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TUESDAY 3 AUGUST 2021 24 DHUL-HIJJAH - 1442 VOLUME 26 NUMBER 8702 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS

PM inspects Shura Council election headquarters Qatar supports MME strives to Lebanon with 31,250 doses of improve quality Pfizer vaccine of local dates QNA — DOHA On behalf of the State of Qatar, SANAULLAH ATAULLAH Qatar Fund for Development THE PENINSULA provided financial support, including an aid package, to After achieving local date support the Republic of produce at a certain sufficient Lebanon, with the aim of level, recording over 86 percent, providing 31,250 doses of the the Ministry of Municipality and Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to the Environment has shifted its Lebanese Ministry of Public focus on quality to increase the Health, as part of the State of market value of the fruit. Qatar’s response to limit the “Local date farms are spread of the coronavirus expected to supply better quality Farms are expected to pandemic. dates in large quantity this year supply better quality dates This aid comes as an as they received Polycarbonate in large quantity this year extension of the State of Drying Houses (PDHs),” Director as they received Polycar- Qatar’s commitment to stand of the Agricultural Affairs bonate Drying Houses. with the friendly and brotherly Department at the Ministry of countries affected by this pan- Municipality and Environment The Ministry has started demic and to secure appro- (MME), Yousuf Khalid Al Khulaif coordination with its priate medical supplies to con- partners to organise a Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani yesterday told The Peninsula. front the effects of the coro- He said that the Ministry large dates festival in navirus and provide medical visited a number of electoral headquarters to ensure the progress of the registration process in the October this year. voters’ registration lists. H E the Prime Minister expressed his pleasure with the turnout of electronic has started coordination with support to people in the registration. “I inspected a number of electoral headquarters to ensure the progress of the registration its partners to organise a large The self-sufficiency rate affected countries. process in the voters’ registration lists. I also visited the elections follow-up operations room in the dates festival in October this of Qatar in date production This support is also an year under its plan to provide affirmation of the effective Ministry of Interior, and was pleased with the turnout for electronic registration, wishing success to reached to 86 percent. multiple marketing platforms role of the State of Qatar and everyone,” H E Prime Minister tweeted yesterday. to local date farms. its efforts to combat the spread “The Ministry has sup- conducting a feasibility study of this pandemic, which rep- ported date farms with PDHs in coordination with private resents a common threat to reduce wastage of local dates sector to supply large quantity facing the whole world, and it QMC launches media platform and improve their marketing of dates to local market under is based on the common inter- quality,” said Al Khulaifi. a major plan to achieve self- national responsibility. Addi- He said that the Ministry sufficiency in the production of tionally, this aid affirms for Shura Council candidates has handed over a large fruits and vegetables by 2023. Qatar’s supportive stance number of PDHs under its plan To provide marketing towards brotherly and friendly QNA — DOHA provide a number of to distribute 100 PDHs to date platform to local date farms, the countries, and its assistance to services including per- farms this year. Ministry of Municipality and them to overcome this crisis. The Media Support sonal photography, The PDH is a drying Environment represented by the It is worth noting that last Committee for the Shura filming an introductory chamber covered by a polycar- Agricultural Affairs Department year, Qatar Fund for Devel- Council Elections of Qatar video for the candidate bonate sheet equipped with an has been holding festivals for opment sent many urgent aids Media Corporation (QMC) and his electoral exhaust fan. The new technique dried and fresh dates. to Lebanon to address the launched a new website program, audio improves the quality of dates, He said that the Ministry is coronavirus pandemic. https://shuraelections.gov. recording, graphic design, especially in humid areas; pro- preparing to organise a large qa that allows candidates a television interview and tects the fruit from insects, birds, festival for selling fully ripe and to appear in the media a radio interview. dust, and rain; accelerates fruit’s dried dates in October this year. Metro services to through multiple media The platform also drying process, and reduces the “The sixth local date festival platforms with fair and provides a complete wastage of produce. which was organised by the resume on Friday; equal opportunities. introductory guide to the “The self-sufficiency rate of Ministry of Municipality and It also aims at assisting laws and legislation in the Qatar in date production reached Environment and Souq Waqif Corniche road to candidates wishing to nominate programmes to the electorate State of Qatar, the Shura Council to 86 percent which is expected recently had attracted a large themselves for the membership in the electoral districts through elections law, the electoral dis- to grow further in coming years,” number of customers including close temporarily in the upcoming Shura Council Qatar Media Corporation. tricts decree and how to exercise said Al Khulaifi. citizens and expatriates,” said to present themselves and their The new website will the electoral right. `P2 He said that the Ministry is Al Khulaifi. THE PENINSULA — DOHA

Qatar Railways Company (Qatar Rail) has announced the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2021 resumption of Metro services on Friday August 6, to support the movement of people tickets go on sale today during the temporary road closure of the Corniche THE PENINSULA — DOHA experience the welcoming hos- between August 6 and 10. pitality of Qatar as 16 teams The company emphasised The sale of tickets for the inau- from across the Arab world take Doha Metro’s role in facili- gural FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2021 the pitch between November 30 tating transportation to avoid – dubbed the test event for next and December 18 , 2021. traffic congestion, especially year’s FIFA World Cup Qatar During the first period of during the period of these tem- 2022 – begins today, FIFA sales phase from today to August porary road closures. announced yesterday. 17 at 12:00 AST/11:00 CET, Visa The 37 stations across the Fans wishing to witness the cardholders will be given priority Metro network serve key des- action up close will be able to to submit their ticket applica- tinations around the city and sign up for tickets as of today, tions, FIFA said yesterday. the Corniche area such as the starting at 12:00 AST/11:00 CET. The global football gov- National Museum, Souq Waqif, Visa cardholders will have an erning body added that during Corniche, Al Bidda, West Bay exclusive opportunity to apply this sales period, it will make no and DECC station. for tickets via FIFA.com during difference whether they submit The metrolink and metro- the Visa Presale for the FIFA their applications on the first Viale di Lusso opens shop at Hamad International Airport express services will also con- Arab Cup Qatar 2021. day, the last day or any time in tinue to operate during the During the first FIFA pan- between, as all applications will Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, H E Akbar Al Baker, Hamad International Airport Chief Operating road closures, however, some Officer, Engineer Badr Al Meer and other officials at the launch of Viale di Lusso, a new premium Arab football tournament, spec- have the same chance of being `Report on P3 routes have been temporarily tators and competitors alike will successful. `P3 fashion avenue, at the heart of the award-winning Hamad International Airport. diverted in order to access the metro stations. Metro services will be sus- pended again on Fridays to Amendment to worker recruitment norms serves interest of all: Official allow for system upgrades to QNA — DOHA take place. Affairs’ Decision No. 21 of 2021 interest of all concerned parties. implemented after six months coming period with represent- More information on Metro amending some provisions of Head of the recruitment from the date of its issuance, so atives of licensed recruitment services and travel during this The Ministry Of Administrative Resolution No. 8 of 2005 offices department at the Min- that there is plenty of time for offices in the State of Qatar to period is available via the Development, Labour and regarding regulating the condi- istry of Administrative Devel- the recruitment offices to align inform them of the details of the official social media accounts, Social Affairs (MADLSA) has tions and procedures for opment Ibrahim Al Maadeed their conditions with the Minister of the Administrative qr.com.qa, the Doha Metro emphasised that the Minister of licensing the recruitment of said, during a press conference requirements of the decision. Development, Labour and mobile app, or by calling the the Administrative Devel- workers from abroad for the yesterday, that the decision that He revealed that the Min- Social Affairs’ Decision No. 21 Customer Service Center on opment, Labour and Social account of others serves the was issued on July 8 will be istry will hold a meeting in the of 2021. `P2 105. 02 HOME TUESDAY 3 AUGUST 2021 CRA approves wholesale charges for telecom networks services THE PENINSULA — DOHA The new charges supersede PRAYER The Communications Regulatory the previous ones and are TIMINGS Authority (CRA) issued an Order to applicable for telecom PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMING direct Ooredoo Qatar and Vodafone Qatar to implement specific wholesale service providers’ FAJR 03.38 am charges for 2021, 2022 and 2023. reference offers approved Wholesale charges are the price by the CRA. SUNRISE 05.02 am that telecom service providers pay to DHUHR 11.40 am each other to interconnect and access ASR 03.08 pm their networks, e.g., termination offers approved by the CRA. services, interconnection link services, “The CRA was keen that the prices MAGHRIB 06.20 pm transmission link services, and duct for wholesale services approved by the ISHA 07.50 pm products. The CRA issued the Order CRA are in line with international reg- with the aim of maintaining a compet- ulatory best practices to ensure the pro- itive, fair, and developing telecom vision of advanced and reliable telecom Al Muraikhi meets official sector in Qatar. services across Qatar and building a Under this order, the telecom competitive and innovative Qatari service providers started implementing telecom sector that attracts investment. responsible for EU policy on Iran the set wholesale charges from June 1, For fixed termination, prices will 2021. The CRA’s order will remain in remain stable for 2021, 2022 and 2023 Minister of State for Foreign Affairs H E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi met yesterday effect until the CRA issues another while mobile termination prices will with Deputy Secretary General for Political Affairs of the European External Action order amending the wholesale charges. decrease by 11%, 12% and 13% respec- Service (EEAS), the responsible for EU policy on Iran and the Joint Comprehensive WEATHER The new charges supersede the pre- tively in the same period,” said TODAY Plan of Action (JCPOA), H E Enrique Mora, who is currently visiting the country. During vious ones and are applicable for Mohammed Ali Al Mannai, President the meeting, cooperation relations between the State of Qatar and the European telecom service providers’ reference of CRA. Union were reviewed. Awqaf Ministry starts activities of 34oC 44oC Minimum Maximum Summer Training Program 2021 Hazy at places at first becomes hot QNA — DOHA most prominent services it provides to to very hot daytime and scattered members of society, as well as providing clouds, humid by night. The Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs them with administrative and practical W ALRUWAIS : 32o → 38o has started the activities of the Summer skills. He explained that the program, which W ALKHOR : 34o → 43o Training Program for the year 2021, with is supervised by the Training and Man- the participation of 45 students in the agement Development Department at the W DUKHAN : 31o → 44o secondary and university levels. Ministry, will continue until August 26, and WAKRAH 31o → 42o W : The Head of Training and Management comes in the fulfilment of the human devel- W MESAIEED : 31o → 42o Development at the Ministry Dr. opment pillar of the Qatar National Vision W ABUSAMRA : 29o→ 45o Mohammed Khalifa Al Kubaisi, said that 2030. the program aims to encourage Qatari Al Kubaisi pointed out that the students youth to continue their efforts in developing were distributed according to their wishes HIGH TIDE their scientific capabilities and acquiring into four departments in the ministry: the 14:37–0:00 practical skills, for the benefit, progress and Zakat Fund Department, the Dawa and LOW TIDE 06:20 – 0:00 advancement of their country, and to Religious Guidance Department, the Al Hammadi bids farewell to inform them of the vision and mission of Mosques Department, and the General the Ministry, to give them an idea on the Department of Endowments. Ambassador of Tunisia

Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs H E Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Qatar slams attack Al Hammadi met yesterday with Ambassador of the Republic of Tunisia H E Cases of COVID-19 Delta variant Sami Al Saidi, on the occasion of the end of his tenure. Al Hammadi thanked the on oil tanker off Ambassador for his efforts in supporting and strengthening bilateral relations, detected in Qatar: Health official and wished him success in his new missions. Al Hammadi also met yesterday coast of Oman with Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo to Qatar H E Amir Bairos Ahmadi, on the occasion of the end of his tenure. He thanked the Ambassador for his efforts QNA — DOHA THE PENINSULA — DOHA in supporting and strengthening bilateral relations, and wished him success in his new missions. Qatar voiced condemnation of Medical Director of Hamad General the attack which targeted an Hospital, Dr. Yousef Al Maslamani, has oil tanker off the coast of said that the cases of delta variant of Oman, and called for resorting coronavirus have been detected in to the international law to Qatar. GAC thwarts attempt to smuggle ensure that such attacks would He said that the success in delaying not be repeated in the future, the arrival of the Delta variant to Qatar cannabis and Lyrica pills to maintain security and for a period of 3 or 4 months made a big stability in the region. difference in the plan to confront the In a statement issued yes- epidemic, as larger number of the pop- THE PENINSULA — DOHA terday, the Ministry of Foreign ulation was vaccinated during this delay Affairs affirmed Qatar’s total period and thus there is a good immunity Dr. Yousef Al Maslamani Inspectors of Air Cargo and Private rejection of actions that would in the community. Airports Customs Department of the disrupt the safety and security Speaking in a Qatar TV programme Regarding delay in lifting the fourth General Authority of Customs (GAC) of international maritime yesterday, Dr. Al Maslamani said: “The phase of COVID-19 restrictions in Qatar, thwarted an attempt to smuggle cannabis transport and impede the delta variant appeared in February this Dr. Al Maslamani said: “There are cri- and banned Lyrica pills into the country. movement of ships and year but reached Qatar during the teria that we rely on and that help us to These were found during the tankers. The statement under- current period, after about 4 months, know the rates of the epidemic in inspection of personal baggage of a lined the need for all countries and this gave us an opportunity to society, and then based on that we take person from an Asian country. to abide by international con- increase vaccination rates among the decision to move to the next stage The authorities found cannabis ventions and norms regulating groups, and enhance immunity in and open more activities to the public, weighing 477 grammes and 3,516 pills of navigation throughout the society.” whether in closed or open places.” the banned Lyrica pills. Customs officers world. For example, he said, 85% of people He asked people to adhere to the are provided with all means of support, above 12 years received one dose of vac- preventive measures like wearing mask including the latest devices and con- QMC launches cines, and this is a large number, and and maintaining social distancing, and tinuous training to read the body lan- also a large number of people have this is repeated in all stages, and in the guage of passengers and to be aware of media platform taken both doses, which contributed to fourth stage, more people will be the latest methods followed by for Shura Council providing excellent protection. allowed in closed door and open places. smugglers. candidates Students of Bhavan’s Public Amendment to worker recruitment FROM PAGE 1 School shine in CBSE exam It also provides a guide norms serves interest of all: Official the conditions that must be FROM PAGE 1 met, the procedures for reg- THE PENINSULA — DOHA market; thus there will be a same conditions that the worker istration in the voters’ lists, The meeting intends to listen benefit for recruitment offices, accepted to work on, in addition, everything related to sub- Bhavan’s Public School, Doha has to their suggestions and observa- employers and recruiters. to providing private housing and mitting objections and registered outstanding tions to serve the interest of eve- He also stressed that the Min- meals for the recruited workers appeals, and the places, dates performance in Class XII CBSE ryone, noting the Ministry held a istry of Administrative Devel- until they receive work with the and procedures for Examination 2020-21. similar meeting before the opment, Labour and Social Affairs, employer, or when the office submission. The fifth batch of Class XII decision was issued and listened is working for the interest of eve- receives the worker brought by The media platform students of Bhavan’s Public to all the proposals presented. ryone, as it takes care of all pro- the recruiter according to the comes in implementation of School brought spectacular 100% Al Maadeed stressed that the posals and observations received, terms and conditions. the directives of Prime Min- pass result both in the Science Ann Maria Gijo decision to amend some provi- whether from licensed The decision included obli- ister and Minister of Interior and Commerce stream. sions of Resolution No. 8 of 2005 recruitment offices in the state or gating the licensee to guarantee H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa topper, bagged a brilliant 94.2% regarding regulating the condi- employers and everyone involved an additional six-month proba- bin Abdulaziz Al Thani to in the Science stream. Other tions and procedures for licensing in this field. tionary period for the employee, achieve the principles of toppers include Akshara Rathish the recruitment of workers from The Minister of the Adminis- starting immediately after the end justice, equality and equal (93%), Naureen Rukhiya (93%), abroad for the account of others trative Development, Labour and of the three-month preliminary opportunities by providing a Reem Shameer (93%) and Harini came after an in-depth study of Social Affairs decision amending testing period, bringing the total fair opportunity in media Muthukumar (92.4%). the reality and after listening to some provisions of resolution probation period to 9 months, coverage for each candidate, the observations and suggestions regarding regulating the condi- including 15% of the total due in the framework of Qatar of both recruitment agencies and tions and procedures for licensing amount, for each month the Media Corporation’s efforts employers, as the amendment the recruitment of workers from employee spent in the service of in serving the community as was issued to serve the interest of abroad for the account of others the employer during the addi- a whole by providing all the Parthiv Ashokkumar Dholaria all parties. obliges office owners to follow the tional probation period, with information available to He pointed out that the amendments of labour legislation, deduction of the value of gov- introduce candidates and Out of the total number of decision, which included obli- regulations and policies in the ernment fees incurred by the their programmes to the cit- students who appeared for the gating the licensee to guarantee country from which the labour is office, in any of the following izens, affirming its com- examination, all the students of an additional six-month proba- recruited, and to provide the cases: The employees refusal to mitment to social responsi- Science stream scored above dis- Afrah Koodampully Manaf tionary period for the employee, worker before he is recruited with work, the employee quit and the bility, providing an effective tinction marks and 73% of stu- starting immediately after the end a copy of the signed data and con- employee’s illness with a chronic and practical contribution to dents scored above distinction Afrah Koodampully Manaf of the three-month preliminary ditions of work from the disease, and the right of the the success of the Shura marks in the Commerce stream. and Ann Maria Gijo topped the testing period, bringing the total employer. The employer is also employer shall be forfeited when Council elections, and pro- Three students scored A Grade in Commerce stream with 91% probation period to 9 months, obligated to issue a work contract the employer assaults the worker moting popular all the subjects. Parthiv Ashok- marks each followed by Dorina ensures stability in the issue of for the worker before his arrival and violates any of the terms of participation. kumar Dholaria, the school Esther Saldanha (84%) . recruitment and the labour in the country according to the the contract with the worker. TUESDAY 3 AUGUST 2021 HOME 03 Foreign Minister QA, RwandAir to give customers sends message to Turkmenistan greater choice and benefits THE PENINSULA — DOHA counterpart members, access to each other’s des- Qatar Airways passengers will be able tinations with the opportunity to ‘earn QNA — ASHGABAT to explore even more of Africa and burn’ points across their recip- following its new partnership with rocal route networks. Deputy Prime Minister and Rwanda’s flag carrier, RwandAir via Qatar Airways Group Chief Exec- Minister of Foreign Affairs of the their hubs at Doha and Kigali. utive, H E Akbar Al Baker, said: “This Republic of Turkmenistan H E As a part of the strategic part- partnership cements our commitment Rashid Meredov received a nership, the extensive interline to giving travellers the widest choice written message from Deputy agreement will give customers access of destinations, while providing a Prime Minister and Minister of to the networks of both airlines, pro- seamless, high quality travel expe- Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh viding a seamless travel experience rience, which is the goal of both Qatar Mohammed bin Abdulrahman and enhanced customer service Airways and RwandAir. Al Thani, pertaining to the including in the frequent flyers “Africa is a hugely important bilateral relations and means of programmes. market for us and this latest part- enhancing and developing Customers can pick and choose nership will help support the recovery them. from over 160 destinations in the com- of international air travel and offer The message was handed bined networks of both airlines, which unrivalled connectivity to and from a over by Ambassador of the State Al Khater meets Iranian Ambassador are perfectly connected via their home number of new African of Qatar to Turkmenistan H E hubs of Doha and Kigali. destinations.” Mubarak bin Abdulrahman Al Assistant Foreign Minister and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs H E This latest cooperation comes hot Yvonne Makolo, RwandAir CEO, Nasr, during his meeting with Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater met yesterday with Ambassador of the Islamic Republic on the heels of the airlines’ recent said: “We’re really excited to be Deputy Minister of Foreign of Iran to the State of Qatar H E Hamid Reza Dehghani. During the meeting, bilateral loyalty partnerships announcement, opening up more of the world to our Affairs of Turkmenistan H E cooperation between the two countries was reviewed. giving RwandAir Dream Miles and customers through the new interline Myatiyev Berdiniyaz. Qatar Airways Privilege Club loyalty agreement with Qatar Airways.” QDF launches Viale di Lusso THE PENINSULA — DOHA Viale Di Lusso houses the first airport of the airport and into an exciting, memo- boutique in the Middle East for the renowned rable, and fulfilling journey. This collaboration Qatar Duty Free (QDF) yesterday celebrated fashion designer Valentino, as well as pres- between QDF and HIA proves our continuous the launch of Viale di Lusso, a new premium tigious designer labels such as Dolce & efforts to offer an unrivalled retail and dining fashion avenue at the heart of the award- Gabbana, Fendi, Jimmy Choo and Pucci, ele- experience for our passengers.” winning Hamad International Airport (HIA), vating QDF’s existing impressive collection Engr. Badr Mohammed Al Meer, said: introducing the world to a unique luxury of brands. “Hamad International Airport is proud to travel experience, featuring an enhanced The Emporio Armani Ristorante and launch Viale Di Lusso, a unique luxury avenue retail and dining portfolio and a number of Emporio Armani Caffe’, world’s first at an at the heart of the award-winning airport ter- global and regional firsts. airport, add glitz to the Viale di Lusso, enticing minal, offering a suite of global brands joining The Viale di Lusso official opening cer- passengers to indulge in culinary delights in its existing retail portfolio. As a diverse life- emony was officiated by Qatar Airways Group a luxurious and relaxed setting. A Starbucks style destination of its own, HIA continues to Chief Executive, H E Akbar Al Baker; Hamad Reserve coffeehouse will provide coffee con- curate memorable luxury and exclusive retail International Airport Chief Operating Officer, noisseurs with unexpected creations and dis- experiences for travellers, designed around Engineer Badr Al Meer, and Qatar Duty Free coveries of rare, single-origin selections of their discerning tastes, convenience and Lebanon President H E General Michel Aoun during a meeting with Vice President Operations, Thabet Musleh. unique roasts. wellbeing.” Ambassador of Qatar to Lebanon H E Mohammed Hassan Jaber The Ambassador of Greece to Qatar, H E Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, H Thabet Musleh said: “Viale Di Lusso rep- Al Jaber, on the occasion of the end of his tenure. Eleni Michalopoulou, the Deputy Ambassador E Akbar Al Baker, said: “At Qatar Airways resents another step in the delivery of QDF’s of Italy, Filippo Perzolla, and the Italian Group, we know that the excitement and mission to transform the retail and dining Embassy First Secretary, Carlotta Colli, were anticipation of international air travel begins offer at HIA to ensure that we continue to Lebanon President honours welcomed as guests of honour. the second travellers step through the doors raise the bar in travel retail globally, providing our passengers with a differentiated, mem- Ambassador of Qatar orable, and unique experience. It is an exciting period for us as we continue to grow and QNA — BEIRUT granted the Ambassador the expand looking forward to further enhancing National Cedar Medal (Rank our retail and dining portfolio in the next few President of the Republic of of Senior Officer), which is the months.” Lebanon H E General Michel highest honour granted by the Globetrotting millennial fashionistas, from Aoun met with Ambassador of Lebanese Republic to non- iconic fashion destinations around the world, the State of Qatar to Lebanon president personalities, in joined in revealing QDF’s new avenue of H E Mohammed Hassan Jaber appreciation of his efforts in luxury. Dressed in bespoke creations, show- Al Jaber, on the occasion of the strengthening bilateral casing unique sartorial inspirations from end of his tenure. relations. Africa, South America, the Middle East, and During the meeting, the For his part, the Ambas- Europe, they accompanied guests in Lebanese President com- sador expressed his thanks and attendance of the ceremony on an exclusive mended the efforts made by appreciation to the Lebanese tour of the high-end boutiques of Viale Di the Ambassador in strength- President for awarding him the Lusso, which concluded with a food tasting ening brotherly relations and National Cedar Medal and for Models at Viale di Lusso, a new premium fashion avenue, at Hamad International Airport. at the Emporio Armani Ristorante and Caffè. joint cooperation, and wished the good cooperation, wishing him success in his future the relations between the two missions. countries further development The Lebanese President in all fields. Lulu Hypermarket launches ‘Qatar Dates Week’ Festival

THE PENINSULA — DOHA

Sidra Medicine outpatient A major retailer of the region Lulu Hypermarket chain has launched clinic achieves Stage-7 ‘Qatar Dates Week’ festival yesterday in all its stores to cele- brate the season of local dates in HIMSS certification cooperation with the Ministry of Municipality and Environment. THE PENINSULA — DOHA Medical Corporation or Primary The popular local varieties Health Care Corporation, have namely Khalash, Shishi, Burhi, Sidra Medicine has achieved their health information securely Khenizee and Gurh are made the highest level of certification accessible by its clinical teams. available on display at highly sub- (Stage-7) by the Healthcare This will allow for faster access sidized rates. The festival will con- Information and Management to a patient’s health status and tinue for a week, until Friday at Systems Society (HIMSS) in its safer access to care. all Lulu Hypermarket outlets. adoption of the Outpatient “Our systems also include the Director of the Agricultural Electronic Medical Record use of telemedicine for virtual Affairs Department at the Ministry Director of Agricultural Affairs Department Yousef Khaled Al Kualifi inaugurates the ‘Qatar Dates Adoption Model (O-EMRAM). consultations, an option that was of Municipality and Environment Week’ festival at Lulu Hypermarket, Al Gharrafa branch, yesterday. The HIMSS O-EMRAM offered during the height of the (MME)Yousef Khaled Al Kualifi model methodology and algo- pandemic. inaugurated the festival. The rithms score outpatient clinics “This was an integral part of opening ceremony was attended agricultural produces. Lulu participating in the festival which greatly appreciate the exemplary around the world based on our patient health information by Head of Extension and Agri- Hypermarket has always been an will continue for a week. “This performance by the local farms their electronic medical record implementation, being agile and cultural Services Department ardent promoter of Qatari food, annual festival is being held to and excellent support given to (EMR) capabilities, and the adaptable during a change in Ahmed Al Yafei; Member of non-food products and agricul- promote local dates produce so them by the MME. Festivals of adoption and utilisation of its service models,” continued Dr. Central Municipal Council tural produce, and every year they the farmers can get suitable yields this sort will be instrumental in EMR functions. Alyafei. Mubarak Feraish Mubarak Al have been organising promotions for the investments and hard establishing a platform to deepen Dr. Khalid Alyafei, Chief Dr. S Bhasker, Executive Salem; Regional Director Shaijan like ‘Made in Qatar Festival’, work,” said Al Khulaifi. and broaden our partnership Medical Informatics Officer at Director of Information Tech- M.O and Regional Manager ‘Qatari Products our First Choice’, He urged the customers to with the Qatari farmers. Sidra Medicine, said: “Our nology at Sidra Medicine said: Shanavas P.M from Lulu Hyper- ‘Festival of Qatari Premium utilise the opportunity to buy “Over the last few years achievement of the Stage-7 “The HIMSS O-EMRAM global market Qatar, and many distin- Products’ and ‘Festival of Qatari fresh dates at competitive prices Qatar Dates Festival has become O-EMRAM model puts the spot- certification is testament to our guished Qatari farm owners and Farm Products,’ etc. which will be available at 14 more popular, highlighting the light on the optimisation of care commitment to improving out- dignitaries from the Ministry of Inaugurating the festival branches of Lulu Hypermarkets huge demand for quality Qatari for our patients, so that their patient services with a patient and Municipality and Environment Yousef Khaled Al Kualifi said: during the festival. Speaking on dates. We congratulate the Min- health information is available as family centered approach to care. and retail/FMCG sectors. The fes- “The festival is being held by the the event, Lulu management istry for staging this spectacular and when needed by both the Our system proactively utilises tival was organised with a view Ministry in coordination with Lulu said: “We are quite happy with event and for giving the cus- patient and the clinical teams. data analytics to improve health to support local farmers by Hypermarket on the occasion of the cooperation and support tomers of Lulu an opportunity for Using a robust electronic system, care outcomes and patient ensuring better marketing oppor- harvesting season of fresh dates”. being extended by the MME, farm relishing the delicious Qatari does away with the use of paper engagement, while protecting a tunities and value for their He said that 11 local farms are owners and Qatar Chamber. We dates.” charts which in turn minimises patient’s privacy. human error and provides better “We have not only estab- quality of care especially related lished strong analytical capabil- MoPH: 150 new COVID-19 cases to the electronic prescription of ities with our outpatient data in FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2021 medications and the documen- its use for care coordination pur- THE PENINSULA — DOHA As many as 3,831,811 tation of patient records. poses, but also demonstrated that tickets go on sale today COVID-19 vaccine doses have “It also means that we are the business continuity measures FROM PAGE 1 The Ministry of Public Health been administered since the start working closely with other around technology are resilient their applications by (MoPH) yesterday reported 102 of vaccination and 27,513 vaccine healthcare providers for patient in delivering our quality care In cases where the number mid-September. new confirmed cases of doses were administered in the information to be shared securely without interruption to our of tickets applied for exceeds the Sales phase 1 will conclude COVID-19 among community past 24 hours. And 8 6.1% of the and seamlessly within Qatar’s services.” available inventory, tickets will with the period from September and 48 among travellers. eligible population has now public healthcare network.” The HIMSS O-EMRAM be allocated by a random 28 to October 12, during which Besides, 146 people recovered received at least one dose of the Sidra Medicine has adopted stage-7 certification places the selection draw process. All suc- tickets will be allocated on a first- from the virus during the past 24 vaccine, while 98.6% of over 60s its health information exchange outpatient clinic at Sidra Medicine cessful, partially successful and come, first-served basis. The last- hours, bringing the total number have been vaccinated with at least model to ensure patients referred as the first in Qatar and the third unsuccessful applicants will be minute sales phase will start on of cases recovered in Qatar to one dose, while 93.7% have or transferred from Hamad in Middle East region. duly notified of the outcome of November 2. 223,995. received both doses. 04 GULF / MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA TUESDAY 3 AUGUST 2021 Iran records its highest number of daily COVID-19 cases AP — TEHRAN, IRAN population follows measures sanctions, global isolation, a such as wearing face masks and heat wave, the worst blackouts Iran yesterday reported more social distancing. UAE okays Sinopharm vaccine for children aged 3-17 in recent memory and ongoing than 37,000 new coronavirus Iranian health officials have protests over water shortages REUTERS — DUBAI infections, the country’s single- regularly warned that hospitals of 900 children. The Gulf Arab infections on Sunday to take in the southwest. day record so far in the in the capital, Tehran, and other state, which has among the its total to 682,377 cases and Less than 4% of Iranians pandemic, state media reported. major cities are overwhelmed The United Arab Emirates will world’s highest immunisation 1,951 deaths. have been fully vaccinated. State TV said health workers with COVID-19 patients. start providing China’s rates, was already providing It does not provide a Many front-line medical registered 37,189 new COVID-19 Also yesterday, Supreme Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccine the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine breakdown for each of its workers have been vaccinated cases since Sunday — sur- Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to children aged 3-17, the UAE for children aged 12-15. seven emirates. with Iran’s locally produced passing the previous daily ordered the government to government said on Twitter The health ministry said on It led Phase III clinical trials shots or the Chinese Sinopharm record of 34,951 infections discuss the possibility of a two- yesterday. Sunday that 78.95% of the UAE of the vaccine produced by vaccine. reported on Tuesday. week shutdown of the country, It cited the health ministry population of roughly 9 million China’s state-owned drug- Iran’s government Also, there were 411 deaths, which Health Minister Saeed as saying the decision comes had received one vaccine dose maker Sinopharm and has announced that its homemade bringing the country’s total Namaki requested a day after clinical trials and while 70.57% had been fully started manufacturing it under vaccine provides 85% pro- death toll in the pandemic to earlier. extensive evaluations, without vaccinated. a joint venture between tection from the coronavirus, 91,407 — the highest in the Namaki in a letter to providing any details. Author- The UAE, the region’s Sinopharm and Abu Dhabi- without disclosing data or Middle East. Khamenei, who has final say on ities said in June the trial would tourism and trade hub, regis- based technology company details. Iran also imports Rus- The new surge has been all state matters, suggested the monitor the immune response tered 1,519 new coronavirus Group 42. sia’s Sputnik V vaccine, as well fuelled by the contagious delta military could help enforce a as the Oxford-AstraZeneca shot variant, and Iranian authorities lockdown. imposing heavy-handed rules to bear them. Iran, which has outbreak in the region, is reeling through the United Nations- say less than 40% of the Authorities have avoided on a population badly equipped suffered the worst virus from a series of crises: tough US backed COVAX programme. Turkey battles IN BRIEF Saudi Arabia wildfires for 6th day; reports 10 deaths thousands evacuated from COVID-19

AP — BOZALAN, TURKEY Sanli returned to check on RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry his house yesterday in Bozalan of Health announced 1,063 Selcuk Sanli set his two cows only to find that the fire had new confirmed cases of the lose, put his family’s most flared. “Property is an important coronavirus (COVID-19) in the treasured belongings in a car part of life but life itself comes last 24 hours yesterday, and fled his home as a wildfire first,” he said as he prepared to bringing the total number of approached his village near leave once again. infections in the Kingdom to Turkey’s beach resort of Agriculture and Forestry 527,877. Bodrum, one of thousands Minister Bekir Pakdemirli said The Ministry also reported fleeing flames that have coated crews were still tackling seven 10 new deaths, putting the tally the skies with a thick yellow fires in the coastal provinces of of fatalities at 8,259. Meanwhile, haze. Antalya and Mugla that are as many as 1,620 cases have For the sixth straight day, popular tourist areas. Other recovered, raising recoveries toll Turkish firefighters battled yes- active fires were in Isparta, to 508,994, the Ministry said in terday to control the blazes that 380km northeast, and in Denizli a statement. — QNA are tearing through forests near province in southwest Turkey. Turkey’s beach destinations. Another fire in Tunceli, in Firefighters extinguish a wildfire in the Mazi region near Bodrum, Turkey, yesterday. Kuwait records Fed by strong winds and southeast Turkey, was con- scorching temperatures, the tained yesterday, the minister 8 virus deaths fires that began on Wednesday said. In all, 129 fires that broke the area. On Sunday, residents of Marmaris in Mugla province. fires, Pakdemirli said. have left eight people dead. out in over 30 provinces since were forced to evacuate the People carrying suitcases fled The health minister, KUWAIT CITY: Kuwait’s Residents and tourists have fled Wednesday have been nearby village of Cokertme as on small boats. The EU said it Fahrettin Koca, said at least 27 Ministry of Health said on vacation resorts in flotillas of extinguished. flames neared. Some got on helped mobilise firefighting people affected by the fires Sunday that 707 people were small boats or convoys of cars “We are going through days small boats and others left by planes from Croatia and Spain were still being treated in hos- infected with the novel coro- and trucks. Many villagers have when the heat is above 40 C cars as the fire got closer and to help Turkey. Planes from pitals while hundreds of others navirus (COVID-19) over the lost their homes and farm (104 degrees Fahrenheit), where closer — scenes that Ahmet Ukraine, Russia, Azerbaijan and had been treated and released. past 24 hours, bringing the animals and have had trouble the winds are strong and Aras, the mayor of the nearby Iran have also been fighting the Soylu said authorities were total infected cases to 398,538. breathing amid the heavy humidity is extremely low,” resort of Bodrum, described as blazes. Spain said it was sending investigating the cause of the fires, A total of 1,339 people smoke. Pakdemirli said. “We are strug- “hell.” Precautions were taken two water-dumping aircraft including human “carelessness” recovered from the disease in Overall, some 10,000 gling under such difficult con- to protect two nearby thermal and one transport plane as well and possible sabotage by out- the same period, pushing the people have been evacuated in ditions.” Firetrucks, with their power plants. as 27 soldiers to help. lawed Kurdish militants. He said total recoveries up to 385,401, Mugla province alone, Interior sirens on, drove toward An evacuation order was A total of 16 planes, 51 hel- one person was detained over the Ministry said in a Minister Suleyman Soylu said Bozalan, while villagers were also issued for the town of icopters and more than 5,000 allegations that he may have been statement. The death toll from yesterday. seen herding cows away from Turunc, near the seaside resort personnel were tackling the paid by the group to start a fire. the virus climbed to 2,328 after registering 8 new mortalities. — QNA Lebanon’s Mikati says he hoped for faster pace towards govt 18 more die of REUTERS — BEIRUT Aoun underlined the challenge month after Saad Al Hariri ments, a dealer said. sectarian power-sharing COVID-19 in Oman of forming a new government abandoned his effort to form the Mikati, a wealthy busi- system. Abandoning his effort Lebanese Prime Minister- for Lebanon, where fractious new cabinet. nessman, said he would meet last month, Hariri said he could MUSCAT: The Omani Ministry designate Najib Mikati said politicians have been unable to The Lebanese pound, which Aoun again on Thursday. not agree with Aoun, the of Health confirmed yesterday yesterday he had hoped for a agree even as the country falls has lost more than 90% of its Asked if he had a deadline Maronite Christian head of 287 new cases of coronavirus quicker pace towards the deeper into economic crisis. value in less than two years, for his efforts, he said: “As far state. The last government led (COVID-19) during the past 24 formation of a new government “I had hoped for a pace that weakened. Dollars were as I am concerned, the time- by Prime Minister Hassan Diab hours, bringing the total and that his efforts would not was faster than this in the gov- changing hands at a rate of frame is not open. Let he who resigned after the Beirut port number of positive COVID-19 be open-ended. ernment formation. It is a bit around 20,000 pounds after wishes to understand, under- explosion last year. It stays on cases to 297,122. His comments after a slow,” said Mikati, who was Mikati spoke, compared to stand.” The prime minister must in a caretaker capacity until a The Ministry said that 18 new meeting with President Michel designated prime minister last 19,200/19,300 before his com- be a Sunni Muslim in Lebanon’s new one is formed. COVID-19-related deaths were reported, bringing the total number of deaths to 3,868. The Ministry added that 531 new cases have recovered, bringing the total number to 280,423 recoveries, while the number of hospitalised people in intensive care reached 215 cases. — QNA Tunisia Speaker Ghannouchi leaves hospital

TUNIS: Tunisia’s parliament speaker Rached Ghannouchi, head of the moderate Ennahda party that has had an influ- ential national role for a decade, left the hospital hours after he was admitted on Sunday, two advisers said, in the midst of a major political crisis. Ghannouchi, 80, has led opposition to last week’s move by President Kais Saied to seize governing powers, dismiss the prime minister and freeze parliament, steps that the Ennahda leader quickly branded a coup. His advisers did not say what was wrong with Ghan- nouchi, who was hospitalised for a week last month with COVID-19.“After a few hours in the military hospital, Ghan- nouchi returned home and he is fine now”, an advisor said. Suppressed before the 2011 revolution that introduced democracy, Ennahda has since then been the most consist- ently powerful political party. — Reuters TUESDAY 3 AUGUST 2021 ASIA 05 Ghani blames US pullout for worsening security

AP — KABUL Afghanistan face critical Afghan president security situations. Southern The Afghan president yesterday urged lawmakers Kandahar — the birthplace of blamed the American troops’ to back a national the Taliban — as well as speedy pullout for the wors- Helmand and Herat provinces ening violence in his country mobilisation drive have witnessed several attacks. and said that his administration against the Taliban Helmand provincial would now focus on protecting council chief Attaullah Afghan provincial capitals and major amid an intensifying said the Taliban are also urban areas in the face of the war between the advancing in the provincial rapidly advancing Taliban. capital of Lashar Gah, and now Ashraf Ghani also urged law- Taliban and Afghan have control of the city’s makers to back a national mobi- government forces seventh district. Yesterday, lisation drive against the Taliban elite Afghan commando units amid an intensifying war over the past few were dispatched to Lashar Gah between the Taliban and Afghan months. to help defend the city. government forces over the past “There has been relentless few months as US and Nato gunfire, air strikes and mortars troops complete their pullout more rural areas, as well as in densely populated areas. from the war-torn country. several key border crossings Houses are being bombed, and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani inspects the honour guard as he arrives at the parliament in Kabul, “An imported, hasty” peace with neighboring countries. many people are suffering Afghanistan, yesterday. process — a reference to Wash- “The Taliban do not believe severe injuries,” said Sarah ington’s push for negotiations in lasting or just peace,” Ghani Leahy, Helmand coordinator between Kabul and the Taliban said. He predicted a sea change for Doctors Without Borders. US expands Afghan refugee programme — “not only failed to bring on the battlefield “in the next The group, also known as peace but created doubt and six months” that would push the Médecins Sans Frontières or REUTERS — WASHINGTON United States,” the State faced pressure from lawmakers ambiguity” among Afghans, Taliban back, without MSF, said in a statement yes- Department said in the and advocacy groups to aid Ghani said in his address to elaborating. terday that life in Lashkar Gah Thousands more Afghans who announcement. Afghans at risk of Taliban retal- Parliament. He claimed that Afghan was at a standstill as residents may be targets of Taliban “This designation expands iation because of their associ- The Afghan president forces are up to the task and hunker down inside their violence due to their US affili- the opportunity to permanently ation with the United States arrived by helicopter for the have the “capacity” to defeat homes, afraid to venture out. ations will have the opportunity resettle in the United States to during the 20-year US war. extraordinary session of the the insurgents. But in past Ghani claimed his gov- to resettle as refugees in the many thousands of Afghans and Those who worked as house, called because of the weeks, Afghan forces have ernment has the financial and United States under a new their immediate family employees of contractors, dire situation on the ground. struggled against the Taliban political support of the United program announced by the members who may be at risk.” locally employed staff and Ghani touched down at the onslaught, and have often been States and the international State Department yesterday. The programme comes as interpreters and translators for Darul Aman Palace in Kabul left without reinforcements and community to turn the tide even “In light of increased levels fighting surges in Afghanistan the US government or armed and inspected an honour guard resupplies. as he urged the insurgents to of Taliban violence, the US gov- ahead of the formal completion forces are eligible for the new before heading inside. On Sunday, the Afghan rejoin peace talks. ernment is working to provide of the US troop withdrawal at designation, as well as Afghans The Taliban are now trying armed forces spokesman, “We either sit knee to knee certain Afghans, including those the end of this month, with the employed by a US-based media to seize provincial capitals after General Ajmal Omar Shinwari, at the real negotiating table or who worked with the United Taliban pushing to capture key organization or non-govern- already taking large swaths of told reporters that three prov- break their (Taliban) knees on States, the opportunity for provincial capitals. mental organization (NGO), the land and scores of districts in inces in southern and western the battleground” Ghani said. refugee resettlement to the US President Joe Biden has State Department said. IN BRIEF Malaysia lawmakers protest Parliament closure as ploy by PM India and China AP — KUALA LUMPUR With a crucial parliamentary fast-spreading delta variant. state of emergency. The oppo- for cowardice and said they must to continue session due, Prime Minister Lawmakers and activists sition immediately filed a motion eventually face the people. Police blocked opposition Muhyiddin Yassin instead post- questioned the timing of the of no-confidence against Muhy- “This government has failed border dialogue lawmakers from marching poned it and Parliament will be announcement of Parliament’s iddin that was expected to have to carry out its duties but is con- yesterday to protest a two-week shut for two weeks. The health closure, which came after the been raised yesterday. tinuing to cling to power,” said NEW DELHI: India and China lockdown of Malaysia’s ministry said Parliament was king rebuked Muhyiddin’s gov- Dozens of lawmakers opposition leader Anwar will continue dialogue aimed Parliament, which they deemed a high-risk venue ernment on Thursday for mis- gathered near Parliament held a Ibrahim. Apart from misman- at easing tensions on their consider another ploy for the because four of 11 COVID-19 leading Parliament on the status banner calling for the resignation aging the pandemic, he said disputed border, the two coun- embattled prime minister to cases detected among staff and of ordinances it issued during of Muhyiddin and his Cabinet. Muhyiddin has also abused his tries said yesterday, amid dodge a no-confidence vote. others were suspected to be the the seven-month coronavirus They slammed the government power to bypass Parliament. concerns over a broader conflict as troops from both economic giants continue to face off at the disputed area. Australia extends virus The two sides had a “candid and in-depth exchange restrictions in Brisbane of views”, according to a joint statement by the Indian and REUTERS — SYDNEY told reporters in Brisbane. Chinese military, agreeing to Queensland has yet to resolve differences “in an expe- Australia’s Queensland state establish how a school child ditious manner”. — Reuters yesterday extended a COVID-19 acquired the virus, but has forced lockdown in Brisbane, while students at several schools and Manila extends soldiers began patrolling their families, including that of Sydney to enforce stay-at- Australia’s Defence Minister night curfew as home rules as Australia Peter Dutton, to stay home. struggles to stop the highly Dutton said yesterday he virus cases surge contagious Delta variant of the would miss two weeks of par- coronavirus spreading. liament after he was told he MANILA: The Philippines will Queensland said it had must quarantine at home for 14 extend a night curfew in the detected 13 new locally acquired days as his two sons attend a capital, Manila, amid a tight- COVID-19 cases in the past 24 school linked to the outbreak. ening of curbs in the Southeast hours — the biggest one-day rise The rising new case Asian country to combat a the state has recorded in a year. numbers in two of the country’s potential surge in cases of the The lockdown of Brisbane, Aus- biggest cities come as disquiet Delta variant of COVID-19, a tralia’s third-biggest city, was grows on how the government government official said due to end today but will now of Prime Minister Scott Morrison yesterday. stay in place until late on is handling the pandemic. Metropolitan Manila, Sunday. Although Australia’s vac- already subject to an six hour “It’s starting to become cination drive has lagged many curfew from 10pm, will bring clear that the initial lockdown other developed economies, it forward that curfew by two will be insufficient for the out- has so far fared much better in hours to 8pm, said Benjamin break,” Queensland state keeping its coronavirus Abalos, chair of the region’s Deputy Premier Steven Miles numbers relatively low governing body: “We are only asking for two weeks. This will stop the virus for the meantime. What’s important China orders Henan flood is our hospitals don’t get full,” Abalos told a briefing. probe as death toll rises Authorities have deployed police personnel to quarantine BLOOMBERG — BEIJING spaces, the official Henan Daily checkpoints in Metropolitan reported, citing the local gov- Manila. - Reuters China’s State Council has ernment. Fifty people were decided to launch a probe after missing across the province, Pakistani polio the death toll from the flooding including 47 in Zhengzhou. in Henan province surged from According to the official tally, team attacked, 99 to 302, according to official 14 people drowned in sub- media reports. merged subway cars, while policeman killed The State Council decided another six were killed in a to carry out a “comprehensive swamped tunnel. PESHAWAR: Gunmen and objective assessment” of The deaths prompted local yesterday shot and killed a Henan’s disaster response, residents to question if the city police officer assigned to which will be led by the Min- government had failed to warn protect a polio vaccination istry of Emergency Man- the public, shut down transpor- team in northwestern agement, in a bid to improve tation in advance and provide Pakistan, an official said. It disaster prevention and relief, timely rescue efforts. was the third attack in two according to the official Xinhua Zhengzhou, a city of 10 million, days on Pakistani policemen News Agency reported. received a year’s worth of rain assigned to protect polio The probe will also “hold in just three days last month workers. anyone responsible for dere- starting July 20. The deadly attack took liction of duty,” according to Across Henan — a hub for place in the town of Kolachi in the report. agricultural and food pro- the Dera Ismail Khan district. The majority of deaths duction, coal and metals as well Officer Dilawar Khan was on occurred in the provincial as heavy industry — more than his motorcycle, heading to capital city Zhengzhou, where 14.53 million people were escort polio workers taking 292 were killed after torrential affected, and direct economic part in a nationwide campaign waters led to landslides, loss reached 114.3bn yuan aimed at making Pakistan a buildings collapsing and the ($17.7bn), according to the pro- polio-free state. - AP flooding of underground vincial government. 06 EUROPE TUESDAY 3 AUGUST 2021 UK eases travel restrictions as industry lobbies for more

AP — LONDON Almost 89% of adults industry say they are not opti- in Britain have mistic that American travellers Britain opened its borders to will return to the UK any time fully vaccinated travellers from received at least one soon despite yesterday’s rule the US and the European Union dose of vaccine and change, because the US gov- yesterday as travel industry ernment said in a travel leaders urged the government 73% have been fully advisory last month not to fly to further ease restrictions and vaccinated. to the UK due to a “very high allow people to enjoy the level of COVID-19 in the benefits of a successful country.” COVID-19 inoculation that watchlist to collapse,’’ Huw John Holland-Kaye, Heath- programme. Merriman, chairman of the row’s chief executive, said the The new rules came into House of Commons’ Transport British government should effect amid reports that Prime Committee, told the BBC. allow most travellers to use Minister Boris Johnson’s gov- “In my view, we don’t need cheaper lateral flow tests and Germany rebuilds after flood damages ernment may add a new cat- any more uncertainty, com- work with countries like the US Construction crews work on the damaged A61 motorway following heavy rainfalls near Swisttal, egory to Britain’s traffic light plexity or anxiety for pas- to ease remaining travel restric- Germany, yesterday. system of travel restrictions, a sengers or this beleaguered tions. This is warranted by the move industry officials say sector. It just needs clarity.” UK’s successful vaccination would make many people British airlines and holiday programme, he said. decide to stay home. companies are hoping for a late Almost 89% of adults in As of yesterday, fully vac- summer travel boom after the Britain have received at least Germany to offer booster against COVID-19 cinated travellers from desti- pandemic halted most interna- one dose of vaccine and 73% nations on Britain’s “amber list” tional travel, slashing profits have been fully vaccinated. REUTERS — BERLIN was used previously, the min- Germany’s 16 states, which are allowed to enter the country and threatening thousands of Meanwhile, health author- isters concluded after talks with manage their own health without self-isolating for up to jobs. The number of passengers ities said yesterday they were Germany will in September Federal Health Minister Jens affairs, are eager to vaccinate 10 days. The government is traveling through London’s tweaking the government’s start to offer a booster shot Spahn. They also agreed to more people to avoid a fourth considering creating an amber Heathrow Airport, the UK’s COVID-19 contact tracing against COVID-19 to vulnerable make vaccination available to wave of the coronavirus. watchlist to warn people about busiest airport, fell 75% in the phone app so that fewer people individuals such as pensioners all children aged 12 to 17. Just over 52% of the popu- destinations that may be down- first half of this year. will be instructed to self-isolate and people with weak immune The decisions reflect con- lation has been fully vaccinated graded because of rising Travellers are required to following close contact with systems, the health ministers of cerns in Germany that the Delta and about 62% have received infection rates or the emer- take expensive PCR tests to those who are infected. the country’s 16 states said in a variant first discovered in India, at least one shot. Vaccinating gence of new variants. prove they are virus-free and The app sent hundreds of thou- statement yesterday. and which spreads faster, could children between 12 and 17 is “An amber watchlist will be countries including the US still sands of alerts to people in England The vaccinations will be force the country back into voluntary, and will be done only viewed as a massive red flag, bar foreign travellers from and Wales last week, triggering done using mRNA-vaccines restrictions and lockdowns as after parental consent and a which is likely to cause crossing their borders. staffing shortages and serious dis- from Pfizer/BioNTech and Europe’s largest economy nears medical check up that rules out bookings to those countries on Some in the hospitality ruption for many businesses. Moderna regardless of what a general election in September. serious health risks. Belarus athlete granted Polish visa after refusing to go home German warship heads for South REUTERS — TOKYO board a Turkish Airlines flight. the Belarusian Athletes’ Soli- She refused, telling Reuters: darity Foundation, (Tsi- China Sea A Belarusian athlete who took “I will not return to Belarus.” manouskaya’s) husband is in refuge in the Polish embassy in The European Union welcomed Kyiv and he will join Krystsina,” REUTERS — BERLIN Tokyo yesterday, a day after Poland’s decision and said the Pavel Latushko told Reuters. refusing her team’s orders to repatriation attempt was Zhdanevich had already Germany yesterday sent a board a flight home from the further evidence of “brutal entered Ukraine, a Ukrainian warship to the South China Sea Olympic Games, has been repression” by Belarusian Pres- interior ministry source said. for the first time in almost two granted a humanitarian visa by ident Alexander Lukashenko. A Belarusian opposition pol- decades, joining other Western the Warsaw government. “We express our full soli- itician said Belarus officials had nations in expanding its Sprinter Krystsina Tsi- darity to Krystsina Tsi- told Tsimanouskaya’s mother military presence in the region manouskaya plans to leave for manouskaya and commend the that her daughter was a spy for amid growing alarm over Poland in the coming days, a (EU) member states that offered Western governments. China’s territorial ambitions. Polish deputy foreign minister, her support,” EU spokeswoman Pavel Latushko, who lives China claims swathes of Marcin Przydacz, told Reuters. Nabila Massrali said. in Warsaw, said Tsimanouskaya the South China Sea and has She is “safe and in good con- The incident has focussed had told him via text message established military outposts dition” after walking into the attention on Belarus, where that her mother had been on artificial islands in the embassy yesterday morning, he police have cracked down on approached by someone from waters that contain gas fields said. dissent following a wave of pro- Lukashenko’s office and asked and rich fishing. Another deputy foreign tests triggered by an election to persuade the athlete to come The US Navy, in a show of minister, Pawel Jablonski, said: last year which the opposition home. Tsimanouskaya told a force against the Chinese ter- “I can confirm that we have says was rigged to keep Reuters reporter via Telegram ritorial claims, regularly con- issued a humanitarian visa. I Lukashenko in power. that the Belarusian head coach ducts so-called “freedom of can confirm that we will The athlete arrived at the had turned up at her room on navigation” operations in Belarusian sprinter Krystsina Tsimanouskaya enters the Polish provide all necessary support Polish embassy in an unmarked Sunday at the athletes’ village which their vessels pass close embassy in Tokyo, Japan, yesterday. in Poland if she wishes to use silver van about 5pm local time and told her she had to leave. by some of the contested it.” Tsimanouskaya, 24, had (0800 GMT). She stepped out Tsimanouskaya said she islands. China in turn objects been due to compete in the with her official team luggage, the red and white flag seen as Arseni Zhdanevich, will join her had been removed from the to the US missions, saying they women’s 200 metre heats yes- and greeted two officials before the symbol of opposition in in Poland, a Warsaw-based team as she had spoken out do not help promote peace or terday but said that on Sunday going inside. Belarus, came to the gates to Belarusian opposition politician about what she described as the stability. she was taken to the airport to Two women, one carrying support her. Her husband, said. “Thanks to the support of negligence of their coaches. Washington has put coun- tering China at the heart of its IN BRIEF national security policy and Russia: US asked 24 diplomats to leave by Sept 3 seeks to rally partners against what it says are Beijing’s Italy reports 23 coronavirus deaths REUTERS — MOSCOW no immediate comment from the life of Russian and increasingly coercive eco- Washington. “Almost all of American diplomats in the nomic and foreign policies. MILAN: Italy reported 23 coronavirus-related deaths yesterday Russia’s ambassador to the them will leave without United States and Russia on Officials in Berlin have said against 5 the day before, the health ministry said, while the daily United States said Washington replacements because Wash- the principle of reciprocity,” the German navy will stick to tally of new infections fell to 3,190 from 5,321. had asked 24 Russian ington has abruptly tightened Antonov said. Antonov also common trade routes. The However, data from the Lazio region around Rome were diplomats to leave the country visa issuing procedures,” said he hoped that the recently frigate is not expected to sail incomplete due to a hacker attack on its system for booking by September 3 after their Antonov said in an interview started dialogue between the through the Taiwan Strait COVID-19 vaccinations, the ministry said. visas expired. with the National Interest United States and Russia on either, another regular US Italy has registered 128,088 deaths linked to COVID-19 since Anatoly Antonov did not magazine published on cybersecurity issues will con- activity condemned by Beijing. its outbreak emerged in February last year, the second-highest say whether the US request Sunday. “We hope that tinue. “As an option, we can Nevertheless, Berlin has toll in Europe after Britain and the eighth-highest in the world. was prompted by any par- common sense will prevail and debate on cyber threats to made it clear the mission The country has reported 4.36 million cases to date. ticular dispute, and there was we will be able to normalize arms control systems, etc.” serves to stress the fact Patients in hospital with COVID-19 — not including those in Germany does not accept intensive care — stood at 2,070 yesterday, up from 1,954 a day China’s territorial claims. earlier. There were 25 new admissions to intensive care units, up Germany is walking a from 22 on Sunday. The total number of intensive care patients New UN envoy to tightrope between its security increased to 249 from a previous 230. Some 83,223 tests for and economic interests as COVID-19 were carried out in the past day, compared with a pre- Bosnia faces angry China has become Berlin’s vious 167,761, the health ministry said. — Reuters most important trading opposition from Serbs partner. German exports there Russia records 785 COVID-19 deaths have helped mitigate the P — SARAJEVO, BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA Bosniaks, who are mostly Muslim, and the impact of the COVID-19 pan- MOSCOW: Russia yesterday reported 23,508 new COVID-19 cases, Bosnian Serbs and Croats. demic on Europe’s biggest including 3,330 in Moscow, taking the total number of cases to A German diplomat yesterday took office as the A decision earlier this month by Inzko to economy. 6,312,185 since the pandemic began. top international envoy to Bosnia, facing oppo- impose a ban on genocide denial has angered German Defence Minister The government coronavirus also confirmed 785 coronavirus- sition from the country’s Serbs, who have rejected Bosnian Serbs, who have sought to minimize the Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer related deaths in the last 24 hours. — Reuters both his appointment and a ban on genocide scope of the 1995 massacre in Srebrenica of more travelled to the port of Wil- denial brought by his predecessor. helmshaven to see the frigate High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina Christian Schmidt took over from Valentin Bayern off on its seven-month Belarus sends reporter to prison over Christian Schmidt speaks during the handover Inzko, an Austrian diplomat, at a ceremony in voyage that will take it to Aus- deleted chat messages the capital, Sarajevo. The Office of High Repre- ceremony in Sarajevo, yesterday. tralia, Japan, South Korea and sentative that Schmidt will run was established Vietnam. KIEV: A court in Belarus convicted a journalist of insulting the after Bosnia’s 1992-95 war to oversee peace than 8,000 Bosniaks, Europe’s only post-World The vessel is expected to president in messages in a deleted chat group and sentenced him implementation and promote reconciliation and War II genocide. cross the South China Sea in to 1 1/2 years in prison, the Belarusian Association of Journalists development. Inzko also banned the glorification of war mid-December, making it the said yesterday. In a speech, Schmidt pledged that he will criminals. He was appalled that Bosnian Serbs first German warship to pass The verdict in the case against Siarhei Hardziyevich, 50, comes work to help Bosnia reach stability and economic widely honor their wartime political leader through the region since as part of a massive crackdown that Belarusian authorities have prosperity nearly three decades after the war Radovan Karadzic and military commander 2002. unleashed on independent media and human rights activists. that killed over 100,000 people and left millions Ratko Mladic as heroes, though both have been “We want existing law to Hardziyevich yesterday was found guilty of insulting the pres- homeless. He also urged the international com- convicted of genocide and sentenced to life in be respected, sea routes to be ident and slandering police officers, according to the association. munity to step in more resolutely to help achieve prison by an international tribunal. freely navigable, open soci- The court sentenced him to a prison term and a $1,600 fine. these goals. In response, the Bosnian Serb nationalists have eties to be protected and trade The charges against the journalist from Drahichyn, a city “Bosnia-Herzegovina must be put back on pledged to block Bosnia’s joint institutions and the to follow fair rules,” Kramp- 300km southwest of Belarus’ capital of Minsk, were brought over the political agenda of the international com- assembly of the Bosnian Serb entity, the Republika Karrenbauer said. messages in a chat group on the messaging app Viber which was munity and the European Union,” he said. “I take Srpska, has overwhelmingly rejected Inzko’s Countries including deleted last year. office with a firm will to help the people here.” decision. In addition, Bosnian Serb leader Milorad Britain, France, Japan, Aus- Hardziyevich, who worked for a popular regional news outlet, As the top international body in Bosnia, the OHR Dodik, who has repeatedly campaigned for the sep- tralia and New Zealand, have The First Region, has maintained his innocence. His defence team has the authority to impose decisions or dismiss aration of the Serb entity from Bosnia, also has also been expanding their demanded the charges be dropped due to a lack of evidence and officials who undermine the post-war ethnic rejected Schmidt’s appointment as “illegal” and activity in the Pacific to because the crime was impossible to establish. - AP balance and reconciliation efforts among the announced a boycott of his future moves. counter China’s influence. TUESDAY 3 AUGUST 2021 AMERICAS 07 US states turn to vaccine mandates as virus cases rise REUTERS — NEW YORK Transport workers testing. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy said state health New York’s governor yesterday in New York and care workers and employees urged businesses to turn away hospital, nursing who work in jails must by vac- unvaccinated customers while home and jail cinated by September 7 or face Florida grappled with an influx testing twice a week. Murphy of hospitalized COVID-19 employees in New said there have been 50 deaths patients, both sparked by the Jersey will face new among the fully vaccinated in surging Delta variant that could his state, a small fraction of the lead to new restrictions on daily requirements to get roughly 24,000 COVID-19 life. vaccinated or submit fatalities. Transport workers in New The push comes on the York and hospital, nursing to regular testing heels of a decision by President home and jail employees in Joe Biden to require millions of New Jersey will face new federal workers and contractors requirements to get vaccinated outbreaks in the nation and to show proof of vaccination or or submit to regular testing, about one-quarter of the coun- be subject to weekly or twice- their governors announced yes- try’s hospitalized COVID weekly COVID-19 tests. terday, while Denver’s mayor patients, according to data from Even as cases have said inoculation would be man- the US Department of Health exploded, Governor Ron datory for the city’s more than and Human Services. DeSantis has resisted mask 11,000 employees. Mary Mayhew, head of Flor- mandates. Earlier this year, he The steps represent the ida’s hospital association, said and the Republican-controlled latest attempts by government the current surge sent COVID state legislature limited local leaders to spur reluctant Amer- hospitalizations skyrocketing to officials’ ability to impose People queue at a popup COVID-19 testing site in Times Square, New York City, US, yesterday. icans to get vaccinated as the 10,000 from 2,000 in less than COVID-19 restrictions, and on highly contagious Delta variant 30 days, although deaths have Friday he issued an executive of the coronavirus surges remained well below the pre- 30-year-olds, that this is now healthcare workers if case Cuomo also announced that order barring schools from nationwide, infecting mostly vious peak. life-threatening for them.” numbers do not improve. all employees of the Metro- requiring face coverings when unvaccinated people. “It is a much younger pop- New York Governor Andrew “Private businesses — I am politan Transportation classes resume this month. “If you are unvaccinated, ulation that is being hospitalized Cuomo also sounded the alarm, asking them and suggesting to Authority, which runs the trains That order came days after the Delta variant should be a today,” Mayhew told MSNBC urging but not mandating res- them to go to vaccine-only and subways, and all the the Broward County school major concern to you and you yesterday. At one Jacksonville taurants and other private busi- admission,” Cuomo said. “I workers from his state for the board voted to require masks should be worried about it,” hospital, the average age is 42, nesses to require all customers believe it’s in your best business Port Authority of New York and for students and staff. The New York Governor Andrew she said. “We have 25-year-olds be vaccinated before entering. interest. If I go to a bar and I New Jersey, which oversees the superintendent of Miami-Dade Cuomo told a briefing. in the hospital in intensive care The Democratic governor also want to have a drink and I want region’s bridges, airports, and schools had also said the dis- Florida, whose governor has on ventilators,” she told the said that vaccines could become to talk to the person next to me, tunnels, would need to be vac- trict would reconsider whether resisted mask or vaccine man- cable network. “We’ve got to mandatory for nursing home I want to know that that person cinated by Labor Day on Sep- to require masks in light of the dates, has one of the worst convince 25-year-olds, workers, teachers and is vaccinated.” tember 6 or submit to weekly surge. Brazil’s top judges say electronic voting is free of fraud $1 trillion infrastructure REUTERS — BRASILIA providing any evidence. He has ballots are less safe than elec- said he might not accept the tronic voting and that if Brazil debate opens A group of 18 active and former result of next year’s presidential goes back to manual counting Brazilian Supreme Court election if the system is not of 150 million printed ballots, in US Senate justices, who also act as judges changed. the chance of fraud would be in the Supreme Electoral Court, In the statement, the judges higher. AP — WASHINGTON said yesterday that the election said “Brazil has eliminated a The statement was sent by system is free of fraud in the history of election fraud”, and the judges after Bolsonaro said US Senate Majority Leader face of consistent attacks by that since the electronic voting in an interview with a radio Chuck Schumer sought to President Jair Bolsonaro. system was adopted in 1996, station earlier yesterday that speed up consideration of a Over the weekend, demon- there has never been a docu- Supreme Court Justice Luis nearly $1 trillion bipartisan strators demanded that there mented fraud case in any Roberto Barroso, who currently infrastructure package be a paper trail of printed elections. heads the electoral court, yesterday, promising that ballots, changing the current “The electronic voting “wants the elections to be Democrats would work with Supporters of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro take part in a all-electronic voting system. system is subject to audits manipulated”. A congressional Republicans to put together protest calling for a printed vote, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on Sunday. Bolsonaro has in recent before, during and after the committee will vote on amendments. GOP senators weeks repeatedly claimed that election." Thursday on a proposal pushed cautioned that they needed the electronic voting system is The judges said all the steps parties, prosecutors, federal zilian Bar Association. by Bolsonaro to introduce paper time to digest the massive bill. subject to fraud, without are monitored by political police, universities, and the Bra- The judges said printed ballots. Formally the Infra- structure Investment and Jobs Act, the proposal clocked in at EU sanctions Mexico referendum on trying ex-presidents falls short some 2,700 pages late Sunday after a hurry-up-and-wait Nicaraguan first BLOOMBERG/AP — MEXICO CITY rare weekend session. The which conducted the refer- While the referendum was nobody feels untouchable, or final product was not intended lady, 7 others endum, for the low turnout. set up for a feeble outcome absolute, at any level of the to stray from the broad outline Mexico President Andrés López Obrador also said after the Supreme Court made ladder.” Lopez Obrador clar- a bipartisan group of senators AP — BRUSSELS Manuel López Obrador that he expects to hold another the question far murkier than ified that the result did not had negotiated for weeks with yesterday downplayed the national referendum in Feb- the original version, the low mean that the attorney gen- the White House. The European Union yesterday abysmal turnout for a national ruary giving voters the oppor- turnout could embolden oppo- eral’s office could not take Schumer has said a final slapped sanctions on Nica- referendum on pursuing tunity to decide whether he sition parties that have ques- action against ex politicians, if vote could be held “in a matter raguan first lady and Vice- ex-presidents for alleged should complete the final three tioned the president’s prior- it had evidence against them, of days.” “Let’s start voting on President Rosario Murillo and wrongdoing during their years of his six-year term. ities, including his anti-graft and he proposed that legis- amendments,” Schumer said seven other senior officials administrations. A nationwide referendum crusade. lators lower the 40% minimum as the Senate opened for accused of serious human Only 7% of Mexico’s eligible spearheaded by Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who is in the future. business yesterday. rights violations or under- voters participated on Sunday, Lopez Obrador to investigate often called AMLO, said yes- The electoral agency said “The longer it takes to mining democracy, amid a but the president preferred to his five predecessors came up terday that the vote was an in a written statement that it finish the bill, the longer we crackdown on opposition poli- focus on the fact that more far short of the turnout needed important exercise in partici- would provide the final results will be here.” ticians in the Central American than 6 million voted, declaring to make it legally binding, sig- patory democracy. He noted of the vote to the Supreme A key part of President Joe country. it a "triumph.” Nine out of 10 naling a lack of urgency in the that Sunday’s referendum had Court to determine constitu- Biden’s agenda, the bipartisan EU headquarters said in a voted "yes” on the question. Mexican president’s key anti- more voters than any other in tionally-required next steps. bill is the first phase of the statement that the sanctions, "Democracy is never going corruption campaign. the country’s history and said AMLO reiterated yesterday president’s infrastructure plan. which include asset freezes to fail,” López Obrador said. Only 7% to 8% of eligible he expected far more turnout that referendums would be less It calls for $550bn in new and bans on travel in Europe, The participation fell well voters cast ballots Sunday, shy next year. costly if they could be wrapped spending over five years above “are targeted at individuals short of the 40% required to of the 40% needed for the ref- “This practice is going to into election-day voting, projected federal levels — one and are designed in this way make the vote binding, though erendum to force authorities become a habit, a culture, and instead of held on separate of the most substantial expen- not to harm the Nicaraguan observers gave that little to take action, the nation’s we’re going to pass it on to the days. He also said he expected ditures on the nation’s roads, population or the Nicaraguan importance since former pres- electoral agency estimated new generations, for which the electoral agency to set up bridges, waterworks, economy.” idents can already be prose- hours after the vote reason I’m happy with yester- more polling stations in the broadband and the electric In the past two months, cuted. The president suggested concluded. day’s results,” he said at a press next referendum, criticizing it grid in years. police in Nicaragua have lawmakers should consider Of those who did show up, briefing. “Regardless of for its lack of initiative Sunday The Republican leader, arrested and detained more lowering the required per- 89% to 96% agreed former whether it’s binding or not, it’s as part of a long-simmering Senator Mitch McConnell of than 20 opposition figures and centage and blamed the leaders needed to come under important that this democratic feud between himself and its Kentucky, will play a key role several candidates who might National Elections Institute, scrutiny. process moved forward so that members. in the bill’s final outcome. have been able to challenge President Daniel Ortega in elections on November 7. IN BRIEF Ortega, 75, alleges the country’s April 2018 street protests were part of an Brazil approaches 20 million organized coup attempt with foreign backing. He is seeking COVID-19 cases, deaths decrease a fourth consecutive term in the election. BRASILIA: Brazil has had 20,503 new cases of the novel corona- Most of those arrested in virus reported in the past 24 hours, and 464 deaths from COVID-19, the crackdown are being held the health ministry said on Sunday. incommunicado, at undis- The South American country has now registered 19,938,358 closed locations and with no cases since the pandemic began, while the official death toll has access to lawyers. risen to 556,834, according to ministry data, in the world’s third The EU said the sanctions worst outbreak outside the United States and India and its second- show that the 27-nation bloc deadliest. As vaccination advances in Brazil, the rolling 7-day stands “ready to use all its average of COVID deaths has dropped to 932 fatalities in the past instruments to support a dem- week, down from almost 3,000 a week at the peak of the pan- ocratic, peaceful, and nego- demic in early April, according to a Reuters tally. — Reuters tiated solution to the political crisis in Nicaragua.” Mexico posts 6,740 new COVID-19 It said that last week’s detention of a seventh possible cases, 128 more deaths presidential election candidate “sadly illustrates the mag- MEXICO CITY: Mexico’s health ministry on Sunday reported 6,740 nitude of the repression in Nic- new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the country and 128 more aragua and projects a grim fatalities, bringing its total to 2,854,992 infections and 241,034 picture for the upcoming elec- Protest against new government in Peru deaths. tions.” The latest move brings The government has said the real number of cases is likely People participate in a protest against communism and Peru’s new government led by President the total number of Nica- significantly higher, and separate data published recently sug- Pedro Castillo, a self-described Marxist-Leninist, in Lima, Peru, on Sunday. raguan officials subject to EU gested the actual death toll is at least 60% above the confirmed sanctions to 14. figure. — Reuters 08 VIEWS TUESDAY 3 AUGUST 2021 Charity alone will not end the Established in 1996

CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI calamity of COVID-19 in Africa

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF PATRICK GATHARA DR. KHALID MUBARAK AL-SHAFI AL JAZEERA [email protected] Last year, American billionaire philanthropist and MANAGING EDITOR Microsoft founder, Bill Gates, MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI was roundly condemned by [email protected] many for peddling racist ster- eotypes of African help- lessness after he warned that the coronavirus pandemic could overwhelm public EDITORIAL health services within the continent and lead to 10 million deaths. And as the Exercising right with wisdom pandemic seemed to bypass the continent, Western media IN implementation of the provisions of the Qatari puzzlement over why Constitution and Qatar National Vision 2030 and with Africans were not dying at the aims of enhancing the participation of citizens in the rates Americans and Euro- decision-making process, Amir H H Sheikh Tamim peans were, and why the bin Hamad Al Thani issued law on the issuance of expected biblical scenes of the Shura Council’s Electoral System law and a plague-ravaged Black masses decree defining the electoral districts of the Shura had not materialised, were The EU has joined the US in backing vaccine production in Africa, which would place the continent Council and their respective regions. similarly met with outrage. firmly on the road to self-sufficiency as regards health security. As per the new law, approved by H H the Amir, However, today as the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh COVID-19 deaths ramp up In a moving article about chances of serious illness, capacity and experience to Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani also issued across Africa, and with his family’s struggle with hospitalisation and death. But line up many of the other three decisions: one to form the candidates’ com- vaccine access for many COVID-19, Larry Madowo, a as the experience, even in the slices and thus provide a sig- mittee, and the system and controls for its work; proving to be a mirage, many newly appointed interna- rich West, has demonstrated, nificant measure of pro- second specifying the sources of financing electoral of the same doomsday sce- tional correspondent for CNN they are not a silver bullet. tection to their citizens even campaigns and the controls and procedures for narios and associated impli- from Kenya, revealed how he And, without universal vacci- as they make efforts to supervising it and third to form the voters’ committee cations of Africans as pow- had lost his uncle to the illness nation not just in some acquire vaccines. They are and the system and controls for its work. erless to resist their fate, are and how his heart sank every regions but across the globe, not helpless or simply For its part and in line with Electoral System law, being heard once again. Only time he received a call from they will not be replacements beholden to the goodwill of the Ministry of interior defined the conditions that this time, it is Africans them- home, where his grand- for other measures to combat white saviours. the voter must meet, and procedures for registration selves who seem to be selling mother was on a ventilator. the disease such as masking The West has behaved applications through the Metrash2 app, or by text the story. “Even at 96,” he wrote, and social distancing. abominably when it comes to message, or by personally attending to one of the Just in the past week, in an “my Kenyan grandmother In 1990, Dr James Reason the issue of providing vac- thirty electoral headquarters. article published in Nature, Dr was among hundreds of mil- of the University of Man- cines, hoarding stocks it does Thus the State has completed its preparations Mosoka Fallah, deputy director lions in the developing world chester introduced the “Swiss not need for people who do and requirements for organizing elections by issuing for technical services in the who was not vaccinated until Cheese Model” of accident not want them and deliber- all the laws and decisions needed, and opened the National Public Health Institute recently because rich nations causation. In the model, ately denying them to those door for registration for nomination and candidacy of Liberia, said “mass fatalities have hoarded most of the defences are presented as a who want and need them. to organize the first legislative election in October, from COVID-19 have begun in available shots.” He noted series of barriers. Each Even when they have which will see Qataris elect Shura Council for the Africa” and “the wealthy world that even in places like barrier, however, is not donated vaccines, as the first time. must rally or nations will col- Rwanda, where stringent perfect and has unintended British did this week, they These laws and decisions related to the Shura lapse across Africa”. social distancing and masking weaknesses or “holes” – have sometimes been stocks Council elections represent a legislative and organ- regulations have been hence looks similar to a slice so close to expiring that dis- izational guarantee to facilitate and ensure integrity COVID-19 deaths ramp enforced, lockdowns and of Swiss cheese. These holes tribution constraints could of the electoral process. The right way of beginning up across Africa, and curfews continue to be a fact can sometimes allow an error render them useless. The will establish solid transparent ground for fair elec- of life “because only vaccines or hazard, such as a virus, to director of the Africa Centres toral system by presenting these steps and proce- with vaccine access provide true protection”. get through. However, for Disease Control and Pre- dures as a model for future good practices in man- for many proving It is undeniable that Africa inserting additional layers of vention, John Nkengasong, aging the election process. faces a tough time ahead and defence (or slices of cheese) has expressed concern that As per the law, the Shura Council will have leg- to be a mirage, that the continent is, in many into the system decreases the this could lead to a narrative islative authority and approve general state policies many of the same ways, unprepared for what is likelihood that these holes “that vaccines have been and the budget. It will also exercise control over the coming on almost every level. will line up to allow the donated and they were not executive, except for bodies defining defence, doomsday scenarios With just more than 1 percent hazard to reach the used”. security, economic and investment policies. and associated of its population vaccinated, individual. “The timidness of the After completing all the preparations in terms of implications of not enough specialised facil- In such modelling, Western engagement in terms legislative, logistic supplies to ensure fair and trans- ities such as ICU beds or COVID-19 vaccines are just of furnishing vaccines to the parent elections, the final decision remains for the Africans as powerless oxygen plants, and with a the final slice of cheese, not a developing world, has just citizen to choose those whom they see competent to resist their fate, higher death rate among the replacement for all the slices been appalling,” says Howard and able to serve the country and this is a respon- severely ill than the global that came before, which French in an interview with sibility that will not be lesser important than any other are being heard once average, the continent is include public information, the Brookings Institute in responsibilities that citizens have towards their again. indeed staring into the abyss. testing, contact tracing and which it is noted that even the country and its people. However, the situation is far isolation as well as hand billion doses offered by the G7 Therefore there is a need for everyone to give from hopeless. washing, social distancing are a drop in the bucket, given priority to the supreme interest of the country to Vaccines are doubtlessly and masking. African coun- seven billion of the eight choose the best candidates in the voting stage to the best protection societies tries may not have vaccines, billion people on the planet make the Shura Council a true representative of the can get, massively reducing but many do have the live in the “developing world”. will of the citizens, while expanding the popular par- ticipation in decision-making and develop legislative system. COVID-19 contained among Olympic athletes despite Tokyo surge

YUKO TAKEO AND EMI URABE but we have with the play- harsher for those flying in opening ceremony, predicting BLOOMBERG books pretty well covered the from overseas, compared to that the situation will worsen D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR ability to reduce that risk as Japanese residents. for hospitals taking in EMAIL: [email protected] Tokyo is experiencing a far as we can.” The so-called The Olympics-related COVID-19 patients after record surge in COVID-19 playbooks set out COVID- numbers contrast with the hearing that capacity was cases during the Olympic prevention measures and surge in the broader Tokyo already beginning to be EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 breached. FAX: +974 4455 7758 Games as the more infectious rules for each Olympics par- area, where daily COVID-19 delta variant rips through ticipant including athletes, case counts jumped to a While concerns and divi- MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 Japan, though contagion officials and media. record 4,058 cases on Sat- sions remain, for now some among those linked to the Breaking down the cat- urday. Another 2,195 new social media analysis is DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 event appears to be relatively egory of people with positive cases were found on Monday. showing the public mood contained so far. test results, the largest Last week, Japanese Prime appears to be shifting fol- LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 To date, organizers have numbers are among Tokyo Minister Yoshihide Suga lowing Japan’s gold medal BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 announced 276 positive cases 2020 contractors - third- expanded the state of emer- haul. among people connected to party personnel who are con- gency to areas surrounding Olympic Tone Shifts in SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 the Olympics, including 24 tracted to the games to Tokyo and extended it to the Japan as Medals Outshine athletes out of the more than provide various services - and end of August, in a bid to Concerns ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 11,000 who are expected to games-concerned people, contain the latest wave of The virus positivity rate email: [email protected] participate. Of over 400,000 who include those affiliated infections ahead of general has also been surging for tests PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 tests conducted so far on ath- with the IOC, National elections that must be called being conducted in the email: [email protected] letes and stakeholders, the Olympic Committees and by the fall. capital, nearly quadrupling positivity rate has been only Olympic Broadcasting Before the games began, from July 1. While far more of MARKETING: TEL: 4455 7657 0.02%, organizers said on Services. There have been a local opinion on the Olympics those being infected are email: [email protected] Monday. cumulative 144 and 83 cases was hotly divided, with polls younger people, following the “There is a separation in those categories, suggesting the majority of country’s drive to get the ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 857 between the athletes and the respectively. people didn’t think the event elderly vaccinated first, the FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] various stakeholders, and the While athletes in the could be held safely. number of those in serious CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 general population,” Mark Olympic Village are required Hiroshi Nishiura, a pro- condition has also been rising. email: [email protected] Adams, International Olympic to test daily, requirements are fessor and epidemiologist at In July, the number of people Committee spokesperson, less strict for volunteers who Kyoto University, called on hospitalized roughly doubled SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 66766718 told reporters Monday. “You have less contact with ath- Twitter for the Olympics to be to over 3,000 by the end of WhatsApp: 66766718, email: [email protected] can’t reduce the risk to zero, letes. The rules are also stopped a day after the the month.

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