurses but, under scrutiny Labour Party, Johnson resigned, calling an election had been approved an early election. The new prime minister and his from the opposition and media, the a high-stakes gamble. “The themes are people versus team concluded early on that the only prime minister acknowledged that wanted to strike But he also considered it a parliament, let’s get Brexit done and way to change the arithmetic in the 19,000 were already working in directly at Labour’s necessity to convert his party’s move on, and a very merry Brexit to House of Commons was to force a the NHS, adding that his policies heartlands in the minority in the House of Commons everyone.” Exit polls Thursday new election. But he needed a united would retain those workers that hopes of winning into a majority and move his govern- evening suggesting a major victory for front - no easy feat for a party where might otherwise leave. ment’s agenda forward. Notably, that Johnson caught some in the Conserv- the issue of Europe has caused During an Oct. 13 visit to the support from people includes Britain - the world’s fifth ative camp off guard. “I was stunned,” infighting and played a role in the northern town of Doncaster, a who had never voted largest economy - exiting the said one member of Johnson’s cam- downfall of the previous four Con- female member of the public Conservative but for European Union by the end of January, paign team, who described the sense servative prime ministers. accused him of peddling fiction by whom Brexit had which would mark the country’s most of relief that the campaign strategy to During his first weeks in office he promising a rosy future for Britain significant trade and foreign policy keep on message had worked. oversaw one of the biggest purges of outside of the EU and being part of come to trump even move since World War Two. As the results of the election rolled cabinet ministers in modern British a government that had made cuts traditional party The five-week campaign also saw in early Friday, it became clear that history and expelled from his party 21 to public services. allegiances. Johnson facing questions about his the Conservatives had succeeded in Conservative lawmakers who had personal trustworthiness after his scooping up seats in districts that had voted against the prime minister on Brexit, including the grandson of Winston Churchill. “We weren’t bluffing, and they were wilfully ignorant if they thought differently,” said a senior prime min- D-RING ROAD isterial aide at the time, referring to a POST BOX: 3488 message from Johnson to lawmakers DOHA - QATAR that he expected loyalty. [email protected] The election campaign officially started in early November and Johnson sought to convince voters EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE that his party was the only one which TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 could break the impasse among poli- FAX: +974 4455 7758 ticians in Westminster to enable the country to move forward. MANAGING EDITOR The campaign focused heavily on TEL: 4462 7505 core Brexit-related messages and was relatively light on policy detail, several DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR members of his campaign team said. TEL: 4455 7769 “The whole point of this campaign was to keep it tight and focused,” said one LOCAL NEWS SECTION of his team. “It’s all about the mes- TEL: 4455 7743 saging.” Team Johnson received a boost when the Brexit Party led by BUSINESS NEWS SECTION Britain’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson delivering a statement at Downing Street after winning the general election, veteran eurosceptic Nigel Farage early TEL: 4462 7535 in Britain, yesterday. on in the campaign said his candidates SPORT NEWS SECTION TEL: 4455 7745 “The Pitztal glacier has hardly triple. changed for the past 30 years in terms But the project in the area, which ONLINE SECTION TEL: 4462 7501 of offer -- the amount of slopes and already boasts Austria’s highest [email protected] Climate concerns facilities -- and given that this is mountain gondola, has drawn crit- winter guests’ number one criteria, it icism from those questioning the sus- PUBLIC RELATIONS is absolutely necessary to carry out tainability of such plans. TEL: 4455 7613 put Austria glacier this merger,” Schultes says. A team of researchers in Swit- [email protected] In Tyrol state, where the 3,440- zerland warned earlier this year that metre (11,290-feet)-high Pitztal unchecked greenhouse gas emissions ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT project on thin ice glacier is located, every fourth job and could see more than 90-percent of TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 every third euro ($1.10) earned come glaciers in the Alps disappear by the FAX: 4455 7870 from tourism and leisure. end of the century. [email protected] AFP The project was first floated five They say that because of historic years ago and has been gradually emissions and current CO2 levels, the SANKT LEONHARD IM PITZTAL, AUSTRIA CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT winding its way through the approvals Alps will lose half of their glaciers no TEL: 4455 7857 process, with an environmental matter what is done about emissions. [email protected] n his office nestled in Austria’s impact hearing due in January. Environmentalist groups have formed an alliance to lobby against snow-capped Pitztal valley, If it does get the go-ahead, the SUBSCRIPTION & the Pitztal project’s “massive Eberhard Schultes is among those project — estimated to cost more than DISTRIBUTION A team of researchers pushing to expand the region’s $140 million and take six years to destruction... of an untouched TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 I landscape”. in Switzerland skiing sector -- but environmentalists build — will add more than 64 hec- FAX: 44557819 alarmed about the region’s vanishing tares (160 acres) of slopes to the An online petition against the [email protected] warned earlier this glaciers are pushing back. current 120 hectares. plans has racked up more than year that unchecked Schultes is the managing director In addition it will link up to the 150,000 signatures within two greenhouse gas of the Pitztaler Gletscherbahnen Oetztal glacier area, which encom- months. And the Greens, who have emissions could see mountain lift company, which is passes the popular Soelden resort. Its governed Tyrol in coalition with the All thoughts and views trying to win approval for a new ski spectacular scenery may be familiar conservative People’s Party (OeVP) more than 90-percent area to connect the Pitztaler glacier to to anyone who watched the snow- since 2013, have also come out against expressed in these columns of glaciers in the Alps the neighbouring Oetztal formation. chase sequence in the last James Bond the project. are those of the writers, disappear by the end Even though the last winter film, ‘Spectre’. The project envisages a “The massive encroachment into not of the newspaper. of the century. They season saw Austria break records for summit station with restaurant, two nature is irreversible,” Georg Kalt- accommodation booked, visitor new cable cars, a ski tunnel, artificial schmid, a Green Tyrol parliamen- say that because of numbers have stagnated in Schultes’ snow generators and, most impor- tarian, said. All correspondence historic emissions and native valley. He is banking on the tantly for the Pitztal, a new gondola -- Tyrol is one of two states gov- regarding Views and current CO2 levels, scheme to bring them back. a cable lift to bring guests up from the erned by an OeVP-Green coalition, Opinion pages should be the Alps will lose half But the project has drawn the ire valley into the new ski area. and the two parties are currently sent to editor-in-chief of environmentalists and the Greens, Schultes says the current negotiating to enter government of their glaciers no at a time when the party is negotiating mountain railway built in 1983 is out- together on a national level. office or mailed to the matter what is done to be in government -- and amid dated, as it can only carry a maximum If that did happen, it would be the [email protected] about emissions. growing concerns about the sustaina- of 1,100 people per hour. With the first time the Greens entered gov- bility of winter sports. new gondola, that capacity would ernment at national level. 10 EUROPE SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER 2019 France braces for holiday misery as strike persists

AFP The capital city was will start warning ticket holders PARIS again choked by huge of their chances of travel during traffic jams as most the Christmas break that begins French commuters endured a metro lines remained next Saturday. ninth day of public transport “I’m sick of this, and I won’t strikes yesterday, with little relief shut, only a handful of be able to keep working if it goes expected in coming days as unions buses and trams were on,” Zigo Makango, a 57-year- vow to keep up their protest running, and three in old security agent, said onboard against a pension overhaul four TGV trains were a bus in the Bobigny suburb through the holidays unless the northeast of Paris. To get home government backs down. cancelled. at night Makango said he has to Officials have said they are use taxis, but “my boss doesn’t ready to negotiate, with Edu- year-end festivities, and trav- reimburse me for that”. cation Minister Jean-Michel ellers worried that their holiday President Emmanuel Macron Blanquer meeting teachers’ rep- plans are compromised. yesterday expressed his “soli- Commuters are seen in a corridor of the Chatelet subway station during a strike by all unions of French resentatives yesterday to try to “Right now it’s a catastrophe darity” with people impacted by SNCF workers and the Paris transport network (RATP), in Paris yesterday. stave off another day of class here, but we’re hoping there will the strike, “but I want the gov- shutdowns. be a solution before Christmas,” ernment to continue its work” in But Philippe angered unions among public-sector workers were on strike, affecting output “It was an intense and frank Frederic Masse, a foie gras pro- forging a single pension system, further by proposing a reduced including those at rail operator and raising fears of shortages meeting... but we still need ducer at the sprawling Rungis a key campaign promise. payout for people who retire at SNCF, has already warned down the line. details, and maintain our call to wholesale food market south of “It’s a historic reform for the the legal age of 62 instead of a “There won’t be any Christmas And both Paris operas, the strike on Tuesday,” Stephane Paris, said yesterday. country... for a welfare state of new, so-called “pivot age” of 64. truce” unless the government Garnier and the Bastille, again Crochet of the SE-Unsa teachers’ The capital city was again the 21st century,” he told jour- They have called for new drops the plan entirely. cancelled Friday performances union said. choked by huge traffic jams as nalists at an EU summit in mass demonstrations for next A poll released on Thursday and others through the weekend. Unions are hoping for a most metro lines remained shut, Brussels. The overhaul, unveiled Tuesday, the third since the by the Elabe institute found Macron’s government insists repeat of 1995, when they forced only a handful of buses and this week by Prime Minister action started on December 5 in France evenly divided on the changes will make for a fairer a rightwing government to back trams were running, and three Edouard Philippe, would do the biggest show of strength in Philippe’s plan, with 50 percent system and help erase pension down on pension reforms after in four TGV trains were away with 42 separate regimes, years by France’s notoriously for and 49 percent against. system deficits forecast to reach three weeks of metro and rail cancelled. some of which offer early militant unions. Philippe insisted But 54 percent rejected the as much as €17bn ($19bn) by strikes just before Christmas. Officials warned of similar retirement and other benefits to on Twitter that “My door is open mooted 64-year cutoff for a full 2025. The average French person The prospect of a protracted disruptions through the public-sector employees such as and my hand outstretched”. pension, and 54 percent sup- retires at just over 60, years standoff has businesses fearing weekend, with train operator train drivers, dockers and even But Laurent Brun of the ported the protest. Staff at four earlier than most in Europe or big losses during the crucial SNCF saying that on Tuesday it Paris Opera employees. hard-line CGT union, the largest of France’s eight oil refineries other rich OECD countries. Polish ruling party wants Moscow to punish critical judges metro to AFP independence, calling into WARSAW question the government’s court reforms. train first Poland’s ruling conservative The European Union Court party has proposed a law to of Justice (CJEU) last month had female punish judges who question the asked Poland’s Supreme Court government’s controversial to rule whether the new KRS judicial reforms, with the oppo- judicial council and a disci- drivers sition calling the bid an “attempt plinary chamber introduced as to gag” critical magistrates. part of the PiS’s reform drive AFP The proposal presented late were free from political MOSCOW on Thursday includes sanctions influence. Poland’s top court up to the exclusion of judges concluded that their inde- The Moscow subway system who question the legality of the pendence was not guaranteed. will train women to run trains nomination of another judge as According to the opposition, next year, following labour law well as for activities of a political the main objective of the pro- changes that opens up several nature or those considered posed law is to ban judges from professions to them. harmful to the functioning of the following the decisions of the EU The sprawling metro judicial system. and Polish courts. system, built in the Soviet era The text presented by law- “This scandalous proposed as a Communist showpiece, has makers of the ruling Law and law which gags judges is a new “formed the first group of Justice party PiS also “considers step towards Poland leaving the female driver trainees” who are the possibility of removing European Union,” said Boris Explosion in Germany to begin training in February, A car from the “Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW)” is parked in front of a damaged apartment judges who would question the Budka, deputy from the oppo- the Moscow city hall said in a building in Blankenburg, eastern Germany, yesterday. One person was killed and at least 11 were national judicial council or the sition Civic Platform. statement. prerogatives of the president,” “These are the actions of injured in an explosion at a residential building in Blankenburg, authorities confirmed. Metro drivers have histor- said PiS deputy Jan Kanthak. authoritarian countries, an ically been men because the Since taking office in 2015, attempt by the PiS to subordinate activity has been on the gov- the right-wing PiS has intro- the courts,” he added in a tweet. ernment’s list of jobs deemed duced a slew of controversial The European Com- I need a break, says globetrotting Greta harmful for women’s health. judicial reforms that it insists are mission has accused the The justification that it is designed to tackle corruption. Polish government of threat- REUTERS thousands of students in the spending months campaigning dangerous to be underground But critics including top ening to undermine principles TURIN north Italian city of Turin yes- in the United States. for long periods has been crit- European judicial bodies like the rule of law and terday for a protest to pressure the Now she needs a little icised as hypocritical however, argue they pose a threat to judicial independence that it Tireless teenage activist Greta government to take more action downtime. “I will be home for because the metro employs judicial independence and the signed onto in 2004 when Thunberg has been crisscrossing to curb carbon emissions. Christmas and then I will take a women as cleaners, cashiers rule of law. Warsaw joined the EU. the globe by car, train and boat Thunberg, who refuses to fly, holiday break because you need and escalator monitors who The proposed law comes In late 2017, the EU launched — but not plane — to demand travelled to Turin by train and to take rest,” she said in Turin. earn much smaller salaries after the Polish Supreme Court unprecedented proceedings action on climate change. But car from Madrid after attending “Otherwise you cannot do while also being stuck ruled on December 5 that the against Poland over “systemic now even she needs a rest. Fresh a UN climate summit in the this all the time.” But the underground. new judicial council charged threats” posed by the reforms to from being named Time maga- Spanish capital. She arrived in renowned activist showed plenty In September, a Labour with nominating and disci- the rule of law that could see its zine’s Person of the Year, the Europe only a few days earlier of energy as she addressed the Ministry decree slashed the plining judges lacks EU voting rights suspended. 16-year-old Swede joined aboard a catamaran after rally in Turin. number of exclusively male professions from 456 to around 100. The current list was French theatre director quits after abuse claim approved in 2000 and bans women from mining and met- alworking jobs, but also from AFP Coetzee’s novel “Disgrace” about and insisted he had worked starting out together... and for 10 spoke out to Mediapart last positions as a bus driver, sailor, PARIS a South African university pro- closely with her for seven years years we grew up professionally month about being sexually har- parachutist, auto mechanic, and fessor accused of sexually har- afterwards. together.” Some 60 actors, assed from the age of 12 by the even maker of wind instru- The director of a French theatre assing a student. “I was interrogated by the directors and theatre profes- director of her first film. Director ments. A new list that is to take has resigned the day after his A formal complaint for rape police and when they had her sionals signed an open letter Christophe Ruggia, 54, initially effect in 2021 opens many of staff went on strike urging him was made last year shortly after confront me it appeared that I defending Baro. “He should not strenuously denied the accusa- these to females. to quit over the fallout from a he was chosen to head the had never forced her,” he said. be the scapegoat for a scourage tions before asking Haenel — star The city hall statement rape allegation. Theatre des Quartiers d’Ivry on “I did not use any form of that is gnawing at our society,” of the acclaimed new film “Por- said “expectations are very Jean-Pierre Baro, the first the southeastern edge of Paris. violence or pressure that night,” they added. trait of a Lady on Fire” — to high” of female drivers in major theatre figure to be hit by “My conscience is clear,” he said. “What happened was The accusation first surfaced forgive him. training, and noted that the #MeToo movement in France, Baro said after stepping down totally consensual for me. It was in a blog on the Mediapart inves- Baro said that he supported women had already driven denied assaulting a colleague in yesterday, saying he was only only seven years later that I tigative website. But since then women speaking out about metro trains during World 2011 and police dropped the case quitting to save the subsidised found out that she did not feel staff at the theatre have quit, abuse but “here it turned into a War II, when they took on for lack of proof. theatre, which has seen its audi- the same way.” Baro said he was bookings have dried up and public lynching on rumours and many traditionally male jobs. Baro, one of the few black ences plummet since the alle- 33 “totally unknown and barely “many artists refuse to set foot denunciations”. But his hand was Russian Railways, the coun- men at the head of a French cul- gation was first aired in June. out of school” when the alleged in the theatre”, the striking staff forced by the French culture try’s railway monopoly, said it tural institution, made his name He said relations with a pro- rape happened. said in a statement. ministry who felt his position will also begin employing with a stage adaptation of JM duction assistant was consensual “We were two young people French actress Adele Haenel was untenable. female train drivers in 2021. SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER 2019 EUROPE 11 Johnson urges healing after winning election

BLOOMBERG With all seats declared, the Conservatives LONDON had won 365 of the 650 seats in the House of Commons, a gain of 48, to Labour’s 203 seats, Prime Minister Boris Johnson down 59. The results showed the Conservatives won an emphatic election victory that redraws the political map of taking some districts from Corbyn’s party for Britain and gives the prime min- the first time ever, compounding Labour’s fourth ister the mandate he needs to successive general election defeat. pull the UK out of the European Union next month. The result spectacularly vin- Trump greets tweet, again raised the prospect dicated Johnson’s gamble on a of a “massive new trade deal” snap election to break the UK Premier after the UK leaves the EU. deadlock in Parliament over Johnson’s majority gives him Brexit, as his Conservatives won AFP / WASHINGTON the power to get his own way on their biggest majority since Mar- Brexit, especially if he needs garet Thatcher’s in 1987. US President Donald Trump yes- extra time to negotiate with the “I urge everyone to find terday congratulated UK Prime EU. He has said he will start to closure and to let the healing Minister Boris Johnson on his push legislation through par- begin,” Johnson said in a speech election victory, saying their two liament before the end of the outside his Downing Street office countries were now free to strike year to meet the current in which he acknowledged the a “massive” new trade deal. departure date of January 31. divisive three years since the UK “Congratulations to Boris Calling the result “historic,” voted to leave the European Johnson on his great WIN!”, Johnson hailed “a powerful new Union. “Here in this people’s Trump tweeted. “Britain and mandate to get Brexit done.” government the work is now the United States will now be For Labour, the heavy losses Britain’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson reacts as he is greeted by staff, arriving back at Downing being stepped up to make 2020 free to strike a massive new raise questions over its future Street, after meeting Queen Elizabeth and accepting her invitation to form a new government, in a year of prosperity and growth Trade Deal after BREXIT. This direction after voters decisively and hope.” deal has the potential to be far rejected Corbyn and his program. London, yesterday. The outcome was a repudi- bigger and more lucrative Corbyn plans to remain in place ation of the main opposition than any deal that could be until a successor is chosen but Labour Party under Jeremy made with the EU. Celebrate he’s facing pressure to stand Britain elects record number Corbyn and his radical program Boris!” aside immediately. of state intervention, national- In England and Wales, voters ization of industries and tax decades as areas that had voted moved to the Conservatives of female lawmakers rises for the better off. Corbyn to quit the EU turned away from almost everywhere, but partic- announced his intention to Labour and toward Johnson and ularly strongly in places that REUTERS “Instead of congratulating experienced in the role as a factor. resign after a catastrophic run his “Get Brexit Done” mantra. voted to leave the EU. Former LONDON ourselves for extremely slow The rise in representation of losses to the Tories in Brexit- Corbyn, who had tried to industrial areas abandoned progress let’s see a commitment largely came from a boost in supporting districts in northern straddle both sides of the divide, Labour for the first time in gen- A record number of women were from all the political parties to female MPs for the ruling Con- England and Wales. said the issue had “taken over” the erations, with mining and steel elected as lawmakers in Britain’s action to make the step change servative party, although only Elsewhere, Liberal Democrat campaign and cost his party votes. towns that suffered from mass general election, with women’s that is needed. It is time for equal about a quarter of its seats are leader Jo Swinson, who cam- “I did everything I possibly could unemployment under the Con- rights campaigners yesterday power.” Parties are facing filled by women. paigned to remain in the EU, lost in order to bridge the divide servatives in the 1980s now cheering the result but saying growing scrutiny over the Meanwhile, the left-wing her seat. Having routed political between those that voted leave embracing the party. progress towards equal repre- diversity of their candidates, but Labour party was left with a opposition to Brexit across much and those that voted remain,” he Scotland, which opposed sentation must speed up. women’s campaigners say toxic majority of female MPs - 104 to of the country, Johnson still faces said in a pooled TV interview. Brexit in the 2016 referendum, Women now represent just politics and high levels of gen- 98 men - after a night which saw resistance in Scotland, where With all seats declared, the staged a rebellion as the SNP over a third of all members of par- dered abuse are driving away it suffer heavy losses. support for the pro-inde- Conservatives had won 365 of retook seats it lost two years ago. liament (MPs), taking 220 seats out female MPs. At the current rate of pendence Scottish National Party the 650 seats in the House of It ended the night with 48 of 59 of 650 in Britain’s lower house Two thirds of female law- progress it will take decades to surged, setting up the prospect Commons, a gain of 48, to districts, halving the Tory seat compared to 208 in the previous makers told a survey by parlia- reach equality, said campaigners of a renewed constitutional Labour’s 203 seats, down 59. The tally, defeating the Liberal Dem- election, after a dramatic night that ment’s Women and Equalities at the 50:50 Parliament group, standoff over the UK’s future. results showed the Conservatives ocrat leader and reducing Labour saw the ruling Conservative party Committee in November that which has run a campaign to Johnson held a solid lead taking some districts from Cor- to a solitary district. SNP leader make major gains. progress on tackling violence and encourage more women to stand over Labour in polls before byn’s party for the first time ever, Nicola Sturgeon reiterated her “More women MPs than ever online abuse against women in for election to parliament. Thursday’s vote, but just how compounding Labour’s fourth suc- demand for another inde- before is very welcome but we politics impacted their willingness “Clearly much more work Brexit would play out in the UK’s cessive general election defeat. pendence referendum, some- are inching forwards, up from to stand for re-election. needs to be done to build a better third general election in four Leaders including Angela thing Johnson has ruled out. For 32% to just 34%,” said Sam A number of female candi- democracy that draws upon the years was never certain. What Merkel of Germany and US Pres- Johnson, his convincing majority Smethers, the chief executive of dates chose not to stand again in talent and experience of the 32 emerged was the biggest shift in ident Donald Trump offered their marks the culmination of an women’s rights group the the Dec. 12 election, with several million UK women,” said the British political allegiances for congratulations. Trump, in a extraordinary rise to power. Fawcett Society. citing the level of abuse they had group’s director Frances Scott. EU warns of post-Brexit rival Britain

AFP European values and norms. EU’s huge market without ruary, we go to work,” she said. BRUSSELS “There is no question of con- playing by its rules. In a text released after the cluding a deal at any price,” EU “Talks about a trade deal talks, the 27 EU leaders called for European leaders warned yes- Council President Charles Michel with Britain will be a lot of “as close as possible a future terday that Britain could become told a conference after the talks. trouble. They won’t be any easier relationship with the UK” while a formidable rival, just hours “Negotiations are over when than those over the withdrawal warning that it “will have to be after a big victory by Prime Min- the results are balanced and agreement,” Dutch Prime Min- based on a balance of rights and ister Boris Johnson’s conserva- guarantee respect for the dif- ister Mark Rutte said. obligations and ensure a level tives all but sealed the UK’s ferent concerns,” the former Brussels is also worried playing field”. Brexit divorce. Belgian premier said. about the breakneck speed with Barnier will direct trade But the EU chiefs, meeting in German Chancellor Angela which Johnson would like to negotiations, which the leaders Brussels, also expressed relief Merkel warned that Britain strike a trade deal with Europe, will follow closely “and provide that British voters had sent a would be an economic “com- as well as any British effort to further guidance as necessary, clear message, bringing to an end petitor at our door” after it leaves undermine the unity among the fully consistent with the EU’s the first phase of a crisis that has the EU and French President remaining 27 members. best interest,” conclusions added. dogged Europe for more than Emmanuel Macron saw a threat “The time frame ahead of us The deadline currently stands three years. that London would become an is very challenging,” said at the end of 2020, but Johnson Led by France and Germany, “unfair competitor”. European Commission President has until July 1 to ask for a one or EU member states said they This reflects concern that Ursula von der Leyen, who will two year extension to the post- would pursue a swift trade deal Britain could become a kind of pilot the talks with her chief Brexit transition, although he An arrangement of UK daily newspapers photographed as an illustration with a tight deadline of end “Singapore on Thames”, a negotiator, Michel Barnier. insisted throughout his campaign in London yesterday shows front page headlines reporting on the 2020, but insisted that any new trading hub where multina- With Brexit now expected on that he would never take this an projected election result based on exit polls in the UK general election. arrangement must uphold tionals can gain access to the January 31, on the “first of Feb- emergency option. UN talks deadlocked, detached from climate emergency

AFP action. Sixteen-year-old activist Association of Small Island The first — favoured by MADRID Greta Thunberg led student States, many of whose members nations reluctant to enhance their marchers in Turin, Italy yesterday face an existential threat due to targets in the short term, including United Nations climate negotia- , and chastised world leaders for rising sea levels. The narrow aim the US, India, China and Saudi tions were deadlocked and acting “as if there is no tomorrow”. of the Madrid negotiations is to Arabia — simply repeats language heading deep into overtime yes- As pressure inside and finalise the rulebook for the 2015 in the 2015 treaty. But a group of terday with even the best-case outside the talks mounts, old Paris climate accord, which more than 80 poor and climate- outcome likely to fall well short splits between rich polluters and enjoins nations to limit global vulnerable nations backed by the of what science says is needed developing nations have re- temperature rises to “well below” European Union are insisting on to avert a future ravaged by emerged over who should slash two degrees Celsius. Earth has a stronger commitment from all. global warming. greenhouse gas emissions by already warmed 1C, and is on “(We) will not walk away The COP25 summit in Madrid how much, and how to pay the track to heat up another two or without a clear call for all coun- arrives on the heels of climate- trillions needed to live in a three degrees by 2100. tries to enhance their ambitions,” related disasters across the climate-addled world. But “raising ambition” on said Marshall Islands climate Demonstrators holding banners reading “human rights are our red planet, including unprecedented Newer fissures, meanwhile, emissions remains the over- envoy Tina Stege. “On ambition, lines” and “power” take part in a protest on climate emergency, cyclones, deadly droughts and between poor, climate-vul- arching goal in Madrid and espe- this will be the key fight tonight, record-setting heatwaves. nerable nations and emerging cially next year, when Glasgow and probably well into tomorrow,” in Madrid, yesterday. Scientists have amassed a giants such as China and India will host the last climate summit said Alden Meyer, policy and mountain of evidence pointing to — the world’s No.1 and No.4 before the Paris treaty becomes strategy director at the Union of counting the cost of the climate might leave them and other even more dire impacts on the emitters — are further stymying operational. The draft Madrid Concerned Scientists. emergency can be compensated. developed countries on the hook for near horizon, while millions of progress. “We are appalled at the agreement under negotiation, Another potential deal- The United States, which is leaving damages that could total more than youth activists are holding weekly state of negotiations,” said Carlos which must be approved by con- breaker is so-called “loss and the Paris agreement, has aggres- $150bn per year by 2025, observers strikes demanding government Fuller, lead negotiator for the sensus, lays out two options. damage” — how countries already sively blocked any provisions that and diplomats have said. 12 AMERICAS SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER 2019

US tests ballistic Chile must prosecute missile over police and army the Pacific

AFP for violence, says UN WASHINGTON

REUTERS The UN human The United States tested a GENEVA/SANTIAGO rights office said medium-range ballistic missile in a report that it on Thursday, the second test in Chilean police and soldiers used had documented four months of an offensive excessive or unnecessary force missile that would have been to quell recent demonstrations, an “alarmingly high banned by a US-Russia arms committing serious human number” of 345 treaty that Washington exited rights violations including people suffering eye in August. unlawful killings and torture injuries after being The Air Force launched the that should be prosecuted, the conventionally configured United Nations said yesterday. hit by lead pellets missile from Vandenberg Air The UN human rights office fired from anti-riot Force Base northwest of Los said in a report that it had doc- shotguns by security Angeles at about 8:30am local umented an “alarmingly high time (1630 GMT), according to number” of 345 people suffering forces. a base spokesperson. eye injuries after being hit by The prototype ground- lead pellets fired from anti-riot UN’s key points. Much of the launched missile flew more shotguns by security forces. criticism had appeared in earlier No hope of survivors from missing plane than 500km before plunging Twenty-six people were reports filed by other interna- into the Pacific Ocean, the Pen- Military personnel unload from a Chilean Air Force plane, the landing gear of the C-130 Hercules killed during nearly two months tional right’s groups. tagon said. “Data collected and transport plane which crashed in the sea on its way to Antarctica on Monday with 38 people on of protests that began in October “We reiterate our willingness lessons learned from this test over a rise in metro fares but to take up every (recommen- board, after its was recovered by search teams, in Punta Arenas, southern Chile, yesterday. Chile will inform the Department of quickly spiralled out of control. dation) that seeks to improve our confirmed that a military which headed to the Eduardo Frei base across the Drake Passage in the Defense’s development of “We have found that the practices with respect to human Antarctic crashed in the sea, with no hope of finding survivors. future intermediate-range overall management of assem- rights,” she said. capabilities,” said Pentagon blies by the police was carried The UN team, working spokesman Lieutenant Colonel out in a fundamentally under UN rights boss and former Robert Carver. repressive manner,” UN mission Chile President Michelle Mexico pays portly cops to slim down The test was the second of a leader Imma Guerras-Delgado Bachelet, said the government ground-launched, medium- told a Geneva news briefing. of President Sebastian Pinera AFP instructor shouts encouragement lifestyle,” said Javier Ramirez, the range nuclear-capable missile “Human rights violations had cooperated with its inves- MEXICO CITY to finish one more set, some of buff fitness instructor guiding the since Washington exited the 1987 documented... include the tigation. Bachelet, a Socialist, is them seem to doubt whether it’s beat cops through their routine. Intermediate-Range Nuclear excessive or unnecessary use of a long-time political adversary It’s a sunny morning in Mexico worth it. “We want them to be in optimal Forces Treaty with Moscow. The force that led to unlawful killings of the center-right Pinera. City, and police officers drip with But those who stick with the condition so they can do their jobs INF would have forbidden testing and injuries, arbitrary deten- During its October sweat as they do push-ups and program, which was launched effectively.” of the missile, as well as a cruise tions, and torture and ill- 30-November 22 mission, the UN squats, part of a program for three months ago, say it can be Three-quarters of adults in missile tested in August. treatment including sexual vio- team documented 113 specific overweight cops in one of the life-changing. “This was all com- Mexico are overweight or obese, Unrelated to the INF, on lence,” she said. cases of torture and ill-treatment world’s most obese countries. pletely new to me... The first according to national statistics. Its October 2, the Air Force launched Lorena Recabarren, Chile’s — mainly through “severe The two dozen officers grim- month was tough, both mentally obesity rate — nearly one-third an unarmed Minuteman 3 inter- subsecretary of human rights, beatings” — and 24 cases of sexual acing through their workout on and physically,” said one, Mau- of the adult population — is continental ballistic missile from critiqued the report, telling violence against women, men and the pavement of the station house ricio Barrera. “But the program second only to the United States Vandenberg, delivering a test reporters the government would adolescents by members of the yard — most with round bellies has helped me understand that in the Organisation for Economic reentry vehicle to the Kwajalein issue specific corrections to police and army. bulging beneath their drenched obesity is an illness,” the Co-operation and Development Atoll 4,200 miles away in the what it saw as conclusions It documented four unlawful T-shirts — are just a handful of the 26-year-old said. (OECD), a 36-member group of western Pacific. drawn from “innacurate infor- deaths “involving state agents,” more than 1,000 across the capital Barrera, who now looks fit developed countries. The tests could also be a mation, or lack of updated infor- including two in which there had who have enrolled in the program, and trim, cracked a grin when Mexico’s obesity epidemic is signal to North Korea, which mation in the report”. been no apparent risk to the “Healthy Police”. he revealed how much weight driving high rates of diabetes and has demonstrated its own Recabarren said Chilean lives of military personnel, They get a bonus of 1,000 he has lost since he started: 16kg heart disease, according to cross-Pacific nuclear threat authorities were already which could amount to an extra- pesos (about $50) a month to (35 pounds). “This program is a public health experts. Officials with multiple successful short, working to improve protocols judicial execution, Guerras- participate — though judging by way to fight the obesity problem have started looking for ways to medium and long-range bal- and policy around several of the Delgado said. the looks on their faces as their we have in Mexico, the sedentary combat the problem. listic missile tests. SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER 2019 AMERICAS / CLASSIFIEDS 13

Trump calls vote US House panel approves charges, ‘sad’, would not mind long trial

REUTERS Trump at brink of impeachment WASHINGTON REUTERS If the full House votes US President Donald Trump dis- WASHINGTON next week to impeach missed the impeachment process Trump, as expected, against him yesterday as a hoax A Democratic-controlled House the Republican will and said he would not mind a of Representatives committee long trial in the US Senate, saying yesterday took Republican Pres- become the third he wanted to see the whistle- ident Donald Trump to the brink US President to be blower whose complaint led of impeachment when it impeached. Democrats to launch the inquiry. approved two charges against Speaking to reporters at the him stemming from his efforts White House after the House of to pressure Ukraine to inves- voted articles of impeachment Representatives Judiciary Com- tigate Democratic political rival against the president.” Repub- mittee approved two articles of Joe Biden. licans have defended Trump and impeachment against him, A deeply divided House Judi- accused Democrats of a politi- Trump decried the process as a ciary Committee voted 23-17 to cally motivated farce aimed at “sham” and said Democrats were approve articles of impeachment overturning his surprise 2016 trivializing impeachment. charging Trump with both presidential election victory. “It’s a very sad thing for our abusing the power of his office “A sad, ridiculous sham in the country, but it seems to be very over Ukraine and obstructing US House of Representatives. good for me politically,” Trump House Democrats’ attempts to This needs to come to a quick said, arguing that his poll investigate him for it. end,” Senate Judiciary Com- numbers had increased. If the full House votes next mittee Chairman Lindsey “Impeachment is a hoax. It’s a week to impeach Trump, as Graham, a Republican who is sham,” he said. expected, the Republican will often a staunch defender of The President said he was Republican members of the US House Judiciary Committee including Rep. Jim Jordan (Ohio), Ken become the third US President to Trump, wrote on Twitter. open to a short or long process Buck (Colorado), John Ratcliffe (Texas), Martha Roby (Alabama), Matt Gaetz (Florida) and Mike Johnson be impeached. But the chances of If impeached, Trump will go in the Senate, which is expected him being removed from office are on trial in the Senate early next (Louisiana) watch and listen to the committee vote to approve articles of impeachment against US to hold a trial in January. close to zero because the Senate, year, just as the 2020 presi- President Donald Trump on Capitol Hill in Washington, yesterday. “I’ll do whatever I want.... which is dominated by Repub- dential campaign begins to pick So I’ll do long or short,” Trump licans, will have the final say. up speed. investigations of Biden and his son next Wednesday ahead of a vote acquitted in the Senate. Dem- said. “I wouldn’t mind a long In congressional hearings Biden, a former US vice- Hunter, who was on the board of on whether to impeach Trump ocrat President Andrew Johnson process, because I’d like to see that have gripped Washington, president, is a leading Demo- a Ukrainian gas company. and send him for trial. was impeached in 1868 but not the whistleblower, who’s a Democrats have accused the cratic candidate to face Trump Trump also asked Ukraine to Trump and Republicans say convicted in the Senate. fraud.” The president, who has president of endangering the US in November’s general election. investigate a debunked theory the President did nothing Republican President Richard repeatedly argued that he did Constitution, jeopardizing Trump has alleged that Biden that Ukraine, not Russia, inter- improper in his call with Zel- Nixon resigned in 1974 before he nothing wrong during a July call national security and under- was involved in corruption in fered in the 2016 US election. enskiy, and that there is no direct was impeached over his with Ukraine President Volo- mining the integrity of the 2020 Ukraine and should be investi- The obstruction charge evidence he withheld aid or a involvement in the Watergate dymyr Zelenskiy in which he election by asking Ukrainian gated but the president has against Trump is based on his White House meeting in exchange scandal. Trump is running for re- pressed Ukraine to investigate President Volodymyr Zelenskiy offered no evidence. The Dem- directives to current and former for a favor. Democrats counter election in 2020, a contest Democratic former Vice Pres- in a July phone call to investigate ocrat denies any wrongdoing. administration officials such as that by saying that Trump stopped expected to be a bitter, partisan ident Joe Biden, said that using Biden. The abuse of power charge Secretary of State Mike Pompeo top aides from testifying. battle with a Democratic nominee the impeachment process “Today is a solemn and sad against Trump also accuses him not to cooperate with the Trump would be the third US who will be chosen next year. against him was not good for day,” the committee’s Demo- of freezing nearly $400m in US impeachment inquiry, even if president to be impeached. Dem- The impeachment inquiry the United States. “There was cratic chairman, Jerry Nadler, security aid to Ukraine and that meant defying subpoenas. ocrat Bill Clinton was impeached was launched in September after nothing done wrong. To use the said. “For the third time in a little offering a possible White House A senior Democratic aide in 1998 for perjury for lying a whistleblower complaint about power of impeachment for this over a century and a half, the meeting to Zelenskiy to get him said the House tentatively plans about a sexual relationship with the July 25 call between Trump nonsense is an embarrassment House Judiciary Committee has to publicly announce to hold an impeachment debate a White House intern, but he was and Ukraine’s Zelenskiy. to this country,” he said. ‘Star Wars’ fans Lawyer for Boston marathon bomber seeks new trial

AFP of the harshest in the country. He presiding over the case at the time, with no history of violence. They camp outside LA NEW YORK was not present for the hearing. George O’Toole, did not investigate asked to present evidence showing Lawyer Daniel Habib outlined the situation. Tamerlan was involved in killing theater week A lawyer for Boston marathon three arguments in asking for a new Lastly, Habib said, trial jurors did three people in 2011, but the judge bomber Dzhokhar Tsarnaev asked trial. In a recording of Thursday’s not hear evidence that Tsarnaev’s refused. late on Thursday for a new trial, hearing, Habib can be heard older brother, Tamerlan Tsarnaev, Federal death penalty cases are before film opens arguing that his client’s rights had claiming that Tsarnaev’s original who died four days after the attack rare in the US, with the overwhelming been violated. 2015 trial should not have been held in a confrontation with police, had majority of such sentences handed AFP A panel of three judges heard the in Boston because the city was still committed murder two years earlier. down by state courts. The last federal LOS ANGELES appeal from the lawyer appointed so traumatized by the attack. Tsarnaev, a US citizen who was execution took place in 2003. for Tsarnaev, who was sentenced to He also questioned the neutrality 19 at the time of the bombings and The Supreme Court earlier this Obsessed Star Wars fans with sleeping bags and a death in 2015 for planting two home- of two jurors, who lied during jury came to the United States from the month refused the Trump adminis- portable movie projector have started camping made bombs near the finish line of selection about whether they had former Soviet Union 11 years earlier, tration’s call to lift a stay on federal outside Hollywood’s Chinese Theatre, more than a the iconic race in 2013, killing three had conversations about the case on admits having taken part in the attack. executions, upon further review of week before the blockbuster begins playing. people and injuring 264 others. social media. But his defense has always the practice. Roughly 20 sci-fi lovers were in place Thursday, Tsarnaev, now 26, is being held One of them lied about calling claimed his older brother is the more It is unclear when the appeals seven days before doors swing open for the first at Florence, a maximum security Tsarnaev “a piece of garbage” on culpable of the two, pointing out that court will issue its decision on a pos- preview screening of the much-hyped, saga-con- prison in Colorado considered one Twitter, Habib said, and the judge Dzhokhar was a college sophomore sible new Tsarnaev trial. cluding “The Rise of Skywalker”. Organizers expect that number to swell to 150 in the coming days, with fans of all ages traveling from as far as the United Kingdom and Japan to see the movie first at the iconic venue where the original “Star Wars” premiered in 1977. “When Star Wars comes, you put everything on hold -- it’s like having a baby,” said mega-fan Nicolas Johnson, waiting with his dog. “I’m actually lucky that I’m able to work on the line,” added Shing Hwong, a 39-year-old attorney from near San Fran- cisco who has brought her laptop down with her. “I’m sleeping here overnight and in the evening I just get to hang out with a lot of my friends, and talk and live Star Wars.” The tight-knit community first began lining up outside Star Wars premieres two decades ago for 1999’s “The Phantom Menace”. Back then, they waited for 42 days on Hollywood Boulevard. Older and with more commitments now, they decided to trim that down for the latest film -- particularly with this premiere taking place in winter. “I’ve got a sleeping bag, at night I have to crawl in there and stay warm,” said organizer Erik Murillo, a 47-year-old computer technician from Las Vegas. “I tend to try to stay up at night, awake to watch over everyone else, so I sleep during the daytime.” The group play with board games and LEGO sets, and use their projector to watch the old movies and catch the latest episodes of Star Wars TV series “The Mandalorian.” Murillo admits he is more excited about lining up than the film itself — he says he has already SITUATION WANTED spoiled its plot by poring over every trailer, interview and fan rumor forum. Procurement Engineer, “Think of it as a slumber party with friends where everyone has the same interests,” said San Diego Having B.E (EEE) & M.B.A (Marketing) with 2 fashion photographer Justin Nunez, 31, who is on his first Star Wars line. Nunez has three pairs of long- johns, four sweaters and a sleeping bag for the chilly Los Angeles winter nights. He is hoping the group will get some relief on Monday when the glitzy, red-carpet world premiere takes place just yards away — in 2015, Disney invited !"#$"%''%%*+, them in. “I’m just happy it’s not raining,” he added. 14 CLASSIFIEDS SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER 2019

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