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THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021 13 RAJAB - 1442 VOLUME 25 NUMBER 8544 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS

Sabah Al Ahmad Amir meets Kuwait’s Deputy PM and Defence Minister Corridor inaugurated IRFAN BUKHARI THE PENINSULA

Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Today, in the presence of Sheikh Hamad Al-Sabah, we inaugurated Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani the Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor, which is one of the largest roads and Kuwait Deputy Prime in Qatar that named after Sheikh Sabah, May God have mercy Minister and Minister of on him, and embody the deep Qatari-Kuwaiti brotherhood Defence, H E Sheikh Hamad relations. The Corridor links south of Doha with the north of Jaber Al Ali Al Sabah, together Qatar in a qualitative leap for the infrastructure that constitutes inaugurated the Sabah Al a pivotal role in achieving the goals of Qatar's Vision 2030. Ahmad Corridor yesterday. The inauguration coincides Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met the Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister with celebration of the National of the sisterly State of Kuwait, H E Sheikh Hamad Jaber Al Ali Al Sabah, and his delegation at the Day and Liberation Day Anni- Amiri Diwan yesterday on the occasion of their visit to attend the inaugural ceremony of Sabah Al versary of the State of Kuwait Ahmad Corridor. The Deputy PM conveyed the greetings of Kuwait Amir H H Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad today. Al Jaber Al Sabah to H H the Amir, and his thanks for naming the “Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor” after Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor the late Amir H H Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, also wishing the H H good health and extends from Hamad Interna- happiness, and continuous progress and prosperity for the Qatari people. H H the Amir entrusted tional Airport, south of Doha, to Sheikh Hamad Jaber Al Ali Al Sabah to convey his greetings to the Amir of Kuwait, wishing him good Umm Lekhba Interchange, health and wellness, and the Kuwaiti people further progress and development. During the meeting, (Landmark Interchange) on Al they reviewed bilateral relations and the means of developing and enhancing them. Shamal Road at a distance of more than 29km, besides the length of newly developed service Qatar aims to roads and perpendicular roads Cabinet approves draft connecting with the Corridor, vaccinate 90% of total project work reaches to an laws; health insurance approximate length of 41km. eligible population The inaugural ceremony, which was held at Cable-Stayed must for expats, visitors by year-end, Bridge, was attended by prom- inent guests including Their QNA — DOHA necessary policies, plans, proce- says Dr. Al Khal Excellencies the ministers, a del- dures, systems, and standards to egation from State of Kuwait, The Cabinet yesterday provide health care services in FAZEENA SALEEM Ambassadors, senior gov- approved a draft law regulating governmental and private health THE PENINSULA ernment and health care services and facilities, determine the rights Ashghal officials announced that all expatriates and duties of patients that must Qatar aims to vaccinate at and representa- and visitors must obtain health be taken into account when least 90 percent of the eligible tives of the com- insurance to receive basic receiving health care services, population by the end of the panies imple- health care services in Qatar. providing health care services to year and has taken several menting the Prime Minister and Minister citizens in government health initiatives to boost the national Prime Minister and Minister of project. of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid facilities without charge and all COVID-19 vaccination Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Sabah Al bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al residents and visitors to the campaign, said a senior Ahmad Corridor is Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani and Thani chaired the Cabinet’s country must obtain health official, yesterday. a four-lane dual Kuwait Deputy Prime Minister and regular meeting at the Amiri insurance to receive basic health “We aim to cover about 90 carriage highway Minister of Defence, H E Sheikh Diwan yesterday. care services. percent of the eligible popu- after converting Hamad Jaber Al Ali Al Sabah, At the outset of the meeting, The Cabinet also approved lation before the end of the the old road from jointly inaugurating the Sabah the Cabinet listened to the a draft decision of the Minister year; we have to vaccinate two lanes in each Al Ahmad Corridor yesterday. explanation provided by H E of Interior to exempt trainees in more than 100,000 people a direction and the 50.5km long bicycle and pedes- Minister of Public Health on the driving schools from the renewal week,” said Chair of the vehicle capacity has increased trian paths to ensure safe fraternity between Qatar and latest developments to limit the fee for issuing a temporary National Health Strategic from 8,000 vehicles per hour to movement of people, in addition Kuwait, firmly rooted in the wise spread of the coronavirus driving license to learn motor Group on COVID-19 and Head more than 20,000 vehicles per to beautification and tree plan- and visionary leadership of the (COVID-19), and affirmed the vehicle driving. Under the draft of Infectious Diseases at hour on both directions. The Cor- tation works along an approx- two State.” continuation of implementing decision, trainees in driving Hamad Medical Corporation ridor is also an ideal alternate imate area of 355,642 sq meters. The Minister added: “The the precautionary measures to schools, who did not complete Dr. Abdullatif Al Khal. He said route for commuters along Doha On this occasion, Minister of corridor will contribute in combat this pandemic.” the prescribed examination that this will be implemented Expressway & 22 February Street, Transport and Communications, reducing traffic congestion and After that, the Cabinet procedures to obtain their while taking effective public which accommodates about H E Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti, achieve great traffic flow, serving approved a draft law organising driving licenses during the health measures, like 12,000 vehicles per hour in both said: “We share the joy of our other means of transport such as health care services within the closing period of driving schools screening and isolating people directions. brethren in the State of Kuwait Hamad International Airport and country and refered it to the due to the application of precau- suspected to have or exposed Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor in their celebrations of National Metro network through integration Shura Council. The preparation tionary measures to confront the to COVID-19. also includes construction of Day and anniversary of Liber- with many major roads such as Al of the draft law aims to provide novel coronavirus (COVID -19), Dr. Al Khal was speaking pedestrian crossings including ation Day through the opening Rayyan Road, Salwa Road and an integrated, high-quality, effi- are exempt from fees for renewing at ‘An Injection of Hope: Do seven bridges and two pedes- of Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor, Al Shamal Road.” `P3 cient, and sustainable health their permits expired on March 3, Vaccines Mean an End to the trian underpasses, besides which depicts embodiment of SEE ALSO PAGE 7 system through establishing the 2020 until August 1, 2020. `P3 Pandemic Is in Sight?’ as part of the latest edition of Edu- cation City Speaker Series, and in collaboration with the Ministry invites applications for fee hike amid COVID-19 World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), which fea- Parents declare move to increase fee in private schools as ‘unjustifiable’ in present situation tured healthcare experts and practitioners to discuss THE PENINSULA — DOHA Ministry should be a fair mediator that vaccine development, ques- Investigative report balances the interests of the family and tions surrounding the new Parents have called on the Ministry of the school. The exceptional situations that Parents stress it would be variants of COVID-19, and Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) teaching turned into distance education, we are going through due to the spread difficult for many of them the efforts needed to combat to defer fees hike in private schools and parents became responsible for of the virus should be taken into account, to afford a new increase and avoid future waves of during COVID-19. Many are facing follow-up and guidance of their children instead of dealing with the matter as if in fees because of the infection. difficult financial times due to the at home. Parents played more significant everything is normal,” said Al Rumaihi. financial constraints Dr. Al Khal said that pandemic. roles in running a smooth distance and Another parent, Ibrahim Al Kuwari, resulting from the several steps have been taken Parents are reacting to the Ministry’s blended learning. said that the world is going through pandemic. to widen and boost the ability announcement last month to open appli- “Fees for private schools are already exceptional health conditions, and these of the COVID-19 vaccination cations from private schools to increase high in Qatar, so instead of taking into conditions are reflected in everyone’s The increase in tuition campaign. fees. account this fact, the Ministry has invited economic situation. fees for private schools “Twenty-seven health A private school has said that it applications for fee hike. Continuous Al Kuwari, whose children are in are taking place every centers throughout the applied for a fee hike last month through increase in school fees has become an private schools, told The Peninsula: “I three years, and this is country provide vaccine to the Ministry’s online system. unending problem. The increases in expected the Ministry of Education and making the private edu- people seven days a week Parents stress it would be difficult for tuition fees for private schools are taking Higher Education to take into account cation system among the from 7am to 11pm. In addition many of them to afford a new increase place every three years, and this is these circumstances and refuse applica- most expensive. we recently open the vacci- in fees because of the financial con- making our private education system tions for the increment of fees from the nation centre at the Qatar straints resulting from the pandemic. among the most expensive,” said Khalifa private schools this year at least until National Convention Centre, As many parents keep reacting to the Al Rumaihi. things return to pre-COVID-19 condi- which can deliver 8,000 doses news regarding private fee increments, He urged the Ministry to rethink tions. “Unfortunately, we hear that the a day,” said Dr. Al Khal. a Qatari parent said he was surprised by whether it is appropriate to allow private Ministry does not only receive applica- “We also trained nurses at the Ministry’s move to increase the fees schools to increase fees during the tions for increasing fees but has invited different ministries and under the current circumstance. pandemic. the schools to submit their applications entities to administer vaccine. “Since the coronavirus outbreak and “I am with the teachers’ right to lead to increase fees, without taking into Now they are vaccinating their the imposition of the preventive a decent life and to obtain salaries that account the parents’ circumstances.” frontliners at their own facil- measures to limit the spread of the virus, guarantee them that, but also the `P3 ities,” he added. `P5 02 HOME THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021

Prime Minister meets ILO head Qatar welcomes ICC OFFICIAL NEWS decision on inclusion of Amir sends congratulations to occupied Palestinian President of Estonia DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad territories in its jurisdiction Al Thani, and Deputy Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani sent yester- QNA — DOHA day cables of congratulations to President Ambassador Ali Khalfan Al of the Republic of Estonia H E Kersti Kalju- The State of Qatar has laid on the anniversary of her country’s welcomed the decision of Mansouri says absence of Independence Day. Prime Minister and the International Criminal accountability and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Court (ICC) on the independent and impartial Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani also sent inclusion of the occupied a cable of congratulations to Prime Min- Palestinian territories in its investigations encouraged ister of the Republic of Estonia H E Kaja jurisdiction, which paves the Israeli military and Kallas on the anniversary of her coun- the way for an investi- political leaders to continue try’s Independence Day. — QNA gation into committing committing more international crimes Prime Minister meets against Palestinians, and systematic and gross Kuwait Deputy PM considered as a message violations, and serious to the perpetrators of these crimes against the DOHA: Prime Minister and Minister of crimes that their crimes Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin will not be subject to Palestinian people. Abdulaziz Al Thani met yesterday morning statute of limitations, and with Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani met provides hope to the Minister of the sisterly State of Kuwait, H E yesterday with Head of the International Labour Organization Project Office for the State of Qatar, H victims in achieving justice the Israeli settlements, the Sheikh Hamad Jaber Al Ali Al Sabah, and E Houtan Homayounpour, on the occasion of the end of his tenure in the country. The meeting dealt and fairness. forced displacement of Pal- the accompanying delegation. At the out- with reviewing cooperation between the State of Qatar and ILO. The Prime Minister and the Minister This came in the estinians, the destruction of set of the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister of Interior wished Houtan Homayounpour success on his future missions. statement of the State of their homes and the confis- and Defence Minister of Kuwait conveyed Qatar delivered by Per- cation of their lands con- the greetings and thanks of the Prime Min- manent Representative of stitute a flagrant violation ister of the sisterly State of Kuwait, H H the State of Qatar in Geneva, of the relevant international Sheikh Sabah Khalid Al Hamad Al Sabah, Prime Minister meets Tunisian Minister H E Ambassador Ali Khalfan laws and conventions, espe- for the invitation to attend the inaugural Al Mansouri, yesterday at the cially the Fourth Geneva ceremony of “Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor”. Human Rights Council Convention, and are con- H E the Prime Minister and Minister of during the interactive dia- sidered a war crime under Interior entrusted His Excellency to con- logue on the report of the UN the 1998 Rome Statute, vey his greetings to H H the Prime Minister High Commissioner for stressing that the absence of the State of Kuwait, wishing him suc- Human Rights on ensuring of accountability and inde- cess. The meeting dealt with reviewing accountability and justice in pendent and impartial bilateral relations and the scope for devel- all violations of international investigations encouraged oping them. — QNA law in the Occupied Pales- the Israeli military and tinian Territory, including political leaders to continue FM receives written East Al Quds, under the committing more systematic second item on the council’s and gross violations, and to message from Bahrain agenda. continue committing Foreign Minister Ambassador Al Man- serious crimes against the souri said that they have Palestinian people. DOHA: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister reviewed the report of the Qatar's Ambassador of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed High Commissioner, and called on the international bin Abdulrahman Al Thani received a written strongly condemn Israel, the community to take all nec- message from Minister of Foreign Affairs of occupying power, for con- essary measures to end the the Kingdom of Bahrain H E Dr. Abdullatif tinuing violations and Israeli occupation of the bin Rashid Al Zayani. The message was crimes against the brotherly occupied Arab lands, protect received by Minister of State for Foreign Palestinian people of killing the Palestinian people, Affairs H E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi, civilians and children, and ensure the restoration of all during his meeting yesterday with Under- imposing the unjust siege their legitimate rights, and secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani met and repeated aggression on ensure the establishment of for Regional and GCC Affairs of the King- yesterday with Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research of the Republic of Tunisia, H E the Gaza Strip. an independent and viable dom of Bahrain, H E Ambassador Waheed Olfa Benouda Sioud, and the accompanying delegation, on the occasion of her visit to the country. He added that the inter- state of Palestine on the basis Mubarak Sayyar, who is currently visiting They reviewed bilateral relations and means to enhance them, particularly in the education field. national community has of the 1967 borders, with Al the country. — QNA repeatedly emphasised that Quds as its capital. THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021 HOME 03 PM, Kuwait Deputy PM inaugurate Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor

Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani; Kuwait Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, H E Sheikh Hamad Jaber Al Ali Al Sabah; and other dignitaries at the inauguration of the Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor yesterday.

FROM PAGE 1 fast as possible using local stadiums, especially to Al Stadium, Khalifa International way of Sabah Al Ahmad Cor- of materials used in these works President of the Public materials in the implementation Janoub Stadium, Al Thumama Stadium.” ridor has opened fully while are locally made. Works Authority (Ashghal), Eng. of the project at an estimated Stadium, Khalifa International The Corridor, he said, also some service roads and exits are The Corridor is considered Saad bin Ahmed Al Muhannadi, rate of 60% of works. He Stadium and Education City connects with Al Shamal yet to be developed. “The the ‘lung of Doha’. It will con- expressed delight in opening assured that the remaining Stadium. Expressway and Doha project will be delivered com- tribute greatly to ease traffic Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor on the works of the Corridor such as Talking to The Peninsula, Ali Expressway leading to Lusail pletely by end of 2021.” congestion in Doha in general, occasion of celebration of service roads, beautification Mohamad Al Darwish from and Al Bayt Stadium. “It is par- Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor especially for those coming National Day of the State of and landscaping are being com- Highway Projects Department allel to Doha Expressway. It will project included 6,300,000 from south to north, as the road Kuwait. President of Ashghal pleted to deliver by the end of congratulated Kuwait on its serve 20,000 vehicles per hour cubic metres of excavation, is an ideal alternate route to pointed out that Sabah Al 2021. National Day. “This is first in comparison of 12,000 backfilling and paving works as Doha Expressway & February Ahmad Corridor comes in Secretary-General of the Cable-Stayed Bridge in Qatar. vehicles on Doha Expressway well as the use of approximately 22nd Street, with better traffic honour of the late Amir H H Supreme Committee for We are very proud that the in both directions. On the other 1,442,000 tonnes of asphalt and flow, as the commuter from HIA Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Delivery and Legacy, Hassan Al project was implemented under hand, the expressway contains 1,520,000 cubic meters of rein- through this road will reach Sabah, to commemorate his Thawadi, confirmed that Sabah the supervision of Qatari engi- the largest interchange in Qatar forced concrete. Umm Lekhba Interchange on memory and to express loyalty Al Ahmad Corridor is one of the neers. We managed to which is called Umm Lakhba The infrastructure lines Al Shamal Road in less than 18 to the Amir of Humanity. vital road to facilitate overcome the challenges during Interchange (commonly known installed include 220km of minutes, while the same On his part, Director of movement of people to various the development of the project. as Landmark Interchange). It communication lines, about journey through Doha Projects Affairs at Ashghal, Eng. World Cup stadiums, pointing The Corridor serves many has also the longest underpass 470km of power lines, 205km Expressway & 22 February Yousef Al Emadi, stressed that out that the Corridor will not venues of FIFA World Cup 2022, and longest bridge in Qatar,” he of drainage lines extension and Street takes about 50 minutes, the government has spared no only facilitate movement, but Al Thumama Stadium, Ras Abu added. about 77km of treated sewer which means cutting 70% of effort to complete the works as cut the travel time to the Abbud Stadium, Al Janoub He said that the carriage lines. It is worth noting that 60% travel time. Qatar will spare no effort to alleviate QNL President meets Deputy FM Palestinians' sufferings: Assistant FM of Uzbekistan

QNA — DOHA among the Palestinian people, and that these repressive QNA — DOHA which affected nearly half of the actions taken by Israel hinder The State of Qatar participated Palestinian population who the efforts of negotiations and Minister of State and President in the ministerial meeting of the need humanitarian aid. dialogue, with its emphasis on of Qatar National Library Ad Hoc Liaison Committee to She praised the efforts of the two-state solution and the (QNL), H E Dr Hamad bin coordinate international international partners in trying Arab Peace Initiative, with East Abdulaziz Al Kuwari, met assistance to the Palestinian to provide medical assistance Al Quds as Palestine’s capital on yesterday with Deputy people, which was held via to the Palestinian territories, the borders of June 4, 1967 as a Minister of Foreign Affairs of video conference yesterday. and pointed out the continu- way forward to achieve just the Republic of Uzbekistan H The State of Qatar was rep- ation of the repressive peace and protect the legitimate E Furkat Sidikov, who is Assistant Foreign Minister and Spokesperson for the Ministry of resented in the meeting by measures of the Israeli author- rights of the Palestinian people. currently visiting the country. Foreign Affairs, H E Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater, participating in the Assistant Foreign Minister and ities and the prevention of She stressed that the world During the meeting, they Spokesperson for the Ministry shipments of vital vaccines must not remain silent in the ministerial meeting of the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee to coordinate reviewed means of cooper- of Foreign Affairs H E Lolwah from reaching the occupied face of the injustice committed international assistance to the Palestinian people, yesterday. ation between QNL and the bint Rashid Al Khater. Palestinian territories, thus against the Palestinian people cultural institutions in the She said in her speech at the exacerbating the dire condi- and the continued deterioration in working to alleviate the hard- more than $106m from 2014 to Republic of Uzbekistan. meeting that the international tions caused by the pandemic, of the social, economic and ships faced by the Palestinian 2020. Deputy Minister of Foreign community stands today as a indicating that such actions, health conditions in Palestine, people, as the aid provided She pointed out that as part Affairs of Uzbekistan visited silent witness to the plight of the without a doubt, are a flagrant which are likely to reach cata- focused on urgent needs, in of the State's efforts that focus QNL and learnt about its activ- Palestinian people while the violation of the charters and strophic levels, leading to a addition to long-term devel- on helping lift the burden of the ities, and its most important Israeli occupation and the siege principles of international law, humanitarian disaster that the opment projects that amounted pandemic from Palestinian knowledge treasures. of the Gaza Strip and Israeli set- and constitute a serious crime global community will not bear to more than $1.5bn during the brothers, Qatar has provided tlement activity in occupied against humanity. and will not be prepared to past eight years. $150m in urgent aid to the Pal- Jerusalem and the West Bank The Assistant Foreign Min- endure. H E affirmed the State of estinian health sector, including Circulation of continue without any signs of ister said that the State of Qatar She affirmed that the State Qatar’s commitment to close $1m allocated to combat the retreat, even in light of the over- reminds that the Palestinian of Qatar stands to support its cooperation with international outbreak of the COVID-19 pan- 4th edition of whelming impact of the out- people, like all peoples, have the brothers in Palestine and said agencies, as she contributed to demic and to provide medical break of COVID-19 pandemic basic right to life and health, that Qatar will spare no effort the support of the UNRWA with supplies and equipment. banknotes until July 1: QCB Cabinet approves draft QNA — DOHA Ministry invites applications for laws; health insurance Qatar Central Bank (QCB) has must for expats, visitors extended the circulation of the 4th Edition banknotes, until fee hike amid COVID-19 FROM PAGE 1 Thursday, corresponding to FROM PAGE 1 two children in private schools, said: in the salary of staff annually,” Bakali Approval of a draft decision of the Minister the July 1. Al Kuwari asked why private “The Ministry should not send any cir- added. of Education and Higher Education to reforming QCB said that after this schools are primed to make a profit cular to schools in this regard, as it is He said that a fee hike is necessary the scholarships committee. Under the Provi- date, the banknotes will while everyone else suffers significant unjustified to hike fees at this time.” for a suitable business model; oth- sions of Law No. 9 of 1976 Regulating Scholar- become illegal and indem- financial strains this period. She said that the current blended erwise, private investors will not ships, a scholarship committee is formed in the nified currency, with the “I appeal to the Ministry not to learning system is a burden more on continue. Ministry of Education and Higher Education and holder remaining entitled to rush to receive the applications and parents compared to schools. “Fee hike process undergoes strict is responsible for drawing up scholarship policy recover its value from the not to raise the fees, at least this year. However, private schools have rules and regulations imposed by the and planning and investigating the country’s Central Bank within a period The burdens that parents are bearing justified the fee hike describing it as MoEHE, which considers concerns of actual needs for them. not exceeding 10 years from due to these conditions should be necessary for schools’ survival as they parents and schools as well,” he The Cabinet also approved a draft agreement the date of the withdrawal taken into account seriously,” Al provide quality education. noted. on canceling entry visas for holders of regular decision. Kuwari added. Speaking to The Peninsula, Riyaz To a question about parents’ com- passports between Qatar and the government In its statement, Qatar Another parent Abu Hamad told Amed Bakali, Founder Director of The plaints on fee hikes during an Al of the Republic of Moldova. Central Bank referred to the The Peninsula that parents expected Next Generation School (TNG), said Rayan TV programme earlier, the A draft Memorandum of Understanding decision of H E the Governor the Ministry to reduce school fees that his school applied to increase fees Director of Private Schools Licensing (MoU) for cooperation in the fields of youth and of Qatar Central Bank No. 99 because of the pandemic, which has by six percent last month. Department at the Ministry of Edu- sports between the governments of the State of of 2020 issued in the Official brought some businesses to a halt. “The Ministry of Education and cation and Higher Education, Hamad Qatar and the Republic of Malta. Gazette on 27/12/2020 Companies have reduced some Higher Education opened the system Al Ghali, said schools that have Taking necessary measures to ratify an regarding the withdrawal of workers’ salaries. Instead, the Min- allowing schools to submit requests increased their fees, after the Minis- agreement on economic, commercial, and tech- banknotes from circulation, istry invited applications to increase for increasing fees following certain try’s approval, could not do so until nical cooperation between the governments of starting from 18/12/2020, after fees which will put an extra burden rules and regulations. As per the rules, after three years. the State of Qatar and the government of the fifth edition was put into on parents. in June, the Ministry approves for “Even if it applied for fees Uzbekistan. circulation. He urged the Ministry to revise the genuine applications which meet all increase, the application will be The central bank also clar- decision and close applications for requirements for the fee hike,” said rejected. The requests for fee hikes ified that this decision comes fees increase until normalcy returns. Bakali. should be submitted with the docu- Five arrested for violating in accordance with the provi- “At this difficult time, there is no Giving justification for his school’s ments to justify the demand. The sions of Articles 54 and 55 of way to think about increasing the application, Bakali said: “The fee hike committee concerned will study the home quarantine the Qatar Central Bank Law school fees,” said a parent, Sayed is not going to be implemented imme- request, then the final decision is and Regulation of Financial Ameen. diately. It will take many months taken for approval or rejection,” Al QNA — DOHA Institutions issued by Law No. “We live in exceptional circum- between approval and implemen- Ghali had said. 13 of 2012. stances, and schools do not offer any- tation. When it comes into effect, the He said that parents are being The competent authorities arrested yesterday The bank stressed the thing new which is worth an increase COVID-19 situation is expected to informed about fee increases and are five people who violated the requirements of importance of preserving the in fees,” said Ameen. have improved, so there will be no given enough time to decide to move the home quarantine they committed to national currency and not He added that students benefit major impact on parents.” their children to more affordable following. The arrested persons being referred tampering with it, whether by little from schools since the outbreak He said that TNG had increased schools. to the competent prosecution are: Mohammed writing, perforation or oth- and all the burden is on parents more fees by 3.2 percent five years ago. The Peninsula approached the Abdullah Saad Al Bahih Al Marri, Turki Masoud erwise, indicating that these than schools. Schools are supposed “Now operation cost of schools has Ministry of Education and Higher Turki Al Ghufrani Al Marri, Ali Jaber Hamad Al acts are criminalised by the to reduce their fees instead of increased drastically. Transport Education for a comment on the topic Makhdoubia Al Marri, Salem Rashid Mohammed provisions of Article 56 of the increasing them. became costlier due to the hike in fuel on February 14, but no response was Rashid Al Ghreineq, and Abdulrahman Nayef aforementioned Qatar Central For her part, Maryam, who has prices. Moreover, we make increment received. Abdulrahman Al Imran Al Kuwari. Bank Law. 04 HOME THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021 Qatar participates in 5th session of UN Environment Assembly QNA — NAIROBI on the principle of strategic The envoy said Qatar planning in order to achieve the The State of Qatar participated spared no effort to advance requirements of development in the fifth session of the United the wheel of development and progress, whether on the Nations Environment Assembly in conjunction with the economic, social or environ- (UNEA-5), which was held mental levels, enlightened in through video conference. pandemic and the this by the Qatar National The delegation of the State challenges that came with Vision 2030, so the pandemic of Qatar to the session was it, by strengthening was not a major obstacle that headed by Ambassador of the preventive measures in a would be difficult to overcome, State of Qatar to the Republic way that balances the but rather a challenge and a of Kenya and the Permanent catalyst for us to work posi- Representative of the State of preservation of resources tively towards achieving our Qatar to the United Nations and preserving the strategic goals for office in Nairobi, H E Jaber bin environment. development. Ali Al Dosari. The State of Qatar spared The Ambassador said in a no effort to advance the wheel Speaker meets Italy, Kazakhstan envoys speech during the leadership them in a manner that takes of development in conjunction Speaker of the Shura Council, H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, met separately yesterday dialogues session on the con- into account the preservation with the pandemic and the with Ambassador of the Italian Republic to the State of Qatar H E Alessandro Prunas (pictured), and tribution of the environmental and sustainability of all eco- challenges that came with it, with Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the State of Qatar, H E Arman Isagaliyev. During dimension of sustainable devel- systems, the Ambassador which were the key to new the two meetings, parliamentary relations and ways to support and develop them were reviewed. opment to building a resilient explained. horizons and space for devel- and inclusive post-pandemic The Ambassador referred opment in existing national world that the coronavirus pan- to the ongoing efforts regarding plans and programmes, by Minister of Culture and Sports meets Shura Council demic has had many repercus- the new medium-term strategy strengthening preventive sions on societies in various of the United Nations Envi- measures in a way that bal- Tunisian Minister of Higher Education participates in aspects and fields. He stressed ronment Program, which we ances the preservation of however that its effects should hope will be based on the resources in light of the pan- parliamentary not detract the international lessons learned from the demic and preserving the envi- community from ensuring that pandemic. ronment, he added. seminar the environmental dimension Furthermore, its reliance on We have not overlooked the QNA — DOHA as countries strive for sus- the axis of flexibility and resil- importance of interacting with tainable development. ience to face such current con- the international community The Shura Council partic- Addressing this pandemic ditions in the future, in addition within the framework of the ipated yesterday in a and its repercussions will only to its strengthening of the pro- international environmental parliamentary seminar on be done by collective action and gram’s efforts within the agreements to which the State emergency legislation to international cooperation, so it framework of supporting of Qatar has acceded, as we reduce the repercussions is imperative to follow this path, national programs and projects have participated and closely of pandemic on small and and strive to take measures that in countries in a manner that followed up on all develop- medium enterprises will enhance our capabilities to harmonizes development ments resulting from the (SMEs), organised by the address the environmental requirements and environ- compass reorientation of the Council of Representa- challenges raised by the pan- mental sustainability. plans and programs of these tives in the Kingdom of demic, and to enhance our The Ambassador pointed agreements due to the pan- Bahrain in cooperation capabilities to recover from out that the State of Qatar relies demic, he continued. with the General Secre- tariat of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States Qatar, Uzbekistan of the Gulf, through visual Quarantine for children communication tech- ‘enjoy strong ties, nology. travelling with vaccinated Discussions focused on bright future’ exchanging experiences between the Gulf councils parents under review QNA — DOHA on limiting the pandemic effects on SMEs. FAZEENA SALEEM mean the vaccine is valid only Deputy Minister of Foreign Minister of Culture and Sports H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali met yesterday The Shura Council was THE PENINSULA for three months. Studies are Affairs of the Republic of with Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research of the Republic represented in this on in this regard,” she said. Uzbekistan, H E Furkat of Tunisia, H E Olfa Benouda Sioud, on the occasion of her visit to the seminar by H E Nasser Bin The quarantine procedure for She added that people Sidikov, has praised the country. During the meeting, they discussed aspects of cooperation Sulaiman Al Haidar, a children who are not eligible who have registered online strong relations between his between the two countries and ways to support and develop them. member of the Council. for COVID-19 vaccination but would be contacted as per the country and the State of have travelled with parents priority basis and asked Qatar, saying shared culture who have been vaccinated is infected persons to get vacci- and religion among other under consideration, a senior nated to prevent matters link Doha and health official has said. re-infection. Tashkent. “This matter is still under “No scientific data is In an exclusive statement study, and an announcement available that indicates safety to Qatar News Agency (QNA), will come out very soon. and risk of vaccination the Uzbek official noted that Probably, children below 16 towards pregnant and breast- the Republic of Uzbekistan years, who are not eligible to feeding women,” said Dr. Al has established very strong take the vaccine, and if they Bayat. cooperation relations with the come back with parents who She also emphasised that State of Qatar after its inde- have been fully vaccinated side effects due to the pendence, explaining that the and finished their two doses COVID-19 vaccination are two countries are coordi- 14 days before, the parent will similar to those of other nating and conducting a good have to sign an undertaking vaccines. political dialogue between that children will stay home “Some of the infected them. and not be allowed to go out people developed pain and He indicated that during for seven days,” said Dr. Soha tiredness. Pain, headache, his current visit to Doha, he Al Bayat, Head of Vaccination lethargy, and high or increasing had held bilateral talks with at the Ministry of Public temperature are common side Qatari officials, expressing his Health, during a live effects. Among the majority of pleasure for the good organ- Instagram question and the vaccinated people, these ization and good preparation answer session. side effects were cured within for these meetings. “If the child is above 16 24 hours while taking panadol He added, in a related years and has not been vac- or similar tablets while a small context, that he would like at cinated, then they have to be percentage required 48 hours this stage to develop cooper- quarantined. In that case, a for the side effects to go,” said ative relations with Qatar in parent has to stay with the Dr. Al Bayat. the fields of trade and child during the quarantine. According to Dr. Al Bayat, investment, as trade relations If one parent is not vacci- many women who partici- currently do not reflect the nated, then they will have to pated in the clinical trials of strength of the bilateral stay with the child in quar- the COVID-19 vaccine devel- relations. antine,” she added. opment in stage 3 and coinci- He said that, during his In reply to a question dentally got pregnant live a meetings with Qatar Chamber about how long a person healthy and safe pregnancy. (QC), he saw a great oppor- would be immune to “There is no contraindi- tunity to develop trade rela- COVID-19 after vaccination, cation between taking the tions between Qatar and Dr. Al Bayat said that the vaccine and getting pregnant. Uzbekistan, as the export of period might change since And you do not have to wait foodstuffs from Uzbekistan to studies are ongoing. after the vaccine for any Qatar was discussed, as well “The validity has been set period before trying to get as the investment opportu- as three months. This doesn’t pregnant,” she said. nities available in Uzbekistan for Qatari businessmen in the fields of renewable energy and tourism. Armed Forces holds joint exercise The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan THE PENINSULA — DOHA congratulated the State of Qatar on its success in organ- The Armed Forces conducted the 'Command Centers 1' exercise, izing the FIFA Club World Cup in the presence of Chief of Staff of the Qatari Armed Forces, H early this year, expressing his E Lieutenant-General (Pilot) Ghanem bin Shaheen Al Ghanem. confidence that Qatar will The exercise aims to maintain control against illegal acts also organize a successful such as penetration, infiltration, maritime terrorism, maritime World Cup next year in light piracy and all illegal acts that aim to destabilise the security of of the great preparations it the country and harm the interests of the state. has made in this way. The exercise also aims to train commanders and staff HE also stated that he will officers on the planning and implementation of joint opera- visit the Museum of Islamic tions, training on implementing coordination procedures Art and the Qatar National between units, and raising the capabilities of the forces and Library to see opportunities participating parties when carrying out duties on how to deal for cooperation in the cultural with objectives. field between Qatar and The exercise was conducted in the Combined Air Opera- Uzbekistan, adding that he tions Center, with the participation of various units of the Armed will discuss with the Uzbek Forces and the Ministry of Interior represented by the General ambassador in Doha about Directorate of Coasts and Borders Security. The exercise was the possibility of holding an attended by a number of senior officers of the Armed Forces. exhibition for Uzbekistan in Qatar. THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021 HOME 05 Sheikha Hind emphasises role of marriage in fostering social wellbeing

FAZEENA SALEEM connected to it, and who they are,” THE PENINSULA Families need to spend she added. time with their children Sheikha Hind also emphasized The need to build family relation- that in today’s world people are ships in an equal way where each and start conversations more connected to the world, but individual including children are with them at a young less with family and friends in the respected was emphasised by H E age. immediate community. Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, “There is still a lot for us to Vice-Chairperson and CEO of Qatar H E Sheikha Hind bint understand about why people feel Foundation, during an international lonely and how we can tackle these conference on marriage. Hamad Al Thani issues, but I believe it’s about mean- Families need to spend time Vice-Chairperson and CEO of ingful relationships – not just the with their children and start con- Qatar Foundation number of hours in a day that you versations with them at a young spend with people, but the relation- H E Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani (right, top) with other speakers during the plenary age, Sheikha Hind said at a plenary ships you build with them by session of the conference on ‘Marriage: Formation and Constituents of Stability’, yesterday. session of Qatar Foundation learning about their lives and, in member Doha International Family need in order to feel they belong in turn, sharing yours,” she said. Institute’s (DIFI) conference on a community. Speaking about the role of mar- Sümeyye Erdoğan Bayraktar, Vice-President communication is weak, that individual can Marriage: Formation and Constit- “We have to spend time with riage in combating loneliness, of the Women and Democracy Association start feeling lonely,” she added. uents of Stability. our children in building an under- Sheikha Hind said much of a burden in Turkey. Day two of the conference included four “It’s important that family rela- standing of where they come from. placed on marriage to be a solution “Ties to a spouse or children are seen as plenary sessions. It also features an Ask the tionships are built in an equal way The conversations we have with our to problems. adding meaning to life, and these ties are Expert session, where Mostafa Aboussaad, where each individual is respected, children are critical and need to “If we do not go into a marriage formed through mutual obligations, respon- Educational and Social Expert, Kuwait, illu- and that includes our children. We start at a very young age,” said with confidence, a true recognition sibilities, and caring. And having an intimate minates issues surrounding the challenges need to respect that we bring our Sheikha Hind. of what we want, and a commitment confidant in whom you can trust is what in a happy marriage by responding to ques- children up, to have a voice as well, “They have to feel they are able to what we expect to have from that makes marriage critical,” she said. tions on the subject from conference and they need to feel they have this to ask questions, and that we have marriage – and if we do not align “However, not all marriages are ideal. The participants. security within their home,” said the time to answer them. And they those expectations with our partner ability to establish healthy communication The second day also featured a presen- Sheikha Hind. have to feel they belong to a com- – the issues will evolve and the chal- with a spouse and children is not an easy tation of DIFI’s research report on Percep- The session explored the theme munity, which they can only do if lenges will continue,” she said. thing, and when an individual cannot realize tions and experiences of long-lasting mar- of loneliness, and what children they understand how they are The session also heard from their potential within the family, and riage among youth in Qatar. New vaccination headquarters can serve up to 8,000 people daily QNA — DOHA began on February 18, focused general public to receive the asked to carry the required on vaccinating teachers and vaccine. At present, all people cards when they come to the The new headquarters for school personnel, in addition to at high risk or over the age of scheduled vaccination date, and vaccination against COVID-19 other essential workers and 60 years are urged to get the they are required to apply pre- at Qatar National Convention community members who meet vaccine by setting an ventive and precautionary Center (QNCC) is part of Qatar’s the eligibility criteria. appointment and calling the measures, including wearing a expansion of the national The Director of the Office of announced numbers or visiting mask, ensuring hand hygiene programme for vaccination Institutional Project Man- their health centres. and maintaining social against the virus. It is open agement at PHCC and Director Dr. Yasmine noted that to distancing. every day and can serve about of the National Campaign for ensure community safety and She said among the pro- 5,000 to 8,000 people, COVID-19 Vaccine Project Dr. a smooth and effective vacci- tocols for obtaining vaccination depending on the capacity of Yasmin Ali Morad, said that the nation process, invitations are in vaccination headquarters, the center, said a senior official. work strategy is based on vac- sent for appointments in a attendance must be according The center is under the cinating the most vulnerable gradual and phased manner, A view of the vaccination centre set up at QNCC. to the time and specified day, supervision and management populations such as the elderly, and teachers and school staff and adherence to all measures of the Primary Health Care Cor- people with severe chronic con- will receive short text messages vaccination center, with the She indicated that the vac- in order to ensure that the work poration (PHCC) in cooperation ditions, health workers and inviting them to come to the necessity to bring a valid Qatari cination process will continue proceeds smoothly and quickly, with the Ministry of Public other essential workers. vaccination site during specific ID and health card, while others to proceed in the same way, that noting that the time it takes to Health, Hamad Medical Corpo- She added that the new vac- time periods. are required to wait until they is, the vaccine will be given in receive the vaccine will be less ration, volunteers from the cination centre at QNCC will She explained that the receive an invitation via SMS, two doses at the vaccination than one hour, since the medical Qatar Red Crescent Society and enable Qatar to increase its vaccine will be given only to noting that the card renewal headquarters located at QNCC, and training staff and the the administration of QNCC. ability to vaccinate more those who have received an service has also been provided with an interval of three weeks assisting administrative staff The first vaccination phase essential workers and open invitation, provided that it is in the center to reduce time and between the first and second have sufficient experience to in the new headquarters, which more opportunities for the shown when they attend the effort in this regard. doses, while visitors will be facilitate the matter to the public. Qatar aims to vaccinate 90% of eligible population by year-end: Dr. Al Khal

FROM PAGE 1 “We established a group to “And we are ready to In a another move, Dr. Al spread evidence-based infor- extend it to six months as soon Khal said, the Ministry of Public mation and community figures as there is information to do Health has also started an ini- to get the message across,” said that. Then before it is six tiative to visit homes of the Dr. Al Khal. months, we will review the elderly, who cannot make it to Dr. Al Khal said that the data and probably extend the the health centres and admin- national COVID-19 vaccination validity. The present one is istrate the vaccine to them and campaign and its method of only the starting point,” he to their family members. implementation can be adopted added. The virtual event ‘An “So, hope this will help by other countries as a model. Injection of Hope: Do Vaccines change the mind of the elderly In reply to a question about Mean an End to the Pandemic people and their family quarantine exemption for those Is in Sight?’ also featured WHO members,” said Dr. Al Khal. who have been vaccinated, Dr. Regional Director for the He also emphasised on the Al Khal said that the time period Eastern Mediterranean, Dr. fact that Qatar was pro-active of three months could be Ahmed Al Mandhari; WHO in working with the COVID-19 extended. Regional Director for Africa, vaccine manufactures. “The present period for Dr. Matshidiso Moeti; Director- According to Dr. Khal, Qatar is exemption for quarantine was General, International Vaccine part of the global initiative, made from the available data Institute, Dr. Jerome Kim; and COVAX, formed nine months about the duration of protective Head of Secretariat for WHO’s ago to ensure fair and equitable level of antibodies in the blood Strategic and Technical Advisory access to COVID-19 vaccines for following the second dose. But Group for Infectious Hazards, every country. there is more available infor- Professor Nahoko Shindo. Speaking about the chal- mation that the duration is Dr. Moeti said that Ghana lenges faced during the probably longer. It could be a became the first country to COVID-19 vaccination cam- year or even longer. What we receive a delivery of COVID-19 paign, Dr. Al Khal said that ini- have is done is a starting point vaccine which has 600,000 tially the widespread misinfor- of quarantine exemption for AstraZeneca shots as part of mation about vaccine safety, three months and we are global effort to boost vaccine that circulated widely through reviewing the literature and the access. But she expressed hope the social media made a signif- data as it emerges regularly on that at least, “an initial 20% in icant portion of people being a daily and weekly basis,” he Africa to be vaccinated by end reluctant to take the vaccine. said. of the year”. 102 applications for Education Forum MoPH: 562 more participation given approval recover and

QNA— DOHA participants from within the 459 new cases State of Qatar and abroad, and The Organising Committee of it will include various modern THE PENINSULA — DOHA the Virtual Education Forum training workshops.The Head 2021 announced that it has of the Training and Capacity The Ministry of Public Health agreed to accept 102 applica- Development Department and (MoPH) yesterday tions to participate in the activ- the leader of the screening team announced the registration ities and workshops of the at the Forum’s Organising Com- of 459 new confirmed forum scheduled for April 3. mittee Alia Al Basti, confirmed COVID-19. Among them 38 The Assistant Director of the that the acceptance of posts is were travellers returning Educational Guidance determined based on the extent from abroad. Department at the Ministry of of their relevance to the five Another 562 people have Education and Higher Education main axes of the forum, which recovered from the virus, Dr. Abdullah Ali Al Marri, said focus on sustainable devel- bringing the total number of that the Virtual Education opment and linking educational recovered cases in Qatar to Forum 2021, which will be held outcomes to the labor market, 151,787. - remotely - is an extension of in addition to early education, All new cases have been several conferences and forums community partnership and the introduced to isolation and are held by the Ministry of Edu- role of mentoring Educational receiving necessary healthcare cation and Higher Education, and professional development according to their health and the forum will include for teachers. status. 06 HOME THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021 HMC World Hearing Day to focus on causes, prevention

THE PENINSULA - DOHA noise, including occupa- tional noise such as that Causes of hearing loss and from machinery and deafness, prevention, screening explosions; recreational and diagnosis, and management exposure to loud sounds will be the highlights of a series such as that from use of of events marking World Hearing personal audio devices at Day organized this week by high volumes and for Hamad Medical Corporation’s prolonged periods of (HMC) Audiology and Balance time and regular Department under the theme: attendance at concerts, “Hearing care for All! Screen. clubs, and sporting Rehabilitate. Communicate.” events; ageing, in par- Activities marking the day ticular due to degener- included a virtual World Hearing ation of sensory cells; and Day seminar attended by around wax or foreign bodies Ashghal upgrades Environment and 300 participants and awareness maternal rubella, syphilis or blocking the ear canal,” he campaigns organized across certain other infections during highlights. Jelaiah Intersections on Al Khafji Street Hamad General Hospital, Al pregnancy,” he says. He says hearing loss (and Wakra Hospital, Al Khor Hos- Acquired causes which may related ear diseases) can be THE PENINSULA - DOHA flow and increasing the pital, Women’s Wellness and lead to hearing loss at any age, addressed when it is identified vehicular capacity. Research Center and Ambulatory according to him include infec- in a timely manner and appro- The Public Works Authority He also indicated that in Care Center. tious diseases such as menin- priate care is sought. “People (Ashghal) has announced the line with Ashghal’s support to The World Hearing Day, gitis, measles and mumps; at risk of hearing loss should completion of upgrading works local manufacturers and in which falls on March 3, raises chronic ear infections; col- check their hearing regularly. on two intersections on Al line with Ta’heel initiative awareness of hearing loss and lection of fluid in the ear (otitis They should seek care from a Khafji Street which are Envi- which was launched by the the importance of early diag- media); and use of certain med- health care provider because ronment Intersection on the Authority in 2017, local mate- nosis to prevent complications icines, such as those used in the their timely action is important Environment Street, and Jelaiah rials and manufacturers were as well as support for people treatment of neonatal infec- in addressing the current Intersection on Jasim bin relied on for most of the living with hearing loss. tions, malaria, drug-resistant notable increase in the number Hamad Street. project’s work. This year’s event coincides tuberculosis, and cancers. of people living with hearing The upgraded intersections Materials and elements sup- with the launch of the World Dr. Abdul Hadi notes that loss and ear diseases across the are now open to traffic, as part plied from local manufacturers Report on Hearing, presenting among children, chronic otitis world,” he says. of the Road Improvement included gabbro, asphalt and a global call for action to media is a common cause of According to him, in Qatar Works for Roads, Junctions an interlock where the local Qatari address hearing loss and ear hearing loss. “In addition, other over 28,000 patients are d Roundabouts in Greater Doha, component used on the project diseases across the life course. acquired causes can be injury screened for hearing loss yearly Phase 9. highly-frequented Al Khafji has reached 100%. “The causes of hearing loss to the head or ear; excessive while a total of 7,209 and 303 Eng. Ali Sami Jamal (pic- Street as well as Jasim bin Hamad Further to upgrading the and deafness can be congenital patients have been fitted with tured), the Project Engineer in Streetand Environment Street two intersections, the project’s or acquired,” notes Audio-Ves- hearing aids and cochlear Doha Section in the Roads which connect to several scope of works also included a tibular Medicine Consultant and The World Hearing Day, implants respectively. Projects Department at Ashghal important areas such as the Dip- total 1.8km of road works, the Head of Audiology and Balance which falls on March 3, “The services that we offer highlighted the importance of the lomatic Area in Jelaiah Area in construction of a new access on Department, Dr. Khalid Abdul those living with hearing loss upgrading works since they help addition to residential areas such Jasim bin Hamad Street serving Hadi (pictured). raises awareness of (especially children) at HMC’s regulate the traffic movement as North and South Al Duhail, the petrol station, in addition to He explains further that hearing loss and the Audiology Department are and increase the traffic safety on and Umm Lekhba. a new lane to accommodate congenital causes may lead to importance of early unrivalled in the region and are the road especially after the Eng. Jamal also explained traffic on Jasim bin Hamad hearing loss being present at or diagnosis to prevent also on par with leading inter- recent openings on Sabah Al that the completion of the Street heading right towards Al acquired soon after birth. complications as well as national centers. We have high Ahmad Corridor and particularly upgrading works on the two Khafji Street. “Hearing loss can be caused by quality equipment and well on Umm Lekhba Interchange. intersections has significantly Landscaping and beauti- hereditary and non-hereditary support for people living qualified staff providing top These recently opened inter- enhanced the traffic flow and fication works were also genetic factors or by certain with hearing loss. notch care to all our patients sections will provide accesses to reduced the congestion in the implemented alongside the complications during preg- both as new and follow-up service facilities in the area, and area especially that the project intersections as well as Al nancy and childbirth, including cases,” Dr. Abdul Hadi adds. they directly link to the aimed at improving the traffic Khafji Street. QU Board approves pharmacy Lulu Hypermarket joins Ellen MacArthur programme restructuring

THE PENINSULA - DOHA be phased out gradually, and Foundation to promote circular economy the new curriculum will start The Qatar University Board of from September 2021. THE PENINSULA - DOHA Regents has approved the QU-CPH Dean Dr. Mohamed pharmacy curriculum’s Diab said, “No doubt that the Lulu Group International, the restructuring to align with the restructuring of CPH BSc. leading business conglomerate latest developments in modular curriculum and the that has diversified business pharmacy education globally relaunch and restructuring of the interests in the Middle East, in North America, Europe, and part-time PharmD Program will North Africa, India, Malaysia New Zealand. open new doors and learning and Indonesia, has joined the Foundation’s Network, the group values (ESG) as well as contribu- Qatar University College of opportunities for our respected Ellen MacArthur Foundation as will have the opportunity to col- tions to improve people’s quality Pharmacy (QU-CPH) set out to students. This is a huge a Network member to facilitate laborate with some of the world’s of life and satisfaction. introduce curricular reform and achievement and milestone for collaboration for accelerating its leading organisations. In the near Dr. Mohamed Althaf, Director upgrade the level of curricular the College of Pharmacy." ongoing efforts towards the tran- term, we hope to see the Lulu of Lulu Group International, said: integration into the Bachelor of The Board of Regents also sition to a circular economy. Group spark projects in markets “Sustainability is the core of our Science in Pharmacy (BSc approved the relaunch and The Ellen MacArthur Foun- where we have traditionally had company’s strategy. Joining Ellen Pharm) programme. restructuring of the qualifying dation is a UK-registered a smaller presence.” MacArthur Foundation would The BSc Pharm programme courses within the part-time charity that develops and pro- Lulu Group has always been give us an opportunity to share towards circularity is key to currently consists of 173 credit Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) motes the idea of a circular working on the integration and our learnings with others. This ensure that consumers are pro- hours and five years of study. program at Qatar University economy – a global systemic implementation of sustaina- will also help us to formulate our vided with a more durable, With the new approved modular College of Pharmacy. The part- shift from the ‘take, make, bility principles across different strategy in reduction of food repairable, recyclable and curriculum, students will com- time PharmD program targets waste’ extractive model to one spheres of its activity for a long waste and to make progress in reusable choices. Aligned with plete 165 credit hours in five practicing pharmacists with a that designs out waste and pol- time, aligned with the sus- sustainable packaging.” this, Lulu also has focused on a years of study, with a pro- Bachelor of Science in lution, keeps products and tainable development goals of In recognition of its con- cost-effective implementation gramme that provides the grad- Pharmacy degree interested in materials in use, and regen- the United Nations. As a mul- tinued efforts towards sustaina- of proactive measures to uating students a better pursuing an advanced degree erates natural systems. tinational organisation with bility, Lulu Group was bestowed increase the intake and pro- approach to patient-centered in clinical pharmacy. A circular economy offers majority of its operations in with the ‘Sustainability Award’ motion of recyclable products, care, enriches the student expe- The newly restructured solutions to tackle global chal- those countries that have food in Qatar Region from the Gulf promote healthier food options, rience, optimizes integration qualifying courses were reduced lenges such a climate change, security vulnerabilities, Lulu Organization for Research and reduce the waste which is dis- between courses, and updates from 11 courses (23 credits) to 8 waste and pollution, and bio- Group is mindful of its respon- Development (GORD) in the year posed through landfill and the overall assessment plan. courses (20 credits). They will diversity loss. Underpinned by sibilities. In line with this, they 2019. Most recently, Lulu Group’s encourage recycling. The students will complete the integrate a blended learning a transition to renewable have taken various measures Chairman and Managing Director Besides these, they have same number of experiential approach with online and face- energy, a circular economy in cooperation with the local Yusuffali M.A. has won the ‘Sus- also started sourcing of more hours, and a series of eight (four to-face sessions that will provide designs out waste, and pol- regulatory bodies to maintain tainable Business Leader of the products and services from sus- credits) modular systems-based flexibility to complete the lution, maximises resource effi- food security in the region it Year 2020’ Award from Abu tainable/circular partners who courses will be part of the new courses over a 1-to-2-year ciency, and promotes the reuse, operates and inhouse policies Dhabi Sustainability Group share the common philosophy, curriculum. These modules cover period before entering the sharing, repair, refurbishment to reduce the food wastage. (ADSG) for his excellence in which will give the opportunity different diseases and medication PharmD program. and recycling of materials. As a responsible retailer, Lulu implementing the Sustainability for customers to make more management, including cardi- The program is looking Commending the promising Group has framed its own best practices in retail. informed choices. ology, oncology, respiratory, infec- forward to welcoming the first initiative of Lulu Group, Joe strategy on sustainability, which Lulu Group has made Apart from these, Lulu for- tious diseases, endocrinology, etc. batch of pharmacists into the Murphy, the Network Lead at the is put into practice in all its retail advancements in pursuit of cir- mulated and executed an action These courses will integrate the newly restructured program. Ellen MacArthur Foundation said: units and supply chains cularity starting with recycling plan to reduce the use of plastic different disciplines, including The part-time PharmD “With a diverse portfolio, there worldwide. The strategy mainly of packaging materials, reduction bags by encouraging customers pathophysiology, pharmacology, program will commence in is great scope for the Lulu Group involved outlining of projects for of food waste, and the intro- to go for reusable choices – a and pharmacotherapy. August 2022 and begin accepting to embed circular economy prac- overall improvements in social, duction of recyclable paper bags. woven bag or a more environ- The current curriculum will applications in Fall 2021. tices and, as a member of the environmental and economic A comprehensive policy mentally friendly jute bag. Splash unveils Plus Size Spring Summer 2021 collection

THE PENINSULA — DOHA cotton, Lenzing viscose, recycled bright reds, gold trims & classic key elements here. polyester, and tech finishes using blue denim are an absolute must Also, Neo Nature is all Splash has unveiled its Spring anti-bacterial technology. Don’t here. about natural fabrics which Summer 2021 collection for XXL miss the tags on garments that The key colors are red/white/ add to comfort. This collection Brand for both Men & Women. specify whether the product is blue with pink in print to give a celebrates spring in shades of The brand believes in “body natural or nature’s comfort and contemporary twist in this col- green & beige. Tropical foliage positivity” and inclusive fashion, recycle or advance comfort lection. Shirt dress/long knit print is re-imagined and scaled offering comfortable, trendy, products with finishes. T-shirt dress are key shapes. to dynamic proportions. and affordable clothing for The women’s collection It’s maritime covers classic Foliage and animal prints are everyday needs. includes four categories, nautical stripes are re-imagined converted into lush textures in Splash plus-size collections including ‘Seas the day’ con- and combined in statement natural blend fabrics. So let’s speak of the brand’s com- sisting of classic nautical colours pieces. Wear these easy stripes calm down and unwind as we mitment to being sustainable by re-imagined and combined in separate with your favourite head into spring! The shapes everyday needs of plus-size hoodies, knit tops & printed tees indulging in eco-friendly fabrics oversized florals. Wear this bold denim for a perfect nautical are coordinates and tiered women — time to gear up and are the key elements here, with and finishes. The sustainable col- floral print with your favorite spring look. Breathable fabrics, dresses. look fabulous, whether in gyms recycle polyester fabrics tech- lection & finishes using BCI denim for a perfect nautical graded colour-blocked stripe Besides, Get Active is a small or at the yoga class. Comfort is nically finished with wicking (Better Cotton Initiative), organic spring-day look. Textured knits, prints & easy silhouettes are the capsule curated for the a key factor. Printed leggings, and quick dry. THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021 HOME 07

Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor is ‘Lung of Doha’ & alternate route for Doha Expressway and 22 February Street

THE PENINSULA – DOHA Al Ahmad Corridor. In addition, the interchange is located in Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor which was opened densely populated neighbourhoods with many yesterday is ‘Lung of Doha’ and alternate route big commercial outlets, many governmental insti- for Doha Expressway and 22 February Street. tutions, educational and health facilities, as well It will contribute greatly to ease traffic con- as big shopping complexes and markets. gestion in Doha in general, especially for those The interchange can accommodate more than coming from south to north, as the road is an ideal 20,000 vehicles per hour, as five out of nine alternate route to Doha Expressway & February bridges consist of two lanes in one direction, while 22nd Street, with better traffic flow. the other four bridges are of one-way lane. The commuter from HIA through this road The interchange will reduce traffic pressure will reach Umm Lekhba Interchange on Al Shamal on Al Shamal Road, especially at Al Gharrafa Road in less than 18 minutes, while the same Interchange (Immigration Interchange) and Al journey through Doha Expressway & 22 February Duhail Interchange. It will also provide Street takes about 50 minutes, which means excellent traffic flow for commuters from Doha cutting 70 percent of travel time. Corniche, Al Markhiya, Madinat Khalifa and Al The Corridor extends from Hamad Interna- Duhail in the direction of Al Shamal Road, Sabah tional Airport, south of Doha, to Umm Lekhba Al Ahmad Corridor, Al Gharrafa and Gharrafat Interchange, (Landmark Interchange) on Al Al Rayyan areas, reaching up to Al Luqta and Shamal Road at a distance of more than 29km, Al Rayyan. besides the length of newly developed service roads and perpendicular roads connecting with the Corridor, total project work reaches to an Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor - a approximate length of 41km. vital artery in the heart of Doha Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor also includes con- struction of pedestrian crossings including seven bridges and two pedestrian underpasses, besides Residential neighbourhoods and 50.5km-long bicycle and pedestrian paths to major roads ensure safe movement of people, in addition to cables and 754 precast concrete pieces of more considered as a major access road providing par- beautification and tree plantation works along than 200 tons in weight and setting up 20 columns allel traffic to Al Waab Street and connecting The new corridor is a major link connecting an approximate area of 355,642 square metres. and 16 pillars to reach the height of the highest traffic from Doha Expressway in the direction of about 15 major roads including Doha Expressway, Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor has many special point from the bridge to 30 metres. Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor and Al Khufoos Street Al Wakra Road, Ras Bu Abboud Street, G Ring features: This indigenous cable-stayed bridge will be to Al Furousiya Street, reducing traffic pressure Road, Industrial Area Road, Salwa Road, Al First road named ‘Corridor’ with distinct a great leap in the traffic culture of Doha due to on Al Waab Street. Murraikh Interchange is also Rayyan Road, Al Waab Street, Al Luqta Street, Al its strategic location above Haloul interchange connected with Al Mokafaha Interchange that Markhiya Street and Al Shamal Road, which calligraphic naming and Faleh bin Nasser interchange on Salwa Road, connects Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor with Al serves more than 25 densely populated residential Due to the importance of the road named after where it will catch traffic coming to and from Rayyan Road, which will reduce the parallel traffic neighborhoods such as Al Thumama, Bu Hamour, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, this is the first Hamad International Airport and will reduce movement on Doha Expressway and 22 February Al Waab, Al Rayyan, Al Luqta and Al Gharrafa road in Qatar to be a corridor, and the name Sabah traffic pressure on parallel roads such as Street. among others. Al Ahmad Corridor is written on signboards in Wholesale Market Street and Doha Expressway. distinctive calligraphy similar to Al Majd Road, Deepest and Longest Underpass Sports Facilities and World Cup to distinguish it from the rest of the names of Al Waab Interchange, Murraikh The corridor project includes Al Rayyan Stadiums roads and streets in Qatar. Interchange & Longest Bridge in Qatar Underpass, the longest and deepest two-way underpass with a length of 2.1km, extending below Sabah Al Ah mad Corridor facilitates access Integration of Mesaimeer Bridge, Bu Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor includes the longest Lebday Interchange (Al Mokafaha Interchange) to most of FIFA 2022 World Cup stadiums Hamour Bridge and Cable-stayed Bridge bridge in Qatar with a length of 2.6 km extending at a depth of 25 metres. The underpass connects including Ras Bu Abboud Stadium, Al Thumama The Mesaimeer Bridge extended along 1,600 over Al Waab Interchange, Murraikh Interchange traffic coming from Al Waab, Murraikh inter- Stadium, Al Janoub Stadium, Khalifa International metres, and the Bu Hamour Bridge extended and Snay Bu Hasa Interchange. The bridge con- changes and Makkah interchange in Al Luqta area Stadium, Education City Stadium, as well as many along 900 metres on the corridor to facilitate sists of four lanes in each direction to provide without the need to use Al Rayyan Road. other sports facilities such as Aspire Zone, Al free flow traffic from the south of Sabah Al free flow traffic for commuters from Salwa Road Gharrafa stadium, Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al Ahmad Corridor towards the cable-stayed bridge and Al Waab in the direction of Al Rayyan and Al Makkah Interchange Sadd) and Ali bin Hamad Al Attiyah Hall. over Haloul intersection and Faleh Bin Nasser Rayyan Road and vice versa. The project also includes Makkah Interchange, interchange. which consists of a bridge with four lanes in each Doha Metro Al Waab Interchange direction, ensuring a free flow traffic between Al Sabah Al Ahmad corridor project integrates Cable-Stayed Bridge Al Waab Interchange will be reopened after Rayyan and Al Gharrafa, and a signaled inter- with the metro network by connecting with The 1,200M long Cable-Stayed Bridge was converting it from signaled intersection to a three section that facilitates access to Al Luqta area. several stations including Free Zone Station, Al designed to construct without columns up to a level interchange to provide improved traffic flow Waab Station, Al Rayyan Al Qadeem Station, Oqba distance of 150 metres, taking into account all in all directions. The interchange facilitates access Al Luqta Underpass Ibn Nafei Station and Al Sudan Station. safety factors while constructing the bridge, to important roads such as Doha Expressway, The corridor includes the 500-metre long Al including supporting the bridge with about 120 Salwa Road and Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor. Luqta interchange that intersects with Khalifa Economic entities It consists of three bridges and a ground level Street, directly linking Al Luqta and Al Gharrafa, Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor contributes to signalled junction on Al Waab Street. The inter- providing an alternative road to the nearby tilted linking important economic organisations in the change will also provide traffic flow to neigh- intersection. country from Hamad International Airport passing borhood areas such as Al Waab, Fereej Al Soudan, through Free Zone, Municipal Market to the com- Al Sadd, Mehairja, Al Rayyan and Muaither, where Umm Lekhba, the Biggest Interchange mercial outlets beside Al Waab Interchange and there are many educational institutions and health Umm Lekhba Interchange is the largest inter- Umm Lekhba Interchange. The corridor also facil- facilities, commercial outlets and residential change in Qatar, with a length of 11km, and it is itates access to Doha Industrial Area through its neighbourhoods. the first in Qatar in highest number of levels, con- link with Industrial Area Road. The interchange will also facilitate access to sisting four levels and nine bridges that provide a number of sports facilities such as Khalifa Inter- free traffic flow in all directions. It also includes Health and educational facilities national Stadium, Jassim bin Hamad Stadium (Al the second highest bridge in Qatar with a height As for health facilities, Sabah Al Ahmad Cor- Sadd), Ali bin Hamad Al Attiyah Hall and Aspire of 30 metres. ridor, by linking with the highway network in Zone, in addition to nearby metro stations along Umm Lekhba interchange is also significant the country, provide best way to reach health the Golden Line such as Al Sudan Station and Al in its position as the north gate to Doha city and facilities around the route including Sidra Med- Waab Station. a ‘distribution point’ of traffic due to its strategic icine Hospital, Mesaimeer Health Center and location. The interchange is located at the Al Thumama Health Center. The corridor also Murraikh Interchange northern entrance to Doha city, where the heavy facilitates access to many educational institu- Murraikh Interchange is integrated with Al traffic movement to and from Doha towards Al tions including institutions in the Education Waab Interchange, after converting Lekhwiya Shamal direction, and it is located in an important City, besides many schools and nearby Roundabout into a two-level interchange. It is spot where Al Shamal Road intersects with Sabah institutes. 08 VIEWS THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021 Presence of cultural Arab in Peru Established in 1996 ne of the communities CHAIRMAN that went to Peru in DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI Osearch of a new oppor- tunities abroad of their native land; was undoubtedly the EDITOR-IN-CHIEF people from the Arab world, DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI who with their valuable [email protected] contribution in many cultural, economic and social aspects made the country a suitable ACTING MANAGING EDITOR place to live. MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED Since the arrival of the [email protected] first Europeans to the lands of South America and specifi- cally to Peru, the Arab DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR migrant came with a pro- MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI found civilization of more [email protected] than 700 years in the Iberian Peninsula which is referred to as the territory of Al-Andalus. Lima, the capital of Peru, EDITORIAL where the first Spanish Vice- royalty was established with an Arab influence demon- strated unswervingly in the Call for global peace architecture of our city. A symbolic sample was the con- THE State of Qatar has reiterated its commitment to structions of the balconies of disarmament efforts around the globe, and has voiced the colonial era, beautifully its support to protecting humanity from the devastation represented -to this day- in of deadly weapons. Working towards maintaining global the Torre Tagle Palace, head- The Palace of Torre Tagle, headquarters of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Peru. peace and security has been the state’s longstanding quarters of our current Min- policy. istry of Foreign Affairs; and, Historian Leyla covered their heads and faces Speaking at the Conference on Disarmament in built at the beginning of the with comfortable silk shawls, Geneva, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign 18th century until 1735. Bartet, in her book exposing only one eye. This Affairs, H E Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi, said Historian Leyla Bartet, in “Memories of Cedar style resembles the attire of Qatar pursues a consistent and clear national policy on her book “Memories of Cedar Islamic women. disarmament issues based on its commitment to its and Olive”, in Chapter III, and Olive”, in Chapter Music, one of the key ele- responsibilities towards maintaining international peace “The Arabs in Peru” mentions III, “The Arabs in ments that had evolved from and security, and in its belief in the need to support all that “it is estimated that from the ancient Arabic civilization efforts aimed at disarmament in the world. 1860 to 1890 an approximate Peru” mentions that through the Moorish rule; Doha has also welcomed the agreement between number of 600 thousand “it is estimated that allowing the spread of the the United States and Russia to extend the Strategic Arabs left the Middle East as from 1860 to 1890 an Arab tuning methods into the Arms Reduction Treaty (New START). Qatar’s envoy at America as a destination, a western world. Thanks to this the Geneva conference said the extension of the treaty flow that intensified from approximate number transmission of art, many was a right step towards limiting and getting rid of the 1900 to 1914”. JOSÉ A. BENZAQUEN PEREA, of 600 thousand instruments were introduced nuclear armament cycle. It is in June of 1919, when AMBASSADOR OF PERU TO QATAR to the rest of the world such Al Hammadi said the Middle East region faces an Peru begins a process of wel- Arabs left the Middle as the Oud, the Nay, the violin important security dilemma represented by the presence coming migrants from this of Peru, in 1880, whose trade East as America as as well as the guitar, an and use of weapons of mass destruction. This situation part of the world, who was commerce. instrument that is heavily constitutes a real threat that must be addressed. In this traveled with an Ottoman Undoubtedly, the a destination, a flow used in my country Peru. regard, he reaffirmed Qatar’s full support for holding a passport, and later arrived presence of the Arabs in Peru that intensified from On the other hand, the new session of the United Nations conference on estab- with a French passport from was very positive in the past Arab presence is also shown lishing a zone free of nuclear weapons and other weapons Lebanon or with an English or and in the present as we have 1900 to 1914”. in the hydraulic system, agri- of mass destruction in the Middle East during this year. Jordanian travel document in successfully opened several cultural instruments, and at Establishing such a zone in the region will also con- the case of the Palestinians. resident Embassies in the very first Islamic center of the the same time in new crops, tribute to achieving security, stability, peace and sus- These first immigrants region including, Egypt, reunion of the Muslims such as sugar cane, cotton, tainable development, as well as enhancing the credi- who came across South Algeria, Morocco and the Gulf residing in Lima including rice, citrus, bananas, some bility of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear America (Argentina, Uruguay countries: Qatar, Saudi many Peruvians who con- vegetables, cinnamon, cumin, Weapons, especially in light of the existing regional and and Bolivia), settled in the Arabia, Kuwait and the Con- verted to Islam. Arequipa was pepper, palm trees and the international tensions. regions of Huancavelica and sulate General of Dubai. also one of the cities that was date palm including, our gas- Doha has signed a number of global accords on Arequipa (the Peruvian In 1979, the Palestinian introduced to the Islamic faith tronomy which has also been disarmament and, in 2004, also set up a National Com- Andes). It is claimed that in Club was established in Lima, by building another place of fused with the Arabic culinary mittee for the Prohibition of Weapons. Arequipa from 1880 to 1920, where a large number of Arab worship and another Pales- cuisine. At the Geneva session, Qatar called on the interna- of the 20 commercial com- descendants gather, those tinian Club. The Arab civilization left a tional community, especially the countries sponsoring panies, five were originally who have integrated into the Peruvian women was also legacy of discoveries and the 1995 resolution, which was mainly related to the Palestinians. Peruvian society, giving it introduced to the oriental achievements that we are still endless extension of the Treaty on the Non-Prolifer- Denys Cuche, professor at their knowledge and their dif- fashion aspect shown through learning from. ation of Nuclear Weapons, to fulfill their responsibilities the Sorbonne University ferent cultural touch. the ‘La tapada Limeña’, the Finally, I have to write and duties towards implementing the resolutions of the (1997), a researcher spe- In addition, the first inau- name used at the time of the that I will continue along with 2010 conference, and other relevant decisions. It also cialized in immigration, tells gurated Mosque, named viceroyalty of Peru and the my research for the discovery affirmed the legitimate right of all countries, especially us about Syrian-Palestinian Masjid Bab-Ul-Islam located early years of the Republic to of a Qatari presence within developing countries, to the peaceful use of nuclear immigrations to the Peruvian in an important District of designate the Limeña women the journey of the Arabic energy, in accordance with the standards and proce- Amazon, in the eastern region Magdalena, Lima, was the “The women of Lima” who influence in Peru. dures of the International Atomic Energy Agency and under its supervision and in line with the comprehensive safeguards system. The envoy also called on the Conference on Disar- Finally, there’s some hope for an end to Libya’s pain mament to review and expand its membership in order to be more representative. BOBBY GHOSH so-called Libyan National foreign patrons of both sides flow of oil exports. The recent BLOOMBERG Army dominated the coun- seem to have concluded that end of a nine-month blockade try’s eastern half, took control neither can pull off a decisive by Haftar’s forces has allowed If the recent news of a United of the “oil crescent,” a string military victory. That may production to rise to about 1.3 Nations-brokered deal for a of towns along the Mediter- explain why Egypt, the UAE million barrels a day, but poor D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR “unity government” in Libya ranean. Advancing toward and Turkey have all pro- infrastructure has interrupted EMAIL: [email protected] has a familiar ring, it is him were western forces loyal nounced themselves satisfied output and strikes by port because we’ve seen this to the UN-approved council with the new deal and security have disrupted movie before - and it didn’t in Tripoli that had defeated pledged to back the Dbeibah- exports. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 end well. But if the principal ISIS in Sirte. But Haftar Menfi government. For Still, Libya finally has a FAX: +974 4455 7758 actors stick to their parts, brushed aside the westerners another, Libyans themselves unified national budget for there is a chance the script and brought his army to the are plainly tired of the fighting the first time since 2014 and MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 will play out differently this gates of the capital, before a and are hurting from its its central bank has unified time. Turkish military intervention impact, along with that of the the exchange rate, which DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 At the end of 2015, a UN- sent him packing. coronavirus pandemic, on augurs well for currency sta- brokered deal promised an This impasse finally their economy. bilization and the easing of a LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 end to Libya’s political brought the UN to mediate a The challenge for the gov- longstanding liquidity crisis. turmoil. After months of frac- new agreement. This time, the ernment will be to manage Ultimately, though, the BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 tious talks, delegates from the delegates gathered in Geneva expectations - of ordinary success of the new deal will country’s warring factions and elected a slate of candi- Libyans, of the political fac- depend on the willingness of SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 met in the Moroccan coastal dates such as the western tions and of the international the factions and their patrons town of Skhirat and agreed to businessman-politician community. The first test will to keep their weapons ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 form a unified government of Mohammed Dbeibah, who come this week with the sheathed. Hopes that foreign email: [email protected] national unity, headed by a will be Libya’s prime minister, naming of the new cabinet. forces and mercenaries would presidential council. The and Mohammad Younes Although the political factions begin to go home have been PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 council had one month to Menfi, an easterner, who will are jockeying for control of dashed; instead, Turkey and email: [email protected] name a cabinet, which would head the new three-member key ministries, the prime Russia are setting up per- stabilize the country, extirpate presidency council. They have minister’s own druthers are to manent military bases, the ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 terrorist groups like the until the end of this week to appoint technocrats. better to protect their local FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] Islamic State and eventually form a cabinet, and the end of Libyans, exhausted from partners as well as economic pave the way to general the year to hold new national 10 years of nearly continuous interests. Turkey, for instance, CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 elections. elections. fighting, are counting on the has billions of dollars in email: [email protected] Within months, the Can they make it? There new government to reen- business contracts at stake, as agreement was in tatters. The are some grounds for ergize a sclerotic economy, well as an interest in new oil SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 warlord Khalifa Haftar, whose optimism. For one thing, the which will require a steady and gas exploration deals. FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

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+974 6698 6188 THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021 GULF / MIDDLE EAST 09 Kuwait celebrates 60th National Day today

During the celebrations, Kuwait is first under the leadership of H H the continue celebrating the event in their an establishment council tasked with achievements in the humanitarian also remembering the great Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Nawaf Al homes. setting the constitution that relies on field, continuously aiding those in need Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah. Meanwhile, all segments of society democracy. around the world. efforts of the late Amir H H Sheikh During the celebrations, Kuwait is are cooperating to deal with the impact The constitution was approved by These efforts were recognized by Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al also remembering the great efforts of of the coronavirus, including the great Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem in November the UN in September 2014, granting the late Amir H H Sheikh Sabah Al efforts of the health care workers and 1962, then holding the first legislative late His Highness Sheikh Sabah the Sabah, who passed away after Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, who passed people who volunteered in different elections in January 23, 1963. “Humanitarian Leader” title, and long years of national and away after long years of national and areas. Kuwait’s foreign policy has always Kuwait the “Humanitarian Center” title. international achievements. Kuwait had celebrated the first been neutral and peaceful, while also In the 70s and 80s, the National international achievements. Although this year’s celebrations national day on June 19, 1962, organ- focusing on cooperation with regional Day celebrations were held along the come in time of the coronavirus virus ising a huge military performance. and international organisations to Arabian Gulf street, with perform- QNA — KUWAIT CITY crisis, as today marks one year since National day celebrations con- achieve international peace and ances by school students and musical discovering the first coronavirus case tinued to be held on June 19 between stability. bands. The State of Kuwait is set to celebrate in Kuwait, this crisis showed Kuwaiti 1962-64, but an Amiri decree issued Kuwait had also built strong rela- In 1985, Kuwait opened the Flag its 60th National Day today, marking people’s strength and unity in facing on May 18, 1964, merging Inde- tions with the Arab and Muslim Worlds, Square overlooking Arabian Gulf to the efforts of its leadership to develop the pandemic. pendence Day with ascension of Sheikh and exerted great efforts in supporting hold national celebrations. The all sectors and preserve the country’s Even though public celebrations Abdullah Al Salem to office to be Feb- the work of the GCC, Arab League and square also includes the longest pole, peace and stability. are banned by the government due to ruary 25. the UN. raising the Kuwaiti flag to about 36 This year’s celebrations will be the the ongoing crisis, Kuwaiti families will In the same year, Kuwait launched Moreover, the country has great meters. Biden moves to reengage with Palestinians after Israel focus

AP — WASHINGTON on Tuesday that a US delegation unilateral steps that make a attended a meeting of a Nor- two-state solution more dif- The Biden administration is wegian-run committee that ficult to achieve,” it said. moving slowly but surely serves as a clearinghouse for US participation in the toward reengaging with the assistance to the Palestinians. meeting followed a Monday call Palestinians after a near total Although little-known outside between Secretary of State absence of official contact foreign policy circles, the so- Antony Blinken and Israel’s during former President Donald called Ad Hoc Liaison Com- foreign minister in which Trump’s four years in office. mittee has been influential in Blinken stressed that the new As American officials plan the peace process since Israel US administration unambigu- steps to restore direct ties with the and the Palestinians signed the ously supports a two-state Palestinian leadership, Biden’s Oslo Accords in 1993. solution. Israeli Prime Minister national security team is taking “During the discussion, the Benjamin Netanyahu, who is steps to restore relations that had United States reaffirmed the US close to Trump, has eschewed been severed while Trump commitment to advancing pros- the two-state solution. pursued a Mideast policy focused perity, security, and freedom for Biden spoke to Netanyahu largely around Israel, America’s both Israelis and Palestinians and last week for the first time as closest partner in the region. to preserve the prospects of a president after a delay that On Tuesday, for the second negotiated two-state solution in many found suspicious and sug- A picture taken with a drone shows the city of Jericho, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, yesterday. time in two days, Biden’s which Israel lives in peace and gestive of a major realignment President Joe Biden’s national security team is taking steps to restore relations that had been severed administration categorically security alongside a viable Pal- in US policy. Blinken, however, while former President Donald Trump pursued a Mideast policy focused largely around Israel. embraced a two-state solution estinian state,” the State has spoken to Israeli Foreign to the Israeli-Palestinian con- Department said in a statement. Minister Gabi Ashkenazi twice ensure Israel’s future as a would have required significant the US embassy to the city from flict, something that Trump had “The United States under- amid ongoing concern in Israel Jewish and democratic state, Palestinian concessions on ter- Tel Aviv, cut off aid to the Pal- been purposefully vague about scored the commitment to sup- about Biden’s intentions in the living in peace alongside a ritory and sovereignty. estinian Authority, closed the while slashing aid to the Pales- porting economic and human- region, particularly his desire viable and democratic Pales- The Palestinians, however, Palestinian diplomatic mission tinians and taking steps to itarian assistance and the need to reenter the Iran nuclear deal. tinian state,” State Department rejected it out of hand and in Washington and rescinded a support Israel’s claims to land to see progress on outstanding In Monday’s call, Blinken spokesperson Ned Price said. accused the US of no longer long-standing legal opinion that that the Palestinians want for projects that will improve the “emphasized the Biden admin- The Trump administration being an honest peace broker Israeli settlement activity is ille- an independent state. lives of the Palestinian people, istration’s belief that the two- had presented its own version of after Trump recognised Jeru- gitimate under international The State Department said while urging all parties to avoid state solution is the best way to a two-state peace plan, though it salem as Israel’s capital, moved law, Three killed in clashes as Iran nuclear issue at ‘critical point’: China mob storms governor's AP & REUTERS — BEIJING/TEHRAN is a party to the agreement “The current situation on offending party to return, known as the JCPOA, while also the Iranian nuclear issue is at restart and compensate for the Developments surrounding maintaining friendly relations a critical point, with both damages as well as to reassure office in southeast Iran Iran’s nuclear programme are and close economic ties with opportunities and challenges,” that they would not renege at a “critical point” and lifting Tehran. Wang told reporters at a daily again,” Ambassador Esmaeil AP — TEHRAN border, in Pakistan, officials sanctions on the country is key That has long set China briefing. Baghaei Hamaneh said. lamented the loss of life and to breaking the deadlock, against sanctions, and Beijing “We have always believed “There is a path forward Three people were killed over urged authorities of both coun- China’s Foreign Ministry said worked with Germany, that the return of the U.S. to the with a logical sequence as two days in clashes in the tries to investigate the yesterday. France, Britain and Russia to comprehensive agreement and (Iranian Foreign) Minister southeastern Iranian town of shootings and resulting Spokesperson Wang Wen- maintain the deal after former the lifting of sanctions against (Mohammad Javad) Zarif Saravan near the border with mayhem. Sana Ullah Baluch, a bin’s comments came a day after President Donald Trump’s Iran are the keys to breaking recently outlined.” Pakistan, the semiofficial Ilna member of the Baluchistan Pro- Iran officially began restricting decision to pull the US unilat- the deadlock in the Iranian The United States urged news agency reported. vincial Assembly and former international inspections of its erally out in 2018. nuclear issue,” Wang said. Iran again on Tuesday to coop- An angry mob stormed the senator in the government, told nuclear facilities in a bid to The new administration of It is up to the United States erate with the International district governor’s office a local TV channel that he’d pressure European countries and President Joe Biden has sought to make the first move in saving Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Tuesday, a day after shootings heard reports of higher death the US into lifting crippling eco- to reverse that decision, although the Iran nuclear deal, Iran’s saying that Tehran is moving of fuel smugglers at the border tolls, without providing nomic sanctions and restoring Iran’s violations of the JCPOA and ambassador in Geneva told the further away from compliance left at least two people dead. evidence. the 2015 nuclear deal. the move Tuesday to limit inter- UN-sponsored Conference on under its nuclear constraints, Tuesday’s Ilna report “Our innocent jobless As a permanent member of national inspections underscore Disarmament on Wednesday. State Department spokesman quoted Malak Fazeli, Saravan’s youths go to Iran because of the UN Security Council, China how difficult that task is. “The onus is on the Ned Price said. representative in parliament, unemployment, they don’t go as saying: “As far as I know, there just for entertainment,” three people lost their lives he said of the violence that Israeli forces while being transferred to the broke out when outraged pro- hospital.” testers stormed a police station attack Palestinian It was unclear whether all and later the governor’s office three people were killed in the in Saravan. “The governments boats, farmers border shootings or if one of the of Pakistan and Iran should fatalities was a result of the devise some policy... so that QNA — OCCUPIED JERUSALEM chaos at the district governor’s these men don’t face bullets, office. Fazeli said another eight batons and torture.” Israeli navy yesterday people were hospitalised with Saravan is a major city in attacked Palestinian fishing injuries but three were Sistan-Baluchestan, a desert boats sailing offshore the city released. He said calm had province that is one of the most of Gaza, Wafa news agency returned to the town. restive and least developed reported. On the other side of the parts of Iran. The Israeli navy opened fire and water hoses at Pales- tinian fishing boats sailing within six nautical miles off- Iran arrested French tourist shore Gaza city, causing damages to the boats. The nine months ago: Lawyer fishermen had to leave the REUTERS — DUBAI water and abruptly end their fishing mission, which is their Iran has detained a French tourist for nine months and his lawyers sole source of livelihood. have been denied access to him, one of the lawyers, Saeid Dehghan, Meanwhile, Israeli forces said. “His name is Benjamin and he is being held at the Vakilabad UNRWA official receives vaccine in Gaza manning Gaza’s frontier prison in the city of Mashahd. He was detained nine months ago opened fire at Palestinian Matthias Schmale, UNRWA’s Gaza director, receiving a vaccine against the coronavirus disease in and he faces contradictory and baseless charges,” Dehghan said. farmers and shepherds who Gaza City, yesterday. Iran’s judiciary was not available to comment. were tending their groves and flocks to the east of Khan Younes city, in the southern coastal enclave, forcing them Turkish court convicts three in Ghosn escape trial to leave. No casualties were reported though. REUTERS — ISTANBUL The court sentenced them company funds for personal An executive from Turkish time they served. All defendants Israeli occupation forces to four years and two months purposes, charges he denies. private jet operator MNG Jet and have pleaded not guilty to the launched a campaign of arrests A Turkish court convicted an on charges of migrant smug- The ousted chairman of the four pilots were detained by charges. in various areas of the West executive of Turkish jet gling. It acquitted two other alliance of Renault, Nissan Turkish authorities in early The Ghosn saga has shaken Bank, during which they company MNG and two pilots pilots of the same charge. Motor Co and Mitsubishi Motors January 2020 and charged with the global auto industry, at one arrested six Palestinians from over their role in flying former Ghosn, once a leading light Corp had been awaiting his trial migrant smuggling. point jeopardising the Renault- different parts of Tulkarm, all Nissan Motor Co Ltd Chairman of the global car industry, was under house arrest in Japan The defendants were Nissan alliance which he mas- of whom were released pris- Carlos Ghosn out of Japan arrested in Japan in late 2018 when he escaped in December released in July, when the first terminded, and increased oners, while a freed prisoner during his escape to Lebanon and charged with underre- 2019 via Istanbul to Beirut, his hearing was held, and are not scrutiny of Japan’s judicial was arrested from the town of just over a year ago. porting his salary and using childhood home. expected to return to jail due to system. Kafr Malik, east of Ramallah. 10 ASIA THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021 India expands COVID-19 vaccination programme REUTERS — NEW DELHI were rising, the proportion of high-accuracy RT-PCR tests in India announced an expansion India's infections are the those places was falling because of its COVID-19 vaccination second highest in the many states prefer antigen tests, programme yesterday but world at 11.03 million, which are cheaper and quicker warned that breaches of coro- swelled by a further but less accurate. navirus protocols could worsen 13,742 in the past 24 The federal government is an infection surge in many worried excessive reliance on states. hours, health ministry rapid antigen tests could under- Nearly a month after the data showed. Deaths count cases, leading to real health minister declared that rose by a two-week high infections going unchecked and COVID-19 had been contained, of 104 to 156,567. spreading the disease. states such as Maharashtra in the Cases have also risen in Kar- west and Kerala in the south nataka, Tamil Nadu and West have reported a spike in cases Bengal. In the past week, a third amid growing reluctance to the ministry said in a statement of India's 36 states and union wear masks and maintain social singling out nine states and a territories have reported an distancing. federal territory. average of more than 100 new India's infections are the India has confirmed the cases each day, with Kerala and second highest in the world at long-time presence of two Maharashtra both registering A policeman receives a dose of COVID-19 vaccine in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. 11.03 million, swelled by a mutant variants — N440K and more than 4,000, in a trend further 13,742 in the past 24 E484Q — in addition to those experts link to the reopening of hours, health ministry data first detected in Brazil, Britain schools and suburban train asked states to speed up vacci- vaccinating people above 60 and regulatory panel sought more showed. Deaths rose by a two- and South Africa. services. nations for healthcare and those older than 45 with health data from drugmaker Dr. week high of 104 to 156,567. The health ministry said that Maharashtra reported 8,807 frontline workers. Just about 11 conditions free of charge in Reddy's Laboratories for emer- "Any laxity in implementing while cases in the states of new COVID-19 cases yesterday, million people have received about 10,000 government hos- gency authorisation of Russia's stringent measures to curb the Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Kerala, the highest in nearly five months. one or two doses in a campaign pitals and for a fee in more than Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine, a spread, especially in view of new Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh Of those, 1,167 were in Mumbai, that began on Jan. 16. The target 20,000 private facilities, the senior official with direct strains of virus..., could com- and Punjab, as well as the federal India's financial capital. is 300 million by August. government said. knowledge of the discussions pound the situation," territory of Jammu and Kashmir, The government has also From March 1, India will start Earlier yesterday, a said. India renames world’s largest cricket stadium after PM Modi Malaysia PM receives jab REUTERS — AHMEDABAD in the third match of a four- dedicated to the world’s largest Authorities have named the long criticised as the dominance game test series. personality!,” Priti Gandhi, a BJP larger complex surrounding the of one family. as vaccine India renamed the world’s A gifted orator and con- spokeswoman, said in a tweet. stadium after him. “Both the BJP and Congress largest cricket stadium after summate populist, Modi is by far Others said the decision Dedicating sports stadiums are busy perpetuating political roll-out begins Prime Minister Narendra Modi the most popular and recog- reflected a cult of personality to former prime ministers is branding,” Sanjay Jha, a former yesterday, a move that drew nisable politician in India, and surrounding Modi. common in India, but renaming Congress official and political BLOOMBERG — KUALA LUMPUR immediate praise and criticism. won a second term in power with “The people of Gujarat will such a high-profile venue for a commentator, said. The name change to the an increased majority for the not bear this insult to Sardar sitting leader is rare. Archit Khare, a 29-year-old Malaysia started its COVID-19 Narendra Modi Stadium was nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party Patel,” said Hardik Patel, pres- Many of India’s public insti- student at the game, said: “I don’t vaccination programme unveiled at the 132,000-seat (BJP) in 2019. ident of the opposition Congress tutions and projects have been know why it has been changed. yesterday, two days ahead of venue formerly known as Sardar But Modi has also been party in the state. Patel was named after members of the Sardar Patel is more iconic. schedule, with Prime Minister Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad, in accused of centralising power in India’s first interior minister, Congress’ Nehru-Gandhi Sardar Patel was the iron man Muhyiddin Yassin the first to the western state of Gujarat, the world’s biggest democracy. long revered for his tough dynasty that governed India for of India, it should have receive the shot. where India are playing England “World’s largest stadium approach on national issues. decades and which Modi’s party remained.” Muhyiddin and the nation’s Health director-general, as well as several medical staff were among the group to receive the Lawmakers, rights groups first Pfizer-BioNTech shots in Putrajaya, the country’s admin- ask Malaysia to explain istrative capital. The first phase of the vaccine roll-out will run through April. deportation of migrants It involves about 500,000 front- liners comprising health-care, AP — KUALA LUMPUR least six people among the defense and security personnel, 1,200 were registered with it. as well as teachers with co-mor- Malaysian lawmakers and The two rights groups in their bidities, according to the gov- rights groups yesterday lawsuit named at least three ernment. Malaysia received its demanded that the government UNHCR cardholders and 17 first batch of vaccines on Sunday, explain why it violated a court minors with one parent still in when 312,390 doses of the stay order and deported 1,086 Malaysia. Pfizer-BioNTech shot landed at Myanmar migrants, saying it The two groups said yes- the Kuala Lumpur International put their lives in danger terday that the court has Airport. following Myanmar’s military ordered a stay on the depor- “I am confident that this coup. tation of the remaining 114 vaccine is safe and effective,” A high court on Tuesday migrants pending its decision Muhyiddin said. “So, trust and ordered a stay of the repatri- on March 9 on whether to hear believe that the government’s ation of 1,200 Myanmar their appeal. efforts to ensure we break the nationals pending an appeal by New Sin Yew, a lawyer for Covid-19 chain succeeds, God Amnesty International the rights groups, said the court willing.” The inoculation drive Malaysia and Asylum Access will also decide how to deal will begin in Selangor, Malaysia’s Malaysia, which said there with the immigration richest state, from Thursday, and were refugees, asylum-seekers department for breaching its get underway in the nation’s Thailand Education Minister Nataphol Teepsuwan gestures while wearing a face mask as anti- and minors among the group. order to halt the deportation. federal territories including government protesters and students attend a demonstration demanding the government to resign, But hours later, the immi- “We believe the gov- Kuala Lumpur on March 1, in front of the Ministry of Education, in Bangkok on September 5, 2020. gration department said it had ernment owes an explanation Science, Technology and Inno- sent 1,086 of them back on to the people of Malaysia as to vation Minister Khairy three Myanmar military ships. why they chose to defy the Jamaluddin said at a separate Thailand court finds 3 ministers It insisted there were no ref- court order, and on the identity briefing yesterday. ugees and asylum-seekers on and status of all 1,200 people,” The government has secured board, and that all had volun- said Amnesty Malaysia director 66.7 million doses of the guilty of leading protests tarily agreed to return home. Katrina Jorene Maliamauv. COVID-19 vaccine from various The act was a “a clear “There is clear, docu- producers, enough to inoculate AP — BANGKOK The protests marked the display that the Malaysian gov- mented evidence of an esca- nearly 110% of the population. tail end of almost a decade of ernment does not respect the lation in human rights viola- Pfizer remains the only manu- Three Cabinet ministers in The Criminal Court in intense political contention in ongoing court process and has tions in Myanmar since the facturer to receive the govern- Thailand were forced to leave Thailand that began in 2006 put Malaysia in a bad light on coup earlier this month. ment’s conditional approval for their posts yesterday after a Bangkok found Digital after then-Prime Minister the human rights front,” four Therefore, no deportation to usage, and is set to deliver a total court found them guilty of Economy Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was opposition lawmakers said in Myanmar can be treated as part 32 million dosages. sedition for taking part in Buddhipongse ousted by a coup after being a statement. of any ‘normal exercise,’ but Malaysia is also in line to get sometimes-violent protests in Punnakanta, Education accused of corruption and They said the government demands more scrutiny,” she 12.8 million doses of the Astra- 2013-2014 against the Minister Nataphol abuse of power. Thaksin is must provide details about the said. Zeneca Plc. vaccine, 12 million government then in power. Yingluck’s brother, and they 1,086 who were deported, The rights groups reiterated doses of China’s Sinovac vaccine, The Criminal Court in Teepsuwan and Deputy are both currently in exile. reveal if there were any their call for the government 6.4 million shots of Sputnik V and Bangkok found Digital Transport Minister Thaksin’s ouster set off children and explain how to give UNCHR, which has been 3.5 million doses from Economy Minister Bud- Thaworn Senneam guilty years of sometimes violent consent was obtained from barred from immigration CanSinoBio. dhipongse Punnakanta, Edu- along with about two conflict between his sup- them. detention centres since August The government is evalu- cation Minister Nataphol porters and opponents, both The UN High Commissioner 2019, access to the migrants to ating a deal with Johnson & Teepsuwan and Deputy dozen other defendants of which engaged in of Refugees has said that at examine their claims. Johnson, said Khairy. Transport Minister Thaworn in a case that was aggressive street protests Senneam guilty along with launched in 2018. against governments led by about two dozen other the other’s faction. The Peo- defendants in a case that was ple’s Democratic Reform India plans new social media controls launched in 2018. staging a coup in 2014 and Committee was in the anti- REUTERS — NEW DELHI politicians last week after They must also assist in The verdicts can be keeping power until 2019. Thaksin camp, which in an blocking news feeds in Australia investigations or other cyber appealed to a higher court but Suthep and the Cabinet earlier incarnation as the Peo- Chafing from a dispute with in a dispute with the government security-related incidents within under the law the Cabinet ministers each received prison ple’s Alliance for Democracy Twitter, India plans to oblige over revenue-sharing. 72 hours of a request. Further, if ministers must relinquish their sentences ranging from five occupied the prime minister’s social media companies to erase In India, Twitter ignored a post depicts an individual in jobs immediately. to about seven years. offices and Bangkok’s inter- contentious content fast and orders to remove content over any obscene act or conduct, then Another prominent person “We are prepared. national airport for about a assist investigations, according farmers’ protests, fuelling the zeal companies must disable or convicted yesterday was Whatever happens, will week in 2008. to a draft regulation. of Prime Minister Narendra remove such content within a Suthep Thaugsuban, a former happen,” Suthep said outside Thaksin’s supporters were New Delhi’s planned “Inter- Modi’s government since 2018 day of receiving a complaint, the deputy prime minister who the court. known as the Red Shirts, and mediary Guidelines and Digital to tighten regulation for content rules added. helped found the People’s “But I have to assure you in 2010 wreaked havoc by Media Ethics Code” - a copy of it deems disinformation or “A publisher shall take into Democratic Reform Com- that the protest leaders and occupying part of central which was seen by Reuters - unlawful. consideration India’s multi-racial mittee, which led the demon- those who share our same Bangkok. come as various nations around The latest draft rules — which and multi-religious context and strations against the elected belief, that we are fighting for Their protest was sup- the world try to assert tighter would be legally enforcable – say exercise due caution and dis- government of then-Prime our country and our land. We pressed by the army with control over powerful Big Tech companies should remove cretion when featuring the activ- Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. firmly believe in responsibility armed force in violence over firms. content as early as possible, but ities, beliefs, practices, or views Instability caused by the street in our actions and not vio- several weeks that took Facebook faced a global not later than 36 hours, after a of any racial or religious group,” protests led to the Thai army lating the law.” almost 100 lives. backlash from publishers and government or legal order. the draft rules said. THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021 ASIA 11 Australia: Antitrust chief claims victory after Facebook standoff REUTERS — CANBERRA news blackout - which inadvert- Australia offered a host ently blocked some government The architect of Australia’s laws pages - because it needed to act forcing Google and Facebook to of technical concessions quickly before the new legis- pay media companies for content and the social media lation was introduced. claimed victory yesterday, giant said it would The agreed changes “mean though critics said last-minute restore news as the fair negotiations (with pub- changes to appease Facebook revamped bill looked set lishers) are encouraged without favoured Big Tech over smaller the looming threat of heavy- news outlets. to become law this handed and unpredictable arbi- After tense negotiations week. tration,” he wrote in a blogpost prompted Facebook to cut off he internet needs new rules that news in the country last week, work for everyone, not just for Australia offered a host of tech- encouragement to countries such big media corporations. B, nical concessions and the social as Canada and Britain which adding: “The internet needs new media giant said it would restore have said they plan similar laws. rules that work for everyone, not news as the revamped bill looked Other countries have intro- just for big media set to become law this week. duced legislation forcing so- corporations.” While Facebook said its con- called Big Tech players to nego- While the Australian Senate cerns had been met and oppo- tiate with media companies for backed the changes before Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and his Sri Lankan counterpart Mahinda Rajapaksa talk at the sition lawmakers warned that licensing fees for links that draw sending the amended bill back end of a Trade and Investments Conference, in Colombo, yesterday. smaller media players may be traffic, and advertising revenue, to the lower house, where it was overlooked, Australian Compe- to their platforms. expected to pass soon, opposition tition and Consumer Com- However, Australia will be lawmakers and smaller media Imran Khan invites Sri Lankan mission Chair Rod Sims said the the first country where a gov- firms warned that giving the gov- bargaining power imbalance had ernment arbitrator effectively ernment power to spare tech been righted. sets the rates tech giants will giants its involvement could Buddhists to visit Pakistan “The changes the govern- have to pay if negotiations with leave niche outlets without ment’s done are things that either media companies fail. compensation. AP — COLOMBO in a statement. are mainly Hindu, comprise don’t matter much or are just to The last-minute changes “The big (media) players “Pakistan probably has one about 15% and 9% are Muslims. clarify things that, at least in include an extra two-month could successfully negotiate Visiting Pakistani Prime of the greatest Buddhist her- Khan said northern Facebook’s mind, were unclear,” mediation period between any with Facebook or Google. The Minister Imran Khan has itages in the world and we Pakistan is the center of the Sims, who helped draft the failed talks and state intervention minister then doesn’t designate proclaimed his Muslim- invite people from Sri Lanka to ancient Buddhist Gandhara civ- original laws, said. and give the government dis- them, and all the little players majority nation a choice desti- visit them,” Khan said a day ilisation and that a 40-foot “Whatever they say, they cretion to release Facebook from miss out,” independent senator nation for religious tourism by earlier after meeting with Prime sleeping Buddha statue was need news. It keeps people on the process if it proves it has Rex Patrick, who opposed the Sri Lankans, most of whom are Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa. recently discovered there. their platform longer. They make made a “significant contribution amended legislation, told Buddhists. Khan is making a two-day “We are planning a Bud- more money,” he said. to the sustainability of the Aus- Reuters. In talks with President official visit to Sri Lanka which dhist trail... with all the Buddhist The endorsement from Aus- tralian news industry”. Lee O’Connor, owner and Gotabaya Rajapaksa yesterday, began on Tuesday. great shrines and Buddhist tralia’s top antitrust regulator will Facebook’s vice president of editor of regional newspaper Khan highlighted Buddhist her- Buddhists account for more places,” he said. Prime Minister bolster the government’s global affairs, Nick Clegg, said the The Coonamble Times, said the itage sites in Pakistan and than 70% of Sri Lanka’s 22 Mahinda Rajapaksa is the older argument that its hardline company had “erred on the side changes appeared to weaken stressed the building of cultural million people. brother of President Gotabaya approach worked and may offer of over-enforcement” with its safeguards for smaller players. ties, the Pakistan Embassy said Ethnic minority Tamils, who Rajapaksa.

Germany prepares way for troops Japanese officials punished in scandal linked to Suga’s son AP — TOKYO The case surfaced after salary cuts and reprimands for up an investigative panel to look was at the ministry in 2019. to stay in weekly magazine Shukan the 11 ministry officials for further into the case. Suga apologised over his Afghanistan Japan’s communications ministry Bunshun reported that Seigo accepting the expensive dinners A ministry internal investi- son’s entertaining of the officials. punished 11 senior officials Suga and other executives from and gifts in violation of the ethics gation found that the ministry He, however, denied any AP — BERLIN yesterday for accepting lavish satellite broadcaster code. Internal Affairs and Com- officials received dinners and involvement in his son’s business dinners paid for by Prime Tohokushinsha Film had enter- munications Minister Ryota gifts totalling about 600,000 yen activity or knowledge of his The German government is Minister Yoshihide Suga’s eldest tained the officials at the Internal Takeda told reporters it was ($5,700) on around 40 occasions entertaining of the officials. preparing the way for the son and fellow executives at a Affairs and Communications regrettable that the case led to the from 2016 to 2019. It also found “I’m very sorry about my country’s troops in Afghan- satellite broadcaster, the latest Ministry, which regulates com- loss of public trust in the gov- one of Prime Minister Suga’s son’s involvement that led to istan — the second-biggest embarrassment for Suga’s munications business. ernment. Takeda said he is taking public affairs officials, Makiko illegal activity, and I would like contingent in a Nato force — already scandal-laden Yesterday, the ministry a three-month salary cut himself Yamada, also accepted an to apologize to the people,” Suga to stay in place until next year government. announced penalties including and ordered the ministry to set expensive steak dinner when she said. if needed. Chancellor Angela Mer- kel’s Cabinet yesterday Philippine official defends move to approved a new draft mandate that would enable German monitor foreign funding for NGOs troops to stay until January 31, government spokesman REUTERS — MANILA Islamic State-inspired local Steffen Seibert said. extremism and the intensity of German troop deploy- The Philippines’ top diplomat attacks has caused alarm. But ments overseas require par- yesterday defended a new order NGOs said the requirement, liamentary approval, which is requiring all international aid for which was conveyed to diplo- typically granted on an annual non-governmental organisations matic missions on February 5, basis. The current mandate for (NGOs) to be cleared with the might lead to a reduction in Afghanistan expires at the end foreign ministry, saying the aim funding and threaten their sur- of March. was to stamp out funding for vival. The Philippines has a Nato has just under 10,000 terrorism. vibrant NGO sector, with 60,000 troops in the war-ravaged “It doesn’t affect legit NGOs,” registered aid groups, according country, helping to train and Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro to the World Association of Non- advise Afghan security forces. Locsin said on Twitter. Governmental Organizations, Germany’s contingent of “It is how a responsible gov- promoting the interests of nearly 1,100 is the second- ernment monitors where money farmers, women, and indigenous biggest in the Resolute Support comes from and goes to in the people, among many others. mission after the United States. face of insurgent and terrorist- Susan Ople, who heads an President Joe Biden is secessionist threats.” NGO fighting human trafficking, reviewing his predecessor’s Successive Philippine gov- said the policy needs to be clar- 2020 deal with the Taliban, ernments have for decades fought ified. “We’d like to know how to A container with Sinovac COVID-19 vaccines is loaded into a truck after a shipment of 200,000 doses which includes a May 1 low-level communist and sepa- navigate these changing waters,” from China arrived at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, in Bangkok yesterday. deadline for a final US troop ratist rebellions, but the rise of Ople said. withdrawal. In Washington, calls are Thailand receives its first coronavirus vaccines mounting for the United States Singapore discussing vaccine to delay the final exit or rene- REUTERS — BANGKOK gotiate the deal to allow the refrigerated container bearing amid some public criticism of the certification with other countries presence of a smaller, intelli- the flags of the two countries was government and accusations it gence-based American force. Thailand received yesterday its lowered from a Thai Airways has been too slow to secure the REUTERS — SINGAPORE so that all countries including Germany’s foreign min- first 200,000 doses of Sinovac plane. Health Minister Anutin vaccines. developing ones have access to ister, Heiko Maas, has said the Biotech’s CoronaVac, the coun- Charnvirakul earlier this week Its mass immunization cam- Singapore is discussing the vaccines for their people,” Lee withdrawal of foreign troops try’s first batch of coronavirus said 117,000 doses of Astra- paign, which aims to administer mutual recognition of vaccine said in a video recording posted from Afghanistan should be vaccines, with inoculations set to Zeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine 10 million doses a month, is certificates with other countries, on Facebook yesterday. tied to progress in slow- begin in a few days. would also arrive on Wednesday slated to begin in June, using 26 Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong “We are also discussing moving peace negotiations Prime Minister Prayuth and that Prayuth would be million shots of AstraZeneca vac- said, calling it a necessary step mutual recognition of vaccine between the Kabul gov- Chan-ocha is expected to be among the first recipients. cines produced by local firm towards resuming global travel. certification with interested ernment and the Taliban, among the first to receive the Thailand is expecting to take Siam Bioscience. It has also Singapore, a regional travel countries,” he said. Lee did not rather than “slavishly” bound vaccine this weekend. Most doses delivery of a further 1.8 doses of reserved a further 35 million and tourism hub, has been specify the countries. to the May 1 deadline. have been reserved for frontline CoronaVac in March and April, doses of the vaccine. rolling out its COVID-19 vacci- Singapore’s economy, which Seibert said that the medical workers. to be given mainly to health The government has said it nation programme over the last recorded its worst recession in maximum level of 1,300 “Thank you to the People’s workers and at-risk groups. plans to vaccinate more than half two months. It has approved 2020 due to the pandemic, is German troops is unchanged Republic of China for delivering The country has so far been the adult population this year. shots from Pfizer-BioNTech and staging an uneven recovery this in the new mandate. the vaccine this month and sub- spared of the kind of epidemic “We will procure more as we Moderna. year and a return of more He said its proposed expiry sequent months,” Prayuth said seen elsewhere, with just over produce them so there is enough “Even if each of us gears up business and tourism travel date “takes account appropri- on the tarmac at Bangkok’s 25,000 infections overall. to create herd immunity in our to secure our own supplies, we would be a boost for the city ately of the complex situation Suvarnabhumi Airport, where a The vaccine’s arrival comes country,” Prayuth said. must cooperate internationally state. in Afghanistan and also makes possible the flexibility nec- essary to be able to react if the volatile security and threat sit- First batch of AstraZeneca vaccine doses arrives in Vietnam uation there changes.” It also is designed to give REUTERS — HANOI from South Korea, will be used has a plant that has been health ministry said. million doses in the second Germany’s newly elected par- to inoculate more than 50,000 approved to manufacture the The government said the quarter. liament and government an Vietnam received the first batch people who are seen as high AstraZeneca vaccine. batch that arrived yesterday It hopes to receive 25.9 early say in what happens of 117,000 doses of the Astra- risk, the government said in a Vietnam aims to obtain 90 was part of the 30 million doses million doses and 51.1 million going forward. Zeneca COVID-19 vaccine statement. million COVID-19 vaccine to be brought in by the Vietnam doses in the third and final Germans will elect a new yesterday ahead of the planned Deputy health minister, doses this year, including 30 Vaccine Joint Stock Co., a firm quarters respectively. parliament on September 26, rollout of the Southeast Asian Truong Quoc Cuong, was at the million through the COVAX set up to handle vaccine import “We can assure that we but it typically takes weeks or country’s immunisation airport to meet the consignment international vaccine-share and distribution. have enough vaccines for the even a few months before a programme from next month. of vaccines flown in from Seoul, scheme, 30 million from The country expects to COVID-19 vaccination pro- new coalition government is The vaccines, which arrived according to media. AstraZeneca and the rest from receive 1.3 million more doses gramme,” the health ministry in place. in Ho Chi Minh City on a flight South Korea’s SK Bioscience negotiations with Pfizer, its by the end of March and 9.5 said in a statement. 12 EUROPE THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021

France chides Italy seeks UN health firms over mass data leak probe into death BLOOMBERG — PARIS

France’s privacy watchdog of envoy in DRC said it’s investigating the leak of sensitive health data on half a million people and said the AP — ROME Di Maio said Italy companies involved could face will spare no effort to heavy penalties if they don’t Italy yesterday pressed the come forward with details of United Nations for answers determine the truth the breaches. about the attack on a UN food behind the killing The leaks were of “partic- aid convoy in Congo that left a ularly significant magnitude young ambassador and his of its Ambassador and severity,” the CNIL said in paramilitary police bodyguard and Carabiniere a statement. Hackers may dead. paramilitary officer. have infiltrated software made Foreign Minister Luigi Di by Dedalus France that was Maio told lawmakers in Rome used by medical testing labo- that Italy has asked both the UN protocol of the United Nations,” ratories, according to reports. and the UN World Food which flew them on a UN plane The watchdog cited the Program to open an investi- from Kinshasha to Goma, 2,500 media reporting on the inci- gation into the security arrange- km away, Di Maio said. dents and said the companies ments for convoy, which was The Italian embassy in Kin- Italy’s Prime Minister Mario Draghi (right) looks on as the coffins containing the bodies of Italian ambassador should have notified it of the attacked two days earlier. shasha, Di Maio noted, has two Luca Attanasio and his bodyguard Vittorio Iacovacci arrive back at Ciampino airport, in Rome yesterday. breaches within 72 hours. It The minister said Italy also armoured vehicles at the said the individuals affected will spare no effort to determine ambassador’s disposal for Di Maio said would likely be immediately asked WFP in and fired shots in the air to stop should also be informed. the truth behind the killing of moving around the city and the multiple missions to determine Rome and the United Nations, the convoy. The leaks lasted from 2015 Ambassador Luca Attanasio and country. But for Monday’s what happened. involving directing the Sec- Di Maio quoted the local until October 2020 and Carabiniere paramilitary officer mission, to visit a WFP school Attanasio, 43, who leaves a retary General (Antonio) governor as saying that to force included data that ranged from Vittorio Iacovacci. A WFP Con- food project in Rutshuri in widow involved in volunteer Guterres, to supply a detailed the victims to go into the bush, social security numbers to golese driver, Moustapha eastern Congo, Attanasio was projects in Congo and three report on the attack on the they killed the WFP driver. insurance information, drug Milambo, was also killed in the traveling in UN vehicles. young children, “was in love convoy,’’ Di Maio said. When the ranger patrol arrived, treatments, pathologies and attack. Only hours earlier, Di Maio, with his profession, with Africa WFP has said the road had Di Maio said, citing the Con- the health status of patients, “We have formally asked flanked by Premier Mario and his family,’’ Di Maio said. been previously cleared for golese interior minister’s according to Liberation news- the WFP and the UN to open an Draghi, met the arrival of the He noted that the Carabiniere travel without security escorts. account, the attackers “fired paper. Online tech newsletter inquest that clarifies what hap- bodies of the two Italians at a was nearing the end of his On Tuesday, UN spokesman upon the Carabiniere, killing Zataz first reported the pened, the motivations for the Rome military airport. security detail in Congo and was Stephane Dujarric said in New him, and at the ambassador, breaches on February 14. security arrangements Autopsies are scheduled yes- soon due back in Rome. York that the UN had launched gravely wounding him. employed and who was respon- terday and a state funeral for The World Food Program, an internal review concerning Attanasio died of his wounds sible for these decisions,” Di both men was set for today in which won the Nobel Peace the “security around the shortly afterward. Ukraine starts Maio said. The trip was under- Rome. Prize last year for its efforts to incident.” Italy will reinforce its com- taken at the UN’s invitation, A special team of Carab- feed refugees and other mal- Di Maio said that the mitments to aid Africa, Di Maio giving jabs according to Di Maio. inieri investigators, dispatched nourished people worldwide, attackers numbered six, had said, calling that the “best way The two Italians had by Rome prosecutors, arrived is headquartered in Rome. light arms and apparently to honour the memory’s of the BLOOMBERG — KIEV “entrusted themselves to the on Tuesday in Congo on what “For this reason, I spread obstacles on the road two slain Italians. Ukraine, the biggest European country yet to start vaccina- tions against the COVID-19, Johnson warns climate change threatens world security administered its first shot yesterday. AP — UNITED NATIONS switching to growing opium month, Johnson urged the the goal now is to prevent an supporters will take power Yevhen Horenko, an emer- poppies, and girls forced to drop council to demonstrate lead- additional 0.3 degrees Celsius again in 2024. gency doctor in Cherkas, British Prime Minister Boris out of school to search for water ership to protect global peace, warming from now. Kerry called the climate received an AstraZeneca Johnson warned world leaders becoming prey to human traf- security and stability. Kerry said President Joe crisis “indisputably a Security vaccine, along with nine other late Tuesday that climate fickers. He also cited the John Kerry, the US special Biden knows there is “not a Council issue,” saying the Pen- people, according to the change is a threat to security of impacts of changing sea levels presidential envoy for climate, moment to waste” and his tagon has described it as “a Health Ministry. The gov- all nations and sharply criticised and wildfires. thanked European nations for administration aims to put the threat multiplier.” But even ernment plans to inoculate people across the globe who say “Whether you like it or not, stepping up to tackle climate US on a route to cutting fossil though climate change has been about 370,000 people in the this is “green stuff from a bunch it is a matter of when, not if, change during the “inexcusable fuel emissions in a way that is, repeatedly called “an existential first round of immunization. of tree-hugging, tofu-munchers your country and your people absence” of the US during the “and I emphasise, irreversible threat,” he said, “we honestly The country of about 40 and not suited to international will have to deal with these previous administration. by any president, by any dem- have yet as a world to respond million people ranks alongside diplomacy and international security impacts of climate Former President Donald agogue in the future.” with the urgency required.” Moldova and Kosovo in its politics.” change,” he warned leaders at Trump pulled the United States That appeared to be one of He called the UN climate lateness in rolling out the jabs. He pointed to the 16 million a high-level Security Council out of the landmark 2015 Paris the most explicit assurances conference that Britain is Vaccine purchases were com- people displaced by weather- meeting on climate-related climate agreement aimed at from the Biden administration hosting in Glasgow in November plicated by government related disasters each year, risks to international peace and curbing greenhouse gas emis- that foreign countries should go “literally our last best hope to infighting and corruption alle- some becoming easy prey to security. sions that cause global ahead and make deals with the get on track and get this right.” gations, as well as public dis- violent extremists, farmers Chairing the meeting of the warming. The world has already administration on climate Nations are expected at the con- trust toward shots produced losing another wheat harvest UN’s most powerful body warmed 1.2 degrees Celsius despite fears that Trump or one ference to come up with more by Russian and Chinese because of drought and during the UK’s presidency this since the mid-19th century and of his populist “America First” ambitious pollution cuts. companies. Slovenia police Germany approves three find 13 migrants lacking oxygen COVID-19 home test kits hidden in truck REUTERS — BERLIN The Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices, AP — LJUBLJANA Germany approved three Germany’s pharmaceutical reg- COVID-19 tests for home use ulator, yesterday approved Authorities in Slovenia said as part Health Minister Jens antigen tests made by Healgen that they have discovered 13 Spahn’s strategy for mass Scientific, Xiamen Boson migrants from Iraq, including testing to help Europe’s biggest Biotech and Hangzhou Laihe two children, who were economy emerge from a Biotech for use by people who hidden in a cargo truck, lockdown that has been in are not medical professionals, suffering from dehydration place since mid-December. according to its website. and a lack of oxygen. The infection rate in Spahn told broadcaster ZDF Some of the migrants Germany fell steadily in the first that further home test kits needed medical attention after weeks of the year but has stag- would be approved next week. they were found on Tuesday nated in recent days, adding to Other countries are also during a routine check at the signs that it could be difficult banking on home tests to help border with Croatia, a police for the country to ease restric- limit the spread of the virus. In officer in Novo Mesto said tions when the lockdown is due Austria, self-tests are already yesterday. to end on March 7. being used in schools, and they The group had traveled for Chancellor Angela Merkel will be available to the public several hours from Bosnia and has told lawmakers in her con- for free at pharmacies from next through Croatia, crammed in servative party that making week. In Germany, the number An undated handout photo released yesterday shows cocaine found in over 1,700 tins of wall filler an airless, secret compartment rapid tests more available and of confirmed virus cases rose by after German authorities seized more than 16 tonnes of cocaine in the northern port city of Hamburg. inside a truck bearing Bosnian boosting testing capacity could 8,007 to 2,402,818, according licence plates, the police make a return to normality to data from the Robert Koch statement said. Germany, Belgium seize huge cocaine shipment more durable, two sources at Institute for infectious diseases The migrants were dehy- the meeting told Reuters. yesterday. drated and scared and some AP — BERLIN had been flagged as suspect in officials on Saturday uncovered were already losing con- a risk analysis by several 7.2 metric tonnes of cocaine sciousness. They were given German customs officials have European customs authorities, hidden in a container of wood first aid on the spot while two found more than 16 metric the Hamburg office said. They blocks. UK pledges fund to help kids people had to be taken to a tonnes of cocaine in containers had detected “clear irregular- The total haul in Hamburg nearby hospital. that arrived in Hamburg from ities” in three containers, which and Antwerp — more than 23 catch up after school closures The incident highlights Paraguay, authorities said were loaded with putty in tin metric tonnes — would have dangers migrants are facing yesterday. Another 7.2 metric cans but appeared also to had a street value of “several REUTERS — LONDON Boris Johnson. while trying to reach Western tonnes of cocaine were seized contain other wares. Customs billion euros,” according to the The education ministry said Europe, often with the help of in Belgium and a suspect was officers found the cocaine Hamburg customs office. The British government yesterday it would introduce a ruthless human smugglers and arrested in the Netherlands. hidden in more than 1,700 cans. Using a different measure pledged a $988m package of ‘Recovery Premium’ targeting traffickers. Thousands of The Hamburg customs The freight document of price, Dutch prosecutors esti- support to help children in disadvantaged students, people fleeing war and poverty office described the find in the linked to the shipment was mated the wholesale value of England catch up on learning alongside other measures, amid in their countries have been German port as the biggest addressed to a 28-year-old the combined shipments at lost due to the novel corona- concerns that those from stuck in Bosnia and the rest of quantity of cocaine ever seized man in the Dutch town of some $730m. virus (COVID-19) pandemic, poorer backgrounds have been the Balkan countries while in Europe and one of the biggest Vlaardingen, who was arrested The announcement of the which has shut schools to most falling behind. seeking to move west. single seizures worldwide. The Wednesday, prosecutors in the cocaine haul came a day after students. “Our package of measures Slovenian authorities said Dutch national prosecutors’ Netherlands said. Dutch prosecutors said they English primary and sec- will deliver vital support to the in a statement that the children office, referring to the overall Investigations prior to his cooperated with Britain’s ondary schools were closed to children and young people who in the truck were aged 11 and haul, said that “never before has arrest led Dutch authorities to National Crime Agency to the majority of pupils from need it most, making sure eve- 6 years old. so much cocaine been inter- another shipment of containers intercept more than 1.5 metric January 5 as part of lockdown ryone has the same opportunity Police have detained the cepted” in a single operation. that were on their way from tonnes of heroin worth 45 million measures. to fulfil their potential no Bosnian truck driver and The drugs were found in a Panama to the Belgian port of euros at Rotterdam’s port in a They will reopen on March matter their background,” said another person who was also search on February 12 of five Antwerp. container full of Himalayan salt 8 under plans announced on Education Minister Gavin in the truck. containers from Paraguay that A search by Belgian customs that originated in Pakistan. Monday by Prime Minister Williamson. THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021 EUROPE 13 EU vaccine rollout struggles to gather steam AP — BRUSSELS At a video conference today, the leaders will “We need to urgently accel- through new facilities and the World Health Organisation, erate the authorization, pro- cutting delivery bottlenecks. the Organisation for Economic Two months after its first look at ways to improve the bloc’s vaccine duction and distribution of vac- Commission Vice-President Co-operation and Development vaccine shots, the European rollout as the European Commission, presses cines, as well as vaccination. We Maros Sefcovic said one way and the International Air Union is still struggling to get its also need to enhance our sur- might be to “agree upon legis- Transport Association. COVID-19 inoculation drive up pharmaceutical companies to respect the terms veillance and detection capacity lation to allow for the emer- Still, European travel to speed. EU leaders are of their contracts. Officials also want to try to in order to identify variants as gency authorisation of vaccines restrictions don’t look like they meeting today to jump-start the fast-track vaccine authorisations. early as possible so as to control at the EU level. To date, this is will be easing anytime soon. process, fearing that new virus their spread,” the draft only possible at national level.” Belgium, home to the EU’s insti- variants might spread faster statement said. And as curfew-weary, tutions, has a ban on all nones- than Europe’s response. The commission has sealed mask-wearing European cit- sential travel that could remain At a video conference, the which has Europe’s highest But public pressure to relax deals with several companies izens hope for relief — and the through March. The country has leaders will look at ways to virus death toll at over 121,000. measures is building. The Neth- for well over 2 billion vaccine prospect of a real summer been criticized by some neigh- improve the bloc’s vaccine Given the spread of the erlands has eased some lockdown shots — far more than the EU vacation this year — this summit bours for what they see as a dis- rollout, as the EU’s executive disease — the Czech prime min- measures in what Prime Minister population of around 450 will also focus on when to ease proportionate use of border arm, the European Commission, ister is worried about “a total Mark Rutte called a calculated risk million — but only three have restrictions and the possibility controls. presses pharmaceutical com- catastrophe” at overburdened to make the year-long crisis been authorized: jabs from of a future vaccination certif- “For the time being, nones- panies to respect the terms of hospitals, Germany fears the “bearable.” Denmark just allowed Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and icate so people can travel more sential travel needs to be their contracts. Officials also impact of new variants, the high school students to partially AstraZeneca, which all involve conveniently. restricted,” the leaders say in want to try to fast-track vaccine Netherlands is seeing a rise in return to classes. two shots over several weeks. Such a certificate has been their draft statement, which still authorisations. cases — there should be little In Belgium, Jean-Marc Nollet, In March, the bloc could also demanded by southern EU could be modified. But they add More than 21 million coro- appetite to ease up on travel and head of the francophone Greens authorize the Johnson & nations that depend heavily on “the unhindered flow of goods navirus cases have been other restrictions too soon. party that is part of the ruling coa- Johnson one-shot vaccine. tourism, and they consider it a and services within the single recorded and some 515,000 “The epidemiological situ- lition, openly said he no longer fol- But the EU was heavily crit- way to stave off a second dis- market must be ensured.” people have died from it in the ation remains serious, and the lowed his own government’s icized for taking almost a month astrous summer season. With leaders conscious that EU’s 27 countries, according to new variants pose additional limits on social contacts because longer than Britain to approve An official from an EU the pandemic will not end the European Centre for Disease challenges. We must therefore “I am a human being and human the first vaccines and for lagging nation, who asked not to be unless it’s defeated everywhere, Protection and Control. uphold tight restrictions while contact is something vital.” so far behind in vaccinating its identified because the prepa- summit talks will also touch on Italy, France, Germany and stepping up efforts to accelerate The leaders will say, people. The EU leaders’ debate rations were still ongoing, said getting vaccines to other coun- Spain have the most corona- the provision of vaccines,” the however, that the crisis is far will focus as much on speeding talks would also centre on ways tries in need, notably in Africa, virus deaths in the EU, although leaders will say, according to a from over, especially as vaccine up authorizations as boosting to dovetail any EU vaccine cer- through the UN-backed COVAX all trail non-EU member Britain, draft summit statement. production lags. vaccine production rates tificate with similar efforts at programme. Putin warns of foreign efforts to destabilise Russia

AP — MOSCOW West have plummeted to post- from a 2014 embezzlement con- Cold War lows after Moscow’s viction that Navalny has Russia’s President Vladimir 2014 annexation of Ukraine’s rejected as fabricated and the Putin ordered the nation’s top Crimea, Russian meddling in the European Court of Human counterintelligence agency 2016 US presidential election, Rights has ruled to be unlawful. yesterday to redouble its efforts and, most recently, the arrest of Navalny’s arrest has fueled to address what he described Russian opposition leader a wave of protests that drew as Western attempts to desta- Alexei Navalny and a sweeping tens of thousands to the streets bilise the country. crackdown on protests across Russia. The authorities Speaking at a meeting of top demanding his release. have detained about 11,000 officials of the Federal Security Navalny, Putin’s most people, many of whom were Service, or FSB, the main KGB prominent critic, was arrested fined or given jail terms ranging successor agency, Putin pointed on January 17 upon returning from seven to 15 days. at the “so-called policy of con- from Germany, where he spent In the wake of the demon- tainment of Russia,” charging five months recovering from a strations, the Kremlin-con- that it includes efforts to “derail nerve-agent poisoning that he trolled parliament has our development, slow it down, blames on the Kremlin. Russian toughened the punishment for create problems alongside our authorities have rejected the disobeying police and intro- Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers a speech during a meeting of the Federal Security Service borders, provoke internal insta- accusation and accused duced new fines for funding board, in Moscow yesterday. bility and undermine the values Navalny of cooperating with demonstrations. Putin on yes- that unite Russian society.” Western intelligence agencies terday signed those new bills The Russian president — claims which he has into law. competition, competition undermining stability and from any “provocations.” added that those activities by ridiculed. Without naming Navalny, between political parties, ide- security of our state, at serving He hailed the agency for foreign powers, which he didn’t Earlier this month, Navalny Putin assailed those in Russia ological platforms, various foreign interests,” he said. disrupting the activities of name, are aimed at “weakening was sentenced to 2 1/2 years in who allegedly serve foreign views on the country’s devel- The Russian president foreign spies, saying that it Russia and putting it under prison for violating terms of his interests. opment, and the activities that emphasized the need for the unmasked 72 foreign intelli- outside control.” probation while convalescing “It’s necessary to draw a line have nothing to do with FSB to shield the parliamentary gence officers and 423 of their Russia’s relations with the in Germany. The sentence stems between natural political democracy and are aimed at elections set for September informants. Denmark to take Spain plans 11bn direct aid package to help virus-hit firms ‘calculated risk’ ¤ REUTERS — MADRID owners, have demanded, on the package. some debt into grants to corporates required €7bn in by easing some bringing them direct aid after A third government source support their economies support, without saying if this Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez the Spanish government ini- stressed that this would in any through the pandemic. should be direct cash injections curbs in March announced an extra ¤11bn tially provided mainly state- case also need approval by the The implementation of or haircuts, according to a ($13.4bn) package yesterday backed loans and furloughs. European Union’s executive haircuts on ICO loans is a con- source with knowledge of the REUTERS — COPENHAGEN to help Spain’s small and mid- “We don’t just want to save commission. troversial issue and the Spanish process. Oliver Wyman sized companies and the self- businesses and jobs. We want Several sources had told banking association has been declined to comment. Denmark plans to allow shops employed cope with the to create new businesses and Reuters earlier this month that saying that those measures are The Spanish hospitality and some schools to reopen in economic crisis wrought by jobs,” Sanchez told parliament. the government was preparing not a priority. sector has been complaining March in a much awaited the coronavirus pandemic. The Bank of Spain declined to this new set of measures. Under the plan being dis- that they were not getting the move that could, however, He gave no details. A gov- comment. In November, Madrid cussed, banks, who already same help as in other EU send hospital coronavirus ernment source said the plan, Another government source extended its €140bn ICO share some guarantees with the countries, pointing to valued- admissions soaring in coming whose contents were still being told Reuters that the goal was liquidity scheme until June, but state under the scheme, would added tax cuts for the catering months. discussed with the Bank of to help companies cope with the that was not enough to offset also share some of those losses, industry in Germany or a Denmark, which has one Spain and the banking sector, pandemic but the exact instru- the impact of the third wave of a source told Reuters recently. reduction in social-security of the lowest infection rates in would include haircuts for ments were still being worked the pandemic on heavily Consultant firm Oliver charges in France. Europe, has seen general state-backed loans and recap- out. indebted companies. Wyman has been working with Spain has been one of the infection numbers drop after italisations of SMEs. “Agreeing on the details (of The European Commission the Bank of Spain on assessing countries worst hit by it introduced lockdown That would be in line with haircuts) is very complicated,” has allowed member state gov- firms’ financial needs and COVID-19. Its tourism- measures in December in a bid what the sectors hardest-hit by said a financial source with ernments to temporarily found that SMEs were in need dependent economy shrank a to curb a more contagious the crisis, including restaurant direct knowledge of the talks provide direct aid and convert of €5bn while larger record 11 percent last year. coronavirus variant. In what the prime minister has called a “calculated risk”, the government will allow stores Too early to ease under 5,000 square metres to reopen, while leisure activities can resume with outdoor leisure curbs, says Orban activities can resume with an upper limit of 25 people. REUTERS — BUDAPEST whether this meant Orban or Schools in parts of the any of his cabinet would be vac- country will also be allowed Hungary cannot yet ease its cinated next week. Orban’s to reopen, but will require stu- partial coronavirus lockdown press chief did not immediately dents to test themselves twice as a third wave of infections respond to an emailed question. a week. The measures, which has boosted new cases and only “The situation is not easy as are based on recommenda- a small section of the popu- we have the good news that tions from an expert advisory lation has received a vaccine many vaccines have arrived group, could send hospital so far, the prime minister said. and the number of people inoc- admissions skyrocketing, the Hungary became the first ulated will increase,” Orban goverment said. European Union country yes- said. “However, the third wave “More activity will also terday to start inoculating is threatening Hungary.” mean more infected and thus people with the Chinese As of yesterday, Hungary also more hospitalisations,” Sinopharm vaccine, following had reported 410,129 cases Health Minister Magnus Heu- a similar move with Russia’s with 14,552 deaths. Some nicke told a press conference, Sputnik V shot, which have not 471,000 people have been vac- adding COVID-19 admissions been granted regulatory cinated, representing nearly 5% could briefly peak at some 880 approval in the EU. of Hungary’s population based in mid-April, more than triple “This is an important day on a government tally. the current 247. as we begin inoculations with “We cannot yet speak of Reopening shops is the Chinese vaccines,” Orban any easing (of restrictions),” expected to contribute more said in a video on his Facebook Orban said, apparently walking than 2bn crowns ($326.92 m) page. “This also gives me hope back on a tentative timetable to the Danish economy each that those in charge of the unveiled early this month, Chairman of Albert Szent-Gyorgyi Clinical Center, Csaba Lengyel, administers a dose of the Sinopharm month, Finance Minister defence effort can also get in which projected decisions COVID-19 vaccine to Zoltan Peto, Director of the Szeged Epidemiological Supply Centre, at the Nicolai Wammen said line perhaps next week.” about easing as soon as next yesterday. University in Szeged, Hungary, yesterday. It was not immediately clear Monday. 14 AMERICAS THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021 Biden, Trudeau pledge to strengthen relations REUTERS — WASHINGTON/ “The United States Kamala Harris and other offi- OTTAWA cials, all wearing dark masks, has no closer friend, sat at a long table in a White US President Joe Biden and no closer friend House meeting room, near a Canadian Prime Minister Justin large video screen beaming in Trudeau sought on Tuesday to than Canada,” Biden Trudeau’s image from Ottawa. turn the page on the Trump era, told Trudeau via an A Canadian government stressing the countries’ deep ties electronic video link source said there had been no and pledging to work together progress on the possibility of to counteract Chinese influence with the Canadian Canada accessing COVID-19 and address climate change. leader and top aides. vaccines produced in the United “The United States has no States. Canada is currently closer friend, no closer friend “That’s why you receiving doses from plants in than Canada,” Biden told were my first call Europe. Trudeau via an electronic video “We’re focused on our- link with the Canadian leader as president (and) selves, the United States is and top aides. “That’s why you my first bilateral focused on itself. They feel they were my first call as president have a supply shortage, so there (and) my first bilateral meeting,” meeting,” he said. is no news on that front,” said US President Joe Biden gestures to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau if Canada, appearing via video he said. the source, who requested ano- conference call, during closing remarks at the end of their virtual meeting from the White House in After talking for about two Trudeau welcomed the nymity given the sensitivity of Washington, DC. hours, the two leaders emerged Biden administration, citing in the situation. and said they planned to work particular Washington’s Biden irritated Ottawa the world is watching this Trump’s four years in office. between Biden, Harris, Sec- closely together to beat the renewed attention to climate shortly after taking office on meeting very closely. They will The Republican former pres- retary of State Antony Blinken, COVID-19 pandemic and change in contrast to former US January 20 by blocking the $8 want to get what the Canadians ident, who often clashed with national security adviser Jake combat climate change, with a President Donald Trump. billion Keystone XL pipeline got and they won’t all succeed. traditional allies on trade, Sullivan and their Canadian goal of achieving net-zero “Thank you, again, for project to pump oil sands crude This is the top level of access, the imposed tariffs on Canadian alu- counterparts. emissions by 2050. stepping up in such a big way from Alberta to Nebraska, and gold standard,” a senior Western minum and steel. He traveled Another meeting with more Trudeau also thanked Biden on tackling climate change. US proposing a “Buy American” diplomat in Ottawa said. only once to Canada for a G7 officials followed. Trudeau was for reiterating US support for the leadership has been sorely program aimed at directing ”We feel we are off to the meeting in 2018, and blasted accompanied by his finance release of two Canadians held by missed over the past years,” the more US spending toward races here,” the Canadian gov- Trudeau for being “very dis- minister, Chrystia Freeland, and China, Michael Spavor and Michael prime minister said. domestic manufacturers. ernment source added. honest and weak” after he left. others. Kovrig. “Human beings are not Canada has often been a US But the two leaders made Trudeau was the first world Trump also forced the rene- Biden also said the leaders bartering chips,” Biden said. “We’re president’s first foreign stop, but clear they wanted to put the leader to congratulate Biden gotiation of the North American would work closely to strengthen going to work together until we get the COVID-19 pandemic turned dispute behind them and work when the Democrat was Free Trade Agreement, talks supply-chain security and resil- their safe return.” the sit-down between the two together. declared the winner of the that consumed Trudeau’s gov- ience, and to drive a robust post- Biden and Trudeau did not leaders and some of their top The meeting drew scrutiny November election, illustrating ernment for years. pandemic “economic recovery take questions after delivering deputies into a virtual affair. as an early view of Biden the degree to which the close Tuesday’s session began that benefits everyone, not just their remarks. Biden, Vice-President diplomacy. “Everyone around US ally looks to move on from with a 45-minute meeting those at the top.” Prosecutor denies Mexico doing better than US in dealing with virus: Obrador political charges AP — MEXICO CITY COVID-19 is now about 201,000. without legal documents; Mexico prevention and control, said the their shots. against Mexico The United States death toll is says its consulates in the United exclusion of foreigners appar- “The idea is to propose at Mexican President Andrés around 500,000, but its popu- States have even been registered ently occurred at other sites in the G20 the need to declare governor Manuel López Obrador said on lation is 2.6 times larger. as vaccination centres. the opening weeks of the vac- COVID-19 vaccines as ‘global Tuesday that his country is Moreover, estimates of But a photo circulated on cination effort. goods,’ so that they cede their AP — MEXICO CITY doing better than the United excess deaths in Mexico since the social media showed a sign “There may have been some intellectual property rights and States in dealing with the coro- start of the pandemic suggest the posted last week outside one confusion at some operating all countries can freely produce Mexican Attorney General navirus pandemic, even though COVID-19 toll is now well above Mexico City vaccination centre sites,” López Ridaura said. “It them,” Fernández said. Alejandro Gertz Manero Mexico’s per capita death rate 220,000. Mexico has adminis- stating “No Foreigners Will be was a communication problem.... Mexico is trying to beef up denied yesterday that is probably higher and the tered about 1.7 million vaccine Vaccinated.” The orders are totally clear now, its supply of Pfizer vaccines corruption accusations against country has vaccinated less doses, while the US has given 64 Presidential spokesman foreigners will also receive their with Russian and Chinese shots, the opposition governor of the than one percent of its popu- million shots. Jesús Ramírez said that was a vaccinations.” and late Monday the country border state of Tamaulipas are lation. López Obrador blamed rich mistake, and promised eve- López Obrador invited received its first shipment of politically motivated, but did López Obrador said on countries for “hoarding” vac- ryone over 60, foreigners and Argentine President Alberto 200,000 doses of the Russian not specify what is behind the Tuesday that comparing coun- cines, calling that “totally Mexicans alike, would have Fernández onstage at his daily Sputnik V vaccines. case. tries is in “bad taste,” but went unfair,” and said “the UN has to access to vaccines. morning press conference Mexico has had over 2 The attorney general’s on to say “the most powerful intervene.” “That was a photo of one Tuesday, and the Argentine million test-confirmed corona- office filed a request Tuesday nation on earth, our neighbor, López Obrador has center, and that message was leader proposed that vaccine virus cases, but the low level of to Congress to remove the did worse than us.” demanded the United States corrected,” Ramírez said. companies be forced to cede testing means the real number governor’s immunity from The Mexican government’s vaccinate the millions of Mex- But Dr. Ruy López Ridaura, intellectual property rights and is probably several times that prosecution, equivalent to a “estimated” death toll from icans living in the US with or the country’s director of disease allow anyone to manufacture amount. kind of impeachment proceeding. Governor Francisco Garcia Cabeza De Vaca is accused of Asylum seekers rush organised crime, money laun- dering and tax evasion. He has denied any wrongdoing and to register for US claimed the accusations are politically motivated. Local media have reported border processing that some of the accusations are related to movements of millions of dollars between AP — MEXICO CITY winter weather that hit Texas front companies. Other accu- and northern Mexico last week. sations may be related to In the first five days since the Processing residents of the bribes that were allegedly paid administration of US President camp is a priority for the Biden to lawmakers in 2013 to Joe Biden began to process the administration, the statement approve an energy sector thousands of asylum seekers said. reform that Mexican President waiting in Mexico, the United Last week, the US gov- Andrés Manuel López Obrador Nations High Commissioner for ernment began processing a opposes. Refugees registered 12,000 small number of asylum people. That’s nearly half the seekers with active cases in San Riots in Ecuador 25,000 active cases the US Diego. The processing is government has cited. expected to expand to El Paso prisons leave Migrants who have waited soon. in Mexico and elsewhere to get According to preliminary 79 dead hearings on their US asylum data shared by UNHCR, of the requests are dealing now with 12,000 people who have reg- REUTERS — QUITO Boosting ties a mix of hope and frustration, istered, some 4,000 are along with overloaded websites children or dependents and Ecuador yesterday raised the Venezuela’s Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza talks to the Ambassador of the European Union to and telephone lines that never about 1,200 registered from death toll from riots in four Venezuela, Isabel Brilhante Pedrosa, during a meeting at the Foreign Ministry headquarters in stop ringing. outside Mexico. jails to 79, and said authorities Caracas, Venezuela, yesterday. The hurdles are far better Some of that last group reg- had regained control following than the seemingly endless wait istered from the United States, one of the bloodiest outbreaks often in wretched conditions suggesting that they may have of prison violence in its history. of tens of thousands of asylum entered the country illegally Police and troops were Mexico: Electricity reform seekers forced to choose after making their initial stationed at detention centers between waiting in Mexico — asylum petition. in the cities of Guayaquil, or returning to Central America The others registered from Cuenca and Latacunga, where — under the Migrant Protection Central America where they gangs on Tuesday fought one bill approved for final vote Protocols, or Remain in Mexico returned to their native coun- another with handmade program. Instituted by the tries rather than remain in the weapons in what authorities BLOOMBERG — MEXICO CITY If approved as expected, the The bill is yet another step Trump administration in often dangerous Mexican cities said was a coordinated out- initiative would determine in the president’s ambitious January 2019, the program at the border. break of violence. Mexico’s lower house of what plants have priority in dis- push to reverse Mexico’s energy sought to discourage asylum “I’m like I believe, I don’t The gangs began a battle congress approved a contro- tributing power, starting with opening to foreign investors, a seekers by making them wait believe it, I have a mix of for leadership within the versial electricity bill that prior- hydroelectric plants belonging historic step taken in 2014 that in Mexico rather than releasing feelings,” said a Cuban teacher prison system in December itises the state utility above to the state-owned Federal ended more than 75 years of them with orders to appear for from the border city of Reynosa when a leader of Los private renewable companies Electricity Commission, known state monopoly. Since taking future court dates in the US. where she been waiting for Choneros, considered the sys- in the latest nationalist move as CFE, followed by other gov- power in late 2018, Lopez Yesterday, the US almost two years. She tem’s most powerful gang, was for the country’s energy market. ernment facilities. Obrador, who’s known as Department of Homeland requested anonymity because killed in a shopping center The bill, proposed by Pres- Only after that, private solar AMLO, has vowed to prioritize Security announced it would she had been kidnapped pre- several months after being ident Andres Manuel Lopez and wind farms would be the country’s embattled state- begin processing asylum viously in the city. released. Obrador, was approved without allowed to supply the network run companies at the expense seekers with registered cases After many frustrated Several of Tuesday’s con- any changes late yesterday, with their power production. It of private operators. who have been living in a tent attempts, she managed to frontations took place in with 289 votes in favour, 152 also removes CFE’s obligation “We need to strengthen encampment on the banks of register and received a maximum security areas of the opposed and one abstention. It to buy electricity through com- these companies to be inde- the Rio Grande in Matamoros, WhatsApp message asking for Guayaquil and Cuenca prisons. will now be taken up by the petitive auctions and calls on pendent and guarantee that the Mexico. her patience as technical dif- Prison authority SNAI said senate, where the ruling Mexico’s energy regulator to electricity price doesn’t go up, Life in the camp has always ficulties were resolved. “Now all those killed the rioting were Morena party and its allies have revoke self-supply permits that as I promised,” AMLO said after been precarious, but it was just wait for the call,” she prisoners. a majority. don’t meet certain conditions. the approval. especially hard hit by frigid said. THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021 AMERICAS 15 CIA nominee vows to intensify competition with China REUTERS — WASHINGTON Biden’s CIA nominee Democrat Ron Wyden praised Burns’ record on human rights US President Joe Biden’s Wiliam Burns called and said he would support him. nominee to be director of the China “a formidable, Competition with China is a top CIA, William Burns, told a priority for the Biden adminis- Senate committee yesterday authoritarian tration — and for members of that he saw competition with adversary”, that Congress, who want a tough line China — and countering its toward Beijing. “adversarial, predatory” lead- is strengthening Russian aggression is a con- ership — as the key to US its ability to steal stant concern, especially its national security. intellectual property, involvement in US elections and Burns, 64, a former career the recent SolarWinds hack that diplomat during both Demo- repress its people, penetrated government cratic and Republican admin- expand its reach and agencies and that US officials istrations, is expected to easily have blamed on Russian win confirmation to be director build influence within hackers. of the Central Intelligence the United States. Burns said the Biden admin- Agency. Burns has already been istration would soon produce confirmed by the Senate five an assessment of Russia-related times for his stints as ambas- said that if he were a US college issues, including the SolarWinds sador to Jordan and Russia and or university president, he would hack. three senior State Department recommend shutting down Con- Burns said “familiar” threats positions. fucius Institutes —Beijing- persist, including from Russia, Testifying to the Senate funded campus cultural centers North Korea and Iran. He also Intelligence Committee, Burns that many members of Congress said climate change, global William Burns is sworn-in to testify before a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing on his nomination outlined his four top priorities see as propaganda tools. health issues and cyber threats to be Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, yesterday. — “people, partnerships, China Burns was introduced at the are great risks, and “an adver- and technology” — if he is hearing by bipartisan foreign policy sarial, predatory Chinese lead- confirmed. heavyweights — former Secretary ership poses our biggest geo- with the Iranians and other interfered in the 2016 election thing and speak truth to power,” “Out-competing China will of State James Baker and former political test.” parties to the 2015 pact to see if to boost his chances of winning Warner said. be key to our national security CIA Director Leon Panetta. He Burns helped lead secret there is a way to return to the the White House. Biden has been able to get in the days ahead,” Burns said. would be the first career diplomat talks with Iran in 2013 that agreement, after former Repub- Senator Mark Warner, the most of his national security He called China “a formi- to lead the agency. helped pave the way for the lican President Donald Trump committee’s Democratic team into place with support dable, authoritarian adversary,” Senators from both parties international nuclear deal, withdrew in 2018. chairman, stressed that point in from many Senate Republicans that is strengthening its ability praised Burns during an unu- which was opposed by Repub- Burns’ arrival at the CIA his opening remarks. as well as Democrats. Secretary to steal intellectual property, sually amicable two-hour licans. He told the hearing that would come after a difficult four “I would like to hear how of State Antony Blinken, Sec- repress its people, expand its hearing. Republican Richard Iran must not be allowed to years under Trump, who fre- you plan to reinforce the credo retary of Defense Lloyd Austin reach and build influence Burr, a former committee have a nuclear weapon. quently disregarded spy that - no matter the political and Director of National Intel- within the United States. chairman, said he looked The Biden administration agencies’ findings, especially pressure, no matter what - CIA’s ligence Avril Haines all easily During questioning, Burns forward to Burns’ confirmation. offered last week to sit down the determination that Russia officers will always do the right won confirmation. Judge bans enforcement of deportation pause Single dose J&J vaccine

AP — HOUSTON reverse the priorities of former require deportations to resume of Republican opposition to President Donald Trump. at their previous pace. Even Biden’s immigration priorities, closes in on US approval A federal judge on late Tuesday Biden has proposed a without a moratorium, immi- just as Democrats and pro- indefinitely banned President sweeping immigration bill that gration agencies have wide lat- immigrant legal groups fought REUTERS — WASHINGTON FDA advisory committee that Joe Biden’s administration from would allow the legalisation of itude in enforcing removals and Trump’s proposals. Almost four will make its recommendation enforcing a 100-day mora- an estimated 11 million people processing cases. years before Tipton’s order, Johnson & Johnson’s (J&J) tomorrow. torium on most deportations. living in the US illegally. He has But in the days that followed Trump signed a ban on travel one-dose COVID-19 vaccine “That you could still get US District Judge Drew also instituted other guidelines his ruling, authorities deported from seven countries with pre- appeared safe and effective in protection against medically Tipton issued a preliminary on whom immigration and 15 people to Jamaica and hun- dominantly Muslim populations trials, the US Food and Drug attended illnesses — meaning injunction sought by Texas, border agents should target for dreds of others to Central that caused chaos at airports. Administration said yesterday, hospitalisation, ICU admission which argued the moratorium enforcement. America. The Biden adminis- Legal groups successfully sued paving the way for its approval and deaths from that vaccine violated federal law and risked Tipton, a Trump appointee, tration has also continued to stop implementation of the for emergency use as soon as against the South African strain, imposing additional costs on the initially ruled on January 26 that expelling immigrants under a ban. this week. I thought that was really state. the moratorium violated federal separate process begun by It was not immediately clear The vaccine was 66 encouraging.” Biden proposed the 100-day law on administrative pro- Trump officials, who invoked if the Biden administration will percent effective at preventing While the FDA is not bound pause on deportations during cedure and that the US failed to public-health law due to the appeal Tipton’s latest ruling. moderate to severe COVID-19 to follow the advice of its his campaign as part of a larger show why a deportation pause coronavirus pandemic. The Justice Department did not in a 44,000 person global trial, experts, it approved both the review of immigration was justified. The legal fight over the seek a stay of Tipton’s earlier the FDA said in documents Pfizer and Moderna vaccines enforcement and an attempt to Tipton’s ruling did not deportation ban is an early sign temporary restraining order. ahead of a Friday meeting of the day after the advisory com- independent experts who will mittee met. advise the agency on emer- The United States, where Florida man gency authorization. COVID-19 has killed more than New data provided by J&J half a million people, has been charged with to the FDA showed the vaccine struggling to speed up its vac- was 64 percent effective at cination program because of trying to join stopping moderate to severe the limited supply of the Pfizer- cases of COVID-19 after 28 BioNTech and Moderna vac- IS militants days in thousands of trial par- cines so far. ticipants in South Africa where Worldwide, COVID-19 has a worrying new variant has infected 112 million people and AP — GAINESVILLE swept across the country. killed more than 2.5 million and Overall, the vaccine was governments are racing to get A Florida man travelled to the 100 percent effective at stopping their hands on any effective Middle East and attempted to hospitalization 28 days after vaccines. enter Syria so he could help vaccination, compared with 85 J&J said this week that it Islamic State militants, percent at 14 days, and there expected to have four million according to an indictment by were no COVID-19 deaths shots ready to go following an a federal grand jury. among those who received the FDA green light and would ship The grand jury on Tuesday shot rather than a placebo. 20 million doses by the end of charged Mohamed Suliman, J&J also said the data sug- March. It has promised the 33, with attempting to provide gested its vaccine cut down on United States 100 million doses material support to a desig- asymptomatic infections, by the end of June. nated foreign terrorist which experts said was another The vaccine is adminis- organisation. sign COVID-19 vaccines may tered in a single dose and can Suliman, of Gainesville, indeed stop transmission of the be stored in normal fridges. The was previously charged last disease. J&J vaccine is also considered September but the complaint “Most encouraging to me essential in the global vacci- was not made public until the US Ambassador to United Nations takes oath were the data in South Africa,” nation effort due to its routine beginning of the month when said Paul Offit, director of the storage requirements and is Suliman was arrested, fol- US Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield, with her husband Lafayette Greenfield Vaccine Education Center at already being rolled out to lowing his expulsion from a and son Lafayette Greenfield II, is sworn into her new office Vice-Presidentby Kamala Harris in the the Children’s Hospital of Phil- 500,000 healthcare workers foreign country, according to Eisenhower Executive Office Building at the White House in Washington, yesterday. adelphia and a member of the in South Africa. a statement from the US Attor- ney’s Office. Prosecutors did not say where he was arrested. Grand jury hearing evidence During a court hearing two South Dakota House moves to weeks ago, a judge ordered him to remain in federal in death of George Floyd custody. “Suliman said that if impeach A-G after fatal crash he had reached the above- AP — WASHINGTON Chauvin. The Justice Department listed groups, he would have declined to comment. supported them with his Several witnesses have been Jury selection begins in AP — PIERRE Ravnsborg should be removed Shortly before the English speaking and writing subpoenaed to appear before Chavin’s state case on March 8 from office for “his crimes or impeachment resolution was capabilities,” the affidavit said. a federal grand jury consid- — he faces second-degree South Dakota House lawmakers misdemeanours in office filed, Governor Kristi Noem “Suliman added that he did ering charges against former murder and manslaughter yesterday began impeachment causing the death” of Boever. called for him to step down. The not support the beheadings Minneapolis police officer charges — with opening state- proceedings against the state’s The resolution also stated governor’s spokesman Ian Fury and torture that IS engaged in, Derek Chauvin, who is already ments scheduled for March 29. attorney general, who is facing that Ravnsborg’s conduct fol- said she also supports the but he was willing to assist and facing state murder charges in Floyd, a Black man, died misdemeanour charges for lowing the crash was “unbe- impeachment resolution. support them in their media the death of George Floyd, a May 25 after Chauvin, who is striking and killing a man with coming” and his “statements “Now that the investigation section and related duties, and person familiar with the matter white, pressed his knee against his car and is already under and actions failed to meet the has closed and charges have provide financial support.” said yesterday. Floyd’s neck while he was pressure to resign. standard” of his office. been filed, I believe the Suliman had been on the The Justice Department’s handcuffed and saying he A bipartisan group of law- “When we started looking Attorney General should FBI’s radar for the past decade, federal civil rights investigation couldn’t breathe. Floyd’s death makers filed a resolution in the through and thinking about the resign,” Noem said in a according to the affidavit. He has been focused on Chauvin sparked protests in Minneapolis House to impeach the state’s duties that the attorney general statement. was interviewed by an agent and some of the witnesses, and beyond and led to a top law enforcement officer, owes to the people of South But Ravnsborg’s will not be in Turkey in 2011 and inter- including other officers who nationwide reckoning on race. Jason Ravnsborg, after he indi- Dakota, and I think he owes a stepping down, according to viewed again in 2018 during a worked with Chauvin, Three other officers — cated Monday he would not special duty to protect the spokesman Mike Deaver. trip to Sudan. according to the person, who Thomas Lane, J Kueng and Tou heed calls for his resignation. people and uphold the laws. “As an attorney and a Lt. During the earlier could not publicly discuss the Thao — are charged with aiding The Republican attorney And I think that the actions in Colonel in the Army Reserves, interview in Turkey, he told non-public proceedings and and abetting second-degree general faces three misde- these incidents fell short of that AG Ravnsborg has fought for the FBI agent he had a bipolar spoke on condition of murder and manslaughter and meanour charges but no fel- duty,” said Rep. Will Mortensen, the rule of law and personal lib- disorder and had stopped anonymity. are scheduled to face trial in onies in the September death who represents the area where erties and would hope that he taking medication, which led The New York Times first August. Like Chauvin, all three of 55-year-old Joseph Boever. the crash occurred and who is afforded the same right and him to be manic or depressed, reported that a grand jury was were fired soon after Floyd’s Lawmakers argued in the sponsored the impeachment courtesy,” Deaver said in a the affidavit said. hearing testimony against death. impeachment resolution that resolution. statement. THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021 16

You Ask, officials answer PRAYER TIMINGS PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMING An outlook towards childhood disorders: ADHD (Attention Deficit and Hyperactive Disorder) in FAJR 04.43 am children - Part 2 SUNRISE 06.01 am DHUHR 11.47 am Does ADHD only affect ASR 03.06 pm children? MAGHRIB 05.36 pm No, about one-third of ISHA 07.06 pm children /with ADHD continue to meet the criteria for an ADHD diag- nosis as adults. In early adulthood, What kind of exercise is good ADHD may be associated with mood for my child with ADHD? or conduct disorders or substance Exercise can lessen the Editor-in-Chief of The Peninsula abuse. Adults with ADHD often cope severity of ADHD symptoms and with difficulties at work and in their improve cognitive functioning, personal and family lives related to including focus, attention, and receives German Ambassador ADHD symptoms. memory. Brain gym is good for children to improve their brain con- The Editor-in-Chief of The Peninsula, Dr. Khalid Mubarak Al-Shafi received Ambassador How is ADHD treated? nections and functional WEATHER of the Federal Republic of Germany to Qatar, Dr. Claudius Fischbach, on Tuesday. The TODAY Treating ADHD often integration. Ambassador was briefed about the evolution of the newspaper over the past two requires medical, educa- Meditation helps those with ADHD decades since its establishment and its mission, vision and the role of the newspaper’s tional, behavioural, and psycho- to hone their attention and to improve website. The Ambassador and the Editor-in-Chief discussed cooperation between the logical intervention. self-awareness, which can restrain PIC: QASSIM RAHMATULLAH/THE PENINSULA German embassy in Doha and the newspaper. This way of comprehensive impulsive behaviour and reduce the approach found to be very effective. anxiety that is associated with ADHD. In children ages six and over med- Fast-moving sports can work best o o ication can be an important part of to curb symptoms of inattention like 19 C 24 C HMC starts COVID-19 vaccination treatment. basketball, swimming, soccer, hockey, Minimum Maximum They work by increasing levels etc. Moderate temperature daytime of neurotransmitters in the brain to If the pressure of competition or and partly cloudy with chance of campaign for housebound patients reduce common symptoms such as required skill level is too much it’s scattered rain may be thundery at inattention, and hyperactivity. better to look for activities like martial times, relatively cold by night. THE PENINSULA — DOHA solution that will provide them with A cognitive-behavioural arts, ice skating, etc. If your child is not W ALRUWAIS : 17o → 20o added protection. It was therefore very approach is effective for working interested in sports, can do dance, W ALKHOR : 17o → 24o Hamad Medical Corporation’s (HMC) important to extend the eligibility criteria on a problematic behaviour by band, and drama. W DUKHAN : 15o → 21o Home Healthcare Service (HHS) has for this campaign to include both family helping the person understand why W WAKRAH : 15o → 23o commenced administering the and other household members who they are doing it and how to change What accommodations are COVID-19 vaccine to its registered closely interact with our patients,” added it. helpful for students with W MESAIEED : 15o → 23o housebound patients to protect them Dr. Al Hamad. Social skill groups can be bene- ADHD in the school setting? W ABUSAMRA : 16o → 21o against the disease. HMC’s Home Healthcare Service, ficial. A therapist can improve self- Preferential seating, i.e., arrange The COVID-19 vaccination outreach which is part of HMC’s Continuing Care regulation, self-monitoring of the seating in the front row (or close to HIGH TIDE campaign, which received endorsement Group, has around 2,500 home bound child also helps to better manage the teacher), away from windows 03:56 – 14:26 from the Ministry of Public Health, targets patients registered as service users, nearly emotions, improve executive func- and other distractions. not only adult home healthcare patients 75% of which are people aged 60 and tioning so that the child would be The child can be assigned with LOW TIDE 11:38 – 21:28 but also other adults living in the same above. Approximately 300 patients are functional in his day-to-day chal- a buddy pair in the class from the household, provided they fit the medical children who are not yet eligible to be lenges at home, school, and in social peer. criteria for eligibility. vaccinated with the currently available situations. Oral instructions should be reit- National Lead for Healthy Ageing and vaccines; therefore around 2,000 home erated and written down for the Chairperson for the Department of Ger- bound patients overall are being con- Should I go for a gluten-free student. China’s Mars craft iatrics and Long-Term Care, Dr. Hanadi sidered for the vaccine. or sugar - restricted diet for Breaking down tasks into man- Al Hamad explained the campaign was The campaign started in district one my child with ADHD? ageable pieces of work or chunking enters parking the result of extensive feedback with which includes Al Wakra, Wukair, Al However, some alternative of tasks can be done. Highlight key patients and families. “The feedback we Hilal, Mattar Qadeem, and Mamoura. The methods have found to help manage points in the notes and readers. orbit before have received especially from our older vaccination strategy is for several teams different symptoms of ADHD. The Use assistive technology to make landing rover patients was that they were hesitant to to remain in a designated district to vac- benefit of these methods may differ the learning process more visual. go out of their home to get vaccinated cinate as many patients and their house- from individual to individual. They can be provided with extended AP — BEIJING and that they would feel more confident holds as possible, before moving on to Not necessarily, it will work for time on tests. if they could be vaccinated along with the next district. Patients registered with all. Eating essential foods that China says its Tianwen-1 space- other family members.” HMC’s Home Healthcare Service can call reduce inflammation in the body Answers provided by: craft has entered a temporary “As a large portion of our home the newly established Hamad Home may help the brain function better. Minusha Jaleel. M P parking orbit around Mars in healthcare patients are older, which is Healthcare Call Center on 4439 0111 for This includes limiting gluten in diet, Senior Clinical Psychologist, anticipation of landing a rover exactly the population group who are help and advice on home healthcare sugar and processed foods and QISH, Doha on the red planet in the coming among the most vulnerable from needs as well as the COVID-19 incorporating foods high in omega months. COVID-19, we wanted to establish a vaccination. 3 fatty acid for better brain (If you have any queries, you can The China National Space functioning. send it to [email protected]) Administration said the space- craft executed a maneuver to adjust its orbit early yesterday morning Beijing time and will QA Cargo joins Validaide as a premium member remain in the new orbit for about the next three months before attempting to land. THE PENINSULA — DOHA The airline’s product QR During that time, it will be Pharma provides temperature- mapping the surface of Mars and Qatar Airways Cargo has joined Qatar Airways Cargo has controlled air freight for phar- using its cameras and other Validaide Capabilities Platform also joined the Advisory maceuticals, offering active and sensors to collect further data, as a premium member. Board of Validaide, passive solutions in cold chain particularly about its prospective Through the membership, logistics. Expertly-trained staff landing site. the cargo carrier can digitally which allows it to at every pharma destination That follows the landing of manage and share its station contribute to the ensure the cool chain is the US Perseverance rover last capabilities for pharmaceuticals platform’s further unbroken. Thursday near an ancient river and healthcare products. Cus- developments and In December 2020, Qatar delta in Jezero Crater to search tomers can easily review the customise its features to Airways Cargo was awarded for signs of ancient microscopic airline’s pharma handling capa- IATA’s Centre of Excellence for life. bilities at all the airports benefit the end-user. Independent Validators (CEIV) A successful bid to land throughout its extensive certification in pharmaceutical Tianwen-1 would make China network. which are the key benefits of “Working closer together logistics at its hub in Doha. only the second country after the Qatar Airways Cargo has membership with Validaide, the going digital.” with Qatar Airways Cargo will Qatar Airways Cargo has US to place a spacecraft on Mars. also joined the Advisory Board leading digital platform for Eelco de Jong, CEO at Val- help us create a better future. invested considerably in its China’s solar-powered vehicle, of Validaide, which allows it to special cargo, gives our cus- idaide, said, “There is a strong Firstly, easy access to the cargo pharma solution through about the size of a golf cart, will contribute to the platform’s tomers, logistics providers, and need in the industry for collab- carrier’s capabilities will be quality handling, infrastructure, collect data on underground further developments and cus- pharmaceutical shippers access oration and data sharing as important for global forwarders facilities, people, and proce- water and look for evidence that tomise its features to benefit the to define and search for special transparency on transport and to comply with regulatory dures at each of its pharma sta- the planet may have once har- end-user. Qatar Airways Cargo cargo handling capabilities storage conditions is essential requirements for pharma ship- tions, including the Doha hub, bored microscopic life. and Validaide both pursue dig- easily. Customers can also for distributing COVID-19 vac- ments. Secondly, Qatar Airways adhering to high operating Tianwen, the title of an italisation projects within the create lane assessments when cines. We are very happy to add Cargo will play a key role in our standards for transporting tem- ancient poem, means “Quest for broader air cargo industry. transporting pharmaceuticals Qatar Airways Cargo to the community model and help us perature-controlled products. Heavenly Truth.” Landing a Guillaume Halleux, Chief on our flights. We are easing the Advisory Board as we share define the development Due to this, the cargo carrier’s spacecraft on Mars is notoriously Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways, way for our customers do strong support for collaboration roadmap,” Natalie Niers, Head volumes for pharmaceutical tricky. About a dozen orbiters said, “Digitalisation is the need business with us, providing con- and transparency in the of Capabilities Platform at Val- shipments have grown by 18% missed the mark. In 2011, a Mars- of the hour. Our premium venience and speed to market, industry.” idaide, said. in 2020 over 2019. bound Chinese orbiter that was part of a Russian mission didn’t make it out of Earth orbit. China’s attempt will involve Van Gogh painting to be shown in public for first time a parachute, rocket firings and airbags. Its proposed landing site is a vast, rock-strewn plain called REUTERS — PARIS on display by Sotheby’s auction in the background. with its cheap rents. and from such an iconic series, Utopia Planitia, where the US house in Amsterdam, Hong The painting is part of a The auction house said the is undoubtedly a major event,” Viking 2 lander touched down A painting of a Paris street scene Kong, and Paris, prior to being series that Van Gogh produced painting had been seen in cat- the statement said. in 1976. by Vincent Van Gogh is to be auctioned off next month. of scenes in Montmartre, a hilly alogues, but has never itself Van Gogh arrived in Paris in Tianwen-1’s arrival at Mars shown to the public for the first The auction house put an district of Paris now dominated been on public display. It did not 1886. He left the city in 1888, on February 10 was preceded by time, after spending more than estimated value on the artwork by the Sacre Coeur church. identify the current owner. saying he had tired of the hectic that of an orbiter from the United a century behind closed doors of between 5 million euros When the artist was there, Sotheby’s said in a pace of Paris life. Arab Emirates. All three of the in the private collection of a ($6.08m) and 8 million euros. the church was under con- statement that very few He moved to the south of latest missions were launched French family. Titled “A street scene in struction and the area was a paintings from Van Gogh’s France, where he cut off part of in July to take advantage of the The work, painted by Van Montmartre,” the painting patchwork of fields, houses Montmartre period remain in his ear during an episode of close alignment between Earth Gogh in 1887 while he was depicts a man and woman, and windmills on the edge of private hands. mental illness. The artist later and Mars that happens only once lodging with his brother Theo strolling arm in arm past a ram- the city that was starting to “The appearance on the shot himself and died near Paris every two years. in the French capital, will be put shackle fence with a windmill attract a bohemian artist set market of a work of this calibre, on July 29, 1890.