BUSINESS | Page 1 SPORT | Page 1 Otamendi fi res City 11 points INDEX Interest in Islamic DOW JONES QE NYMEX QATAR 2-10, 28 COMMENT 26, 27 clear over REGION 10 BUSINESS 1-7, 13-16 fi nance growing, 24.336.00 7,827.71 57.36 ARAB WORLD 11 CLASSIFIED 8-12 +90.00 +54.12 +0.67 INTERNATIONAL 12-25 SPORTS 1-8 says QCB governor United +0.37% +0.70% +1.18% Latest Figures published in QATAR since 1978

MONDAY Vol. XXXVIII No. 10664 December 11, 2017 Rabia I 23, 1439 AH

GULF TIMES www. gulf-times.com 2 Riyals Emir meets Indonesian minister Hamad Port In brief set to handle

QATAR | Offi cial Emir condoles with rising bulk of Romanian president His Highness the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and His Highness the Deputy Emir Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al-Thani sent yesterday cables global cargo of condolences to Romanian President Klaus Iohannis on the death of King Michael I. HE the Prime Minister and zMany major operators evince Interior Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani sent interest in direct services to Doha a similar cable of condolences to Romanian Prime Minister Mihai By Santhosh V Perumal Tudose. Business Reporter ARAB WORLD | Confl ict amad Port, which has seen the New protests fl are world’s largest shipping com- over Trump move Hpanies seek entry and growth New protests flared in the Middle East in the Qatari and regional markets, is and elsewhere yesterday over US all set to handle increasing volumes of President Donald Trump’s declaration global cargo, according to a top offi cial of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, a move of QTerminals, the operator of the fi rst that has drawn global condemnation His Highness the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani met yesterday with Indonesian Co-ordinating Minister for Maritime phase of the port. and sparked days of unrest in the Aff airs Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan and his accompanying delegation. Bilateral relations and ways to develop them were reviewed “We have a robust growth strategy Palestinian territories. Tens of during the meeting at the Emiri Diwan off ice. Page 3 in place to ensure that we continue to thousands of people have protested in expand our business… There is signifi - Muslim and Arab countries, including cant room for growth and innovation,” Neville Bissett, the chief executive of Jordan, Turkey, Pakistan and Malaysia. Neville Bissett, the newly appointed QTerminals. Yesterday, further protests were chief executive of QTerminals told Gulf held in countries including Lebanon, Times in an exclusive interview. into and through Qatar due to the ex- Indonesia, Egypt and Morocco as well More than 16% of the world’s con- panded facilities, higher productivity, as in the Palestinian territories. Page 11 Qatar, UK sign deal to set up tainer traffi c fl ows between Europe and and effi cient use of capacity in the port, Asia, allowing the Gulf Co-operation he said. AMERICA | Disaster Council ports to capitalise on the thriv- As per the available data, the port ing global shipping business, a study by harboured 150 vessels in September Winds reinvigorate A T Kearney said, adding demand for this year against 104 in the same period California wildfi re Joint Operational Squadron international trade coupled with the last year while net tonnage at the port California’s largest wildfire pushed existing global ports network is anoth- expanded to 143,750 tonnes in Septem- toward prosperous coastal cities er factor in the Gulf’s marine transport ber compared to 65,470 tonnes in the yesterday, prompting a new wave of E the Deputy Prime Minis- boom. same period of 2016. evacuations as firefighters struggled ter and Minister of State for Highlighting that many main line The Hamad Port’s predecessor Doha to curb its destructive power with the HDefence Aff airs Dr Khalid bin operators have evinced interest in Port was used as a feeder port, handling gusty winds that have fuelled fires for Mohamed al-Attiyah met yesterday starting direct services to Hamad Port, cargo generally for local consumption, nearly a week. Authorities ordered with UK Secretary of State for Defence while others have already started or while the new port is seen as a hub, residents in parts of Carpinteria and Gavin Williamson. are expanding their existing routes, he which means that it now handles both Montecito to evacuate as the Thomas During the meeting, the two sides said the new routes include additional local and regional cargo. “Going for- Fire edged closer to the city of Santa discussed strengthening bilateral rela- services from China, the Far East and ward, (it) will handle increasing vol- Barbara, about 160km northwest of Los tions between the two countries, es- Bangladesh as well as enhancement of umes of international cargo,” Bissett Angeles. Page 13 pecially in defence and military fi elds, services from established routes in- said. according to a statement released by cluding India, Pakistan, Oman, and the Asked how soon the port can achieve EUROPE | Disarmament the Directorate of Defence Communi- Mediterranean. the optimum utilisation amidst the cation. The sectors that are currently con- economic blockade; he said shortly Nobel peace winners The meeting also witnessed signing tributing most to volume are machin- after the crisis started, QTerminals, warn over nuke war an agreement for building up a Joint HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Aff airs Dr Khalid bin ery, technical and construction materi- together with Qatar’s supply chain, lo- Mankind’s destruction caused by a Operational Squadron (JOS), which Mohamed al-Attiyah and UK Secretary of State for Defence Gavin Williamson at the al, large electrical goods, vehicles, and gistics, and transportation stakehold- nuclear war is just one “impulsive includes the joint operations and signing ceremony in Doha yesterday. electronic equipment, he said, adding ers made immediate operational and tantrum away”, the winners of the training squadron, and an electronic Qatar’s major trade partners include process changes, and quickly adapted Nobel Peace Prize, the International warfare system through continuous technicians. It will have a notable role A contract to supply QAF with 24 China, India, the US, Europe and Japan. to the new situation in order to ensure Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons co-operation between the two coun- in operational coverage and aerial se- Typhoon jets was also signed, in ad- Since its opening, Hamad Port has that Qatar was impacted as little as (ICAN), warned yesterday as the United tries. JOS is a unique squadron in the curity during the FIFA 2022 World Cup dition to the training package agree- attracted signifi cant interest from main possible. States and North Korea exchange region, and is considered the nucleus events. ment. A number of senior QAF offi cers line operators and the world’s largest QTerminals’ current operations in threats over the nation’s nuclear tests. of future joint operations between JOS will ensure ease of future real- attended the meeting and the signing shipping companies, which are seeking Hamad Port include a container termi- “Will it be the end of nuclear weapons, Qatar Emiri Air Force and Royal Air time joint operations for both sides, ceremony. to enter and grow in the Qatari and re- nal with a capacity of 2mn TEUs (twen- or will it be the end of us?” ICAN head Force. as well as ensuring precision of joint Later, HE Dr al-Attiyah hosted a gional markets, Bissett said ty-foot equivalent units) and general Beatrice Fihn said in a speech after The squadron tackles all air combat procedures, in light of the two coun- dinner banquet in honour of Wil- The transition from Doha Port to cargo, roll-on roll-off and livestock receiving the peace prize on behalf of operations, ensuring combat readi- tries’ partnership in combating ter- liamson and the accompanying del- Hamad Port has led to an increase in terminals with a capacity of 1.7mn the anti-nuclear group. Page 18 ness for all Qatari and British pilots and rorism. egation. Page 2 containerised and general cargo trade tonnes and 500,000 vehicles annually. Qatar fl ays Israel’s excessive Schoolchildren visit Darb Al Saai use of force against protesters zTrump move a serious escalation and great provocation: FM

QNA Reiterating Qatar’s position in support dition to being a clear violation of all Doha of the Palestinian cause and the broth- agreements and resolutions led by the erly Palestinian people, it said the most ones issued by the UN Security Coun- important among the legitimate rights of cil and General Assembly that annul all atar has expressed its strong the Palestinians is the establishment of the Israeli actions aiming to change Al condemnation of the Israeli oc- an independent state on the 1967 borders Quds’ legal status. Qcupation’s use of excessive force with East Jerusalem as its capital. Sheikh Mohamed said the US move against Palestinians during a protest over Earlier, giving a speech at the Arab was a biased one towards the Israeli oc- the US president’s recognition of Al Quds emergency meeting at the level of for- cupation and served a great injustice to (Jerusalem) as the capital of Israel. eign ministers at the headquarters of the historic and legitimate rights of the In a statement yesterday, the Foreign the Arab League in Cairo, HE the Depu- Palestinians. “It also created a reality Ministry said that the fall of dozens of ty Prime Minister and Foreign Minister that everyone must stand fi rm against martyrs and injured among Palestin- Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al- its dangerous implications.” ian demonstrators by the Israeli oc- Thani said the Arab and Islamic world The minister also called for unity in cupation forces is a heinous crime and was facing a dangerous development support of the struggle of the Palestin- A group of schoolchildren wave Qatari flags yesterday as they visit Darb Al Saai, the venue for the National Day-linked a blatant infringement of the right to after US President Donald Trump’s ian people and urged the international celebrations in the heart of Doha. The venue of the multi-event celebrations in the Al Sadd area will remain open to the peaceful protest. move on Al Quds. community to take the necessary steps public until December 20, as a major centre of festivities for marking the Qatar National Day on December 18. Darb Al The statement called on the interna- He said such a move was a serious in accordance to international law in Saai will be open to visitors from 8am to 12noon and from 4pm to 10pm. Next Friday the venue will receive visitors from tional community to act immediately escalation and great provocation to the dealing with the American decision and 2pm to 11pm and on the occasion of Qatar National Day on December 18, from 8am to 2pm. December 13 is reserved for to stop the Israeli occupation’s crimes sentiments of millions of Muslims and defending Al Quds’ great historical and women. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam Pages 8, 9, 10 and to protect the Palestinian people. Christians around the world, in ad- religious status. Page 11 Gulf Times 2 Monday, December 11, 2017 QATAR

Prime minister receives British defence secretary Deputy PM meets UK defence secretary

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani met the British Secretary of State for HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Aff airs Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Defence Gavin Williamson, and his accompanying delegation, in Doha yesterday. They reviewed areas of co-operation, especially in the al-Attiyah meeting yesterday with the UK’s Secretary of State for Defence Gavin Williamson in Doha. military field, in addition to a number of issues, particularly the developments in the region. British ambassador Ajay Sharma and other off icials are also seen on the occasion.

Qatar-Indonesia ties reviewed

Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs Dr Ahmed bin Hassan al-Hammadi yesterday Minister opens world-class met the Co-ordinating Minister for Maritime Aff airs of Indonesia Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan. The meeting discussed bilateral relations and means of developing them, in addition to transport education facility matters of common concern. Bangladesh FM Transport Education- menting the best programmes transport system. It is a world- al Centre was opened in the country for the benefi t class educational facility of the meets Qatar envoy Ayesterday in the West of our society. The centre is the highest calibre to match a world- Bangladesh Foreign Minister Bay area by HE the Minister of vehicle through which we will class transportation system the Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali met Transport and Communications educate the present and future nation can look forward to.” Qatar’s ambassador Ahmed Jassim Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti. generations on utilising these Qatar’s urban framework bin Mohamed al-Dehaimi. The A number of senior offi cials technologies to their full ben- is swiftly evolving around the meeting discussed ways to from government bodies and efi t.” state-of-the-art metro infra- develop bilateral relations and companies representing the The minister said the Qatar structure, designed to facilitate a matters of mutual interest. transport sector attended the Rail’s projects, especially Doha new generation of commuters to opening ceremony. Metro, will form the vital back- move seamlessly within all other Advisory Council to Speaking on the occasion HE bone of the integrated public means of transportation. The attend League meet al-Sulaiti said “Under the wise transport system, supported by Transport Educational Centre is leadership of His Highness the other rail-based systems like not only an exhibition space, but The Advisory Council is Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Lusail Tram, to encourage the also a state-of-the-art interac- taking part in the emergency al-Thani and the follow-up and use of public transport. tive educational centre and vi- session to be held by the Arab supervision of HE the Prime HE al-Sulaiti added: “Educa- brant learning space. Parliament today in the Arab Minister and Interior Minister tion has always been indispen- The centre will be a hub for League headquarters in Cairo. Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin sable to our progress. The Trans- children, students, residents and The session will discuss the Khalifa al-Thani, we saw trans- port Educational Centre will be visitors, enabling them to wit- decision of US President Donald portation projects receiving re- the central hub where the people ness fi rsthand the innovation Trump to move the US embassy markable attention which has of Qatar can learn and discover and excellence underpinning HE the Minister of Transport and Communications Jassim Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti opens the Transport to occupied Jerusalem, and led to a clear vision for imple- the many benefi ts of our public Qatar’s transport system. Educational Centre yesterday in the West Bay area as off icials look on. PICTURE: Anas al-Samaraee recognise it as Israel’s capital. QU marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities

he Inclusion and and Higher Education, and and Special Needs Support peers. It also included na- Special Needs Sup- Hamad Medical Corpora- Centre consultant Dr Khalid tional hymns by the centre’s Tport Centre at Qatar tion. Khader, as well as faculty, students and a presentation University (QU) yesterday It aimed to promote the staff and students from QU. by al-Jufairi in which he hosted an event in com- rights and well-being of The event saw the hon- gave an overview on robots memoration of the Inter- persons with disabilities in ouring of the fi rst batch of integrating natural language national Day of Persons all spheres of society and 16 students who graduated and gesture, as well as a play with Disabilities, under the development, and to in- from QU Inclusion and Spe- presented by the centre’s patronage of HE the Prime crease awareness of the sit- cial Needs Support Centre. female students. Minister and Interior Min- uation of persons with dis- They received gifts from the Dr al-Khanji said, “Per- ister Sheikh Abdullah bin abilities in every aspect of Ministry of Interior and tro- sons with special needs Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani. political, social, economic phies from QU. are an essential part of the Themed “Yes I Can”, the and cultural life. The programme agenda Qatari society. They play event was organised in col- The event attracted over featured the screening of a a pivotal role in the coun- laboration with the De- 300 attendees from institu- short video titled “I Can” try’s growth and progress. partment of Psychological tions from the private and produced by students from This event highlights the Sciences at QU College of public sectors. Attendees QU Inclusion and Special achievements of the State Education (CED) and in included QU vice presi- Needs Support Centre, a of Qatar in supporting the partnership with the Min- dent for student aff airs Dr play performed by al-Su- persons with disabilities, istry of Interior, Ministry Khalid al-Khanji, Qatari laiti, and a music perform- under the wise leadership of Administrative Develop- actor Ghanem al-Sulaiti, ance by students from QU of His Highness the Emir ment, Labour and Social Af- Qatari scientist Mohamed Inclusion and Special Needs Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad fairs; Ministry of Education al-Jufairi, and Inclusion Support Centre and their al-Thani.”

Dr Khalid al-Khanji A music performance at the event.

Windy conditions likely to continue until tomorrow

trong winds will con- est weather chart updates Meanwhile, cold weather Off shore, slightly dusty tinue to aff ect the and said the country would conditions will continue at conditions are likely at Scountry until tomor- continue “to be aff ected by night with temperatures re- times. row, the Qatar Met depart- fresh to strong northwest- maining around their aver- Northwesterly winds may ment has said, adding that erly winds until Tuesday, age levels. The minimum is reach a high of 28 knots in these conditions will add to December 12”. expected to range between inshore areas and 33 knots the chill factor and make it The wind speed is ex- 11C and 18C and the maxi- off shore. feel cooler. pected to range from 15-25 mum between 19C and 24C Visibility, on the other The weather offi ce has knots and reach a high of across the country, the re- hand, may drop to 3km or also informed that marine 30 knots in some areas, port states. less, even as the sea level warnings will remain in while the wave height off - It will feel cooler than rises to 12ft. place until the beginning of shore will range between what it actually is due to the The minimum tempera- Wednesday. 7ft and 10ft, going up to 14ft chilly winds, the Met de- ture today is expected to be In view of the expected in some areas, as marine partment adds. 12C in Abu Samra, 14C in conditions, the Met depart- warnings continue until the The detailed forecast for Al Khor, Wakrah and Me- ment has urged people to beginning of Wednesday, today says mild daytime saieed, 16C in Doha, 17C in be cautious and avoid go- December 13. conditions are expected in- Dukhan and 19C in Ruwais. ing into the sea during this In addition, visibility is shore along with slight to Yesterday, the mer- period. expected to drop below 2km blowing dust in some places cury level dipped to 12C in In a report yesterday, in some areas due to blow- at times. It will be cold by Turayna and Karana, while the department cited lat- ing dust. night. in Doha it was 16C. Gulf Times Monday, December 11, 2017 3 QATAR

Deputy PM meets Indonesian minister

HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Aff airs Dr Khalid bin Mohamed al-Attiyah, received in his off ice yesterday Indonesia’s Co-ordinating Minister of Maritime Aff airs Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan. They discussed strengthening bilateral relations in the maritime field and exchanging expertise. A number of senior off icers from Qatar Armed Forces attended the meeting, according to a statement issued by the Directorate of Defence Communication.

QTA off ers training for fi rms on tapping into Chinese market

atar Tourism Au- An expert and representa- members of the industry can The Welcome Chinese thority (QTA) is of- tive of Welcome Chinese will now tap into the largest out- Certifi cation is issued by the Qfering a training also be available on Wednes- bound tourism market in China Tourism Academy, an tomorrow for destination day to provide one-on-one the world, by ensuring they arm of the Chinese National management companies consultation with DMCs are ready to provide Chinese Tourism Administration. (DMCs) on tapping into seeking additional guidance guests with exceptional expe- “By signing up for Wel- the Chinese market, in col- and support on how to be- riences,” al-Khuzaei added. come Chinese, tourism es- laboration with Welcome come certifi ed providers of Qatar was granted ADS in tablishments benefi t from Chinese, the sole offi cial tourism services to Chinese China in September, allow- training opportunities, vis- tourism certifi cation pro- visitors to Qatar. ing it to receive tourist groups ibility in the Chinese tourism gramme recognised by the “These trainings form from China and to promote market, as well as targeted Chinese government. part of a collaboration be- Qatar as a tourism destina- online and offl ine market- The training at the Doha tween QTA and Welcome tion within the country. ing that directly reaches the Exhibition and Conven- Chinese that aims to em- The ADS system seeks to Chinese traveller,” Welcome tion Centre, will provide power the hospitality, tour- guarantee safe and reliable Chinese president Jacopo DMCs with a deeper un- ism and retail sectors in tourism services for Chi- Sertoli said. derstanding of the needs of Qatar to meet the require- nese customers, from both “With visa-free entry Chinese travellers and how ments of Chinese tourists local travel agencies and in- for Chinese visitors, and to meet them, an overview and market themselves on ternational tour operators. direct fl ights to six cities in of Chinese travel trade and Chinese tourism platforms,” Welcome Chinese helps to China, Qatar is primed to insights into the Chinese QTA’s communication head ensure that tourism industry receive more visitors from travel market. It will also of- Jawaher al-Khuzaei said. members within countries this growing market, and we fer guidance on administra- “Since Qatar has gained that have ADS are prepared look forward to supporting tion and contracting within Approved Destination Sta- and positioned to attract and its industry in preparing to the Chinese market. tus (ADS) in China, individual receive Chinese visitors. welcome them,” he added. Gulf Times 4 Monday, December 11, 2017 QATAR

Deputy PM meets Tunisian president, FM More than 14,000 pupils register for Qur’an contest

he number of applicants for the Holy Qur’an school com- petition for students in its 57th edition has reached more Tthan 14,000 students from all levels in public and private schools. The competition, organised by the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Aff airs in co-operation with the Minis- try of Education and Higher Education, opened registration for schools in mid-October, and closes on February 11. The Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Aff airs called on the local and resident students to quickly register and prepare for the competition which will be held in February. Qatar donates $200,000 for UN’s humanitarian eff orts Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi yesterday met the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister HE Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani, during his visit to Tunisia. Qatar has donated $200,000 to the Off ice of the United Nations At the outset of the meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister conveyed the greetings of His Highness the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to the Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Partnerships with Tunisian president and his wishes to the Tunisian people. President Beji Caid Essebsi reciprocated the greetings of His Highness the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani. the Middle East and Central Asia in Geneva. Assistant Secretary- The meeting reviewed the bilateral relations between both countries and ways to develop them, as well as the GCC crisis and the latest regional developments, especially in General of the United Nations for Humanitarian Partnerships with Libya. HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani also met Tunisia’s Minister of Foreign Aff airs Khemaies Jhinaoui. The the Middle East and Central Asia Rashid Khalikov thanked Qatar meeting discussed the bilateral relations and ways to develop them, as well as the GCC crisis and developments in Libya. for the donation, and said that Qatar has been playing an active role in responding to humanitarian situations. QF R&D participates in global innovation summit

Qatar Foundation Re- tion refl ecting its focus on working ment and commercialisation of and sustainable energy and water search and Development with international stakeholders, as technology that meets Qatar’s sources. A(QF R&D) delegation re- well as the local research commu- needs and can make an impact in Meanwhile, Prof Laoucine Ker- cently joined research, industry, nity, to make Qatar a research and the global marketplace, is essential bache, chief innovation strategist, and government leaders from development hub for the region and to building our nation’s capacity, RSIM, participated in a discussion around the world to tackle key the world. resilience, and economic and soci- on ‘The Future of Universities in themes surrounding innovation As a member of the GFCC, QF etal future,” said Dr al-Ibrahim. the Technology Disruption Era’, and its role in shaping the fu- R&D also participated in its an- “As Qatar continues to where the impact of Artifi cial In- ture at a high-level international nual meeting in Kuala Lumpur. strengthen a research and in- telligence and digital technologies summit in Malaysia. During a panel discussion titled novation ecosystem that drives on education, the new skills re- Representatives from QF R&D ‘Examples of Multi-Stakeholder impact, we must demonstrate quired to meet the demands of job provided their insights and high- Collaboration’, Dr Hamad al-Ib- to the world, through showcas- markets in innovation-focused lighted the advancement and aims rahim, executive vice-president, ing our achievements and our economies, and the role of uni- of Qatar’s research and innovation QF R&D, who is a GFCC board ambitions, that Qatar is open for versities as “economic develop- ecosystem as they participated in member, explained how data business – the business of inno- ment and innovation agents”, was the 2017 Global Innovation Sum- analytics and tech innovation are vation.” analysed. mit (GIS), the fl agship event of the reshaping health sciences, and During the GIS, Dr Erik Stene- The QF R&D delegation also Global Federation of Competi- how Qatar aims to capitalise on hjem, executive director, Research published a paper on ‘Best Prac- tiveness Councils (GFCC). this transformation to help ad- Dr Hassan al-Derham, president, Qatar University; Dr Hamad al-Ibrahim, executive vice-president, QF R&D; Strategy and Impact Management tice in Competitiveness Strate- The GIS saw government, busi- dress its healthcare challenges. Deborah Wince-Smith, president, GFCC; and professor Laoucine Kerbache, chief innovation strategist, QF (RSIM), QF R&D, was among the gy,’ refl ecting QF R&D’s strategic ness, academia, and civil society On the sidelines of the GIS R&D, at the 2017 Global Innovation Summit. panellists in a session focusing on role in driving forward Qatar’s leaders, and infl uential think-tanks, and the GFCC annual meeting, maximising the value of natural research and innovation ecosys- combine to identify ways of en- Dr al-Ibrahim also met Dr Mo- try-Government Group for High ships and research collabora- president, GFCC, a longstanding resources through innovation and tem – which will form part of the hancing the world’s capacity for in- hamed Yusoff Sulaiman, presi- Technology, to discuss potential tions between Qatar and Malay- supporter of QF R&D’s work. technology, a key area for Qatar ‘GFCC Principles and Best Prac- novation, with QF R&D’s participa- dent and CEO, Malaysian Indus- public-private sector partner- sia; and Deborah Wince-Smith, “Innovation, and the develop- as it aims to develop more secure tices’, launched during the GIS. Gulf Times Monday, December 11, 2017 5 QATAR Ashghal plans to implement major projects in 2018-22 shghal will implement infrastructure projects Ato serve owners of ap- proximately 32,855 land plots spread over 14 areas across the country in the four-year peri- od between 2018 and 2022. Of this, 24,284 are in the existing areas and 8,571 are in newly developed land plots. According to a statement from Ashghal, the works will be done in line with the vi- sion of His Highness the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al- Thani and under the directives of HE the Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Ab- dullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani. Ashghal is currently im- plementing infrastructure projects to serve more than 22,000 land plots spread over 18 areas, of which 20,637 plots are in the existing areas and 1,829 are in the newly devel- oped areas. Ashghal is expected to com- A road built in one of the newly developed areas in Al Aziziya area. plete 23 projects to develop infrastructure in various ar- Rawdat Al Hamama areas. ment projects in Muaither four to develop sewage net- eas before the end of this year, The authority also complet- West (Al Manaseer) – Package works serving around 3,000 serving approximately 15,108 ed four projects in the vicinity 1 and the roads and infrastruc- plots and 17 projects to devel- citizens land plots of which of Doha, namely the roads and ture development project in op roads and integrated infra- 1,800 are in the newly devel- infrastructure development Aziziyah East. structure serving 10,000 plots oped areas. project in the Industrial Area - Earlier the authority opened and two land grading projects So far, Ashghal completed Package 1 and the construction five projects west of Doha serving almost 2,000 plots. seven projects in Doha North of a parallel road from Rawdat city including roads and in- Many of Ashghal’s infra- serving more than 7,000 citi- Rashed to Umm Garn. frastructure development structure projects include, The Qatar Ports Management Company (Mwani Qatar) has issued an infographic, on social media, explaining zens land plots including roads Seven are projects being im- works to serving various areas green areas, cycle paths, pe- its performance in November across diff erent parameters. The quantum of general cargo handled last month and infrastructure develop- plemented to serve more than such as Rawdat Abal Heeran destrian paths and many fea- (131,925 tonnes) increased by 5,637 tonnes as compared to October (126,288 tonnes), the data revealed. Also, ment in Bani Hajer – Raw- 4,000 plots, namely the roads project. Projects that Ashghal tures will improve the citizens’ livestock handling figures rose by 38,534 heads in November (100,784 heads) when compared to October dat Egdaim, Al Gharrafa, and and infrastructure develop- is completing this year include lives in the areas. 2017 (62,250 heads). Wakrah, Doha witness surge in building permits

akrah and Doha witnessed permits (22%), Al Wakrah 179 (21%), Al permits) of the total building permits expansion in the new build- Daayen 136 (16%), Umm Slal 51 (6%), issued in November 2017, while addi- Wing permits issued in No- Al Shahaniya 43 (5%), Al Khor 38 (5%), tions constituted 41% (345 permits), vember; even as total permits issued in and Al Shamal 13 (2%). and fencing 4% (35 permits). the country saw a 2% decline month- On a month-on-month basis, Wak- Of the new residential buildings on-month, according offi cial data rah witnessed 27% expansion and permits, MDPS found that villas’ Qatar saw a total of 838 building Doha (7%); whereas Al Shahaniya re- topped the list, accounting for 56% permits issued in November, the bulk ported 20% decline, Al Shamal (19%), (189 permits) of all new residen- of which were in Al Rayyan, Doha and Al Rayyan (18%), Umm Slal (12%), Al tial buildings permits, dwellings of Wakrah, together constituting more Khor (10%) and Al Daayen (1%). housing loans 40% (134 permits) and than 66% of the total permits, said Building permits data is of particu- apartments 4% (14 permits). the Ministry of Development Planning lar importance as it is considered an Commercial buildings were found to and Statistics (MDPS). indicator for the performance of the be in the forefront of non-residential On geographical basis, the MDPS construction sector which in turn oc- buildings permits with 61% (74 per- found that Al Rayyan came at the cupies a signifi cant position in the mits), followed by industrial build- top of the municipalities where the national economy. In terms of type of ings as workshops and factories 21% number of building permits issued permits issued, data indicates that the (25 permits), governmental buildings were 195 permits or 23% of the total new building permits (residential and 9% (11 permits) and mosques 5% (six issued permits, followed by Doha 183 non-residential) constituted 55% (458 permits).

‘National Day is a celebration of strength and prosperity’

atar is a proud coun- try and the upcoming QNational Day celebra- tions are a sign of its strength and prosperity, Doha-resi- dent Binesh Kumar Tamang told Qatar Urdu Radio’s live show Haqeeqat yesterday. The National Day celebra- tions offi cially began at Darb Al Saai on Saturday with programmes held under the theme ‘Promise of Prosperity and Glory’. “Qatar’s National Day cel- ebrations are a sign of exter- failed because Qatar’s media nal as well as internal secu- has fought fake news with re- rity, and the message is clear sponsible reporting. In many for the blockading countries ways, the siege has made Qa- that Qatar is prospering and tar stronger than before.” the people are happy here,” Haqeeqat, which aims to Tamang asserted. “Qatar is a engage and interact with the multicultural country and we large South Asian expatriate are all proudly participating community in Qatar, is a joint in the National Day events,” venture of the Gulf Times and he added. Qatar Media Corp Urdu Ra- Tamang also said that Sau- dio. di Arabia and the UAE tried The show is hosted by Saif- to defame Qatar by spreading ur-Rehman. Log on to Qatar fake news, but they have not Urdu Radio on Facebook and succeeded in their agendas. ‘@QatarUrduRadio’ on Twit- “The propaganda they ter for feedback and com- tried to create about Qatar ments about the show. Binesh Kumar Tamang. Gulf Times 6 Monday, December 11, 2017 QATAR Qatar Airways, HIA in Tarsheed initiative

atar Airways and Subjects covered a wide bin Hilal al-Kuwari said, Hamad Interna- range of technical topics, “Kahramaa, through Tar- Qtional Airport (HIA) including air conditioning sheed, is pleased to co-oper- partnered with Kahramaa’s systems, fans, pumps, light- ate with Qatar Airways and National Programme for ing, motors, water conser- HIA in terms of conservation Conservation and Energy vation and energy effi ciency. and energy effi ciency. We are Effi ciency – ‘Tarsheed’ to Further to the technical working together towards deliver technical energy and training, Kahramaa is plan- achieving the four pillars of water conservation training ning energy and water au- the Qatar National Vision to employees recently. dits at HIA’s award-winning 2030, namely economic, The training, focusing passenger terminal and at environment, social and on resource conservation, Qatar Airways’ head offi ces, human development. This was aligned to contribute allowing both to apply rec- partnership aims to support towards His Highness the ommendations to further Tarsheed’s goal in bringing Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Ha- improve energy effi ciency. down CO2 emissions in Qa- mad al-Thani’s 2030 vision Qatar Airways Group tar by 6mn tonnes and per for sustainable develop- Chief Executive Akbar al- capita consumption of elec- ment. Baker said, “Qatar Airways tricity by 8% and of water by The technical training is proud to contribute to 15% by 2022.” was delivered by Kahramaa the Qatar National Vision Kahramaa launched Tar- as part of a memorandum 2030 and our partnership sheed in April 2012 under of understanding that pro- with Kahramaa represented the patronage of His High- vides a framework for Qatar in Tarsheed, is an excellent ness the Emir. Airways and HIA to work example of collaboration Tarsheed focuses on con- together on technical initia- towards the shared goal for servation technology stand- tives, as well as building staff sustainable development in ardisation and rules. In Qatar Airways and Hamad International Airport (HIA) partnered with Kahramaa’s National Programme for Conservation and Energy Eff iciency – ‘Tarsheed’, to and community awareness Qatar. We are very pleased to addition to community de- deliver technical energy and water conservation training to employees recently. in relation to water conser- receive training from Kah- velopment and awareness, vation, energy effi ciency ramaa’s experts on energy the national programme systems, and renewable en- and water conservation. The targets all communities and ergy. technical advice received sectors in Qatar regarding The training session, in- will enhance the practical the effi cient use of energy volving around 50 delegates measures we are taking to including renewable energy. from the airline and air- improve our environmental It succeeded in bringing port’s facilities management performance for electric- down the per capita con- teams, was hosted at Qatar ity and water consumption sumption of electricity by Airways’ corporate offi ces in across our operations.” 18% and consumption of wa- Doha. Kahramaa president Essa ter by 20% by the end of 2016.

First surgeries performed at Ambulatory Care Centre

he Ambulatory Care Centre (ACC), will ensure they not only have access to fi rst- one of Hamad Medical Corporation’s class surgical care but will also be treated in a Tnewest Medical City hospitals, has warm and friendly atmosphere, conducive to successfully performed its fi rst day care sur- a successful recovery.” geries. This achievement follows the opening Dr al-Jalham said that in recent years of a number of outpatient clinics within the there has been a rapid global increase in sur- facility earlier this year. gical and interventional procedures being The fi rst day care surgeries were ophthal- performed in the outpatient setting. A vast mology procedures which took place on De- number of acute and secondary procedures cember 7. Further surgical procedures have are now possible in outpatient facilities due since been carried out for the fi rst time on to new medical technologies, such as mini- ophthalmology, urology and ENT patients mally invasive surgical techniques and new from across Qatar. anaesthesia and pain control practices that The success of the ophthalmology team’s prevent complications and allow patients to fi rst surgeries was repeated by the facility’s return home more quickly. urology and ENT clinicians who also per- “For the right patients, day surgery has formed their fi rst surgical procedures, with been shown to be safe and eff ective, achiev- urology procedures conducted on December ing the same or better outcomes than inpa- 9 and ENT procedures yesterday. tient procedures while allowing patients to The ACC is offering patients a new ap- spend less time in a medical facility,” Dr al- proach to surgical care in Qatar. Patients Jalham said. are provided with the opportunity to re- “The new ACC is playing an important ceive the latest treatment using advanced role in increasing the percentage of same day clinical and surgical practices within a surgeries that are carried out across HMC’s single dedicated location. Day care sur- hospital network. The highly skilled staff and gery, also known as same day surgery, state-of-the-art equipment at the new facil- is a model of care that means within 23 ity will help to ensure the number of day sur- hours of undergoing a surgical procedure, geries performed at HMC continues to rise,” patients will be able to leave the hospital he said. and return to recover in the comfort of “We are committed to ensuring that same their own home. day surgical services are safe and of the same Dr Khalid Mohamed al-Jalham, director of high quality as inpatient surgery. Our fo- the ACC said, “The day surgery service will cus is to ensure patients are fully supported provide patients with access to safe, high- throughout the treatment process, including quality care from an advanced team of surgi- during their recovery after discharge,” added cal specialists, nurses, and support staff . It the offi cial.

Dr Khalid Mohamed al-Jalham, director of the ACC; Dr Khalid al-Rumaihi, head of Urology; Dr Fatima al-Mansouri, head of Ophthalmology and Dr Abdul Salam al-Qahtani, head of ENT at the Ambulatory Care Centre.

Mitsubishi Pajero models of 2007-2010 recalled

he Ministry of Economy and Com- with the dealer to follow up on the mainte- merce (MEC), in collaboration with nance and repair works and will communi- TQatar Automobiles Company, has cate with customers to ensure that the nec- announced the recall of Mitsubishi Pajero essary repairs are carried out. models of 2007-2010 because the passenger The MEC has urged all customers to report side airbag infl ator may be deteriorated. any violations to its Consumer Protection The MEC said the recall campaign comes and Anti-Commercial Fraud Department within the framework of its ongoing eff orts through the following channels: Call centre: to protect consumers and ensure that car 16001, e-mail: [email protected], Twitter: @ dealers follow up on vehicles’ defects and re- MEC_Qatar, Instagram: MEC_Qatar, MEC pair them. mobile app for Android and IOS: MEC_Qa- The ministry said that it will co-ordinate tar. Gulf Times Monday, December 11, 2017 7 QATAR Just Real Estate adds four new luxury villa projects ust Real Estate (JRE) has expanded its diverse portfolio with the launch Jof four new luxurious villa projects, demonstrating how it is at the forefront of meeting Qatar’s real estate require- ments. As Qatar’s population continues to grow, demand for property contin- ues to rise. According to worldometers. info, an international statistics pro- vider, Qatar’s population is set to grow by 2.11% in 2018 to reach 2.7mn, which places extra demand on the real estate sector. To emphasise its stature as a key driver in the development of Qatar’s property market, JRE has added to its portfolio four state-of-the-art com- pound villa projects – Castilla, Tulip, Messila, and Wadi-Al Wasaah, each focused around luxury, modern family living. “As the leading property service provider in Qatar we constantly moni- tor, analyse and react to, and anticipate shifts in, the rapidly evolving market dynamics. We have a diverse portfolio of property solutions to meet all con- sumer needs and the additions of these three world-class projects designed to provide the complete living environ- ment further enhance our appeal and off ering for tenants, buyers, and in- vestors,” said JRE chairman, engineer Facade of Wadi-Al Wasaah. Interior view of Messila. Nasser al-Ansari. Castilla is a prestigious compound Castilla off ers a true community am- Located just behind Gulf Mall and a been carefully considered and designed four-bedroom villas, which are fully- landscaped areas, a clubhouse, inviting development off ering tenants luxury biance and experience and features a few minutes from malls and schools, with the utmost care to promote mod- furnished and ready to occupy. In ad- swimming pool, and a fully-equipped living at an aff ordable price. The project stylish modern clubhouse, swimming Tulip off ers added privacy and peace ern, fashionable living complemented dition to four bedrooms, the villas also gym. Located just minutes away from features a total of 38, fi ve-bedroom pool, and fully-equipped high-spec of mind with 24-hour security and by a host of amenities with family front have a maid’s room. Doha Festival City, Wadi-Al Wasaah villas, fully furnished with the latest gym. Twenty-four security and on-site on-site maintenance and is centred on and centre of the planning. Designed to accentuate the spacious off ers the best of the both worlds: safe modern furnishings and fi nished to the maintenance add to the appeal of this family living with state-of-the art gym, Amenities include a children’s play layout, the open-plan living and din- and secure living away from the hustle highest standards. fi ne development. modern clubhouse and swimming pool area, multipurpose hall – ideal for pri- ing areas within the villas promote a and bustle of city life but close enough A select number of the villas on of- Tulip is an exquisite, exclusive amongst its many facilities. vate bookings and gatherings, a chil- relaxed, soothing ambiance. Comple- to major lifestyle attractions. fer have an additional outside room. 250sqm development featuring 24 The Messila compound is situated in dren’s nursery, a supermarket and a mented by a fully-fi tted kitchen, these “The addition of these four devel- The Castilla compound off ers a great stunning four-bedroom semi furnished a prime location in the up-and-coming mosque. Messila also provides resi- homes represent the perfect base for a opments, once again, strengthens the location in Al Gharafa, just fi ve min- villas. All villas have maid’s quarters. Doha district of Messila. Consisting of dents with full access to a luxury gym family and a great location for regularly profi le of our portfolio and we are con- utes away from a number of high-class, All bedrooms in these luxury villas are 126 villas, each off ering three bedrooms and swimming pool and much more. hosting dinner parties and gatherings. fi dent they will draw a lot of attention destination shopping malls, and a range master bedrooms, and are complete plus maid’s room across a three-storey Wadi-Al Wasaah is a secure, gated Wadi-Al Wasaah is a state-of-the-art and will be a big success,” al-Ansari of international schools. and ready for handover. layout, the Messila development has community featuring exquisite, large suburban family living destination with added.

GIS Day 2017 celebrations held

he GIS Day 2017 cele- ish Geological Survey, pre- brations were held in sented aspects pertaining TQatar recently, with to the use of GIS in various the annual get-together of fi elds and focused on geo- all GIS – Geographic In- hazards. formation System – pro- Representatives from fessionals in the country Ashghal, Health Planning being hosted by the Centre & Assessment (Ministry of for Geographic Information Public Health), SC, Qatar Systems (CGIS) under the Met department – CAA, Ministry of Municipality Dignitaries at the event. MME and the Ministry of and Environment (MME) in Administrative Develop- collaboration with Mannai Transport and Communi- in GIS technology and how ment, Labour and Social Af- Trading Co and Esri from cations, Hamad Medical the user base was becom- fairs, presented case stud- the US. Corporation, Qatar Gen- ing much wider with the in- ies and spoke about the key More than 130 GIS, IT eral Electricity and Water creasing availability of GIS benefi ts of GIS in day-to- and engineering profes- Corporation (Kahramaa), tools and services to gov- day business decisions, the sionals participated. They Civil Aviation Author- ernment agencies and the statement noted. were from the MME, Su- ity (CAA), Internal Security general public. The presentations were preme Committee for Force and other organisa- Anwar Hassan, head of judged by a panel of judges Delivery & Legacy (SC), tions, according to a press GIS – Mannai Infotech, and the results had Ashghal, Public Works Authority statement. The event was highlighted how geography Health Planning & Assess- (Ashghal), Qatar Rail, Qa- organised to mark World and location played a pivotal ment and CGIS in the top tar Petroleum, Ministry of GIS Day. role in nationwide decision- three positions respectively, Interior, Primary Health Manaf Ahmed al-Sada, making. while SC bagged the Special Care Corporation, Ministry CGIS director, presented International speaker Award – Application of Ge- of Development Planning the keynote address and Ian Jackson, former chief ospatial Technology at the and Statistics, Ministry of discussed changing trends of operations at the Brit- National Level.

SriLankan increases Doha-Colombo fl ights

riLankan Airlines has announced The airline stressed that the venient onward connections through that it has “signifi cantly en- strengthened capacity “comes follow- Colombo. It recently launched daily Shanced” its capacity between ing an increase in passenger demand, non-stop services to Melbourne,” the Doha and Colombo by increasing serv- both from Qataris travelling overseas statement added. ices to 11 fl ights per week. and the migrant labour market”. The SriLankan Airlines of- With this enhancement, there are “Sri Lanka’s national carrier is fi ce in Doha can be contacted at now two fl ights per day on Sunday, strengthening its routes following the 44441217/44360286, or via e-mail at Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, in- arrival of several sophisticated new [email protected] creasing from its earlier daily service, Airbus A320 and A330 aircraft that it is The airline operates a route network the airline has said in a statement. deploying to both the Middle East and of 103 cities from its hub in Colombo. The new fl ights depart Doha on Sun- its South Asian sectors,” it added. In addition Oneworld member airlines day, Monday and Tuesday at 4.35pm SriLankan Airlines is a member of link over 1,000 cities in 160 countries. and arrive in Colombo at 11.50pm. the Oneworld Alliance. SriLankan has in recent times been On Thursday the fl ight departs Doha “SriLankan has strategically re- honoured with a series of global acco- at 4.30pm and arrives in Colombo at engineered its global route network lades. These include a Four Star Rating 11.45pm. to focus on more rewarding markets from the Airline Passenger Experience The existing fl ights depart Doha throughout Asia, including the Middle Association in the fi rst ever global air- at 10.50pm and arrive in Colombo at East, South Asia, the Far East and the line industry rating programme based 6.05am the following day. Indian Ocean region, providing con- solely on passenger feedback.

Ooredoo launches Sri Lanka Dialog Key

oredoo has an- series of new services to “strong demand” from minute. This means cus- nounced the launch for pre-paid customers the Sri Lankan community tomers can save 54Dhs per Oof the Hala Sri Lan- as Ooredoo continues to in Qatar and costs QR1 per minute on calls to Dialog ka Dialog Key, which will “expand its existing port- week, the statement notes. numbers in Sri Lanka. enable customers to call folio of Hala products”, Without a subscription The Hala Sri Lanka Dia- Sri Lanka Dialog network the company has said in a to the Key, Ooredoo cus- log Key can be activated by numbers at 45Dhs per statement. tomers calling Sri Lanka sending the SMS ‘SK’ to minute. The Sri Lanka Dialog will be charged at the 121, by dialling *121# or via This is the latest in a Key has been launched due standard rate of 99Dhs per the Ooredoo App. Gulf Times 8 Monday, December 11, 2017 QATAR Team Qatar’s fl ag relay on Dec 14 to mark National Day Nationwide event to spread ties and culminating in a grand including the Museum of Is- Sara Masoud, who won gold and raised and hear the national an- message of peace, friendship fi nale at Darb Al Saai, QOC said lamic Art, Katara – The Cul- silver respectively at this year’s them,” he stressed. and solidarity in a statement. tural Village, The Pearl-Qatar, Para-Athletics World Champi- “This is a moment that I al- “The fl ag relay aims to show- Al Khor, Qatar Foundation, Al onships; Al Dana al-Mubarak ways cherish and it is a huge case the very best of Qatar and Shaqab and the Aspire Zone, who won shooting gold at the source of pride for me. It is every he Qatar Olympic Com- the very best of sport in a unify- before completing its route in 2017 Islamic Solidarity Games athlete’s dream to represent mittee (QOC) will host ing celebration that will spread the evening at the heart of Qa- and, Mutaz Barshim, who be- their nation and I hope that I Ta fl ag relay on Thursday the Olympic values and transmit tar’s National Day celebrations, came World Champion, the fi rst am able to inspire more young (December 14) in a bid to unite, a message of peace, friendship Darb Al Saai. high-jumper since 2004 to be Qataris to fulfi l their dreams in inspire and share pride with the and solidarity through the na- Flag-carriers will transport undefeated for a whole season the future and make our country nation through Team Qatar in tional fl ag, which is a symbol of it via multiple diff erent sport- and fi nished the year as IAAF proud,” Barshim added. celebration of this year’s Na- Qatar’s dignity and pride,” QOC ing activities, including cycling, World Athlete of the Year, taking The fl ag relay will celebrate tional Day. said. running, para-athletics, sailing, the crown from Usain Bolt. Qatar’s national fl ag, Al Adaam, The two-time Olympic med- “The values of sport and the rowing, swimming and more, Commenting ahead of his to refl ect the shared patriotism, to create a stronger association adopted the colour for Qatar’s allist, current world champion values of Qatar are intrinsically refl ecting the strength and participation in the fl ag relay, pride and unity of Team Qatar, with Qatar’s inspirational ath- fi rst unifi ed fl ag as he felt it best high jumper and winner of the linked and the event will cel- depth of Team Qatar’s athletes. Mutaz Barshim said: “It’s an QOC said. letes and represent the unity of refl ected Qatar’s history and en- 2017 World Athlete of the Year ebrate the achievements and in- According to QOC, Qatar has amazing honour to be part of the The QOC launched a new Qatar’s entire sporting family. vironment, and Al Adaam con- award, Mutaz Essa Barshim, will spirational spirit of Team Qatar’s had a hugely successful year Team Qatar Flag Relay and share brand in October this year that Al Adaam literally means tinues to fl y high as a symbol of take part in the relay. athletes and of Qatar itself ahead on the international sport- this experience with everyone in incorporates the fl ag in order to ‘maroon’ and dates back to the pride and dignity. Hundreds of current and re- of this year’s National Day,” ing fi eld in 2017 with standout Qatar.” build on Qatar’s sporting herit- ancient times when the Al Khor Further information about tired athletes, schoolchildren QOC added. performances, including Fares “I’ve achieved some amazing age and patriotic roots, whilst islands produced a reddish shell- the fl ag relay route, timings and and inspirational individu- The fl ag relay will begin in Ibrahim, who became World results this year and I am so hap- looking to the future with a con- fi sh dye, which dried out in the fl ag-carriers will be released over als will carry the national fl ag the morning at the Team Qatar Junior Champion in weightlift- py with how I have fulfi lled some temporary, adaptable and inno- scorching desert heat and turned the week ahead so that specta- across Qatar and its most iconic Winter Camp in Sealine Beach ing and won silver at his fi rst of my dreams but the best part is vative design. maroon. tors can plan where and when to landmarks, transporting it via a and will run up and around senior World Championships; always when I stand on the po- ‘Team Qatar’ became the Qatar’s founder, Sheikh Jas- watch the fl ag relay travel past wide-range of sporting activi- Qatar taking in key landmarks, Abdulrahman Abdelqader and dium and see the fl ag of Qatar public-facing brand of the QOC sim bin Mohamed bin Thani, their area.

Darb Al Saai receives large number of visitors

Darb Al Saai, the venue for Qatar National Day-linked celebrations in the heart of Doha, received a large number of visitors yesterday, including students from various schools. The venue of the multi-event celebrations in the Al Sadd area will remain open to the public until December 20, as a major centre of festivities for marking the Qatar National Day on December 18. PICTURES: Shaji Kayamkulam

GU-Q students organise special event on campus

eorgetown Univer- famous social media infl u- sity in Qatar (GU- encers, news announcers, GQ) students marked as well as a famous poet.” Qatar National Day with a The National Day fair special event that featured was part of a series of Arabian horses, local art, events organised by Al Li- and traditional cuisine for wan. The club was also the visitors. involved in hosting re- The event brought mem- cent public lectures by HE bers of the Georgetown Sheikh Abdullah bin Mo- community and greater hamed bin Saud al-Thani, public together to learn chairman of Ooredoo and more about the Qatar’s his- chief executive offi cer of tory and customs. Qatar Investment Author- As the main National Day ity, and HE Abdullah bin celebrations in Qatar take GU-Q students hosted National Day celebrations. Hamad al-Attiyah, chair- place over the university’s man of the Abdullah Bin winter break, students at said Al Liwan president “This year, I made sure Hamad Al-Attiyah Inter- GU-Q scheduled their fes- Mohamed al-Kuwari (SFS to have a bigger and bet- national Foundation for tivities earlier so that they ’18). “Having such an event ter event than the previous Energy and Sustainable could still contribute. The allows people to experience years. Besides constantly Development and former annual celebrations, which part of the culture, such wanting to create a bet- Minister of Energy. are held at GU-Q’s Educa- as joining in on the ‘Arda’ ter event, this year was the In addition to the stu- tion City campus, are one [sword dancing], horse-rid- year, the GCC crisis start- dent-run event, GU-Q is of the largest annual events ing, or even the food.” ed. Therefore I felt obligat- also involved in National organised by Al Liwan Qa- This year’s event fea- ed to have a bigger, better Day festivities held an- tari Student Association. tured traditional food, mu- Qatar National Day event nually at the Darb Al Saai “I have been involved in sic performances, poetry for the people to join in fairgrounds. Visitors to organising this event for the readings, and equestrian on,” said al-Kuwari. “This GU-Q’s booth in Qatar past three years. I just felt activities, with Al Shaqab year’s event highlight must Foundation’s tent can play like I had to do something Academy exhibiting their be either the gallery where educational games or learn as a Qatari in Georgetown prized horses and ponies many famous Qatari artists more about the degree and to raise awareness of Qa- and off ering rides to event showcased their work, or programmes on off er at the tari traditions and culture,” attendees. the stage performances by university. Gulf Times Monday, December 11, 2017 9 QATAR QND celebration has Important platform for renewing loyalty, great symbolic value says Sheikh Nawaf

assim and Hamad nation and the citizen. He the foundation stone for bin Jassim Charita- added that this statement a number of development Jble Foundation chair- expresses full confi dence projects in Morocco; these man Sheikh Nawaf bin in a more promising fu- projects included Sheikha for people: Al-Attiyah Jassim bin Jabor al-Thani ture and more develop- Sharifa bint Ibrahim Al said that the National Day ment, strength, prosperity Nasr Hospital, which was E the Deputy Prime achieving national unity tar has overcome the negative celebration represents an and dignity for the Qatari began in Marrakesh at a Minister and Min- and uniting tribes under a eff ects of the siege through its important platform for people. cost of QR70mn and is due Hister of State for De- unifi ed leadership. successful policies which ac- renewing loyalty, reinforc- Regarding Qatar’s han- to be completed by the end fence Aff airs Dr Khalid bin He said that this year’s celerated the state’s eff orts to ing national values and dling of the current Gulf of 2019, as well as dialysis Mohamed al-Attiyah em- celebrations have a diff er- achieve self-suffi ciency in all establishing the principles crisis, he praised the wis- centres and a home for the phasised that the theme of ent symbolism compared fi elds, highlighting His High- of love, peace and benevo- dom of the leadership in elderly. Qatar National Day (QND) to the previous years due to ness the Emir’s assertion that lence toward the people of dealing with the crisis, its The Foundation, also, celebrations this year has a the extraordinary circum- “we became stronger after the world. resilience in the face of the prepared a Primary Health great symbolic value for the stances in which the people the siege.” He also said that the Na- crisis’ repercussions and Care CentrE in Al Azraq Qatari people, adding that of Qatar showed their co- Regarding the most im- tional Day reaffi rms pride its complete success lo- in Jordan in collaboration this is what His Highness hesion and unity with their portant accomplishments in belonging to this benev- cally and internationally. with Arabian Medical Re- the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin wise leadership. of the Ministry of Defence olent homeland. He said Qatar excelled lief (AMR). Additionally, Hamad al-Thani promised He also emphasised the last year and the plans for Sheikh Nawaf said that in this crisis because of its the Foundation opened the his people. appreciated role of the the next phase, especially this day is an occasion to fl exibility, wisdom, confi - Hamad bin Jassim Indus- He said that His High- residents in the country. under the unjust siege, he remind people of the great dence and important part- trial Training Center in In- ness the Emir knows that Dr al-Attiyah praised Qa- said that the ministry has eff orts and achievements nerships internationally dia to serve the population his people are not proud of tar’s wise and diplomatic carried out many develop- of the Founder of the State and regionally. of Maharashtra at an esti- anything as they are proud handing of the unjust siege ment projects on human, Sheikh Jassim bin Mo- Jassim and Hamad bin mated cost of QR3 million of being Qatari. under the directives of His armament and facilities lev- hammed bin Thani and Jassim Foundation has in co-operation with gov- Regarding the symbolism Highness the Emir, adding els, which will strengthen the leaders who followed implemented many chari- ernment agencies there. of Qatar’s celebration of this that many countries ap- Qatar’s defensive capabili- HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for his steps in building Qatar table projects and activi- The Foundation handed glorious national occasion, plauded Qatar’s call for a ties within all branches of Defence Aff airs Dr Khalid bin Mohamed al-Attiyah. as a modern State that is ties and provided a lot of over 800 housing units the Deputy Prime Minis- dialogue that does not af- the Qatari armed forces. proud of its identity, values humanitarian assistance, from Sheikh Jassim Model ter said that December 18 fect national sovereignty Additionally, he said the as an academic candidate studies necessary to keep up and principles, which are including fi nancial as- City in Sri Lanka, which marks the establishment of and without any external National Military Serv- offi cer programme, which with modern times, through fi rmly rooted in promoting sistance, which consists costed a total of QR40mn, Qatar by the founder Sheikh dictations. ice has been developed to will provide the candidate partnerships with the the values of peace and co- of monthly guarantees, as a part of the housing Jassim bin Mohammed bin The minister stated that the include a distinguish aca- with all combat and spe- world’s leading universities existence. repaying of debts, cov- projects implemented by Thani who succeeded in crisis was a surprise, but Qa- demic programme, as well cialised skills and academic and Qatar University. (QNA) He pointed out that ering medical expenses, the Foundation in diff erent the slogan of this year’s constructing educational countries. celebration, “Promise of buildings and supporting As a part of its part- Prosperity and Glory,” educational campaigns. nership with UNHCR, represents a good omen In terms of external ac- the Foundation signed to the people of Qatar and tivities, the Foundation an agreement to provide places an emphasis on carries out basic devel- emergency healthcare to Occasion for linking present moving forward on this opment projects related Yemeni refugees in Soma- approach, which does not to education, health and lia, which included provid- deviate from the path of other fi elds in many coun- ing a fi nancial support of with past: CMC chairman good and elevation for the tries. In 2017, it established $250,000. (QNA)

entral Municipal Council wise leadership and its vision for a fects of this siege and gain support,” dated, and achieved many accom- Kids at Darb Al Saai (CMC) chairman Moham- bright future, for the renaissance al-Shafi noted. plishments. The CMC continued Cmed bin Hamoud Shafi al- and prosperity of the homeland. He added that Qatar also opened study of the proposals submitted Shafi highlighted the signifi cance of He underlined that the achieve- new horizons at all levels and con- by its members, and issued several marking Qatar National Day, which ments accomplished every day on cluded trade exchange agreements recommendations to achieve the consolidates the belonging to the the ground, and the successes inside with alternative markets that ena- objectives of the Council, which modern State and the pride of its the homeland and in international bled it to maintain the stability of the focus on improving the munici- history and founder, and contrib- forums, affi rmed the steadfastness situation at home, which undoubt- pal and agricultural aff airs to serve utes to linking the present with the on principle of progress in work, edly confi rms the success of the state the country and the citizen. Since past, thus strengthening adherence and the solidarity of all in achieving system in dealing with the siege. the beginning of the present ses- of current and future generations to this, which will all lead to the good Al-Shafi also praised Qatar’s qui- sion, the Board has issued 79 rec- values and traditions. and prosperity of the homeland. et and active diplomacy, its confi - ommendations, including 34 dur- On the occasion of Qatar Na- Al-Shafi hailed the country’s dence and dignity, which prompted ing the current year, All fall within tional Day, al-Shafi underlined that management of the siege crisis, international support and admira- the scope of its powers under the the slogan of the celebration this and its ability to overcome it both tion, highlighting manner in which Law No. 12 of 1998. year, which translates into “Prom- at the internal and external fronts the people of Qatar dealt with the He underlined that the siege did not ise of Prosperity and Glory”, aims through adopting logic of reason crisis, its loyalty to the leadership aff ect the level of performance of the mainly to strengthening the loyalty and confrontation, adhering to all and the country, and its aware- Council, on the contrary, it became between the people and the leader, that preserves its sovereignty and ness of the circumstances and more insisting on making achieve- enhancing the sovereignty and co- independence and at the same time repercussions of the crisis. ments, developing appropriate plans hesion between the citizens and opening to dialogue. Speaking about the most impor- for the next stage in line with the cur- residents, seeking to promote the “Qatar has engaged in many bat- tant achievements of the Council rent challenges, continuing develop- values and principles of hard work, tles at the international and re- and future plans under the siege, ment projects in areas and sectors and refl ect them on the ground. gional levels, and has been able Al Shafi said that the Central Mu- within the Council’s competence, A large number of children, including students from various schools, have visited Al-Shafi added that the slogan re- to reveal the truth with evidence, nicipal Council continued its work such as infrastructure, agriculture and the Qatar National Day celebrations at Darb Al Saai in the Al Sadd area of Doha. fl ects the optimism of the country’s which contributed to reduce the ef- and performance of its role as man- livestock, and others. (QNA) PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam Ties with Qatar are strong, says Japanese envoy

apanese ambassador ing commercial networks Seiichi Otsuka has said are desirable. He expressed Jthat the relations be- hope that this situation can tween Japan and Qatar have boost the ties between Qa- been strengthened since tar and Asian countries in the visit of His Highness particular. the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Ambassador Otsuka Hamad al-Thani to Japan in hailed the Qatari economy February 2015. and its strength against the He added that the two siege imposed on the coun- countries have established try, pointing out that citi- strong ties in the energy and zens and residents still live infrastructure sectors. under normal conditions. Ambassador Otsuka He said that the over- pointed out that His High- whelming majority of for- ness the Emir’s visit to Ja- eign countries support the pan paved the way for di- Qatari position that the versifying and widening the problem should be solved domain of co-operative re- through dialogue. He lations to include the social, stressed that this anniver- educational, cultural fi elds. sary can provide an oppor- He also emphasised the im- tunity to demonstrate inef- portance of increasing the fectiveness of the siege and pace of this co-operation to remind us of the neces- to cope with Qatar’s speedy sity to work for ending it. nation-building process. The ambassador reit- He praised the Qatari erated the insistence of leadership for ensuring safe- his government that the ty and security of people and problem should be solved for the good management of through ‘dialogue’ between the national economy and the concerned parties from the active diplomacy during the beginning. the current conditions in the He also expressed his Gulf region. government’s support for He stated that under the Kuwait’s mediation eff orts current circumstance in the because it is preferable to Gulf region, the new busi- be solved within the GCC ness models and emerg- framework. (QNA) Gulf Times 10 Monday, December 11, 2017 QATAR/REGION

Rouhani Sheikha Hind, Sheikh Joaan join meeting wraps students for QND celebration British FM’s E Sheikha Hind bint Hamad al-Thani, vice chairperson and Iran visit Hchief executive offi cer of Qatar Foundation (QF), and HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, chairman of Qatar AFP Leadership Academy (QLA), joined more Tehran than 1,500 students, parents, educators from Pre-University Education (PUE), and QF senior offi cials at a colourful cel- ritain’s foreign minister ebration yesterday, commemorating Qa- Boris Johnson met with tar National Day. BIranian President Hassan Also in attendance were engineer Saad Rouhani yesterday, wrapping up Ibrahim al-Muhannadi, lifetime member a visit in which he pushed for the of the board of directors, QF, and Buthai- release of imprisoned dual na- na A al-Nuaimi, president of PUE, QF. tionals. The celebration, which took place at A key focus of Johnson’s visit the Qatar National Convention Centre, had been the case of British-Ira- included a specially produced National nian Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliff e, Day operetta featuring the voices and who is serving fi ve years for tak- talents of over 500 students, as well as a ing part in mass protests in 2009, variety of local heritage activities. which she denies. The PUE celebration included stu- She was due in court yesterday dents from across Qatar Academy for fresh charges of “spreading schools, Awsaj Academy, and QLA, and propaganda”, but her husband provided participants with the opportu- announced that the appearance nity to express their feelings about Qatar had been cancelled at the last and what National Day means to them. minute. Additionally, by incorporating tradi- “Nazanin’s case was not held tional songs into the event, it served as a today in the wake of the foreign chance for the audience to reminisce. secretary’s visit. This is un- Al-Nuaimi said: “Today’s perform- doubtedly a good sign,” Richard ances, organised as part of our Qatar Ratcliff e wrote in an e-mail to National Day celebrations, give our reporters. youngest citizens the opportunity to He said Johnson met with her celebrate local traditions, values, and family in Iran and raised the issue culture. The event also serves as a plat- in every meeting with the Irani- form for our students to show their love ans. for this great and wonderful country. HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad al-Thani, vice chairperson and chief executive off icer of Qatar Foundation, and HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, chairman of Qatar The foreign secretary took fl ak “Additionally, this event high- Leadership Academy, attending QF’s Pre-University Education’s National Day celebrations at the Qatar National Convention Centre yesterday. from Iranian offi cials for not do- lights Qatar Foundation’s commit- ing more to build on the nuclear ment to fostering a generation of youth deal signed with world powers in grounded in culture and values.” 2015. The PUE National Day celebration “Relations between the two highlighted the diverse talents within countries have not matched the Education City and QF’s schools, and potential expected in the post- was designed to demonstrate the bonds JCPOA (nuclear deal) atmos- that strengthen the wider community phere,” Rouhani told Johnson, and how they support Qatar through according to a statement from preserving the country’s culture and his offi ce. heritage. There was similar criticism This national project was developed from the powerful parliament and organised by the PUE National Day speaker, Ali Larijani, who met Event Committee, which was led by the with Johnson on Saturday and PUE communications team, and in- said other European countries cluded teachers and staff from all QF had put in “much more eff ort”. schools, in addition to staff from the “You haven’t even solved the history department at QF’s Education banking problems of the Iranian Development Institute. The event was embassy in London,” Larijani sponsored by Ooredoo, Al Rayyan Sat- said, according to the IRNA news ellite Channel, Fahad Signature, and La agency. Photo Studio. The British foreign offi ce said Waleed al-Sayed, chief executive of- the two sides had discussed “the fi cer of Ooredoo Qatar, said: “Ooredoo full range of regional and bilater- believes in the power of communication al issues, including banking mat- to provide everyone with an opportunity ters and our concerns about the to show their pride in our country, and consular cases of dual nationals”. the Pre-University Education’s schools’ “It has been a worthwhile visit operetta was a great example of this.” and we leave with a sense that Sabah al-Kuwari, general manager of both sides want to keep up the Al Rayyan Satellite Channel, said: “This momentum to resolve the dif- collaboration is in line with Al Rayyan’s fi cult issues,” it said in a state- social responsibility to serve the coun- ment. try’s National Vision and enhance co- The Zaghari-Ratcliff e case has operation between diff erent entities.” School children take part in Qatar Foundation’s Pre-University Education’s National Day celebrations at the Qatar National Convention Centre yesterday. become a top priority for John- son after he mistakenly said last month that she had been training journalists in Iran — a “slip of the tongue” used by the Iranian au- thorities to help justify the new charges. US set to announce new Marasi Ensemble concert Iran has been frustrated that the nuclear deal, which lifted sanctions in exchange for curbs to its nuclear programme, has peace plan early next year to be showcased at QNL not produced the expected windfall in trade deals — mainly atar National Library (QNL), a mem- underscores the richness of our history,” said due to continuing US sanctions. By Joey Aguilar defi nition of boundaries, or geo- leaders of the Arab world, and ber of Qatar Foundation (QF), will host Dr Nouf Khashman, Outreach and Commu- Banking restrictions have Staff Reporter graphic borders, is the capital world leaders in general, under- Qa concert by the Marasi Ensemble in nity Engagement manager, QNL. also complicated long-running of the state of Israel; there must stand what the president ut- the library’s auditorium on December 13, from The ensemble is made up of faculty mem- eff orts to return an estimated be fi nal status negotiations be- tered, stressing that “the words 7pm-8pm. bers of QMA’s Arab music department and 450mn pounds ($600mn) owed he US is planning to an- tween Israel and the Palestin- were very carefully chosen.” Open to the public at no cost, the hour-long performs on traditional instruments such as by Britain from a military con- nounce a new peace plan ians, direct negotiations, to re- “Our hope always is that dia- performance will feature several traditional the oud, nay, qanun, violin (kaman), and a tract cancelled due to the 1979 Tfor the Middle East, par- solve all of those specifi c aspects logue, exchange, inclusion not Qatari songs. variety of Middle Eastern instruments. Islamic revolution. ticularly between Israelis and , all of the questions which have rejection, not exclusion, not iso- The Marasi Ensemble was established by They will play 10 songs, including the Qa- Richard Ratcliff e has claimed Palestinians, early next year, been raised over the course of lation or the past taken by all in Qatar Music Academy (QMA), also a member tar national anthem. his wife is a pawn in Iran’s eff orts Acting Assistant Secretary for the last years.” this process,” he said. of QF, in 2011 to focus on authentic interpreta- “Qatar Music Academy’s participation in to extract the historic debt. the Bureau of Near Eastern Af- The Trump administration, Satterfi eld reiterated “the tions of traditional maqam music, a style used QNL’s National Day celebrations is an integral fairs David Satterfi eld has said. he said, is committed to mov- president is committed with his in traditional Arabic music. Its compositional part of showing our solidarity with Qatar as a “We hope to move forward ing forward on a peace process, peace team to doing everything and improvisational techniques are unique to unified collective. It’s also one of the many with that (peace) initiative at a which it hopes off ers the region in our power to move forward non-Western musical cultures. facets on QMA’s journey towards champion- point in the new year. I under- (Middle East) a chance to move at a time in the new year a peace As part of QNL’s National Day celebra- ing Qatar’s musical heritage and to building score that as to the details of the from the decades (or years) of process, a peace initiative which tions, the concert will demonstrate its dedi- musical awareness in the country, as well as plan, that will await its roll out, confl icts in the past to a better can move the region forward”. cation to preserving and promoting the cul- furthering Qatar Foundation’s mission to we are not prepared to announce future to realise the aspirations “We hope that the actions for ture and heritage of Qatar and the Arabian promoting a progressive and diverse cultural those details at this time,” he of both Israelis and Palestinians. words used by leaders now and Gulf region. QNL has hosted several cultural landscape. The Marasi Ensemble is excited said. The US government offi - “The reality is this, I think it in the days ahead support that events since its opening last month, includ- to provide the audience with a glimpse into cial was speaking in a telephonic is well understood by all par- initiative and not make it more ing an Arabic creative writing workshop and Qatar’s rich musical history,” said Dr Abdul press briefi ng yesterday on US ties, that the only path forward complex, more diffi cult,” he Arabic Language Day celebrations. Ghafour al-Heeti, director, QMA. President Donald Trump’s re- to peace in the Middle East, the added. “We are pleased to welcome the Marasi En- Visitors inspired by the concert can take A handout picture provided by cent announcement, recognis- peace between Israelis and the Asked if it is possible for semble to QNL to share their unique musical advantage of QNL’s musical instruments the off ice of Iranian President ing Jerusalem as the capital of Palestinians, is direct negotia- Trump to reverse his decision, style that is such an important part of Qatar’s and recording studio, one of the ‘Innova- Hassan Rouhani yesterday, Israel. tions between these two parties Satterfi eld said: “The answer culture. This concert is an excellent oppor- tion Stations’ designed to foster creativity shows him meeting British Satterfi eld pointed out that under the supervision and with is No. The president’s decision tunity for locals and expats to experience a in the community, particularly among young Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson part of the peace plan was to help assistance of the US,” Satterfi eld stands, it is what the president key component of Arabic heritage, one which people. (left) in the capital Tehran. create a process where the re- stressed. believes was the right step at the gion, Israelis and Palestinians in According to him, the presi- right moment, it is a US policy. specifi c, can look to a better fu- dent and the secretary of state, I don’t have any comments on ture – not arced by confl ict, iso- along with other senior US for- calls for reversal, except to say lation and exclusion, but instead eign offi cials, have discussed last that is obviously something we “working with shared hopes week about US’ role in advancing won’t be doing.” Air raids on Yemen rebel camp kill 26 and objectives against common Middle East peace. Satterfi eld noted that the problems”. Trump has abruptly reversed president has been studying this Satterfi eld said the president decades of US policy recently issue since he took offi ce. AFP The head of the training camp in Hajjah the hands of the Houthis after his alliance tried to clarify that this was “a and recognised Jerusalem as He also confi rmed that the Aden province, Amar al-Jarab, was among those with the rebels collapsed.Yesterday, Katyu- recognition of a simple reality” the capital of Israel, generating President has instructed the killed in the strikes, the sources close to the sha rockets believed to have been fi red by the and not a resolution of a negoti- worldwide outrage, particularly secretary of state to begin the rebels said. A warehouse where rockets were Houthis hit Khokha, killing a six-year-old ating process. from Palestinians and Muslim planning for the move of the US audi-led coalition air strikes on a stocked was also hit, the sources added. girl and wounding fi ve other civilians. Quoting from the US presi- countries. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusa- Yemen rebel training camp northwest The raids come with the war-torn coun- Further east in the town of Hays and dent’s announcement, he said: Satterfi eld said the Trump ad- lem. But he said any such move Sof the capital yesterday killed at least try plunged deeper into turmoil by Monday’s north in Tuhayta, rebels clashed with loyal- “Jerusalem, without a specifi c ministration is hoping that the would take years to materialise. 26 Houthi fi ghters, security sources said. killing of ex-president Ali Abdullah Saleh at ists yesterday, pro-government forces said. Gulf Times Monday, December 11, 2017 11 ARAB WORLD Abbas to visit Egypt for talks on US president’s move

AFP tal, Egypt’s presidency said. discuss developments related est developments after the would also join today’s meet- prestigious Al-Azhar Univer- and for the international com- Cairo Trump’s move has drawn to the United States’ recogni- US administration’s decision ing, but there was no official sity, a university spokesman munity to recognise a Palestin- near universal condemna- tion of Jerusalem as Israel’s to recognise Jerusalem as the confirmation of this. said, with pictures on social ian state. tion, and Palestinian officials capital”, said Bassam Radi, a capital of Israel”. Anger throughout the Mus- media showing several hundred In a resolution after an emer- alestinian president say Abbas will refuse to meet spokesman for the Egyptian It said that they agreed “to lim and Arab world has in- protesters. gency meeting in Cairo, Arab Mahmoud Abbas was US Vice President Mike Pence presidency. continue consulting to co-or- cluded protests in Egypt and Dozens of students protested League member ministers said Pto meet Egyptian leader when he travels to the region Official Palestinian news dinate common positions”. Jordan, which also has a special at two other Cairo universities. the United States had “with- Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in Cairo later this month. agency WAFA said Abbas Palestine Liberation Or- role as the official custodian of Arab foreign ministers on drawn itself as a sponsor and today over US President Don- Sisi has invited Abbas “to a and Sisi spoke by telephone ganisation official Wasel Abu Muslim holy sites in Jerusalem. Saturday called on the United broker” of the Israeli-Palestin- ald Trump’s decision to recog- bilateral summit for consulta- on Sunday and “continued Yousef said he understood In Cairo, students and pro- States to rescind its recognition ian peace process with its con- nise Jerusalem as Israel’s capi- tions on Monday in Cairo to consultations about the lat- that Jordan’s King Abdullah II fessors demonstrated at the of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital troversial move.

Implementation of decision will not be Anti-Trump protest easy, says Erdogan

Reuters or humanity,” Erdogan said at a Istanbul Justice and Development Party (AKP) assembly in Turkey’s cen- tral province of Sivas, referring fl ares in Lebanon ecisions made at the ap- to phone calls he made to leaders proaching meeting of the including French President Em- Reuters DOrganisation of Islamic manuel Macron and the Pope. Jerusalem Co-operation (OIC) will show “With the roadmap we will that US recognition of Jerusa- create during the OIC meeting, lem as the Israeli capital will not we will show that the decision Palestinian stabbed an be easy to implement, Turkish will not be easy to implement,” Israeli security guard at President Recep Tayyip Erdogan he said, adding that Turkey con- AJerusalem’s main bus said yesterday. siders US President Trump’s Je- station yesterday, police said, A spokesman for Erdogan on rusalem announcement void. and violence fl ared near the Wednesday had announced that The Arab League, in a state- US embassy in Beirut over US the OIC would a hold an urgent ment issued after an emergency President Donald Trump’s rec- meeting in Turkey on session in Cairo on Saturday, ognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s Dec 13 to co-ordinate a re- called the announcement a capital. sponse to the decision by the “dangerous violation of inter- Four days of street protests United States. national law” and said it would in the Palestinian territories The OIC, established in 1969, seek a UN Security Council res- over Trump’s announcement consists of 57 member states. olution rejecting the US move. on Wednesday have largely “We explained to all our inter- The Arab League, which consists died down, but his overturn- locutors that the United States’ of Arabic-speaking nations, ing of long-standing US policy decision does not comply with currently has 22 active member on Jerusalem, drew more Arab international law, diplomacy states. warnings of potential damage to prospects for Middle East peace. “Our hope is that everything is calming down and that we are returning to a path of normal life without riots and without violence,” Israeli Defence Min- ister Avigdor Lieberman said on Army Radio. But in Jerusalem, a security guard was in critical condition after a 24-year-old Palestinian man from the occupied West Bank stabbed him after ap- Protesters shout slogans during a demonstration outside the US embassy in Awkar, on the outskirts of Beirut, yesterday. proaching a metal detector at an entrance to the city’s central bus Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan waving at the crowd during station, police said. a rally in Sivas, yesterday. The alleged assailant was tak- en into custody after a passer- by tackled him. In public remarks yesterday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a frequent critic of Is- Peace process will rael, called it an “invader state” and a “terror state”. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu be aff ected: Guterres held a news conference in Paris alongside French President Em- manuel Macron after the two AFP after years of stalemate in the leaders met. Washington process. Macron told Netanyahu that “I am not saying that it will he needed to make gestures to happen, but there was a hope the Palestinians to break the resident Donald Trump’s that it would be possible to fi- impasse between the two sides. decision to recognise Je- nally bring this horrible con- “I asked Prime Minister Prusalem as Israel’s capital flict between Israel and the Pal- Netanyuhu to make some cou- A Palestinian man lies on the ground after being wounded during might hinder the US drive for an estinians to an end,” Guterres rageous gestures towards the clashes with Israeli security forces in the city centre of the West Israeli forces arrest a Palestinian during clashes in the city centre Israeli-Palestinian peace accord, said. “I think that the decision Palestinians to get out of the Bank town of Hebron, yesterday. of the West Bank town of Hebron. UN Secretary-General Antonio that was taken on Wednesday current impasse,” Macron said, Guterres said yesterday. risks to compromise this ef- suggesting that a freeze of con- taken a position on Jerusalem’s In Beirut, Lebanese security the people and provoker of wars.” Nations Security Council reso- His comments were in stark fort,” he added. struction in settlements could fi nal status or borders, but it is forces fi red teargas and water Waving Palestinian fl ags and lution over Trump’s decision. contrast to those of the US am- But Haley suggested that be a fi rst step. sensible to recognise that any cannons at protesters, some of holding up pictures of Jerusa- Arab foreign ministers who bassador to the UN, Nikki Haley, fears of unrest over the Trump Most countries consider East future peace deal will have Is- them waving Palestinian fl ags, lem, they expressed anger at met in Cairo on Saturday urged who said it would “move the ball decision are overblown. Jerusalem, which Israel annexed rael’s capital in the city. near the US embassy. they “betrayal” by Arab govern- the United States to abandon its forward.” She told CNN that Trump after capturing it in a 1967 war, The United States was “as Demonstrators set fi res in the ments perceived to have backed decision on Jerusalem and said The new US stance, criticised was the first US president to to be occupied territory and say committed to the peace proc- street, torched US and Israeli Trump’s move. the move would spur violence by Palestinians, Arab leaders and have the “courage” to make the status of the city should be ess as we’ve ever been”, US am- fl ags and threw projectiles to- In the Indonesian capital throughout the region. others as gravely damaging any a move that she said many decided at future Israeli-Pales- bassador to the United Nations wards security forces that had Jakarta, thousands protested Echoing that view, Abu Dhabi prospects for peace, has given Americans and others around tinian talks. Nikki Haley said yesterday. barricaded the main road to the outside the US embassy, many Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed rise to swelling protests across the world supported. The Trump administration Trump “didn’t talk about complex. In the Moroccan capi- waving banners saying “Pales- bin Zayed al-Nahayan, the de the region in recent days. “When it comes to those peo- has said it is still committed boundaries, he didn’t talk about tal, Rabat, tens of thousands of tine is in our hearts”. Palestinian facto leader of the United Arab Speaking on CNN, Gu- ple (who are) upset, we knew to reviving Palestinian-Israeli borders...Because the fi nal sta- protesters marched down the Foreign Minister Riyad al-Ma- Emirates, said the US move terres said he was pleased that that was going to happen. But talks that collapsed in 2014, but tus of Jerusalem is between the city’s main thoroughfare chant- liki has said the Palestinians will “could throw a lifebuoy to ter- Trump’s son-in-law and ad- courage causes that... I strongly jettisoning old policies is neces- Palestinians and the Israelis. ing slogans including, “The peo- be looking for a new peace talks rorist and armed groups, which viser Jared Kushner had been believe this is going to move the sary to break the deadlock. It’s not for the Americans to de- ple want to liberate Palestine” broker instead of the United have begun to lose ground” in meeting with Israelis and Pal- ball forward for the peace proc- Washington says it has not cide.” and “Death to Israel, enemy of States and would seek a United the Middle East. estinians on a new peace plan ess.” Iraq holds military parade to celebrate victory over IS

AFP cast live and only state media tion, Iraqi forces gradually re- Department had also hailed the victory on terrorism in the re- Baghdad were allowed to attend. took control of all territory lost end of the militants’ “vile oc- gion”, the offi cial Saudi Press Abadi had declared yes- to the jihadists over the past cupation”, but cautioned that Agency reported. terday a public holiday after three years. “the fi ght against terrorism” is Meanwhile, Abadi altered raq’s armed forces held a making his announcement, in The head of the coalition not over. Saturday’s statement in which military parade in Baghdad which he said Iraq had defeated yesterday congratulated the Experts warn that IS remains he declared victory over IS to Iyesterday to celebrate the the jihadists “through our uni- Baghdad government for de- a threat, with the capacity as add a mention of the role played victory announced by Prime ty and our determination”. feating IS, but warned that an insurgent group to carry out by the Kurdish peshmerga Minister Haider al-Abadi over Iraqis took to the streets to more work needed to be done high-casualty bomb attacks fi ghters, after complaints from the Islamic State group. celebrate, including in second to ensure the jihadists do not using sleeper cells. the Kurdish authorities. Abadi on Saturday declared city Mosul and the capital, strike again. UN envoy Jan Kubis urged A statement from the auton- victory in Iraq’s three-year war singing patriotic songs, waving “Much work remains, and we Iraqi people to build “a better omous Kurdish region had in- to expel the militant group that the national fl ag and shouting will continue to work by, with future and common destiny for sisted on the “sacrifi ces” made at its height endangered the “Iraq, Iraq!” and through our Iraqi partners all in their united country with by the peshmerga in the fi ght country’s very existence. The extremists of IS seized to ensure the enduring defeat the same patriotism and de- against the militants. Iraqi army units marched control of large parts of Iraq of Daesh (IS) and prevent its termination that marked their Meanwhile, Iraqi Interior through the main square in and neighbouring Syria in ability to threaten civilisation, nation’s war against terrorism”. Minister Qassem al-Araji said central Baghdad as helicopters 2014, declaring a cross-border regionally and globally,” Lieu- Saudi Arabia also congratu- that although “Daesh (IS) is and fi ghter jets fl ew overhead, “caliphate” and committing tenant General Paul E Funk II lated Iraq yesterday, with a fi nished militarily, there are Tanks of Iraqi army are seen during a military parade in Baghdad’s fortified witnesses said. widespread atrocities. said in a statement. foreign ministry offi cial calling still some sleeper cells that we Green Zone, yesterday. The parade was not broad- Backed by a US-led coali- On Saturday, the US State the militants’ defeat “a grand will track down and eliminate”. Gulf Times 12 Monday, December 11, 2017 AFRICA Men laying ANC candidate cables for Internet in Mali killed

AFP nal clashes have spread down- Bamako wards from confl icts once con- fi ned to the troubled north. The murders occurred dur- our Malians and a Togo- ing the fi nal day of Mali’s In- lese working for a Chinese ternational Investment Fo- Ftelecoms fi rm were kid- rum, held the capital, Bamako, napped and murdered while lay- highlighting the challenges ing fi bre-optic cables in central faced by foreign fi rms operat- Mali, multiple sources told AFP ing in the west African nation yesterday. The group was work- or hoping to enter its market. ing a few dozen kilometres from President Ibrahim Boubacar the town of Niafunke on Friday Keita called on companies to when they were dragged away by make an “act of faith” on Thurs- unidentifi ed armed men, a local day when the forum opened, offi cial based there said. asking delegates to bring for- “The next day they were eign expertise and investment found dead, their bodies aban- to sectors including agriculture doned on the roadside,” the and infrastructure despite his offi cial told AFP on condition nation’s entrenched problems. Candidate for South Africa’s ruling African National Congress party leadership Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma (Centre) dances with supporters at her final campaign at a of anonymity — information Mali has struggled to at- ANC Kwazulu-Natal rally in Clermont township south of Durba. If elected the new President at the ANC Elective conference in December, Dlamini-Zuma would likely become confi rmed by a Malian security tract foreign investment de- ANC presidential candidate for general elections due in 2019. source. spite plentiful deposits of gold, A source with the company, among other resources, due to who asked that their iden- fi ve years of instability and fre- tity and that of the workers’ quent kidnappings of foreign employer be protected, told workers including humanitar- AFP: “We can’t keep working ians. without security. All our other “You take risks to come to workers are in a place of safety.” us, that is worth (our) respect,” Three Chinese fi rms cur- Keita added. rently work on telecoms Groups of Islamic extremists projects in the region. linked to Al Qaeda took control Firms have spent two years of northern cities in Mali in Declare DRC rebels trying to install fi bre-optic March and April 2012, but were cables in central and southern chased out by a French-led Mali to bring faster Internet military operation launched in to the region, but delays have January 2013, which is still un- been caused by “insecurity and der way. the rocky nature of the terrain Mali’s army, French soldiers in certain areas”, the prime and a UN mission (MINUSMA) minister’s offi ce said earlier have little control of large tracts terrorists: Kabila this month. of the country, which regularly Security in Mali’s central come under attack in spite of a Congo’s rebel groups have long The bodies will be repatriated between belt has deteriorated rapidly in peace accord signed with Tuar- plagued the Kivu area Tuesday December 12 and Wednesday the last few years as a jihadist eg leaders in May and June 2015, December 13,” Lieutenant General James insurgency and inter-commu- aimed at isolating the jihadists. Agencies Mwakibolwa, deputy head of the Tanza- Goma nian army, told reporters. The UN has put the death toll from the attack at 15, with 53 wounded. he leaders of three African nations But Tanzania’s government continues to have called on the international speak of 14 deaths, the original fi gure re- Odinga defers his Tcommunity to classify as a terrorist leased by the UN. group the Congolese rebel group responsi- Mwakibolwa said the soldiers were ble for one of the worst attacks on peace- killed after 13 hours of clashes with fi ght- ‘swearing in’ rites keepers. ers of the Allied Democratic Forces who President Joseph Kabila of the Demo- attacked their positions. cratic Republic of Congo and heads of state The ADF is a shadowy rebel group dom- DPA torney General Githu Muigai from neighbouring Congo-Brazzaville and Troops on the move in Congo. inated by hardline Ugandan Muslims and Mombasa, Kenya warned that proceeding with Angola want the international community opposed to Uganda’s President Yoweri the swearing-in could amount to respond to attacks by the Allied Demo- peacekeepers in the organisation’s recent bouring East African states. Museveni, who has been in power for 31 to high treason, which is pun- cratic Forces rebel group as terrorist at- history”. The bodies of 15 UN peacekeepers from years. enya’s opposition leader ishable by a life sentence in tacks. Most of the peacekeepers killed were Tanzania killed in the Democratic Republic The attack is the worst loss of life to a yesterday postponed an prison. Kabila, Angola’s President Joao Louren- Tanzanian nationals. of Congo will be repatriated in the coming UN peacekeeping force since 1993 when Kalternative presidential The opposition coalition co and President Denis Sassou-Nguesso Tanzania’s ambassador to the Congo days, the Tanzanian army said yesterday. 24 Pakistani soldiers were killed in So- inauguration as part of a con- said it is willing to negotiate released a statement on Saturday while at- and UN representatives arrived in the The soldiers were all members of the malia during clashes with a local war- tinued refusal to recognise the with the sitting government. tending a summit with leaders from Afri- town of Beni yesterday to assess the situ- Tanzania People’s Defence Forces par- lord. legitimacy of the October poll. Kenyatta on Saturday re- ca’s central Great Lakes region, held in the ation. ticipating in a UN peacekeeping operation DR Congo’s huge eastern region has long Opposition leader Raila Od- fused to engage with the op- city of Brazzaville over the weekend. The three presidents also want the in the confl ict-torn eastern region of the been wracked by violence, but fi ghting inga was supposed to be sworn position coalition, adding that At least 15 UN peacekeepers were killed Lord’s Resistance Army, the rebel group country. between government soldiers and militia in on Tuesday. their dispute should be shelved on Thursday by rebels in an attack on a led Joseph Kony, to be declared a terrorist Their base in North Kivu province came groups, as well as inter-ethnic clashes, has The National Superior Alli- until the next election in 2022. base in Congo’s North Kivu region, the UN group. under attack by suspected Ugandan rebels increased signifi cantly this year. ance, a coalition of opposition Kenya’s political crisis be- said. A further 53 others were wounded. Both groups operate between the po- on Thursday. UN chief Antonio Guterres led an out- parties led by Odinga, refuse gan when the Supreme Court UN Secretary-General Antonio Gu- rous borders of Uganda, the Democratic “We are working with the United Na- pouring of outrage over the deadly am- to recognise Uhuru Kenyatta annulled the August 8 election terres said “this is the worst attack on UN Republic of Congo and other neigh- tions on this. bush, calling it a “heinous” act. as president of the East Afri- over irregularities. can nation after disputed elec- Odinga withdrew from the tions. new round of elections on Oc- The alliance said in a state- tober 26 and urged his sup- ment that the postponement porters to boycott the repeat followed “extensive internal poll, citing a lack of reforms in consultations,” adding the in- the electoral body. N Korea’s African friends face auguration would still be held Kenyatta subsequently won at a later date. the election with over 98 per After Kenyatta’s swearing- cent of the vote. in on November 28, the alliance Along with the alternative planned to hold an inaugura- inauguration, Odinga has also test of loyalty as sanctions bite tion of the “people’s assembly” called for economic boycotts in an opposition stronghold. and the formation of “people’s The postponement comes assemblies” as a rejection of AFP (DPRK) are worth around $200mn surface-to-air missiles to Mo- backers to step back. it had “not yet provided a substan- just days after Kenya’s At- Kenyatta’s administration. Johannesburg (85mn euros) annually. zambique, modern missiles or Sudan has cut ties with the tive response to this panel inquiry”. Minerals and fi shing top the radar systems to Tanzania and to DPRK, while Uganda expelled Mozambique is not alone, despite league table of exports, closely fol- train security forces in Angola and North Korean military advisers the mounting pressure from the ld alliances between North lowed by North Korea’s most con- Uganda. and pledged to enforce the latest United States, the European Un- Korea and several Afri- troversial output — arms. The authors probed two North round of sanctions. ion, Japan and South Korea. Ocan nations forged at the Despite sanctions levied by the Korean companies active in Na- Tanzanian foreign minister Au- China’s reticence to defi ni- height of the Cold War will not be UN in 2006 in response to its nu- mibia — Mansudae Overseas gustine Mahiga said recently that tively turn its back on its long- swept away easily. clear weapons programme, North Project and Komid — which con- the country “had scaled down time ally appears to have sent While threats from the United Korea’s military cooperation with structed the new headquarters of diplomatic relations to the mini- confl icting signals to Africa’s States and UN sanctions have its allies on the continent is strong. Windhoek’s spy agency, as well as mum.” governments. forced many governments on the “A number of countries appear a munitions factory. Namibia has also vowed to scrap “China’s unwillingness to im- continent to keep their distance to maintain close relationships Pyongang’s largesse should all of the contracts it signed with plement UN sanctions provides a from Pyongyang, the links are not with the DPRK,” said Graham come as no surprise. companies tied to Pyongyang. measure of protection for African yet confi ned to the past. Neville, an analyst at the London- Since Africa’s wars of libera- “Even their nationals are sent countries,” said Ramani, the Ox- For watchers of North Korean based international aff airs think- tion, North Korea has sought to back home. It’s over,” minister for ford academic. leader Kim Jong-un’s regime, the tank Chatham House. befriend Marxist regimes on the the presidency Frans Kapofi told North Korea is clearly a long way country’s presence on the African “More than half of the countries continent. AFP. from losing all its major African continent is unmissable and the in Africa — around 30 — engage “During the Cold War, North And as many as 150 North Ko- allies. hermit nation continues to benefi t in some form of trade with the Korea gained a reputation for pro- rean guest workers were recently “The DPRK’s lack of a colonial from discrete but vital relations. DPRK.” viding useful training for African asked to leave Angola, with offi - past and their willingness to stand Statues and Stalinist-style pal- Arms sales, which are strictly militaries,” said Samuel Ramani, cials insisting their contracts had up to ‘Western oppressors’ is un- aces of questionable aesthetic prohibited by the terms of the an Oxford University specialist on expired. doubtedly admired by some Af- value made by North Korean art- sanctions, have drawn the ire of the world’s most reclusive nation. “It doesn’t mean we sever our rican governments,” said Neville, ists have sprung up in many cit- the international community. In the most notorious case, ties with North Korea. It’s an ally the Chatham House analyst. ies including Dakar, Windhoek, UN experts have accused 11 Af- Zimbabwe’s president Robert Mu- that has historically been with “Doing business with the DPRK Maputo, Harare and Kinshasa. rican countries of seeking closer gabe called in North Korea to train our country,” said foreign minister could be attractive to some Afri- But co-operation between the military ties with Kim Jong-un’s the infamous Fifth Brigade, which Manuel Augusto. can countries because economic regime and African governments regime in a report published in is accused of killing around 20,000 A spokeswoman for Mozam- engagement is not conditional on goes much further than construc- September. minority Ndebeles in the 1980s. bique’s government vowed to governance and accountability re- tion projects. According to the document, Kim Jong-un’s provocative run “work with the committee of (UN) forms. Experts estimate that economic North Korea has agreed to sup- of missile tests and nuclear ex- experts set up to better understand “This is especially true in terms ties between Africa and the Dem- ply light weapons to Eritrea and periments have fi nally persuaded any issues”. But in their recent re- of armaments and military equip- ocratic People’s Republic of Korea Democratic Republic of Congo, some of Pyongyang’s African port, the UN’s experts found that ment,” he added. Gulf Times Monday, December 11, 2017 13 AMERICA California Snow storm in New York fi refi ghters lose their own homes

Reuters to return in force, authorities Ventura, California said. Firefi ghters had gained some ground battling the fi res that alifornia Sheriff ’s Com- have burned over the past week mander Dave Murray, as the winds eased yesterday. At Cusually the guy who least one person has been killed. helps others evacuate when The Skirball Fire in Los An- wildfi res rage through their geles was 75% contained, while communities, this week sur- the Creek and Rye Fires in Los veyed the charred ruins of his Angeles County were 85% and own home in a neighbourhood 80% contained, offi cials said. north of Los Angeles. The largest blaze, the Tho- A 25-foot brick chimney mas Fire, has blackened and a pile of ash was all that 155,000 acres in Ventura Coun- remained after a blaze chewed ty and was only 15% contained through the hills above the as of Saturday night, according ocean in the seaside city of to the California Department Ventura. A melted Santa Claus of Forestry and Fire Protec- fi gure sagged in front of a tion (Cal Fire).Winds and the neighbour’s home. rugged terrain have hampered “You never believe that it’s fi refi ghting eff orts there, au- going to be your house, your thorities said. stuff , you treasures that are The National Weather Serv- going to be turned to rubble,” ice forecast that top wind Murray said on Friday, visibly speeds would increase to shaken. “It’s sobering.” 100kph yesterday, up from the Murray, 53, rushed his wife 80kph recorded on Saturday. A pre-winter storm in New York City. and three children to a friend’s After gusty winds overnight, house on Monday night after authorities early yesterday the power went out.He realised morning ordered residents to the fi re was moving fast in the evacuate much of Toro Can- direction of the foothill neigh- yon, a few miles east of Santa bourhood above the Pacifi c Barbara, as the Thomas Fire where he had lived for 25 years. threatened that area. “The orange glow was crest- The oceanside city of Carpin- ing the hill and you knew this teria was placed under a volun- place was going to go up,” he tary evacuation order, as well. said. “The fi re continues to Alabama voters have Murray, who was off duty threaten structures in various at the time, turned to help his parts of the cities of Ventura, neighbours instead of hur- Ojai, Casitas Springs, Santa rying to the Ventura County Paula, Carpinteria, Fillmore Sheriff ’s Offi ce as he normally and the unincorporated areas would. of Ventura County and Mat- “There was so much to do in ilija Canyon,” Cal Fire’s website tough choices to make my neighbourhood,” he said. said on Saturday night. Nearby, paramedic Richie Authorities lifted evacuation Alabama is a strongly Conservative Republican vote and help Jones. my high school that dated guys in their At a hair salon, Emma Howell, the Fredell picked his way through orders earlier on Saturday for state and despite the accusation it Alabama has not elected a Democrat to twenties.” 21-year-old manager, rolls her eyes at the the wreckage of the home sections of Ventura and Santa appears unlikely the Democrats will the US Senate since 1992, and a Jones win Other Republicans have expressed simi- mention of Moore, saying he has broken where he and his brother grew Barbara counties. win would reduce the already-slim Republican lar sentiments, and while Moore plunged the habitual Republican vote among her up. It was special to them, he The blazes have destroyed majority in the upper house of Congress in the polls after the initial revelations, he generation. said, a respite off ered by an nearly 800 structures, and AFP from 52 to 51 seats out of 100. has come back slightly ahead. “People are realising that they don’t aunt who took them in while a 70-year-old woman died Birmingham, United States In Alabama, a southern state where For those voters who believe the accusa- have to vote Republican,” Howell said. their parents battled substance Wednesday in a car accident Trump won 62% of the vote, voting for a tions against Moore, there is a third option It is undeniable that Moore has boosted abuse. as she attempted to fl ee the Democrat is unthinkable for many Repub- aside from him or Jones: write in another enthusiasm for Democrats, an endangered Now the brothers returned fl ames in Ventura County. hen Alabama voters cast ballots licans, even if they believe the allegations candidate. species in signifi cant parts of the southern the favour, sheltering their North of San Diego, the to select a US Senator they will against Moore, which he has rejected as That’s what 70-year-old retired teacher US. aunt at a family home in Sacra- 4,100-acre Lilac Fire was 50% Wface a choice that echoes the “fake news” orchestrated by his enemies. Laura Strubel, who opposes Jones’ stance Steve Bannon, former chief White mento after fi re destroyed her contained by Saturday, offi cials country’s partisan political divide: elect a For Ann Wright, a 69-year-old retiree in favor of a woman’s right to have an House strategist and ardent Moore sup- house, leaving little but chunks said. Democrat or pick a man accused of prey- living in a suburb of Birmingham, the an- abortion, plans to do. porter, presents the election as a choice of concrete and the blackened A brush fi re broke out Sat- ing on teenaged girls. swer is Moore. “I’m sorry, but just to keep The election and the surrounding con- between Trump and his 2016 presidential remains of a refrigerator. urday night in the city of Mon- The Republican candidate — backed by the Democrats out,” she said is her reason- troversy is “crazy” and she is “ready to get election rival Hillary Clinton. Fredell, 38, lives in San rovia in Los Angeles County, President Donald Trump — is Roy Moore, ing. it over with,” Strubel said. The political risk explains why Trump, Mateo in Northern California. prompting temporary evacu- a former state judge known for his battles “People probably think Alabama is ter- Gadsden, the mall where Moore report- after sitting on the fence, threw his sup- In October, he was deployed ations, the US Forest Service to publicly display the Ten Command- rible, and they go around saying, ‘Oh, edly pursued teenaged girls, is still there, port behind Moore, saying Republicans to deadly fi res that decimat- said on Twitter. ments. you voted for a paedophile’. Well, it really crowded ahead of the Christmas holiday. “cannot aff ord” to lose the Senate seat. ed the city of Santa Rosa and Among those evacuated in- He has more recently made headlines hasn’t been proven yet,” she added. It’s not hard to fi nd people who know Democrats know that defeating Moore parts of the state’s storied wine cluded a group of Boy Scouts over accusations that he pursued girls as Multiple women have come forward to Moore, such as Linda Fain, a librarian who is a near impossible mission, but as Jones country. who were camping in the area, young as 14 when he was in his 30s. accuse Moore of pursuing them when they said she went out several times with him noted, it was just as unlikely that it would He said he now views such the Los Angeles Times reported. Voters on Tuesday can choose Moore or were teenagers, including one who said he and his wife. snow in early December in Birmingham, tragedies through a new lens Crews knocked down the his Democratic opponent Doug Jones, a groped her when she was 14 and another “He’s a good man,” she said, while “the which was veiled in white on Saturday. and hopes his personal experi- 3-acre blaze and there were former federal prosecutor. who said he assaulted her at age 16. ladies that have come forward are not so “Now is the time for change,” Jones ence of loss will help him better “no structures damaged,” the Or they could shun both by writing the “During that period of time, there were truthful”. told a campaign rally, saying Moore “has serve others. city of Monrovia said on its name of another candidate not listed on teenage girls that were dating older men,” But some young people are not as indul- been a disaster for the face of Alabama “You see people’s houses web site. the ballot — a move that could split the said Wright, noting that: “I had people in gent. already.” burn down and you commis- California Governor Jerry erate with them, but you don’t Brown issued emergency proc- have a personal connection lamations last week for Santa with it until something like this Barbara, San Diego, Los Ange- happens,” he said. les and Ventura counties, free- Santa Ana winds that have ing up additional resources to stoked wildfi res across South- fi ght the fi res. ern California, destroying President Donald Trump is- Tech titans stir up parents hundreds of buildings and sued a federal proclamation forcing evacuations of some that enables agencies to coor- 200,000 people, are expected dinate relief eff orts.

Sign of the times with social apps for children AFP senger Kids because “there’s a need for a dren’s personal data might be collected or Since Chromebooks act as portals to San Francisco messaging app that lets kids connect with used in Messenger Kids. computing power and applications hosted people they love but also has the level of With Messenger Kids, Facebook gets online, Google gets the benefi t of having control parents want”. children to spend time on the Internet students use its software for classwork, rom smartphone messaging tailored Groups which monitor social media and social networks, said David Monahan messaging and other services powered by for tikes to computers for class- gave mixed reviews to the Facebook ef- of the Campaign for a Commercial-Free the Internet cloud. Frooms, technology titans are weav- fort. Childhood. Google charges a one-time $30 licens- ing their way into childhoods to form life- “Ideally, young children should not re- He saw similar approaches from other ing fee per Chromebook, and claims that long bonds, raising hackles of advocacy ally be subjected to this kind of environ- tech giants, such as Google, which has more than 20mn students use its devices groups. ment,” said executive director Jeff Ches- spent years getting US schools to use its in schools around the world. The debut this month in the US of a ver- ter of the Center for Digital Democracy, a Chromebook devices for connecting to This has the potential of getting chil- sion of Messenger mobile application for consumer protection group. cloud-based content and services. dren, from a very young age, of “thinking children younger than 12 marked the fi rst “(Messenger Kids) is the best we can do A Google for Education website aimed about Google as a partner of the school” time leading online social network Face- at the moment. The pressure on parents to Chromebooks directly at classrooms, and, since it has the stamp of approval book has stepped into the sensitive mar- let their children be on these services is so touting the devices as low-priced and easy from educators believing it “must be a ket. strong.” to use. good product”, Monahan said. California-based Facebook said Mes- Facebook, meanwhile, is motivated to Chromebooks have become the most Advocacy groups are also keen for as- senger Kids complies with regulations increase the ranks of people using its of- prevalent computing hardware in US surance that companies behind technol- protecting children online, and off ers ferings and get a new generation in the schools, despite Apple starting years ear- ogy, even if only Internet-linked toys, will more safeguards for youngsters. habit of using the social network. lier in aiming its Macintosh machines at vigilantly guard children and their infor- Facebook said the new app, with no John Simpson of the activist group Con- education. mation. ads or in-app purchases, is aimed at 6- to sumer Watchdog argued a need for aca- Selling computers to schools at attrac- Mattel recently backed off marketing 12-year-olds and does not allow children demic studies into how the use of technol- tive prices, aimed at high-volume deals a connected speaker for children due to to connect with anyone their parent does ogy aff ects children. and becoming part of people’ lives at early worries about invading privacy and ex- not approve. “Tech companies are not doing this out ages, is not new. posing youngsters to hackers and adver- Messenger Kids is being rolled out for of generosity and kindness of the heart, Apple, Microsoft, and HP have a history tisers. Apple iOS mobile devices in the United they’re doing it so they will build poten- of it. Earlier this year, a coalition of activist States on a test basis as a standalone video tially loyal customers in the future,” Simp- But, Google has triumphed on this ground and consumer groups warned that smart- A #MeToo demonstration outside Trump International chat and messaging app. son said. to the extent that the New York Times re- watches designed to help parents keep hotel in New York City. Product manager Loren Cheng said the Two US senators wrote Thursday to ferred to the accomplishment in coverage as tabs on children could create privacy and social network leader is off ering Mes- Facebook with concerns about how chil- the “Googlifi cation of Classrooms”. security risks. Gulf Times 14 Monday, December 11, 2017 ASEAN

Thousands protest Trump’s Jerusalem move in Jakarta

DPA clad in white robes, waved Jakarta Palestinian fl ags. “We de- mand that the Palestin- ian people should get their housands of pro- rights over Jerusalem or testers gathered in Baitul Maqdis,” PKS Presi- Tfront of the embassy dent Sohibul Iman was of the United States in cen- quoted as saying by lipu- tral Jakarta to protest the tan6.com news web site. move by the US President Indonesia has no diplo- Donald Trump to recognise matic ties with Israel and Jerusalem as the capital of is a staunch supporter of Israel. Palestine independence. The rally was organ- President Joko Widodo has ised by Prosperous Justice strongly condemned the Party (PKS). Jakarta police US move, saying it poses spokesman Argo Yuwono threats to world stability. said there were up to 6,000 He also said that he will protesters in the down- speak on the issue at the town Jakarta rally, making upcoming extraordinary it bigger than the previ- summit of the Organiza- ous rally held on Friday by tion of Islamic Co-opera- other groups. tion in Istanbul on Decem- Indonesian police stand guard as demonstrators attend a protest against US President Donald Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, outside the US embassy in Jakarta The protesters, mostly ber 13. yesterday.

McDonald’s Malaysia refutes Israel ties after boycott calls

The Malaysian franchise of “channelled funds to Israel”. operating partner of franchisee McDonald’s Corp said it was The post has been retweeted Gerbang Alaf Restaurants Sdn “disappointed” with calls on 320 times and “liked” 138 Bhd, without specifying any social media to boycott the times. TheUsopIbrahim did not social media posts. Funeral held for fast food restaurant chain in respond to a Reuters request for The Malaysian and Singaporean apparent retaliation to the comment. franchise rights were bought United State’s recognition of McDonald’s Malaysia, in a by Saudi Arabia’s Lionhorn Pte Jerusalem as the capital of statement on Facebook Inc’s Ltd a year ago, as part the US Israel. Social media users in the social media platform on parent’s strategy of moving country called on boycotting Saturday, said the chain does away from direct ownership in various US companies following not support or engage in any Asia. The Malaysian franchise Thai cadet in army US President Donald Trump’s political or religious conflicts. also faced boycott calls in 2014 decision to relocate the US “The claim that McDonald’s when social media posts alleged, embassy in Israel to Jerusalem, channels funds to Israel is a without citing sources, that the a city important to both Israelis false accusation, a lie, fake restaurant chain was helping and Muslims. and slanderous. The charges fund Israeli attacks on Gaza. The One user of Twitter Inc’s made by an irresponsible company denied the allegation. microblogging platform, party in (Facebook’s) On Friday, Malaysian protesters abuse scandal TheUsopIbrahim, stated Whatsapp messages are also condemned the US action, without citing sources that unsubstantiated,” said Azmir burning an eff igy of Trump in AFP a dark twist that only intensifi ed Ocha said he was “deeply sorry” moving the organs for further US-headquartered McDonald’s Jaafar, managing director and front of the American embassy. Chon Buri, Thailand allegations of a cover-up, ignit- to hear about the death. The inspection was standard proce- ed public anger and turned the next phase of the autopsy will dure. Military offi cials did not case into national news. examine the internal organs that return calls requesting comment Thai army recruit whose Supicha Tanyakan, Paka- were given back to the family in on the new fi ndings. death captured national pong’s sister, told AFP that a the outcry that ensued following The funeral yesterday was the Reptile lovers meet A attention after his organs second autopsy by the Central the macabre discovery. real version of a ceremony that were removed in mysterious Institute of Forensic Science After that the family mem- took place shortly after Paka- circumstances showed signs of concluded he was physically as- bers will decide whether or not pong’s death in which the family being physically assaulted, his saulted because “internal bruis- to pursue legal action. Thai- pretended to cremate his body family said yesterday, citing the ing was found”. The autopsy also land’s military, which has ruled but kept it instead for the pur- results of an autopsy ahead of suggested his broken ribs were the country since a coup in 2014, pose of getting the second opin- the teenager’s funeral. The army not the result of vigorous fi rst has been dogged by allegations ion. said 18-year-old Pakapong Tan- aid, she said. The new fi ndings of trainee abuse and at least About 200 close friends and yakan died of heart failure at a add to mounting pressure on three fatalities have been re- family came to the ceremony in training school outside Bangkok the country’s military to explain ported this year. Si Racha district in Chon Buri in October. what happened to the fi rst- Pakapong had described be- province, where his childhood But his family — sceptical year cadet, with his case raising ing punched in the stomach and friend sang a song in commemo- of the offi cial cause of death concerns about the treatment fainting while at the academy, ration. “This afternoon we will — commissioned their own ex- of new conscripts. Four offi c- his parents told reporters. The cremate his body,” his sister said amination only to discover that ers have been transferred and military launched its own probe at the temple where the ritual Pakapong’s brain, heart, blad- former army chief and now- into the death but has denied was being held. “It’s time that der and stomach were missing, Prime Minister Prayuth Chan wrongdoing and said that re- we put his body to rest.”

Malaysian poll group gets Taiwan democracy award

A Malaysian electoral fairness was founded as a coalition of US government criticised Kuala chyuan. “We hope that Bersih campaign was recognised non-government organisations in Lumpur for using a 2012 law to 2.0 will persist in its struggle for yesterday for its contribution to November 2006, seeking reform hold Chin without charge for 11 democratic reform,” Su said after regional democracy and human of Malaysia’s electoral system days in a permanently-lit isolation presenting the award. rights, at a ceremony hosted to ensure transparent and fair cell. Chin said she accepted the The award ceremony was one by the Taiwan Foundation for voting. $100,000 award on behalf of the of a number of activities held Democracy (TFD). Public demonstrations involving “hundreds of thousands of brave in Taiwan to mark International Maria Chin Abdullah accepted thousands of Malaysians took Malaysians who have risen to Human Rights Day on Sunday. In the 12th Asian Human Rights and place in November 2007 and push for fair and free elections 2017, the UN is using the day to Democracy Award on behalf of November 2016. against an oppressive system.” begin a year-long campaign to the Coalition for Clean and Fair Chin’s profile rose after being The award was presented by celebrate the 80th anniversary A man holds a one-year-old pet crocodile during a gathering of a reptile lovers club during Elections, also known by the arrested on November 19, 2016, Taiwan’s parliamentary speaker of the Universal Declaration of car-free day in central Jakarta, Indonesia. Malay word ‘Bersih.’ The group just one day before a rally. The and chairman of the TFD, Su Chia- Human Rights. Minority languages on the rise in Singapore

AFP change was necessary to ensure forts to discourage it. In recent concern about losing touch with Singapore a secure future for the tiny city- years, however, Singaporeans the past. Young Singaporeans’ state, which had been thrown have started to take more of an desire to revitalise the languages out of neighbouring Malaysia interest in their ancestors’ lan- is a “form of root-tracing” while evin Martens Wong reels following a brief and stormy un- guages. for the older generation it’s due off sentences in Kristang, ion. He made the study of Eng- As well as Kristang, eff orts to a sense of nostalgia, associate Kwhich is among several lish compulsory in schools as he have been made by organisations professor Tan Ying Ying, head of minority languages in Singapore positioned the country as a glo- promoting Chinese culture to linguistics at Singapore’s Nan- enjoying a new lease of life after a bal commerce and fi nance hub, keep Hokkien alive. It is the Chi- yang Technological University, decades-long drive to encourage as well as one other “mother nese dialect that is most common told AFP. the use of English and Mandarin. tongue”. in Singapore but it has become “Linguists working in Aus- “Teng bong, ozi nus prendeh For local ethnic Chinese, who less widespread, particularly tralia, New Zealand, and the US, sorti-sorti di tempu,” the lin- today make up the majority of among the young. have dedicated frameworks and guist told his eager students in Singapore’s population, it was Other minority languages en- systems to revitalise minority the 500-year-old mish-mash of usually Mandarin, as Lee had joying renewed attention include languages that are in danger of Portuguese and Malay — a greet- an eye on China’s rise as a world Baba Malay, spoken by descend- being extinct,” he said. ing, and information that the power, while it was Tamil or Ma- ants of Chinese immigrants who “In Singapore, while there is class would be about the weather. lay for other citizens. The policy married into the local Malay such no formal system in place, A former British colonial trad- initially ran into opposition from population, which mixes ele- the sense that these languages ing post that has long been a ethnic Chinese, most of whom ments of Malay and a Chinese need to be ‘saved’ is felt by the melting pot of diff erent cultures, trace their ancestry to southern dialect, and Boyanese, a language communities of speakers them- Singapore has an ethnically di- China. from a corner of Indonesia. selves.” verse population whose ances- Lee, who ruled Singapore for Observers see a relaxation in The students learning Kris- tors mostly came from across over three decades and died in attitudes towards the old lan- tang – spoken in parts of the Asia, principally China, India 2015, described in his memoirs guages in the city-state of 5.6mn, Malaysian city of Malacca as well and the Malay archipelago. On how he had to force the issue. which has grown into one of the as Singapore – attend classes led independence in 1965, Singapo- “To emphasise the importance world’s wealthiest and most sta- by Wong, 25, thrice weekly, and reans spoke an array of tongues. of Mandarin, I stopped making Kevin Martens Wong, 25-year-old linguist tutor, conducting Kristang language class at the national library ble societies. range from young professionals English was common, but speeches in Hokkien,” wrote Lee, board in Singapore. Most Singaporeans have al- to senior citizens. many used Chinese dialects, such who was ethnic Chinese, while ready achieved an enviable lev- One of the fi rst to enrol in the as Hokkien, as well as Tamil from most TV and radio broadcasts radio news broadcasts in Chinese of Portuguese colonisers who fl ourished was “Singlish”, a local el of English by international class was Wong’s grandmother, India, Malay and a smattering in Chinese dialects were also dialects for senior citizens who arrived in what is now Malaysia patois that mixes English with standards, lessening fears that 81-year-old Maureen Martens, of more obscure languages. But stopped. struggle with Mandarin. Non- in the 16th century and married words from the myriad tongues focusing on other tongues will af- who lost touch with Kristang authoritarian founding prime Those restrictions still stand Chinese tongues, such as Kris- locals — also faded. spoken in Singapore. It is still fect their English-speaking abil- when she moved to Singapore minister Lee Kuan Yew believed except in special cases, such as tang — spoken by descendants One thing that unexpectedly widely used, despite offi cial ef- ity. There has also been growing from Malaysia in 1952. Gulf Times Monday, December 11, 2017 15 AUSTRALASIA/EAST ASIA Billionaire Guo Wengui wants regime change in Beijing

AFP on pro-democracy protesters on ever seen. Mr Bannon is one of tape,” he said. “For them, it was New York Beijing’s Tiananmen Square in the very few Westerners who re- too big a threat!” 1989, “my little brother died in ally understands Asia,” said Guo. Guo said he thinks “very high- front of me... I was detained for Guo said he has met 10 times ly” of Trump, and is a member of rom a luxury Manhattan 22 months.” with Bannon, the one-time the US leader’s tony Mar-a-Lago apartment, Chinese bil- It was in prison that he decid- Goldman Sachs investment club in Florida. But he neverthe- Flionaire Guo Wengui is ed to “wrestle with this system banker and head of infl uential ul- less is critical of Trump’s policies plotting a “change of the regime” under the Communist party that traconservative outlet Breitbart toward China. “He is too focused in Beijing and developing a new is inhumane, not democratic, News and that they have dis- on his own advantages, his own media platform with the aim of unlawful.” cussed his new platform, which strengths,” Guo said. “Politics is introducing democracy in the While some accuse the busi- he did not describe in detail. diff erent from business.” world’s most populous country. nessman, who is not shy about “I have money, you know this, As for Chinese President Xi The fugitive real-estate mo- publicising his ostentatious lots of money prepared for this,” Jinping, Guo called him “the gul settled in April in New York, lifestyle, of hypocrisy in his al- Guo said of the project. most human, most emotional on the 18th fl oor of a hotel fac- legations of corruption among Guo, dressed all in black and person out of all the (Chinese) ing Central Park, where he’s now China’s political elite, Guo denies smiling, spoke in English with offi cials.” He partly hopes that waiting with his wife for a deci- accusations that he himself is AFP on the topic of democracy. Xi would steer China to a Sin- sion on his claim for US political also guilty of graft. “Why would Otherwise he spoke in Chinese gapore-style governance model asylum. I do this? I don’t need the money, through an interpreter. With his with “a kind of rule-of-law so- “I want to try and to have rule I have money,” he said, ticking off little white dog Snow in his arms, ciety under one party rule that is of law, I want to try and have possessions such as apartments Guo took reporters on a tour of friendly to the Western world.” democracy, freedom, that’s my in New York and London and a his home, including a magnifi - In the meantime, Guo keeps in ultimate goal ... A change of the yacht, as well as “a wonderful cent terrace with sprawling views touch with his elderly parents in regime,” he told AFP in a recent family.” of Central Park, and his offi ce, Beijing and checks on his proper- exclusive interview. He’s set a “But I am a Buddhist, I want where he has on display a photo ties around the world via dozens timeline of three years. to be kind to other people... I of himself with the Dalai Lama. of cameras that he monitors from For several months, Guo has want to change the evil regime,” Guo confi rmed Wall Street his tablet. Even if he is successful been fl ooding social networks said Guo, who gives his age as Billionaire Guo Wengui, who is seeking asylum in the United States after accusing off icials in his native China Journal reports that he had been in dismantling the Chinese po- with searing accusations of cor- 47 despite uncertainty about his of corruption, poses at his New York City apartment. visited by Chinese government litical structure, Guo, who boasts ruption against China’s rich and birthdate due to the upheaval of agents in his apartment in May. of constructing “among the most powerful. Few Chinese tycoons the Cultural Revolution in China sive, posting unsubstantiated yet Undeterred, Guo has been de- seems unexpected -- with Steve He said the agents had one ob- beautiful modern buildings” in choose dissent. But Guo, whose at the time. “All the successful politically sensitive allegations. veloping a new media platform Bannon, US President Donald jective: “They are here to silence China, pledges that he has no property was seized and two businessmen in China, there are His Twitter account, which has that he intends to launch before Trump’s former strategist who me... They want me to stop talk- ambition of becoming a “Chinese brothers imprisoned since he only two fates for them: one is nearly 480,000 followers, has the end of December to expose has called for Washington to ing about the corrupt offi cials in Trump” one day. fl ed from China in 2014, says his to fl ee the country, the other is been repeatedly blocked since the fl aws of China’s Commu- wage “economic war” with Chi- the Chinese government.” “I like freedom, I like to travel, campaign has been brewing for waiting to be eliminated.” China’s Communist Party con- nist regime. Guo has developed na. “He is one of the best inter- “There are more than 100 I like to enjoy life,” he said. “I’d 28 years. Amid the crackdown He chose to go on the off en- gress in October, he said. a relationship in the US that national political experts I have hours of conversation I have on rather die than be a politician.” ‘S Korea to impose new sanctions on Pyongyang’ People cheer as members who contributed to the successful launch of the Hwasong-15 intercontinental AFP ond set of unilateral sanctions tion to those by the UN Security intention to “mount a surprise ballistics missile (ICBM) arrive in Pyongyang. Seoul in a month, are likely to draw an Council, which has hit the iso- nuclear pre-emptive strike”. angry response from Pyongyang, lated and impoverished North Seoul’s sanctions will bar South Japan to host joint missile tracking drill which views its neighbour as with a package of sanctions over Korean individuals and entities outh Korea will impose new overly-dependent on a hostile its increasingly powerful mis- from transacting with those on Japan will hold a drill with the It is aimed at “practising tracking Thailand this week for talks on unilateral sanctions against Washington. A total of 20 North sile and nuclear tests. China, the list but it will be largely sym- United States and South Korea this an object and sharing information eff orts to build pressure against Snuclear-armed Pyongyang, Korean organisations, including Pyongyang’s sole major diplo- bolic given a lack of inter-Korean week to practise jointly detecting on it among the three countries,” Pyongyang after its latest ballistic a report said yesterday, in Seoul’s banks and trading companies, matic and military ally, has also economic ties. airborne missiles, off icials said yes- said a defence off icial who de- missile test. latest eff ort to pressure the North and 12 North Korean individuals backed the UN embargoes, but Last year, South Korea uni- terday amid rising security threats clined to be named. “It will trans- “The United States looks forward after a series of weapons tests – mostly bankers – will be black- has repeatedly pushed for talks to laterally closed operations at the from North Korea. late into a measure against ballistic to continuing its partnership with that have sent regional tensions listed as of today, the South’s diff use tensions. The UN’s under jointly-run Kaesong Industrial The announcement of the joint ex- missiles,” the off icial said. both these nations so that the surging. Yonhap news agency reported secretary general Jeff rey Feltman Complex, saying cash from the ercise, a sixth such drill since 2016, Tensions over the North’s weap- DPRK will return to credible talks The move comes after a rare citing a foreign ministry offi cial. visited the North just a week af- zone was being funnelled to the comes less than two weeks after ons programmes have soared this on denuclearisation,” the depart- visit to North Korea by a senior “The organisations and individ- ter Pyongyang said it test-fi red North’s weapons programme. Pyongyang test-fired a ballistic year, with Pyongyang carrying ment said in a statement. UN offi cial, who called for dia- uals were involved in supplying a new ballistic missile capable of The complex was the last re- missile which dropped into the sea out its sixth nuclear test as well A senior UN envoy warned logue between Pyongyang and money needed to develop weap- reaching the United States. maining form of North-South inside Japan’s exclusive economic as a series of missile launches in Saturday there was a grave risk the international community to ons of mass destruction or illegal His trip also coincided with economic cooperation. Seoul zone in late November. defiance of multiple sets of UN that a miscalculation could trigger avert a potentially catastrophic trading of sanctioned items,” the the US and South Korea’s big- banned nearly all business with The drill will be held in waters sanctions. conflict with North Korea as he “miscalculation” in the high- offi cial said, according to Yon- gest-ever joint air exercise, the North in 2010 after accusing near Japan, Defence Minister The US State Department’s special urged Pyongyang to keep commu- stakes nuclear crisis. hap. which the North slammed as a Pyongyang of sinking one of its Itsunori Onodera said as he visited representative for North Korea nication channels open after a rare Seoul’s new measures, its sec- The measures are in addi- provocation and revealing an warships. a garrison in northern Japan. policy will travel to Japan and visit to the seclusive state.

Fringe parties rise as Australians lose faith in mainstream PM will ‘stand up’

AFP voters facing ever higher living Brisbane, Australia costs and city house prices, and for Australia after those on the sharp end of the mining downturn. In Western ustralia may have a repu- Australia -- a state particularly tation for easy-going lib- struggling with the transition China criticism Aeralism, but analysts say from the mining-investment the nation is vulnerable to the boom -- One Nation won seats in allure of right-wing populism. the state Senate earlier this year. AFP fending Australian sovereignty. With the cost of living surging Hanson’s party fi rst emerged Sydney “Modern China was founded in and high unemployment in re- in the 1990s when she earned 1949 with these words -- ‘the gions suff ering from the end of notoriety by warning the country Chinese people have stood up’,” a mining boom, disillusionment was in danger of being “swamped rime Minister Malcolm Turnbull told reporters, speak- with mainstream parties is per- by Asians”. Turnbull has said he ing in English and Mandarin. meating politics, opening the While One Nation has ridden Pwill “stand up” for Aus- “It was an assertion of sov- door to groups once considered onto the political scene on the tralia, brushing aside Chinese ereignty, it was an assertion of marginal. back of voter disenchantment, criticism of new foreign in- pride. And we stand up, and so In a trend that echoes the rise observers say the party is too terference laws as fears rise of we said, ‘the Australian people of right-wing forces elsewhere disorganised to gain a signifi cant overseas meddling in domes- stand up’. in the world, Australia’s divisive foothold on a national level. It tic institutions. Canberra has He added: “China, Chinese One Nation Party has capitalised has also been plagued by con- announced the wide-ranging people stand up to their sov- on voter frustrations, fi nding a People campaigning at a polling station in Buderim in Queensland in this file picture. troversy — from multiple defec- reforms to espionage and for- ereignty, and they expect Aus- niche appetite for its anti-immi- tions to accusations of misuse of eign interference legislation, tralian people and particularly gration stance and socially con- who are more attached to tra- own backyard, look after our and accused the government of donations. with Attorney General George Australian leaders to stand up servative message. ditional values.” It is an analy- own.” pandering to hardliners in agree- For McDonnell, Hanson’s Brandis saying such as med- for theirs.” Led by fl ame-haired former sis echoed by Hanson’s support McDonnell said the burgeon- ing to hold it. anti-establishment rhetoric is dling was an “extremely seri- Labor MP Sam Dastyari was fi sh-and-chip shop owner base. “A lot of people are just dis- ing support for fringe parties re- Canberra has also faced fl ak much like that of French far- ous problem”. forced to resign as deputy op- Pauline Hanson, the party won satisfi ed with the poor perform- fl ected a loss of faith in a political from rights groups over its tough right MP Marine Le Pen. But un- Turnbull himself has sin- position whip in late November four upper house Senate seats in ance of the major parties,” Aaron mainstream seen as out of touch, immigration policy that sees like those European fi gures, every gled out China as a focus of after reports he told a Chinese 2016 and has since rattled main- Kerle, a 39-year-old mechanic with other minor players such asylum-seekers sent to remote time Hanson has tasted success concern, citing “disturbing businessman that his phone stream parties in regional elec- and One Nation supporter told as the Nick Xenophon Team and detention camps. “the party organisation essen- reports” about Beijing’s infl u- was likely being tapped by in- tions. In November, One Nation AFP. Hanson says she is con- Jacki Lambie Network, and the In April, the government un- tially imploded around her”. ence. telligence agencies. The man, won almost 14% of a vote in the necting with “grassroots people” recently created Australian Con- veiled plans to put “Australian “I think we can see that actu- The proposed reforms drew Huang Xiangmo, is a promi- state of Queensland, which saw ignored by the political estab- servatives, also making inroads. values” at the heart of tougher ally she remains very, very ef- a furious response from China, nent Chinese political donor. nearly a third of voters fl ee the lishment. But she denies racism “There is clearly a market requirements to gain citizenship, fective at appealing to voters, which also attacked local me- Turnbull in June also or- two major parties. or advocating a total ban on im- there ... for anti-immigrant, days after scrapping a visa pro- but she still hasn’t learned how dia stories about infi ltration as dered an inquiry after media “Just as we see in most western migration. protectionist, traditional values, gramme for temporary foreign to run a party,” McDonnell said, fabricated and refl ecting hys- revelations that the national democracies, there is a section “What I have stood for over anti-mainstream party politics,” workers to reduce unemploy- adding that a slicker operator teria and paranoia. Beijing on spy agency warned political of the population that feels left the years is the Australian cul- he said. ment among citizens. Echoing could go much further. Friday also lodged an offi cial leaders two years ago about behind by globalisation,” Duncan ture, the Australian way of life,” Australia’s conservative ruling US President Donald Trump, “If you had someone come protest with Canberra, saying receiving donations from two McDonnell, a senior politics lec- Hanson told AFP. Liberal-National coalition ush- Prime Minister Malcolm Turn- after her, who was a little more the government should “im- billionaires with links to the turer at Griffi th University, told “The older generation are ered in a bill legalising same-sex bull said the new regime would acceptable to mainstream party mediately stop making wrong Chinese Communist Party. AFP. worried about their future gen- marriages that passed parliament be “manifestly, rigorously, reso- voters and they felt they could remarks” that would under- The probe said that despite be- “(They feel) that mainstream erations, the next lot coming to cheers and applause on Thurs- lutely conducted in the national stomach voting for her, you mine trust and cooperation ing cautioned, the two major politics does not speak for them, through, their kids and their day. However, some campaigners interest to put Australians and might see a right-wing party between the two countries. political parties – the Liberals but it speaks for metropolitan grand kids, so what we’re stand- criticised the lengthy poll proc- Australian jobs fi rst”. It is a mes- come after Hanson doing even But Turnbull hit back Sat- and Labor – continued to ac- elites and not for those people ing for is look, let’s clean up our ess as divisive and unnecessary, sage designed to resonate with better than One Nation has.” urday, saying he was just de- cept substantial sums. Gulf Times 16 Monday, December 11, 2017 BRITAIN Labour urges action to improve voting among homeless

Guardian News and Media The Cabinet Offi ce will later manent address is unwieldy and on December 19, Cat Smith, La- more than 137,000 people are offi - nising the work that has been done it comes to democratic engage- London this month announce details of its off putting. bour’s shadow minister for voter cially listed as homeless or in tem- in this areas since 2015, clearly the ment.” According to Smith, the democratic engagement strategy, Most voters can sign up online, engagement, has written to the porary accommodation. low levels of registration dem- Electoral Commission website which aims to improve voter turn- but people who are homeless or in Cabinet Offi ce minister, Chris The fi gures show 48 local au- onstrate this simply has not been contains 714 pieces of guidance abour has urged the gov- out by making it more straightfor- temporary accommodation have Skidmore, saying the government thorities without a single such enough,” she said. for overseas voters, but only 65 for ernment to use planned ward for people to join the electoral to download, print and manually is “not doing enough to encourage person registered to vote, among “And when we compare the homeless voters. Lreforms to the electoral register. fi ll in a form called a declaration of homeless people to participate in them Bradford, Luton, Worcester amount of advice ministers seem Offi cial statistics for homeless system to ensure more people Concerted eff orts to help over- local connection, which must then our democracy”. and Harrow in north London. Only willing to give though those liv- people and those in temporary ad- without a permanent home are seas voters and students to sign up be sent to the local electoral regis- The latest electoral register for two areas have more than 100 reg- ing abroad compared to those dresses traditionally understate helped to vote, after statistics had increased the size of the elec- tration offi cer. England showed just 2,963 entries istrations. without a home here in the UK, the scale of the problem. Charities showed that only about 2% are toral register, but Labour says the Ahead of the engagement strat- made through a declaration of lo- These statistics were unaccept- it is clear that the government estimate their total number could registered. system for people without a per- egy, which is due to be published cal connection, Smith wrote, while able, Smith wrote. “Whilst recog- has all the wrong priorities when be as high as 3.5mn across the UK.

UK won’t pay Brexit I can’t forgive bill if deal not agreed, says Davis govt betrayal

Agencies London after years in rexit Secretary David Dav- is yesterday said Britain Bwill not honour fi nancial commitments agreed this week with the European Union if they fail to secure a future trade deal, contradicting Finance Minister jail: ex-soldier Philip Hammond. “No deal means that we won’t Guardian News and Media Dunn from Ashington, North- “I will never forgive the FCO. be paying the money,” he told the London umberland, Ray Tindall from At times, their lack of inter- BBC. “It is conditional on an out- Chester, Paul Towers from Pock- est just made everything worse. come. It is conditional on getting lington, east Yorkshire, John They put business ventures be- an implementation period, it is former British soldier who Armstrong from Wigton, Cum- fore lives. They complicated conditional on a trade outcome,” spent four years in an In- bria, and Nicholas Simpson from situations and moved goalposts. he said. Adian prison has said he Catterick, North Yorkshire – They would off er to help, then “It has been made clear by will never forgive the UK govern- were arrested and detained along didn’t follow up. They’ve never Number 10 already. So that’s not ment for failing to do enough to with three Ukrainians, 14 Estoni- said, ‘Sorry, we messed up’. Billy actually new,” Davis added. secure his release. and the other men would have Under an initial agreement Billy Irving, 37, touched down been free two years ago if the reached with the EU on Friday, at Glasgow airport on Wednes- FCO had been truly there for us.” Britain will pay a fi nancial settle- day, the fi rst of the so-called During his four years in prison, ment of between £35bn-£39bn Chennai Six to arrive back in the Irving – from Paisley, Renfrews- for leaving the bloc in March 2019. UK after they were jailed in the hire – contracted dysentery and The 15-page document, de- southern Indian city on weapons lost 19kg. tailing post-Brexit arrangements charges. He described the experience for citizens’ rights and the Irish He and fi ve other former Brit- as an “unbelievable nightmare” border, was hammered out after ish servicemen were working as and spoke of his sorrow over not nearly six months of negotiations security guards on the Ameri- seeing his young son, William, and now allows the talks to move can-owned anti-piracy vessel grow up. He had only seen his on to a future trade deal. the MV Seaman Guard Ohio in son three times before his release Davis’ stance contradicts the Indian Ocean when they were “We would have been freed this week. comments from Hammond on detained in 2013. much sooner if they had “To fi nally smell fresh air and Wednesday, who said London They were charged with carry- really engaged in our plight feel cold, wet rain on my face is would pay the bill regardless of ing unlicensed fi rearms and am- and fought for us. I feel the most fantastic feeling in the their outcome. “Nothing is agreed munition. The men insisted they disgusted and betrayed” world,” he said. “Now I just want until everything is agreed in this had been granted permits by the to get to know my son, focus on negotiation,” he told a parliamen- UK’s department for business, ans and 12 Indians when customs being a proper father and spend tary committee. innovation and skills, something offi cials and police searched their time with my family.” “But I fi nd it inconceivable that the head of export controls even- ship. The UK government said the we as a nation would be walk- tually confi rmed to the Indian Irving’s fi ancee, Yvonne Ma- case had been raised more than ing away from an obligation that authorities. cHugh, who worked with the 50 times at ministerial level and we recognised as an obligation,” After years of campaigning, other men’s families and friends nine times with the Indian prime he said. “That is not a credible the men won an appeal against to campaign for their release, minister since October 2013. A scenario. That is not the kind of their convictions last month and described former foreign secre- FCO spokeswoman said: “The country we are. Frankly, it would were given permission to leave tary Philip Hammond as “next to UK government was delighted not make us a credible partner for India, fl ying back to the UK ear- useless and uninterested at best”. that the men were released and future international agreements.” lier this week. She accused Boris Johnson, the foreign secretary also paid A spokeswoman for the Treas- Speaking to the Mail on Sun- Hammond’s successor, of hy- tribute to those who campaigned ury yesterday declined to com- day, Irving said: “I can never pocrisy for saying the Foreign for them. ment on Davis’ remarks. forgive the UK government and Offi ce (FCO) had worked on the “The Foreign Offi ce worked Davis also described the gov- the Foreign and Commonwealth case “unstintingly”. “For Boris tirelessly behind the scenes to ernment’s pledge to prevent any Offi ce,” he said. “We would have Johnson to hint that he had some reunite these men with their return to a hard border with Ire- been freed much sooner if they part in their return is the height families. This included lobbying land after Britain leaves the Eu- had really engaged in our plight of hypocrisy,” she said. “I’ve on their behalf, visiting them in ropean Union as “a statement of and fought for us. I feel disgusted written to him a number of times prison, updating their families intent” rather than a legally bind- Prime Minister Theresa May leaves church, in Sonning, yesterday. The week ended with much of the and betrayed.” asking for a meeting and never and maintaining close contact ing move. British press hailing the prime minister as a hero for her Brexit deal. The six Britons – Irving, Nick had a reply. How dare he.” with their legal team.”

Prankster waves Hawking joins lawsuit off stunt criticism to stop NHS shake-up Guardian News and Media The video of Swingler ce- London menting his head inside the microwave has been viewed Guardian News and Media among Labour MPs and NHS by parliament. “I am joining this more than 1mn times and has London campaigners because they are legal action because the NHS is YouTube prankster who attracted more than 14,000 modelled on organisations of the being taken in a direction which required more than an comments on the platform. same name that play a key role in I oppose, as I stated in August, A hour of help from fi re- Despite having gone vi- tephen Hawking has healthcare in some parts of the US. without proper public and parlia- fi ghters after cementing his ral, the recording has been reignited his public dispute Hawking and Hunt became em- mentary scrutiny, consultations head inside a microwave has demonetised by YouTube, Swith Jeremy Hunt by join- broiled in a war of words in August and debate,” said Hawking. said he “doesn’t care” about meaning Swingler will not ing a legal action aimed at scup- after Hawking used a Guardian “I want the attention of the peo- the criticism, but has off ered earn any direct revenue from pering an NHS shake-up that he article to accuse the Conservatives ple of England to be drawn to what to pay emergency services for it. fears will lead to greater privati- of causing the NHS’s diffi culties is happening and for those who their time. Fire service station com- sation and rationing of resources. by underfunding it and Hunt of are entrusted with responsibil- On Friday, West Midlands mander Simon Woodward The physicist has become a “cherrypicking” and misrepre- ity for the NHS to account openly fi re service said they would said: “We pride ourselves on party to a lawsuit that is seeking senting research fi ndings to suit for themselves in public, and to be not charge 22-year-old Jay our five minutes’ attendance to stop the introduction of the fi rst his arguments. judged accordingly.” Swingler the £650 service fee standard. That means that accountable care organisations Hunt claimed on Twitter and The intervention will focus at- for the callout as his life was in if we have an instant where (ACOs) into the NHS in England in a newspaper piece that Hawk- tention on ACOs, which have so far danger, but the prankster has there’s life at risk, our appli- in April. ing, a “personal hero” to him, had generated little media coverage or since off ered to make a volun- ances will be there within five “I am concerned that account- wrongly claimed that the NHS was political interest. They have been tary contribution. minutes, and that gives us our able care organisations are an at- heading towards a “US-style in- promoted by Simon Stevens, the Hundreds of people have best chance to save that life. tack on the fundamental princi- surance system”, saying there was chief executive of NHS England, taken to social media to criti- “If we are attending inci- ples of the NHS,” Hawking told the no evidence to back this up. and backed by the government, as cise the vlogger for wasting dents that are YouTube vid- Guardian, explaining his move. Hawking has become a “pro- a key part of his Five Year Forward the time and resources of the eos where we have people who “They have not been established posed claimant” alongside four View blueprint to modernise the emergency services, calling have been irresponsible … the by statute, and they appear to be academics and NHS campaign- NHS and help it stay within budg- him “stupid” and “immature”. service charge for that would being used for reducing public ex- ers, known as the judicial review et. NHS England says ACOs are Speaking to BBC News be £650. We are not going to penditure, for cutting services and group. They hope high court simply a new way of ensuring that about the incident, the prank- charge because his life was in for allowing private companies to judges will grant them a judicial diff erent types of health service ster said: “The idea behind this danger. receive and benefi t from signifi - review to stop Hunt and NHS Eng- bodies can work together, and with video was to create this reac- What I’d like to do is remind cant sums of public money for or- land bringing in ACOs without providers of social care services, in tion. And, mission success, everybody not to put their lives ganising and providing services.” the move fi rst being subjected to an area to integrate care to benefi t man. There is no such thing as at risk for the sake of other ACOs have aroused suspicion public consultation and scrutiny patients’ health. Hawking: opposes NHS privatisation. bad publicity in my opinion.” people’s entertainment.” Gulf Times Monday, December 11, 2017 17 BRITAIN Sussex University head paid £230,000 ‘golden handshake’

Guardian News and Media Michael Farthing, who was Spiralling pay for top univer- fessor in what is thought to be £468,000 pay package. South- for him on campus, and his uni- and College Union, in comments London head of the university for nine sity offi cials is in the spotlight at the highest payment made in the ampton University was forced to versity-funded chauff eur-driven made to the Times. years, received the payout “in lieu a time when pay for teaching staff sector to date. She was paid a sal- defend paying its vice-chancellor car.” The row at Southampton “They must publish full min- of notice” upon his departure, ac- has fl atlined or increased only ary of £250,000, plus £429,000 £423,000, and academics at Bir- was aggravated by the revela- utes of those meeting and staff he vice-chancellor of Sus- cording to Times Higher Educa- modestly. Students continue to as “compensation for loss of of- mingham University protested tion that its vice-chancellor, Sir and students must be given a seat sex University is reported to tion. His salary was not disclosed, pay £9,000 fees plus interest pay- fi ce”, £89,000 in pension contri- against the £2.9mn paid to its Christopher Snowden, sat on the at those tables to properly scruti- Thave received a £230,000 but Adam Tickell, his successor ments, and anger has led to greater butions, a housing allowance of vice-chancellor, Sir David East- renumeration committee that ap- nise these deals. “golden handshake” when he left was paid £293,000, a fee that in- scrutiny on the sector. £20,000 and £20,000 for “other wood, since 2009. proves pay packages. “With further excessive pay the institution in August last year, cluded £17,000 to relocate from It was reported this week that benefi ts in kind”. More than 160 academics “Vice-chancellors must be revelations likely to follow, it is the latest revelation in a week of Birmingham and £9,000 for his Bath Spa University paid Chris- Dame Glynis Breakwell, the signed an open letter about East- removed from the committees time universities stopped sim- controversy about excessive pay- pension. The research-based in- tina Slade £808,000 in her fi nal vice-chancellor of nearby Bath wood’s pay that read: “This is on setting their pay and signing off ply trying to defend the system off s and rising salaries for higher stitution paid £545,000 to two year as vice-chancellor before University, stepped down last top of the highly desirable univer- their perks,” said Sally Hunt, the and accept there must be radical education chiefs. senior staff members this year. she was appointed emeritus pro- week after an outcry over her sity-funded residence provided general secretary of the University change.” Universities to off er two-year degrees, says government

Guardian News and Media which may be problematic for the London government when faced with a Labour party determined to abol- ish fees altogether. niversities will be allowed Jo Johnson, the universities to charge students almost minister, said the move was part U£2,000 a year more in fees of the government’s attempts to in return for allowing them to “bust open the increasingly in- complete a degree over two years fl exible system of higher educa- instead of three, ministers have tion”. He argued that the average revealed. The decision to allow student taking up the shorter universities to charge a 20% pre- courses would be £25,000 better mium for so-called “accelerated off due to lower overall fees and an A resident clears snow from a car in Loughborough, yesterday. degrees” is the latest attempt to extra year’s earnings. encourage more institutions to of- “There are savings for the stu- fer the option. dent, big savings for the taxpayer, It follows frustrations inside and universities have an incentive government that only about 2,500 now to off er these courses, be- students – just a fi fth of 1% – are cause instead of losing all of that studying accelerated degrees, de- fi nal year of income, they just for- spite hopes that they would en- go a proportion of it,” he said. courage more mature students Johnson said he was confi dent Snow brings into higher education, as well as that universities would now come those who do not want to commit forward and off er the accelerated to three years on campus. courses, and that there would be There has long been support a “huge fi rst-mover advantage” to among ministers from diff erent the institutions that did so. parties to encourage the growth The shorter degrees might en- of two-year degrees, but universi- courage more mature students to travel chaos ties have complained that the ex- go in to higher education, Johnson tra costs of their longer term times said, but the move was not explic- AFP 1130GMT to departing aircraft, and western regions, according and the loss of a year’s tuition fees itly an attempt to head off skills London according to a spokesman. to the Met Offi ce, the country’s meant they were reluctant to off er shortages when immigration con- It had opened to incoming offi cial weather service. Molly Stevenson, 4, sledges in the snow in Leverstock Green, them. trols are tightened after Brexit. fl ights by early afternoon. “All Sennybridge, in Brecon Bea- Hertforshire. There had been suggestions “Over the years, we’ve seen he heaviest snowfall to fl ights (are) subject to delay or cons National Park in Wales, earlier this year that universities the classic three-year residen- hit Britain in four years cancellation,” he said. topped the records with 30cms, could be allowed to charge the full tial model take up an increasingly Tcaused widespread dis- Delayed passengers took to while Coleshill, close to Bir- three years’ worth of fees over two large market share,” Johnson told ruption yesterday, with roads Twitter to complain, with one mingham, received 10cms, it years, which would have seen stu- the Observer. “We have been con- becoming hazardous and fl ights frustrated traveller describing reported. dents paying more than £13,500 a cerned by the decline in some are- grounded following runway clo- the airport as “like a war zone”. Meanwhile, light snow and year. However, ministers have opt- as of provision that we want to give sures. Police forces in worst-hit Wales sleet fell through the morning ed to allow institutions to charge a boost to now – and in particular Birmingham Airport, serv- and central England urged mo- in London, leaving Northolt, on a premium that they believe will we have been worried about the ing the country’s second big- torists not to travel unless “ab- the outskirts of the capital, with cover any extra costs. Under the decline in mature students look- gest city, suspended fl ights for solutely necessary” as they dealt a covering of 2cms, the Met Of- latest proposals, universities will ing at higher education to reskill, all of yesterday morning, as staff with surging calls. fi ce said. be able to charge up to £11,100 a retrain and adapt to a changing worked to clear the runway amid A spokesman for the High- “We’ve gone through the year in fees for accelerated de- economy.” heavy snow. ways England agency said there worst of it,” said Oli Claydon, grees, compared with the £9,250 A recent government survey The airport, which typically had been road incidents “all over a spokesman, early afternoon. paid by regular undergraduates. found that 73% of higher educa- handles around 30,000 passen- the place”. Most areas impacted would have The fast-track degrees off er tion providers reported demand gers and 200 fl ights a day in De- The fl urries continued to fall a “bright, sunny start today,” he the same qualifi cations and are from students or employers for the cember, diverted 11 fl ights else- into the afternoon, raising the added. quality-assured in the same way courses, but 36% of responders where and expected to cancel prospect of roads becoming im- Claydon said the last time as a standard degree. The new fees cited concerns about the cost of more than that, she added. passable. Britain saw this much heavy regime should be in place by Sep- delivering them. More established Meanwhile, London Luton Swathes of Britain were hit by snow nationwide was March, tember 2019. However, they have universities were found to be less Airport closed its runway for two the snowfall yesterday, with sig- 2013, and during the winter of A fallen tree crushes a campervan on the A40 is seen near to be approved by parliament – likely to off er them. hours before reopening around nifi cant accumulation in central 2010. Sennybridge, Wales. Child abuse scandal Ex-celebrity publicist Max Cliff ord dies victims ‘to get £100mn’ Agencies collapsed again and was uncon- London scious for several minutes, though he did not know for how long. He London Evening Standard Lambeth children’s homes prior It included harrowing testi- was seen by a nurse who insisted London to their closure in the Eighties mony from 40 people abused ormer celebrity publicist he must be transferred to a local and Nineties and for many the by a paedophile ring including Max Cliff ord has died in hos- hospital. That’s where he had his trauma suff ered by survivors council staff , police offi cers, Fpital aged 74, the ministry of cardiac arrest, later on Friday.” he town hall at the heart lives on to this day,” she said. teachers and police. justice (MoJ) said. Cliff ord unsuccessfully ap- of one of the capital’s “As the current leader of Lam- Lambeth is the fi rst council in A MoJ spokeswoman said Clif- pealed against his sentence in No- Tworst child abuse scan- beth council I make a full and the country to have developed ford collapsed at Littlehey prison vember 2014. Three appeal court dals has proposed paying out genuine apology for the abuse this type of scheme. Others in Cambridgeshire on Thursday. judges dismissed this and declared more than £100mn to survi- people suff ered due to historic could now follow suit. It per- Cliff ord was sentenced to eight the eight-year term “justifi ed and vors. failings in the care system. suaded the government to let it years in prison in May 2014 after correct”. Lambeth council set out “We’ve taken the decision not borrow the money so it does not being found guilty of eight counts This year, he sought permission detailed plans for its redress to be like past administrations have to increase council tax to of indecent assault between 1977 to appeal against his conviction on scheme for victims of historical and instead to address the issues pay for it. and 1985. the basis of what he believed was sexual, physical and psychologi- from a very dark period of Lam- Raymond Stevenson, a former A Prison Service spokeswoman fresh evidence. The matter had cal abuse at its former children’s beth’s history.” resident of the care home and said: “HMP Littlehey prisoner not yet been resolved by the time homes. It means that hundreds The scheme is intended to Shirley Oaks Survivors Associa- Maxwell Cliff ord died in hospital of his death. of people who grew up in its care provide “swift and compassion- tion spokesman, said: “This has yesterday. As with all deaths in Cliff ord’s lawyer, John Szepie- at Shirley Oaks and other homes ate” redress while making sure never been about the money, it is custody, there will be an investi- towski, said his death meant there could be entitled to at least compensation for survivors is about justice. And we don’t have gation by the independent prisons were a number of unresolved legal £10,000 each. not swallowed up by lawyers’ any faith in Lambeth council to and probation ombudsman. Our issues. He said he Cliff ord was su- Paedophiles, including staff fees. Lambeth will cover le- administer the compensation condolences are with Cliff ord’s ing News International and Mirror and visitors, preyed on chil- gal costs. The borough will pay fairly. It needs to be an inde- family at this diffi cult time.” Group Newspapers for allegedly dren on an “industrial” scale at compensation to every former pendent team. Cliff ord’s daughter, Louise Clif- hacking his phone. the borough’s fl agship home in resident as they were all felt to “Lambeth is asking people ford, had told the Mail on Sunday The lawyer also said Cliff ord Croydon over three decades. be at risk, with victims of abuse to believe in a system that has that Cliff ord collapsed twice in was being sued by a number of Lib Peck, leader of Lambeth, receiving more. failed them repeatedly. It can’t prison before suff ering a cardiac women who claimed he had sexu- said survivors had been “very An explosive report by the be right for the council to be arrest in hospital. ally assaulted them. badly let down” in the past and survivors’ association last year overseeing the redress. Nowhere “He was in a bad way,” she said. Szepietowski said his legal team had waited too long for redress. uncovered widespread abuse of else has this happened. We don’t His fi rst collapse came as he was would meet in the coming days to Many were now elderly. at least 700 children over a 30- believe in the legitimacy of the cleaning his cell,” Louise revealed. decide whether Cliff ord’s criminal “Terrible abuse occurred at year period at the home. scheme.” Max Cliff ord: unresolved legal issues “It was just too much. Next day, he appeal case should continue. Gulf Times 18 Monday, December 11, 2017 EUROPE Recall of Lactalis baby milk over salmonella fears

AFP Nalet told AFP that “nearly 7,000 brand names, including Milumel, which fi rst emerged at the start The illness – caused by intes- dry out the milk – at a factory in their product with an industrial Paris tonnes” of production may have Picot, and Celi. of the month with reports of 20 tinal bacteria from farm animals the town of Craon in northwest chemical. been contaminated, but the The recall will aff ect consum- sick children under the age of six. – is dangerous for the very young France. Six babies died and around company is unable to say cur- ers in countries including China, A statement from the economy and elderly because of the risk of All products made there since 300,000 others were made ill. rench baby-milk maker rently how much remains on the Pakistan, Bangladesh, Britain, ministry said that the measures dehydration. February 15 have been recalled, The scare benefi ted rival com- Lactalis and health author- market, has been consumed or is and Sudan, underlining the reach put in place by Lactalis since The victims in France have Nalet said, adding that the com- panies such as Lactalis and fellow Fities have ordered a ma- in stock. of the company and the diffi culty December 2 were “not suffi cient since recovered and, asked if any pany was taking fresh precau- French giant Danone. jor international product recall Lactalis is one of the world’s in trying to trace all the poten- to manage the risk of contami- cases had been reported abroad, tionary measures of disinfecting In 2013, Danone suff ered what because of fears of salmonella biggest producers of dairy prod- tially at-risk powder. nation” and a broader recall was Lactalis spokesman Nalet re- all of its machinery at the factory. turned out to be a false alarm contamination, following the re- ucts. Yesterday’s announcement necessary. plied: “Not as far as I am aware.” The baby milk industry was about botulism in its baby milk ports of 26 children falling sick in It sells its baby milk in packets by the company and regulators Salmonella symptoms in- The company believes the sal- shaken by a huge scare in China which did huge damage to its France. ranging from 350-950g which are in the French economy ministry clude severe diarrhoea, stomach monella outbreak can be traced in 2008 when local manufac- reputation and undermined Company spokesman Michel marketed globally under a host of signifi cantly widens the scare cramps and vomiting. to an evaporation tower – used to turers were found to be bulking group profi ts. Thousands of Saakashvili Nuclear war just supporters stage protest Reuters Kyiv

everal thousand people marched through central a tantrum away: SKyiv yesterday to pro- test against the detention of Ukrainian opposition fi gure Mikheil Saakashvili and call for the impeachment of President Petro Poroshenko. Saakashvili, president of his native Georgia for nine years Nobel laureate until 2013, moved to Ukraine af- ter a popular uprising there and AFP served under Poroshenko as a Oslo regional governor from 2015- 2016, before falling out with the Ukrainian leader. ankind’s destruction He was detained in Kyiv on caused by a nuclear war Friday, following a dramatic Mis just one “impulsive stand-off earlier in the week Supporters of Saakashvili march through the city centre during a tantrum away”, the winners of where he clambered on a roof to rally yesterday in Kyiv. the Nobel Peace Prize, the In- avoid law enforcement and was ternational Campaign to Abol- freed from a police van by his a speech at the rally. Saakashvili has launched a ish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), supporters. “We remember his words: hunger strike to protest against warned yesterday as the United He accuses the Ukrainian ‘When they catch me, you his detention, which will last States and North Korea exchange authorities of widespread cor- continue despite anything, be- until a court rules on whether to threats over the nation’s nuclear ruption. cause Ukraine wants changes, release him under house arrest. tests. Prosecutors accuse him of Ukraine has to become a better The saga has attracted inter- “Will it be the end of nuclear assisting a criminal organisa- country’,” she said. national attention to Ukraine weapons, or will it be the end of tion, charges that he says were Protesters shouted “Shame” at a time when the authorities us?” ICAN head Beatrice Fihn trumped up to undermine his and “Impeachment” as they face a chorus of criticism from said in a speech after receiving political campaign against Po- marched to Maidan Square, reformers and foreign donors the peace prize on behalf of the roshenko. the scene of the 2013-14 pro- over perceived backtracking on anti-nuclear group. A large number of police in European protests that ousted reforms and attacks on anti- Tensions on the Korean penin- riot gear guarded yesterday’s a Moscow-backed president corruption institutions. sula have spiralled as Pyongyang rally, which was peaceful in and installed a new leadership While Saakashvili has a core has in recent months ramped up contrast with protests last week that promised to eliminate en- base of supporters, he enjoys its number of missiles and nu- that resulted in clashes between trenched corruption. limited support across Ukraine. clear tests. Saakashvili’s supporters and A few snowballs were thrown Only 1.7% of voters would North Korea’s leader Kim Reiss-Andersen (left), chairperson of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, hands over the 2017 Nobel Peace law enforcement. at the windows of a branch support his party, the Move- Jong-un has exchanged warlike Prize to Fihn and Thurlow during the award ceremony at Oslo city hall. “Many people are looking for of Roshen, the confectionary ment of New Forces, in elec- threats with US President Don- the changes. It is more diffi cult business owned by Poroshenko, tions, according to an October ald Trump, who has ordered a struction for those involved. “A moment of panic or care- and their fl esh was hanging from when Mikheil is not with us,” who was a wealthy chocolatier survey by the Kiev-based Ra- military show of force. “They are a madman’s gun lessness, a misconstrued com- their bones,” she said. his wife, Sandra Roelofs, said in before he went into politics. zumkov Centre think-tank. “The only rational course of held permanently to our temple,” ment or bruised ego could easily “Some were carrying their action is to cease living under Fihn said. “These weapons were lead us unavoidably to the de- eyeballs. It just was like hell on the conditions where our mutual supposed to keep us free, but struction of entire cities,” Fihn earth,” added the 85-year-old New Munich-Berlin high-speed rail opens – mostly – on time destruction is only one impulsive they deny us our freedoms.” said. who now lives in Canada and tantrum away,” Fihn added. Berit Reiss-Andersen, chair- Several survivors of the Hi- uses a wheelchair. The regular service of a new high-speed train the previous journey time by one-third – from ICAN, a coalition of hundreds man of the Norwegian Nobel roshima and Nagasaki nuclear Although the number of nu- connecting Berlin with Munich started for the first six to four hours – and is expected to double the of NGOs around the world, has Committee, said in her lecture bombings, which killed more clear weapons has dropped since time yesterday, but saw few technical snags. number of passengers between the two cities. worked for a treaty banning nu- during the ceremony that ICAN’s than 220,000 people 72 years the end of the Cold War, there are One such problem delayed the ICE (Intercity Deutsche Bahn says that it expects 3.6mn clear weapons which was adopt- “message resonates with mil- ago, attended the ceremony in still around 15,000 atomic bombs Express) train in Nuremberg for around 20 passengers each year. ed in July by 122 countries. lions of people who perceive the Oslo City Hall. on earth. minutes, a spokesman for the German rail operator Work on the colossal building project has been The text was weakened by the that the threat of nuclear war is One of them, Setsuko Thurlow, “Listen to our testimony. Heed Deutsche Bahn said. incremental and is still incomplete. absence of the nine nuclear pow- greater than it has been for a long received the Nobel on behalf of our warning. And know that The train continued its journey to Berlin but not To close the final 107km gap in the high-speed ers among the signatories. time, not least due to the situa- ICAN jointly with Fihn. your actions are consequential,” on the newly-designed track so as not to delay the network between Munich and Berlin, experts had In an apparent snub of the tion in North Korea”. Speaking to AFP ahead of the Thurlow said during her speech high-speed train behind it. to detonate their way through 8.3km and 7.4km of ICAN-backed treaty, the three Senior UN envoy Jeff rey Felt- ceremony, Thurlow recalled the at the ceremony, referring to the The delayed train arrived in Berlin in six hours mountain at diff erent points. Western nuclear powers – the man warned on Saturday that horrifi c aftermath of the fi rst leaders of nuclear-armed na- instead of the scheduled four and half. Trains on the line will reach speeds of 300kph. US, France and Britain – broke there was a grave risk that a mis- atomic bomb in Hiroshima on tions. The high-speed train service connecting The project has been a long time coming. with tradition by sending sec- calculation could trigger confl ict August 6, 1945, when she was 13 The Nobel prizes in literature, Germany’s northern and southern-most It was first set in motion by the German ond-ranking diplomats rather with Pyongyang and urged the years old. physics, chemistry, medicine and metropolises was completed after over two government in 1991 following the reunification of than their ambassadors to yes- reclusive state to keep communi- Thurlow described corpses economics were awarded later at decades of construction costing €10bn ($12bn). West and East Germany. terday’s ceremony. cation channels open. lying on the ground, the injured a separate ceremony in Stock- “The first regular ICE from Berlin over the Yesterday’s delay was not the first trouble on the Supporters of keeping nuclear Kim and Trump have taunted and dying calling for help and the holm. new route arrived in Munich a minute early. new route. weapons around have argued each other in recent months, survivors looking like “a proces- Each prize consists of a di- The planned arrival was 11.02 [1002 GMT],” a On Friday, a test run of the train carrying a number that they serve as a deterrent with the US President pejora- sion of ghosts”. ploma, a gold medal and a spokesman for German rail operator Deutsche of guests of honour and journalists for a return trip for starting a major confl ict as tively dubbing his rival “Little “The hair was standing up and cheque for 9mn Swedish kroner Bahn. to Berlin had to make a number of unscheduled it would guarantee mutual de- Rocket Man” and a “sick puppy”. they were all burned on the skin (€900,000). The high-speed service on the 623km stretch cuts stops, taking around six hours to complete the trip.

Romanians rally Half of humans believe against proposed in aliens, survey fi nds Reuters 60% said we should try to seek Amsterdam contact with alien civilisations, judicial reforms it found. It was not the fi rst survey to early half of humans collect views on extraterrestrial Reuters debates on the bill, which the believe in alien life and beings – questionnaires in Ger- Bucharest ruling party aims to approve by Nwant to make contact, a many, Britain and the United the end of this year. survey in 24 countries has found, States have found similar rates. The commission is headed in what researchers said helps However, researchers said housands of Romanians by PSD veteran, former justice to explain the lasting popular- that this was the largest poll of rallied in the capital Bu- minister Florin Iordache who ity of the Star Wars franchise 40 its kind with such international Tcharest and other cities had to quit in February after a years after the fi rst movie was reach. yesterday, protesting against decree on corruption that he screened. The most believers in intelli- plans by the ruling Social Dem- drafted, triggered the biggest On the eve of the release of The gent alien life were in Russia, at ocrats (PSD) to overhaul the rallies since the 1989 anti-com- Last Jedi, researchers published 68%, trailed closely by Mexico country’s judicial system which munist Romanian revolution. fi ndings that 47% of more than and China, with the down-to- is seen as undermining eff orts to “Thieves and mobsters’ 26,000 respondents believe “in earth Dutch bottoming out the combat corruption. nest,”, “United we save Roma- the existence of intelligent alien list at 28%, the poll found. The PSD-led coalition, which nia”, shouted protesters braving A woman holds a cardboard hand with words reading ‘All for Justice’ as she protests in front of the civilisations in the universe”. The interviews were conduct- holds a strong majority in par- gusting winds, in front of the Romanian government headquarters in Bucharest. An even greater 61% said ed in 15 languages between De- liament, is debating proposed government’s headquarters. “yes” when asked if they believe cember 2015 and February 2016 new legislation which the Eu- About 10,000 are estimated cial Democrats to decriminal- in which chief prosecutors are nia’s justice system under spe- in “some form of life on other in countries representing 62% of ropean Commission and thou- to have rallied in Bucharest and ise some graft off ences and has appointed and giving the presi- cial monitoring. planets”. the world’s population and 80% sands of magistrates have said overall, 20,000 across the coun- been a gathering place for large- dent the right to vet prosecutor In a November 15 report the Roughly one-quarter said they of the global economy. would put the judicial system try overall. ly peaceful protests ever since. candidates. European Commission said that do not believe intelligent life ex- The Last Jedi, the eighth in- under political control. Bucharest’s Victory Square Contested elements of the bill Transparency International reform of the justice system has ists beyond Earth, researchers at stalment of the blockbuster Star Yesterday’s protests mark witnessed large street protests include changes to a judicial in- ranks Romania among the Eu- halted this year and challenges Glocalities said. Wars series, premiered last night three weeks since a special par- at the start of the year follow- spection unit which oversees the ropean Union’s most corrupt to judicial independence remain Among those who believe we and will debut in most theatres liamentary commission began ing attempts by the ruling So- conduct of magistrates, the way states and Brussels keeps Roma- a persistent source of concern. are not alone in the universe, this week. Gulf Times Monday, December 11, 2017 19 EUROPE

Three arrests in attack on Snowfall causes travel synagogue

DPA Stockholm chaos in north Europe AFP/DPA The airport – Germany’s larg- layed, redirected or cancelled on the country’s major motor- The Pride of Kent, ran aground Port offi cials said two further wedish police said that London est air hub and the home base for across western North Rhine- ways. around noon after it hit a gang- tugs were on the way from near- they have made three ar- major carrier Lufthansa – had Westphalia state. In Britain, the Birmingham way while making to leave for by Dunkirk to help. Srests in connection with been scheduled to handle a total Several fl ights were also can- and Luton airports were aff ect- Dover, its destination in Britain. More than 9mn passengers a suspected arson attack at a eavy snowfall caused of 1,260 fl ights over the day. celled at the smaller Cologne/ ed. The ship was also transport- used Calais to cross the English synagogue in the Swedish city travel mayhem yesterday More fl ights could be can- Bonn Airport. One frustrated traveller de- ing 74 lorries, a coach and 36 channel in 2016, according to of- of Gothenburg late on Saturday, Hin northern Europe, with celled in the evening, the “We had to cancel 10 fl ights. scribed situation as “like a war other vehicles. fi cial numbers. which was widely condemned. more than 300 fl ights cancelled spokesman said, but added that There are delays and we have zone”. A Calais port offi cial said that In France, 32 departments “We are working on the case in Germany’s busiest airport and weather was forecast to improve also taken over landings from Police forces in worst-hit the vessel foundered “on a sand- were placed on orange alert with and cannot comment if they a ferry running aground in the in the coming hours. other airports like Duesseldorf,” Wales and central England urged bank” while the local prefecture winds of more than 100kph have given any motive,” Ulla French port of Calais. In a message on its website, a spokeswoman said yesterday motorists not to travel unless indicated it had hit a rocky bank. forecast in some areas. Brehm of the Gothenburg police Hundreds of air passengers Fraport asked passengers to afternoon. “Otherwise, opera- “absolutely necessary” as they Two tug boats pulled the ferry In the northern Pas-de-Calais told DPA yesterday, declining to were stranded in Frankfurt, Ger- check with their carrier online tions are up and running.” dealt with surging calls ( see re- free, said an AFP correspond- and Nord regions, some 20,000 off er details of the suspects or many’s fi nancial capital, as well whether their fl ight would go The air traffi c delays and can- port on page 17). ent at the scene, though winds homes were without electricity their age. as Britain, and many took to ahead before travelling to the cellations come after inclement In France, a ferry with more gusting at up to 110kph (70mph) due to gale-force winds which The attack was being investi- Twitter to complain. airport. winter weather caused travel than 300 people on board ran made the task diffi cult. aff ected supply, power provider gated as suspected arson. Some 330 fl ights were can- Elsewhere in the country, chaos across much of Germany aground in high winds in Cal- “The vessel has been pushed Enedis said. However, she did not rule out celled by 5pm (1600 GMT) af- Duesseldorf airport was forced over the weekend. ais, interrupting traffi c in one of from the other side of the port,” a Heavy rain also led to the that other charges, for instance ter heavy snow and sub-zero to close for four hours during the Several motorists were injured Europe’s busiest passenger ports company spokesman told AFP as closure of two airports in the hate crimes, could be added temperatures struck the region afternoon, news agency DPA re- as snowstorms and freezing rain but causing no injuries. two tugboats aided by sea rescue French Mediterranean island of pending the investigation. around Frankfurt, a spokesman ported. beginning on Friday evening A spokeswoman for the P&O crews sought mid-afternoon to Corsica, including the one serv- About 10 youths were report- for airport operator Fraport said. Meanwhile, trains were de- wreaked havoc with commuters shipping company said the ferry, stabilise it for eventual berthing. ing the capital Ajaccio. ed to have been seen at the loca- tion when the attack took place. No person was injured. Leading politicians including Prime Minister Stefan Lofven Red, white ... and blue and the head of Gothenburg’s ‘Santas’ city council, Ann-Sofi e Her- mansson, denounced the crime and urged that the attackers be running brought to book. Brehm said that she was una- ware of any specifi c threats through against the synagogue or other Jewish locations in the west coast city. streets of Police have stepped up securi- ty at synagogues in other cities. In recent days, there have been Europe protests in the capital Stockholm and the southern city of Malmo against US President Donald Reuters Trump’s decision to move his Michendorf, Germany/Madrid country’s embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. During the demonstration on ore than a thousand Saturday in Stockholm, which people kitted out in was mainly peaceful, an Israeli Mred Santa Claus suits fl ag was set on fi re. trimmed with white fur and The Gothenburg attack took pointed hats ran through the place as a party involving young streets of the small town of people was under way at the Michendorf, near Berlin, yes- community centre adjacent to terday in an annual Christmas- the synagogue, the chairman of themed event. the Gothenburg Jewish commu- Around 1,100 adults and chil- nity said. dren, some wearing long white Allan Stutzinsky told Swed- A man dressed as Santa Claus waves to children after taking beards, braved the cold to take ish Radio that he was passing by off yesterday in a Santa Claus Balloon, in Sonthofen, Germany. part in races that ranged from the synagogue in his car when 1km to 10km in length. he saw burning objects thrown Benedikt Statt, who won the over the gates that landed in the 10km men’s race, said: “It’s a re- courtyard. ally good feeling – a good course, The fl ames were not able to good atmosphere and perfect spread, Stutzinsky said, as light weather. It was fun!” rain was falling at the time. Meanwhile, in Madrid more On Friday, around 200 dem- than 7,000 people dressed as onstrators chanted anti-anti- Santa Claus ran through the city Semitic chants in the Swedish centre yesterday in a charity race city of Malmo, according to the aimed at raising money for can- public broadcaster Sveriges Ra- cer care. dio. Sacrifi cing comfort for a good “We want our freedom back cause, racegoers donned red and we will shoot the Jews,” pro- robes, Santa hats and billowing testers reportedly chanted, ac- white beards to run 5km along cording to the station. Madrid’s famous Paseo de la Castellana avenue. Children also took part, many Zoo on watch for Participants in Father Christmas costumes take part in the traditional Santa Claus run in Michendorf, Two women with a freshly-purchased Christmas tree head dressing in green robes and elf eastern Germany. home yesterday in Frankfurt, western Germany. hats in what organisers claim is newborn bear the largest Santa-themed race in the world. Berlin’s Tierpark zoo is anxiously Part of the entry fee paid by waiting to see if a polar bear each racegoer will be donated to cub survives its first few days, cancer care non-profi t Funda- when the likelihood of it dying is cion Intheos. especially high, the zoo’s director Similar events with partici- said. pants dressed as Santa Claus and The cub’s sibling was stillborn Father Christmas also took place and was eaten by its mother in Latvia’s Riga, Sweden’s capital Tonja overnight on Friday, the zoo Stockholm, and Hungary’s Bu- said over the weekend. dapest. The polar bear is the off spring of Tonja, aged eight, and Wolodja, six, whose first cub, Fritz, died at Heart transplant four months in March, following complications from a liver for Portugal’s inflammation. Eurovision winner “We are very glad. Still, like last year, it’s now time to cross Portugal’s Salvador Sobral, fingers,” zoo director Andreas winner of this year’s Eurovision Knieriem said, adding that the song contest, is making good mortality rate of newborn polar progress after a heart transplant, bears is 50%. the medical team who operated Its sex is still unknown because on him said yesterday. staff are unable to approach the Children play after heavy snowfall yesterday in Sonthofen, southern People dressed as Santa Claus pose for a picture yesterday before the charity Santa Fun Sobral had waited several months cub and its mother in the first few Germany. run in Riga, Latvia. for the operation as he suff ered days of its life. from a longstanding heart condition. “He was very well prepared and Pope Francis laments Rome’s decay and corruption East German village – population 20 – sells for €140,000 the surgery went well,” said surgeon Miguel Abecassis from Pope Francis lamented the decay and degradation against some viruses of our times”. The only bidder at an unusual auction on Saturday The two brothers who were the original buyers of the Santa Cruz hospital outside of Rome on Friday, using a traditional prayer on a Those he listed included “resignation to put down €140,000 and walked away the new its dozen buildings, plus sheds and garages, did Lisbon which performed the national feast day to highlight problems such as environmental and ethical degradation”, “civic owner of a small slice of German history: the not manage to stop its slide into neglect. operation on Friday. environmental blight and corruption in the Italian incivility”, “contempt for the common good”, and village of Alwine, population 20. Only about 20 mostly retired people still live in the Abecassis said Sobral would capital. fear of immigrants. Its empty homes and ageing residents mirror cluster of decaying homes in rural Brandenburg require a long period of Francis made his comments at the base of Rome’s In July, two leaders of a crime ring that plundered the wider fate of the ex-communist east German state, 120km (75 miles) south of Berlin. convalescence but expected him famed Spanish Steps, where each year popes pay Rome city coff ers were convicted along with some hinterlands since the country’s reunification 27 Until Germany’s 1990 reunification, all the property in due course to be able to lead a homage to a statue of the Madonna on the Feast of 40 politicians, off icials and businessmen, at the years ago. in Alwine was owned by a nearby coal briquette “completely normal life”. the Immaculate Conception. end of one of the biggest corruption trials in the The anonymous buyer, who bid by telephone, plant, the oldest in Europe. Sobral, 27, won the Eurovision Rome has fallen into disrepair and degradation Italian capital. scooped up the community that real estate The plant closed in 1991 and many people left as crown in Kiev in September with in recent years, with streets full of pot holes, piles On Friday the Pope spoke of the need to help auctioneers Karhausen had given a starting price the work dried up. a jazzy number penned by his of garbage and neglected public gardens where “so many people who have emigrated here from of €125,000 ($148,000). Alwine is not the only such community in eastern sister Luisa Sobral entitled Amar weeds grow as tall as a person. places of war and hunger”. In 2000, the hamlet was sold to private investors Germany, which still lags behind the west in Pelos Dois (Love for Both of Us). Francis, who is also bishop of Rome, prayed that The investigation of the crime ring laid bare for one “symbolic Deutschmark”, the pre-euro prosperity, wages and jobs with a per capita GDP It was the first time Portugal had the residents of the city develop “antibodies systemic corruption in the city. German currency. that was only 67% of that in western states in 2015. won the event. Gulf Times 20 Monday, December 11, 2017 INDIA Tamil Nadu Bihar offi cial under scanner for alleged LeT links Roundup IANS Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS). Jammu and Kashmir, was caught “He got his Pan card and Aad- curity agencies at that time and Sheikh is also an accused in By Umaima Shafiq New Delhi/Patna An offi cial of the NIA said they after he applied for a passport haar card, which were also made was under trial. In August 2014, the Aurangabad arms haul case have summoned the DTO of- under a fi ctitious name. on the same address under the he escaped when he was being and was arrested by the West fi cer, identifi ed as Diwakar Jha, The NIA offi cial said that se- name of Sheikh Sohail Khan,” taken from Dum Dum Central Bengal police in 2007 while en- he National Investigation posted in Bihar’s Buxar district, curity agencies stumbled upon a the offi cial said. jail in Kolkata to Mumbai to ap- tering India from Bangladesh Agency, which arrested for questioning over his alleged lead to Sheikh after a man com- “Sheikh lived in Gopalganj till pear in court. He fl ed while the along with two Pakistanis and Tsuspected Lashkar-e- links with Sheikh. plained that his address was be- March 2017.” train was passing through the one Kashmiri. Taiba member Abdul Naeem According to the NIA offi cial, ing used by the LeT operative for Sheikh was hiding in Bihar’s thick forests of Chhattisgarh. Security agencies have Man accused Sheikh from Uttar Pradesh last Jha had inaugurated Sheikh’s his passport. Gopalganj district by changing After fl eeing from custody, dubbed Sheikh as “David Cole- month, has summoned a district coaching centre in Bihar’s “He had applied for a passport his name after escaping from the Sheikh established a new sleeper man Headley” as he had been of killing mother transport offi cer (DTO) of Bihar Gopalganj district in 2015 when on the address of Sarraj Ahmed, custody of central agencies in cell under instruction from his LeT following in his footprints and held in Mumbai for his alleged links with the ter- he was posted there. a resident of Gopalganj’s Junga- August 2014. handler Amjad, the offi cial said. carried out reconnaissance of rorist, an offi cial said. The offi cial said the anti-terror lia area in Ward No 19,” the NIA The suspected LeT operative The case has been handed over similar areas. A 23-year-old engineer, wanted in They arrested Sheikh alias probe agency has recovered some offi cial said. was wanted by security agencies to the NIA for further probe. Pakistani-American Headley the November 27 murder of his Nomi, 37, on November 28 pictures of Jha with Sheikh. “But before he could get his in various cases, including the On December 2, the NIA ar- is serving a 35-year prison sen- mother at Kundrathur in Chennai, from Charbagh bus stand in Sheikh, who is said to have passport in hand, Ahmed ap- Mumbai train attacks of 2006- rested a youth leader Dhannu tence in the US for his involve- was arrested in Mumbai last Lucknow in a joint operation carried out a reconnaissance of proached police and complained 2007. Raja from Gopalganj for his al- ment in terror activities and the week. with the Uttar Pradesh police’s army and power installations in about it,” he said. He was earlier arrested by se- leged links with Sheikh. 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. Daswanth had been out on parole for the rape and murder of a seven-year-old girl since February this year. However Daswanth kept troubling his Rain protection parents for money and finally smashed his mother’s head and stole her jewels. He then sold it to book a flight to Mumbai using a fake address and mobile Dangal star number. Based on a complaint by Daswanth’s father, Chennai police alerted their counterparts in Mumbai and Bengaluru to trace him. They finally arrested him while he was watching alleges she horse races at the Mahalaxmi Race Course in Mumbai. However he escaped police custody during a toilet break on the way to airport. He was arrested again the following day in Andheri and was molested brought to Chennai. Music director Aadithyan dead Tamil film musician Aadithyan on fl ight died of kidney failure in Hyderabad on December 5. He Agencies She also slammed the airline. was 63 and is survived by wife Mumbai “Slow claps for Vistara’s crew and two daughters. guys! Wonderful!” she wrote. Born as Titus, he changed his Air Vistara said it was carrying name to Aadithyan when he n actress who starred in out a detailed investigation. The started working for films. He has one of Bollywood’s big- airline apologised “for what Ms composed music for about 60 Agest fi lms says she was Wasim faced and we have zero Tamil, Malayalam and Telugu molested on a fl ight from Delhi to tolerance for such behaviour.” films. His debut was Tamil film Mumbai. “We will support Wasim in Amaran in 1992. His other films The allegation by Zaira Wasim, every way required and also if include Lucky Man, Nalaya 17, the star of Dangal, drew strong she decides to report this mat- Seidhi, Seevalaperi Pandi and reactions by women rights activ- ter to the police...,” the airline Kovilpatti Veerlakshmi. He ists and politicians. tweeted. was among the first to remix The airline, Air Vistara, apolo- “It appears crew only became popular film songs as pop and gised and said it had ordered an aware of something amiss dur- reggae albums that sold well in inquiry. ing fi nal descent when they were India and Malaysia. The National Award winning seated for landing. Further de- The multi-talented musician Kashmiri actress complained tails will come from the investi- even hosted a cookery show about her ordeal on the fl ight, gation which is currently ongo- titled Aadhithyan’s kitchen claiming that a middle-aged man ing in full force.” on Jaya TV for eight years. seated behind her misbehaved The civil aviation ministry and He was also a painter whose with her. the Directorate General of Civil works were sought after by In a self-shot video for Insta- Aviation watchdog have sought Zaira Wasim: molested collectors. gram live chat, Wasim is seen details from Air Vistara. breaking down. Jammu and Kashmir Chief “Shame Vistara that your staff “So, I just landed and you Minister Mehbooba Mufti said did nothing. Shame on all the pas- Comedy writer know the whole irony of this is she was appalled. sengers, they are equally guilty as dies aged 87 that the guy... this is not done at “Any harassment or crime this moron. It should not be diffi - all. This is not the way, this is not against women should be dealt cult for airlines to locate him from Popular Tamil humourist how a girl should be made to feel with swiftly and eff ectively. As a seat no. He should be arrested and Bhagyam Ramaswami who wrote because this is terrible. Is this mother of two daughters, I am ap- punished,” Onir tweeted. under several monikers died of how they are doing to take care palled at what happened with Za- Bhasker slammed it an “intol- kidney failure in Chennai. He was of girls? No one will help us if we ira,” Mufti tweeted and urged the erable” incident and said: “We 87 and is survived by wife and don’t decide to help ourselves. authorities to take strict action. are now at that point where a three sons. This is the worst thing,” she said, Former Jammu and Kashmir 17-year-old child has to remind Born as Ja Ra Sundaresan, at voice quivering, in the Instagram chief minister Omar Abdul- us what is right and what is Jalakandapuram in Salem district, live video. lah said the passenger should be wrong. I’m so sorry that adults his pen name was a combination Wasim said she tried to click identifi ed by Air Vistara and a around you let you down, Zaira of his parents’ names. He worked a photo of the man, but couldn’t case fi led. Wasim. But you keep up the good for Tamil magazine Kumudham get a clear shot due to dim lights. The National Commission for fi ght. Stay strong.” for nearly 40 years from 1963 “Managed to get this (shot of Women (NCW) as well as the Wrestler Babita Phogat tweet- to 1990. He created fictitious the molester’s foot). The lights Delhi and Maharashtra commis- ed a video in support of Wasim, characters Seetha Pati and were dimmed so it was even sions for women urged the ac- who played the younger version Appusami to write short stories, worse. It continued for another tress to approach the police. of Geeta Phogat in Dangal. plays and novels that reflected 5-10 minutes and then I was sure NCW chief Rekha Sharma, “If someone is misbehaving Tamil culture and current aff airs of it. He kept nudging my shoul- Swati Maliwal of the Delhi Com- with you, give a tight slap on full of wit and humour. der and continued to touch me mission for Women (DCW) and their face. They will never dare Later his stories were compiled with his foot,” she posted. Maharashtra State Commission to repeat their actions again. Za- into books and novels. The “I tried to record it on my for Women (MSCW) chief Vijaya ira, you don’t need to be afraid characters of Appusami and phone to understand it bet- Rahatkar, asked the authorities of anyone and just be ‘dhaakad’ Seethapati were illustrated ter. But because the cabin lights to take action. (bold) in real life as well.” by cartoonist Jayaraj. These were dimmed, I failed to get it. I DCW has already sought an- In recent months, a growing characters were so popular ignored it the fi rst time, blamed swers from Vistara about details number of women have spoken that he ran a humour club and the turbulence for it. Until I woke of the action taken by airlines. out about their experiences of music troupe to act out their up to this pleasant sight of his From the fi lm industry, di- sexual harassment. stories. beautiful foot rubbing my back rector Onir and actress Swara It followed a campaign en- and neck... Guess he couldn’t sit Bhasker came out in support of couraging victims to share their A girl shields herself and her parrots with an umbrella during rains in Kolkata yesterday. The like a civilised human being and Wasim, who was also lauded for stories of sexual harassment and AIADMK observes West Bengal capital received moderate rainfall yesterday. placed his foot on my arm rest ,” her performance in Secret Su- inappropriate behaviour under Jaya death she added. perstar. the #metoo hashtag. anniversary

Tamil Nadu mourned the first death anniversary of AIADMK CM press conference leader and chief minister Jayaram Six sacked Trinamool MLAs Jayalalithaa on December 5 with prayers, rallies and visits to her grave on the Marina beach in recognised as BJP legislators Chennai. Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami and his cabinet with IANS as BJP lawmakers,” the speaker joined the BJP on August 7. 4,000 supporters laid wreaths at Agartala said. On Saturday, Assembly Sec- the flower decorated memorial. “After receiving a letter on retary Bamdeb Majumder is- The AIADMK cadre wore black November 8 signed by the six sued a common letter to the six and prayed for some time before our months after six MLAs requesting me to recog- MLAs about the speaker’s rec- leaving. Similarly thousands of legislators sacked from nise them as BJP legislators, I ognition. mourners visited throughout the F Trinamool Congress sent a 14-day notice to the TMC The issue shook the assembly day. T T V Dinakaran, the ousted (TMC) joined the Bharatiya chairperson. As there was no during the last session on No- AIADMK leader, also visited Janata Party, they were rec- reply or objection, I gave them vember 14 when Barman said separately. ognised as saffron party law- the recognition.” Debnath had given them recog- In other districts, similar prayers makers in the Tripura As- Led by Sudip Roy Barman, nition. were off ered at temples and sembly yesterday, Speaker fi ve lawmakers – Ashish Kumar The speaker said he had told mass poor feeding was held. In Ramendra Chandra Debnath Saha, Diba Chandra Hrang- them that due to lack of time Coimbatore, bronze statues of announced. khawl, Biswa Bandhu Sen, before the two-day assembly Jayalalithaa and her mentor M “The six axed TMC MLAs Pranjit Singh Roy and Dilip session, it was not possible to G Ramachandran were put up have given recognition as BJP Sarkar – accompanied by hun- complete the formalities to of- Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addresses a press conference ahead of the winter on Avinashi road near AIADMK legislators. They would not get dreds of former Trinamool fi cially recognise them as BJP session of the state assembly in Nagpur yesterday. founder Annadurai’s statue. any extra facilities or benefi ts Congress leaders and workers MLAs. Gulf Times Monday, December 11, 2017 21 INDIA

PEOPLE AGREEMENT EDUCATION CRACKDOWN TELECOM Dilip Kumar turns 95, Trade unions to hold Don’t let schools charge Foreigners arrested for Airtel to connect 2,100 celebrations ‘restricted’ negotiation on wage hike arbitrary fees: UP parents Gurugram sex racket villages in northeast

Veteran Bollywood actor Dilip Kumar turns 95 After an average 20% salary hike for Coal India The Ghaziabad Parents Association (GPA) Haryana police yesterday said they have Telecom major Airtel yesterday said it will provide today, but the celebrations will be restricted as Ltd’s 298,000 permanent workers, its trade yesterday hit out at the Uttar Pradesh government arrested six women, including two foreigners, mobile connectivity in 2,100 uncovered villages he has just been treated for a mild pneumonia, unions are set for negotiating a wage revision for allowing private schools to raise fees at will. and a man for operating a sex racket from a spa and national highways in northeastern states over his wife Saira Banu said. Saira Banu, who has for contractual workers and a committee for GPA president Seema Tyagi and her colleagues in Gurugram. After a tip, the police on Saturday the next 18 months. The work is to be undertaken been by his side constantly, shared plans for this is likely to be set up in a month, a trade vowed to challenge the UP Fee Regulatory Bill in night raided the Auwa Thai spa centre in the under an agreement with the Department of Dilip Kumar’s birthday via Twitter. “Every year union leader said yesterday. After a long the Supreme Court. “The draft is rejected totally. Central Plaza Mall on Golf Course Road in Sector Telecom (DoT), the company said in a statement. on Saab’s birthday our house is open all day negotiation, Coal India management and It is against the spirit of the Constitution which 53. The suspects, including a woman from “Bharti Airtel has signed an agreement with DoT for friends and family to come and spend workers’ unions signed the Memorandum of guarantees education as a fundamental right,” Thailand and another from Kenya, were booked and the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) quality time with Dilip Saab. But tomorrow will Agreement for National Coal Wage Agreement Tyagi said. She said that parents had been fighting under the Immoral Traff ic Prevention Act and for provision of mobile services in identified be (a) bit restricted as doctors have advised and this would be effective for five years till the unchecked hikes in tuition fee by private sent to judicial custody for 14 days, police off icer uncovered villages and national highways in the Saab to be protected from any infection,” June 30, 2021. “We signed the wage agreement schools. Now, parents were shocked to see that the Ravinder Kumar said. Similar rackets have been northeastern states of Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, read a post on behalf of Saira Banu from Dilip for permanent workers on October 10. It was new bill allowed school managements to increase busted in Gurugram earlier. On June 29, the Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura and Arunachal Pradesh,” Kumar’s official Twitter handle. Dilip Kumar, mentioned in the agreement that wages of the fees whenever they want, she said. Tyagi said police busted sex rackets operated in shopping the Airtel statement said. As the largest operator in who has appeared in some of the iconic films contractual workers would be revised and a the Delhi and Gujarat governments in contrast had malls and arrested 10 women aged between 20 the northeastern states, Airtel will set up over 2,000 of Indian cinema like Kohinoor, Mughal-e- committee will be formed for that purpose,” put curbs on private schools. She also said that and 25 and a man. In January, 14 women and mobile towers and sites in unconnected pockets of Azam, Shakti, Naya Daur and Ram Aur Shyam, All India Coal Workers’ Federation general schools cannot charge fees quarterly, half-yearly or four men were arrested on similar charges from the region to deliver telecom connectivity in over has been ailing for a while. secretary D D Ramanandan said. annually. They can only charge fees every month. DLF 2 area and another shopping mall. 2,100 villages over the next 18 months, it said. Why all eyes are on Gujarat assembly polls

Agencies quota in government jobs, would New Delhi work in its favour. — A win or even a strong performance by the Congress ssembly elections in Gu- would help in drawing support jarat, which opened on of smaller and regional parties ASaturday and continue on to put up a strong opposition December 14 with results to be alliance before the 2019 general announced on December 18, are elections. in the spotlight. — A good score in Gujarat Here’s why. would also strengthen Rahul — The elections are expected Gandhi’s position as he takes to impact the fortunes of both over the leadership of the Con- ruling Bharatiya Janata Party gress Party. (BJP) and the main opposition The witty little Amul girl - Congress in the 2019 general known for her almost-daily one- elections. liners - has morphed into a pro- — A big win for the BJP, which Congress fi gure as part of a social has been in power in the state for media campaign for the Gujarat 22 years, would come as a sign of election, asking people to use approval not only for its govern- their “Amulya” (invaluable) vote Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi is garlanded by supporters during an election campaign ahead of the second phase of Gujarat state Assembly elections, in Dakor, yesterday. ance of the state but for Prime to oust the BJP from the. Minister Narendra Modi, who With the common tagline was Gujarat chief minister for “Kyunki aapka vote bohut AM- three terms. ULya hai” (Because your vote is — Modi had promised to in- invaluable) and “Parivartan hai troduce the “Gujarat develop- lana, saathi haath badhaana” ment model” across India if he (Join hands to bring change), became prime minister. the poster campaign by a loose A lesser win than the last elec- group of artists - mostly from Why is PM obsessed tion could raise a question mark Kerala - is a take-off on the icon- over this “model” that has many ic daCunha Communications critics. advertisements for the Gujarat — Modi has been the face of Co-operative Milk Marketing the BJP’s campaign in Gujarat Federation that created the pop- along with party president Amit ular Amul dairy products brand. Shah - both Gujaratis. Ten diff erent theme-based with Congress: Rahul A poor performance would be posters of the campaign have a direct refl ection on them and a gone viral on diff erent social me- IANS and so was changing his narra- bring back black money stashed “The prime minister’s words opposition party’s decision to big win would strengthen their dia platforms. Gandhinagar tive every time. abroad and then deposit Rs1.5mn should carry weight. Modi- support Dalit leader Jignesh position within their party. The posters talk about “fear” “I have heard and analysed into each Indian’s bank account. ji’s words no longer carry any Mewani was a pre-planned — A win would also indicate in Gujarat, eff ects of demoneti- Modiji’s speeches. He devotes “Narendra Modi had said you weight because he has been ly- move to take elections towards that the BJP’s electoral fortunes sation and GST, education of the ongress vice president half the time to the Congress will get Rs15 lakh in your bank ing through the teeth on every this purpose. are not being impacted by the girl child, the meteoric rise in the Rahul Gandhi yesterday though Modiji claims that he has accounts, you did not get even 15 promise he made,” Gandhi added He alleged that the Congress hasty introduction of the Goods business assets of BJP chief’s son, Csaid he could not under- fi nished off the Congress. paise,” Gandhi said. to cheers. “must be aware of Mewani’s and Services Tax in June which Jay Shah, and the bullet train. stand Prime Minister Narendra “And he devotes the rest of the The Congress vice president He also said that although links with the Popular Front of has angered small businessmen The posters, of course, don’t Modi’s obsession with the main time of his speech to speak about asked the people if they saw an- Modi used foul language against India (PFI) that has been found and traders. feature the blue-haired “Amul opposition party, despite his himself,” he added. yone “suited and booted” stand- him, he would never resort to indulging in anti-national ac- Gujarat is one of the most in- Girl” - but a boy resembling her. claims to have wiped the party “Where has suddenly your tall ing in queues to deposit money such language. tivities”, and that is why it did dustrialised states in India with a Those behind the pro-Con- out of India. talk of development vanished? in the wake of last year’s demon- “The prime minister uses not give Mewani its own party large trading community. gress campaign say they are not “On one side, Modiji says that You have little to report of the etisation. foul language against me but I symbol but “supported him from — The Congress Party, which offi cial Congress workers or the he has wiped Congress out of In- last 22 years of the BJP govern- “Through the back door, the will never do that because Ra- outside”. has lost a string of elections in party’s supporters, and have dia. If that is so, why he does he ment in Gujarat. This is why you money of all the thieves in India hul Gandhi respects the offi ce of “Rahul Gandhi meets Jig- recent years, and its leader Ra- taken a cue from Rahul Gandhi’s end need all this, Modiji,” Gandhi was converted into white right prime minister. nesh Mewani and leaves one hul Gandhi are hoping the state speeches in which he had said his up speaking about the Con- said. under Modiji’s nose.” “I am not going to utter a sin- seat for him, that is, the Con- elections will provide a platform Gujarat battle is “co-operatives” gress half the time in his election Gandhi slammed Modi, say- Gandhi also said that Modi gle word against the prime min- gress does not fi eld its candidate to revive their fortunes. versus the corporate world. rallies,” Gandhi asked at a public ing his words had ceased to had promised in his election ister. This is what our party, Ma- on Vadgaon Assembly seats in — The Congress is hoping the “Rahul Gandhi has been say- meeting here, reiterating that carry weight since he was lying speeches of 2014 to create 20mn hatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel Banaskantha district. I believe anti-incumbency factor against ing in his speeches that they the Assembly elections in Gu- through the teeth on the prom- jobs every year and to ensure have taught us.” there can’t be any better exam- the BJP, unhappiness of lo- will follow the Amul model of jarat are neither about him nor ises made to Gujarat and the that farmers get the right returns Meanwhile, Bharatiya Janata ple of vote bank politics than cal business communities with co-operation and co-operatives Modi but about the future of the country. for their produce. Party president Amit Shah ac- this,” Shah said. the GST and opposition by the where everybody is allowed a say state and Gujaratis. The Congress leader recalled “Is this happening?” Gandhi cused the Congress of indulg- He said that the BJP is con- sizeable and infl uential Patidar in participation,” one of the art- Gandhi said Modi was nervous how Modi had promised during asked loudly. In response, the ing in “politics of caste and testing elections “only on devel- community that is demanding a ists said. and afraid of losing the elections the 2014 Lok Sabha election to crowds roared back: “No, no.” appeasement”, and said the opment plank”. India faces painful move to cleaner energy

AFP lack of funds to pay for greener di’s ambitious target of install- India needs renewable energy local trying out for the Uttar Uncha Amirpur, Uttar Pradesh power. ing 100,000 megawatts of solar to meet its 2015 Paris commit- Pradesh state cricket team, said Money will be the key is- power by 2022, according to ment to reduce emissions rela- there are days when he fi nds it sue when about 100 countries Arunabha Ghosh, chief execu- tive to gross domestic product hard to breathe. ubedar Singh bears the meet in Paris tomorrow for the tive of the Council on Energy, by up to 35% by 2030 from 2005 “When I run, it’s okay for a scars of India’s painful re- One Planet Summit organised Environment and Water, a New levels. while as I absorb the pollution, Sliance on dirty power and by French President Emmanuel Delhi think tank. A lack of aff ordable options but at night when I sleep, I can its struggle to pay for the costly Macron. So far it has just 15,000 MW, to store wind and solar energy feel my heartbeat increasing,” transition to the brave new world The meeting will focus on less than 5% of the country’s means cheap coal is India’s the 23-year-old batsman, whose of solar and renewable electric- marshalling public and private total generation capacity of mainstay. father died of asthma in April, ity. funds to speed the move to a 331,000 MW. More than 300 coal power told AFP. Last year, the farmer walked low-carbon economy. Developing countries “have plant units missed a December 7 “Sometimes I feel like I’m into a fi eld in his village and suf- Developing countries say stayed committed to the Paris government deadline to upgrade about to die.” fered 70% burns to his feet and barely a tenth of the $100bn agreement, even after the US with emissions reduction tech- Ishwar Chand Sharma, who ankles from an underground coal promised by the end of the dec- decision to exit, but their ability nology. earns about Rs7,000 a month fi re caused by a nearby power ade under a 2010 deal has come to scale up ambitions is contin- The impact is visible in Un- as a mechanic at the coal plant, plant. in so far. gent on how much rich countries cha Amirpur, where a thick coat said: “For most of this year, Singh said he dragged himself “If more money is available, do at home and how much they of grime and dust covers every I’ve been sick at least 10 days a out of the fi eld and then fainted of course the (Indian) govern- support actions outside,” Ghosh surface. month and missed work.” from the searing pain. ment is in a position to push told AFP. The Dadri power plant pro- Ash from the coal plant The people of Uncha Amirpur renewable energy faster,” en- “Next year could be a tipping vides up to one-third of the spreads to nearby villages, in- in the northern Uttar Pradesh ergy analyst Narendra Taneja point for their patience.” electricity required for New cluding Salarpur Kala, which is discovered that a mix of wa- told AFP. As one of the fastest grow- Delhi, 66km away by road, but sandwiched between the plant ter and coal used by the nearby “The pollutants accumulated ing major economies, India also fuels the smog that en- and two cement factories. NTPC Dadri power plant had over the decades, we didn’t do needs uninterrupted power to velops the Indian capital each Satbir Singh, a retired soldier accumulated under the fi eld and that. It was the West and they keep factories humming and the winter. who took up farming, said the caught fi re. should clear up those dues as economy expanding. The severe air pollution in ash ruins his crops. Some cattle died. soon as possible,” said Taneja, a Currently, 66% of its electric- New Delhi - many times the glo- “There’s a thick layer on the Hundreds of millions of peo- consultant to the ruling Bharati- ity is generated by coal and gas. bal safe limit - has been linked buds that just kills the wheat,” ple in India are forced to live with ya Janata Party. The rest comes from nuclear to asthma, bronchitis and even he said. A boy shows his dry feet due to ash pollution caused by National the fallout of the dirtiest fuels - India needs $140bn to reach and renewables, including hy- brain disease in babies. “At least half of the 200 acres Thermal Power Corporation coal plant of Dadri in Uncha Amipur with the government blaming a Prime Minister Narendra Mo- dro, wind and solar. Mandeep Raghav, a village here was wiped out in October.” village. Gulf Times 22 Monday, December 11, 2017 LATIN AMERICA

WEATHER POLITICS DECISION CO-OPERATION DATA Hernandez keeps lead in Argentina blocks entry of China, Panama to begin Peru’s coca area expands disputed vote after recount two European activists talks on free-trade deal for first time in five years

Honduras’s President Juan Orlando Hernandez Argentina has blocked two European activists Panama and China will begin negotiations in The area planted with coca in Peru expanded maintained his lead in disputed election results from entering the country ahead of the World June 2018 to sign a free-trade deal, the two 9% in 2016, ending a streak of four years of after a partial recount, the head of the electoral Trade Organisation’s ministerial meeting in countries’ trade ministers said, consolidating consecutive declines, as global demand for tribunal said yesterday. An off icial winner of Buenos Aires. Sally Burch, a British activist and a relationship that has strengthened after the cocaine grows, the United Nations Off ice on the November 26 election has still not been journalist for the Latin American Information Central American nation ditched ties with Taiwan. Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said. Peru planted announced, and the small Central American nation Agency, said Argentina had already revoked Panama’s June decision to end diplomatic links 43,900 hectares with the leaf that is the raw has been mired in uncertainty since the vote. “The credentials given to her by the WTO to attend with Taiwan was a major victory for Beijing, as it ingredient of cocaine last year, according to result is consistent” with that which previously the meeting but thought she would be able to lures away the dwindling number of countries UNODC. The UN said in July that lands being put Hernandez ahead by 1.6%, David Matamoros, enter the country as a tourist. “They found my that have formal relations with the island China used to cultivate coca in Colombia grew the president of the tribunal, said following the name on a list and started asking questions... claims as its own. Last month, a senior Chinese 52% last year to 146,000 hectares. Peru and recount of 4,753 votes. An initial count following supposedly I was a false tourist,” Burch said on diplomat said China will provide Panama with Colombia compete for the title of world’s top A family play on a snow-covered mountain after the election put challenger Salvador Nasralla Radio 10. Petter Titland, the spokesman for the whatever help it needs. Talks to sign a free-trade coca and cocaine producer. The coca growing a cold front brought a snowstorm in northern comfortably ahead of the incumbent, but the Norweigan NGO Attac Norge, said authorities treaty will begin in June next year, said Panama area in Bolivia, the world’s No 3 producer, grew Mexico, in Monterrey, Mexico. tribunal later gave Hernandez the advantage. denied him entry without explaining why. Trade Minister Augusto Arosemena. 14% in 2016, UNODC said. Peru’s riverboat sentinels warn Amazon tribe of ‘total genocide’

Thomson Reuters Foundation After an elder in Diamante vil- Diamante lage was killed by the Mashco Piro in 2011, the ministry of cul- ture and FENAMAD, an indig- n Peru’s remote southern enous organisation in the Madre Amazon, villagers rushed to de Dios region, set up three per- Ithe riverbank to witness a manent surveillance posts along rare sighting — a group of Mash- the river. co Piro nomads standing on the “Another confrontation could other side, brandishing bows break out and quickly end in a to- and arrows. tal genocide,” said FENAMAD’s An elder from the indigenous fi eld co-ordinator Victor Kameno. hunter-gatherers, who have “We’re trying to avoid this.” lived largely in isolation inside Some of the Diamante villag- the rainforest for millennia, ers fear the Mashco Piro, who the called to the Diamante villagers government estimates number to ferry them across. between 500 and 800 people, But a boat from the culture might resort to theft and violence. ministry intercepted the group, “This worries me a lot,” said and carried them up the Madre Gloria Palma Mormontoy, presi- de Dios River to issue a warning. dent of Diamante, with a look The offi cials told the Mashco of deep concern on her face. “I People wait in line outside a polling station during a nationwide election for new mayors, in Caracas, Venezuela, yesterday. Piro: “Evil people live on the don’t know what we’re going to other side of the river. If you do...This runs a risk for the en- cross, they will kill you.” tire community.” Pressure is mounting to better At a surveillance post 40 min- protect 12 isolated ethnic groups utes from Diamante, agents in- living in the Peruvian Amazon tervene when passing boats ap- — about 5,000 people — follow- proach the Mashco Piro to take ing deadly confl icts there and in photos or off er them gifts, like neighbouring Brazil. T-shirts and sodas. Opposition split grows as In Brazil, prosecutors are in- These seemingly innocuous vestigating the alleged massacre items could trigger an epidemic of at least 10 members of an “un- among jungle communities with contacted” tribe by illegal gold no immunity to common diseas- miners near Peru’s border, where es. They can also lead to confl ict. funding cuts have led to the clo- It is thought the Mashco killed sure of surveillance posts. the Diamante elder in 2011 be- Venezuelans vote in polls Most indigenous groups living cause he stopped giving them in isolation in Peru withdrew deep bananas and yucca, after doing so Reuters dissented and run candidates, Opposition leader Juan Pablo political space to the Socialist downs in Latin American his- into the secluded rainforest after for more than a decade to nurture Caracas confusing opposition support- Guanipa won that governorship Party. tory, and he has been accused the trauma of being enslaved by a good relationship with the tribe. ers already disillusioned at the in October, but the election was “There’s reticence to par- by countries around the world white plantation owners during The culture ministry now rou- failure to weaken Maduro in annulled and he was barred ticipate because the national of creating a dictatorship. the 19th century rubber boom. tinely leaves bananas and yucca enezuelans yesterday months of protests that claimed from holding offi ce after he re- election board doesn’t off er Still, he is enjoying a political The Mashco Piro have largely along the beach to deter the voted in mayoral races 125 lives earlier this year. fused to swear allegiance to a guarantees or impartiality,” said upturn after the October guber- shunned contact with outsiders Mashco Piro from raiding farms, Vthat the ruling Socialist “This government has us un- pro-Maduro legislative super- Goicoechea, who is just out of natorial vote. but they are steadily emerging, breaking with a longstanding Party is likely to win, deepening der a dictatorship, and we have body. jail for alleged coup-plotting. He is expected to be the so- often displaced by illegal loggers, policy of avoiding contact with opposition splits and consoli- to respond to that with votes, Former Zulia governor “But the solution cannot be cialists’ candidate in the 2018 gold miners and oil companies, isolated tribes. “This isn’t a state dating President Nicolas Ma- not with abstention,” said Jose Manuel Rosales is running on giving up the right to vote... presidential election and still as well as traffi ckers smuggling policy and never will be,” said duro’s position ahead of a likely Sifontes, 57, who works at state- the opposition ticket, but Gua- The abstentionists will regret it maintains support among party cocaine to Brazil, offi cials said. Prieto. “But, in this specifi c case, 2018 reelection campaign. owned steel mill Sidor. nipa supporters and other sec- within two weeks.” loyalists like retiree Jose Flores, “This is a complex place...with the situation was already estab- Major opposition parties are After surprise wins in Octo- tors of the opposition boycott- Maduro’s approval ratings 71. communities (and) illegal actors lished. We’re dealing with the boycotting the elections for 335 ber gubernatorial elections, the ing yesterday’s vote have called have fallen by half since he was “I’m voting for democracy; swarming around — and plans consequences.” municipal mayors around the socialists hope to increase their him a “traitor.” elected in 2013 following the it’s a way of showing other for highways,” said Lorena Pri- Experts said providing the South American nation of 30mn current share of roughly 70% of Yon Goicoechea, an opposi- death of late socialist leader countries that there’s no dicta- eto, who runs the culture minis- Mashco Piro, who tradition- people, protesting a system they mayorships. tion activist running for mayor Hugo Chavez, his mentor and torship here,” Flores said out- try’s PIACI unit, which protects ally hunt game and gather turtle say serves Maduro’s “dictator- The socialists also hope to in the wealthy Caracas suburb predecessor. side a voting centre on the poor indigenous communities. eggs on the beach, with a steady ship.” win a rerun of the October gu- of El Hatillo, said it was self- Venezuela under Maduro’s west side of Caracas. “On the “The ministry is intervening source of food could have long- But some small parties in the bernatorial election in western destructive for larger anti-Ma- rule has witnessed one of the contrary, what we have is peace to create order.” term repercussions. Democratic Unity coalition have Zulia state. duro parties to abstain and hand most profound economic melt- and democracy.”

Record bid Mexico party eyes income Kuczynski admits role plan to combat poverty in Odebrecht project Reuters had worked as a fi nancial adviser Lima for several companies that need- Reuters working on the plan told Reuters opment argues that providing an ed to raise funds for big projects, Mexico City in a recent interview. unconditional basic income to including an Odebrecht fi rm. “If you multiply that by four everyone of working age would eruvian President Pedro “They use bankers,” said or fi ve, which is the typical size do little to combat poverty if not Pablo Kuczynski has Kuczynski, a 79-year-old n opposition alliance in of a Mexican family, you get an funded by extra taxes. Packnowledged that he former Wall Street banker Mexico wants to launch annual income of 40,000 to The idea of universal basic in- worked as a fi nancial adviser elected president in 2016. “I’ve Aa universal basic wage to 50,000 pesos per family, Alvarez come has gained currency due for an irrigation project owned been a banker, in New York, for combat the poverty that blights said, adding that providing the to the increasing robotisation of by the Brazilian builder Ode- a very prestigious bank. I’ve the lives of almost half the pop- income to children could be con- the workforce. brecht, contradicting his pre- been one of the founders of ulation, touting an experimental ditional on school enrolment. Finland is running a pilot project vious denials of having any what’s called project fi nancing. reform discussed globally as a Home to the richest man in Lat- to test whether unconditional links to the company. So sometimes, I was hired. For solution to job losses from auto- in America, Carlos Slim, Mexico is payments could serve as a plausi- Odebrecht is at the centre of H2Olmos, an irrigation project.” mation. laden with oil and minerals, boasts ble alternative welfare model. Latin America’s biggest graft Odebrecht owns H2Olmos The centre-right National Ac- a large manufacturing base and Mexico has seen job growth in scandal and has admitted to SA, which was formed in 2009 to tion Party and centre-left Party has the world’s 15th biggest econ- recent years thanks to a manu- paying about $30mn in bribes build and operate one of its land- of the Democratic Revolution are omy. But poverty has remained facturing boom, and could face a to secure contracts in Peru over mark projects in Peru — carving a running on a joint ticket with the stubbornly stuck above 40% of smaller workforce as robots take a decade. Kuczynski worked in 20km tunnel through the Andes leftist Citizens Movement (MC) the population for decades. over more tasks. the Cabinet of former presi- to transport water to irrigate ag- for next July’s presidential elec- Government social develop- Swiss voters rejected a basic dent Alejandro Toledo, who ricultural fi elds in the desert. tion, and the income plan is a key ment agency Coneval defi nes income plan in a referendum last prosecutors say took a $20mn Kuczynski’s comments part of their manifesto. poverty as a person living on no year, while the defeated Social- bribe from Odebrecht during could provide more ammuni- Offi cials inside the alliance say more than 2,925 pesos a month ist candidate in France’s presi- his 2001-06 term. tion for the opposition-con- details of the plan are still being in cities and 1,892 pesos in ru- dential election this year, Benoit However, Kuczynski has not trolled Congress as it targets worked out, though its contours ral areas. The agency also takes Hamon, championed it, saying it been named as a suspect in the him in its probe into Odebre- are emerging. into account other factors like would be funded by a tax on ro- far-reaching graft probe by the cht’s links to politicians. A basic income of 10,000 pe- healthcare and education. bots that replace human labour. attorney general’s offi ce. Kuczynski had previously de- sos ($537) per year for everyone, Getting to 40,000 or 50,000 Mexican gross domestic prod- In a televised interview with nied reports in local media that including children, could be pesos per family could be uct was worth $1.046tn in 2016, A total of 16,500kg of beef are grilled in Rodo Park in Minas, local broadcaster RPP, Kuc- Odebrecht hired him as an advis- provided by consolidating funds achieved “without increasing according to the World Bank, but Uruguay, 120km from Montevideo, in an attempt to break zynski denied being a partner er a decade ago to mend ties with from federal, state and munici- taxes,” Alvarez said. some 53.4mn Mexicans, or 43.6% the Guinness record for “The World’s Biggest Barbecue”, in an investment fund that al- him after he opposed highway pal welfare programmes, Jorge Still, the Organisation for Eco- of the population, live below the yesterday. legedly had links to Odebrecht. contracts awarded to the com- Alvarez, an MC congressman nomic Co-operation and Devel- poverty line, according to Coneval. However, Kuczynski said he pany in Toledo’s government. Gulf Times Monday, December 11, 2017 23 PAKISTAN

313 Balochi separatists surrender Govt in intense lobbying

Reuters Islamabad

ore than 300 Balochi in Senate for election law separatist militants Mhave surrendered over Internews jority party in the Senate with 27 of government votes in the Sen- by the Supreme Court. way, it would help – given that Reports also suggest PPP co- the past few months, Pakistani Islamabad seats, followed by the PPP’s 26. ate in favour of the delimitation Though the government had a mainstream opposition party chairman Asif Zardari wants government offi cials said, after A PML-N senator, speaking bill may exceed 70 to meet the managed to defeat the bill with did not oppose the bill.” concrete assurances from the a ceremony to mark the downing on condition of anonymity, said desired two-thirds majority. a simple majority, it could only According to the source, government that his sister Faryal of guns and militants’ return to mid opposition from Bi- that the ruling camp had man- However, another senior secure 163 votes despite the fact Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Talpur would be elevated as the civilian life. lawal Bhutto’s Pakistan aged to garner the support of 60 PML-N leader painted a diff er- that the PML-N alone has 188 Abbasi is taking a “personal” in- next Senate chairperson. The surrenders are part of APeople’s Party (PPP), senators in favour of the new de- ent picture. members while the ruling coali- terest in getting the bill passed In return, the PPP would sup- government eff orts to end a intense lobbying is under way limitation bill. “The picture is not as rosy as tion comprises 240 members. and has asked the PML-N sena- port the government on con- decade-long insurgency in the by the ruling Pakistan Muslim They included 10 independ- being projected,” he said, adding As many as 25 PML-N law- tors to make sure that “no one stituencies’ delimitation bill and southwestern Baluchistan prov- League - N (PML-N) party of ents, eight from the Muttahida that securing a two-thirds ma- makers did not attend that Na- goes out of country or skips the other political issues. ince by off ering amnesties and Nawaz Sharif to secure a two- Qaumi Movement (MQM), fi ve jority at a time when the ruling tional Assembly session. related Senate session on any PML-N chairman and Leader fi nancial rewards to soldiers and thirds majority in the upper from the Jamiat Ulema-e-Is- party faced serious internal divi- “If more than two dozen of pretext”. of the House Raja Zafarul Haq commanders to help them re- house of parliament to get the lam-F (JUI-F), three each from sions would be a challenge. our party members could skip Despite supporting the con- has denied any possibility of a integrate into the society. crucial bill on constituencies the National Party (NP) and the “There are dissident elements such a crucial National Assem- stituencies’ delimitation bill in deal with the PPP or any other In a high-profi le ceremony delimitation cleared. Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party in our party who are waiting for bly session, we should not ex- the National Assembly and hav- political party. on the lawn of the Baluchistan The Senate is expected to take (PKMAP), two from the Balo- the right time to part ways with pect that all of our senators and ing it passed, the PPP is oppos- He said that legislation on provincial assembly in the west- up the constitutional amend- chistan National Party-A (BNP- the PML-N. Will all of our 27 our allies as well as other po- ing it in the Senate. constituencies’ delimitation in ern city of Quetta, the regional ment bill in its upcoming ses- A), and one each from the PML- senators vote for the bill? I re- litical parties would vote for the Recently, rumours have been the light of census 2017 was in capital, 313 militants from three sion, starting today. F and the Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), ally doubt that,” he said. “Some bill [in the Senate],” the PML-N doing the rounds that the PPP the national interest to avoid any separatist movements handed Sources in the ruling camp say said the senator. may abstain from voting and source said. wants to strike a deal with the delay in general elections. over weapons to Chief Minister that they have secured “at least In addition, six senators from some may skip the related ses- The source decried lack of PML-N government to secure “Those opposing this legisla- Nawab Sanaullah Zehri. 60 votes”, 10 short of the two- the Awami National Party (ANP) sion on any pretext, as happened support, mainly from the PPP, some seats in the coming Senate tion are not doing any service to “I will hug all who believe in thirds needed in the 104-strong would vote for the government before.” in the Senate because of political election. the nation. This will harm de- the integrity and sovereignty house. bill, while some senators from The senator referred to a pre- reasons. The Senate election is due in mocracy. The PML-N does not of Pakistan but will not tolerate After Senator Babar Awan the PTI – the government’s most vious vote count in the National “The PTI, on the other hand, March 2018. need to get into backdoor deal (those) who will challenge the stepped down and left the PPP formidable political foe – had Assembly on a crucial bill that may not follow the PPP policy The PPP also wants to secure with anyone. We have suffi cient writ of the State,” Zehri said at to join Imran Khan’s Pakistan also assured their support, he the opposition had moved to and it could vote either in favour some seats in south Punjab in support in the Senate to get any the ceremony on Saturday. Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the rul- claimed. stop Sharif from heading the of the bill or avoid participat- general elections scheduled next bill passed and we will mobilise Pakistani government offi cials ing PML-N has become the ma- In such a scenario, the number PML-N after being disqualifi ed ing in the voting process. Either year. this support,” he said. say that about 2,000 militants have surrendered over the past 18 months. In April, the government held a similar ceremony where about 400 militants handed over their Details guns. The latest ceremony saw the surrender of 143 militants from on $8.2bn the Baloch Republican Army (BRA), 125 fi ghters from the Ba- loch Liberation Army (BLA), and Chinese 17 from the Baloch Liberation Front (BLF), according to offi - cials. rail plan Under the agreement, foot soldiers are given Rs500,000 ($4,700) and the top-level com- sought manders receive about Rs1mn ($9,500) to help them and their families build a life after mili- Internews tancy. Islamabad Baluchistan’s government and the powerful army, which has a huge say in the running of Paki- akistan has raised objec- stan’s poorest province, tout the tions to the $8.2bn fi nanc- amnesties as an eff ective way to Ping plan for the upgrade of reduce the power of separatists Railway Line (ML-1) from Pe- who accuse Islamabad of ex- shawar to Karachi, and sought ploiting Baluchistan. details from the Chinese side While the security situation Fashionable by design before signing the agreement. has improved in Baluchistan Models present creations by Aisha Farid (left and right), Kian-E Quoting offi cial documents, over the past few years, critics (above) and Amina Yasmeen (below) on Saturday evening, on the The News daily disclosed yester- and human rights groups say second day of the Pantene Hum Bridal Couture Week in Lahore. day that the Pakistani side has that the army has crushed dis- asked the Chinese on “favour- sent and free speech, while sep- able conditions” attached to the aratists accuse security offi cials ML-1 project, which Beijing had of extra-judicial killings and en- agreed to consider during the forced disappearances. negotiations on fi nalising the fi - The military denies abuse nancing plan. claims. Pakistan and China had Pakistan’s desire to dismantle agreed to place the upgrade of the insurgencies has grown in ML-1 under the China-Pakistan urgency amid vast Chinese in- Economic Corridor (CPEC) dur- vestment from Beijing’s Belt and ing the 6th Joint Co-operation Road infrastructure splurge. Committee (JCC) meeting. China has frequently urged Prior to the 7th Joint Co-op- Pakistan to improve security, es- eration Committee (JCC) meet- pecially in Baluchistan. ing chaired by Prime Minister A new transport corridor Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, offi cials (CPEC, the China-Pakistan Eco- from the fi nance ministry raised nomic Corridor) through Balu- objections to the ML-1 fi nancing chistan, linking western China plan, saying that the authorities with Pakistan’s Arabian Sea port concerned should not sign such of Gwadar, is due to become op- agreements without analys- erational in late 2018. ing the details attached to such Separatists have threatened loans. to disrupt the CPEC, and earlier It was the view of Finance this week China warned its citi- Division that details should be zens of a security threat against sought with regards the exact Chinese interests inside Paki- bifurcation of exact amount of stan. loan in cash, in kind, and in la- bour services in order to get a clearer picture. “There is also a need to get exact repayment period as well as grace period attached to these Lahore metro train project fi nally on track Four projects to get loan agreements,” they added. Another offi cial who was present at the high-level meet- Internews “Neither local nor Chinese tors. It is a three-storey under- section of the Package-1 is cen- thousands trained ing said that the total estimated Lahore contractors have estimated the ground structure with tonnes of tral station, for which we have to cost of the ML-1 upgrade was exact magnitude of loss, but equipment and systems to con- close Mall Road for all types of more than $8.2bn, and that there they will submit their claims trol the entire metro train oper- traffi c,” he said. Internews The training will be con- should not be a scenario where lthough the Supreme once the project is completed,” ations, but no work was initiated The OLMT Package-2 con- Islamabad ducted in collaboration with the cash amount stood at $1bn Court of Pakistan has he said. at the site yet due to the court’s tractor, Waseem Afzal, said the United Nations High Com- while the remaining $7bn is pro- Aconditionally allowed the He pointed out that the gov- stay order,” he said. that his company has targeted missioner for Refugees. vided in the form of machinery Punjab provincial government ernment generally negotiated OLMT Package-1 (from Dera completing and handing over akistan’s National Vo- The Commission will train and other equipment, consul- to complete the Lahore Or- such claims with local contrac- Gujjran to Chaburji) and Pack- the elevated metro train track to cational and Technical hundreds of youths from tancy services, Chinese labour, ange Line Metro Train (OLMT) tors to minimise its burden of age-2 (from Chaburji to Ali Chinese engineers by the end of PTraining Commission Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, supervisors, technicians and en- project, the litigation already loss, but in international con- Town) contractors said however February. has approved four projects to and Balochistan in collabora- gineers, and other costs attached delayed the project by a year and tracting, it is diffi cult for the cli- that although it was a challeng- OLMT Steering Committee further the cause of skills de- tion with the Oil and Gas De- to these loan agreements. is likely to escalate cost by more ent to reduce such liabilities. ing task, they would try their chairman Khawaja Hassaan has velopment in the country. velopment Company Limited. than Rs10bn. “According to an estimate, best to complete the project in chaired a meeting to chalk out a Under these initiatives, Chi- The projects’ approval An executive of a contract- the delay has already cost the the minimum time. comprehensive plan to complete nese assistance will be used to was made by the Commis- Pakistani elected ing company here says that all public kitty over Rs10bn, but an Package-1 contractor Sha- the metro train project in mini- transform the National Train- sion’s board of management construction work near heritage exact amount of loss will surface hid Saleem said he would need mum time, besides initiating the ing Bureau into a modern voca- at its 17th meeting, chaired by UN rapporteur sites had been halted since Janu- on completion of the project,” more than two months to com- process to constitute three spe- tional and technical institute. Waqar Ahmad. ary 28, 2016, when the court is- he underlined. plete the elevated portion of the cial committees for the project, Additionally, 1,000 girls and The members praised Com- Pakistan’s High Commissioner sued the fi rst stay order. Responding to a question, he metro train track, after which as per directions of the Supreme boys from tribal areas will un- mission executive director to Kenya and Permanent The court took almost 22 said that it was impossible to Chinese engineers would lay Court. dergo skill development train- Zulfi qar Cheema for his eff orts Representative to the United months to announce its verdict. complete the metro train project rails and complete electrical and He said that a formal request ing with the assistance of the to get Pakistan’s membership Nation’s off ice in Nairobi, Raza He disclosed that in a recent before the general elections in mechanical works. has been made to the Chief Jus- Italian government, while 900 in the WorldSkills Council and Tarar, has been elected as a UN progress review meeting of the 2018. “I believe the metro train tice of Pakistan to nominate a Afghan refugees and 900 peo- termed it as a huge success for rapporteur. He was elected as project, a chief engineer indi- “The central station near Mall track will be ready from Dera retired judge of the superior ju- ple from the militancy-aff ect- the country, which, they said, Rapporteur of the Bureau of UN cated that the delay was cost- Road is the most critical infra- Gujjran to Lakshmi Chowk by diciary as a member of the “su- ed areas will be provided with will open the doors of huge Environment Assembly (UNEA) ing the public exchequer around structure of the project for both the end of March 2018. The most pervisory and monitoring com- training in the most sought- training and employment op- upon nomination by the Asia- Rs20mn a day. Pakistani and Chinese contrac- diffi cult and time-consuming mittee” for the project. after vocational courses. portunities for local youths. Pacific Group. Gulf Times 24 Monday, December 11, 2017 PHILIPPINES

Duterte Church leader’s concern over to seek one-year extension of return of cops to drug war martial law Manila Times Manila Reuters Manila Catholic Church leader has expressed appre- A hension on the deci- hilippines President Rod- sion of President Rodrigo Du- rigo Duterte will ask Con- terte to return the Philippine Pgress to extend martial law National Police (PNP) to the in the volatile southern island of government’s anti-illegal drug Mindanao to quell an insurgency, campaign, warning that it may cabinet offi cials said yesterday. lead to a resurgence of arbi- Duterte placed the restive trary killings of suspected drug region of 22mn people under pushers and users. military rule on May 23 after Manila Auxiliary Bishop militants took over parts of the Broderick Pabillo, chairman southern Marawi City in what of the Catholic Bishop’s Con- was the Philippines’ biggest se- ference of the Philippines curity crisis in years. (CBCP)-Episcopal Commis- Martial law is due to expire on sion on the Laity, stressed that Dec 31. the drug war was better left to The Philippine leader will for- the Philippine Drug Enforce- mally request today a one-year ment Agency (PDEA), which extension of martial law, Execu- has the proven expertise to tive Secretary Salvador Medial- handle the country’s drug dea told reporters. problem. The 23-member Senate and “The Philippine Drug En- the 296-member House of Rep- forcement Agency is very resentatives will vote once they much capable to contain the convene in joint session. illegal drug trade in the coun- Lawmakers are due to go on try compared to the Philippine recess from Dec 16 to Jan 14, National Police,” said Pabillo 2018. Military rule should be in an interview over the week- extended in Mindanao given end with the Church-run Ra- threats from Maoist guerrillas, dio Veritas. militants and separatist groups, The PDEA approach, he said, Presidential Communications was focused on the suppliers of Secretary Martin Andanar said. illegal drugs, while the PNP’s Militants linked to Islamic target were the drug users and State, which tried to gain a foot- pushers, which often led to the hold in Southeast Asia by cap- suspects’ deaths. turing parts of Marawi City, are Pabillo stressed that PDEA strengthening their recruitment did its job effectively without programmes, Andanar said. loss of lives. “There were intelligence re- “We’re saying that the PNP ports saying they are planning does not have the capacity to to attack another city,” Andanar stop the proliferation of illegal told a radio interview. drugs that’s why the govern- Activists burn an effigy of President Rodrigo Duterte during a protest in Manila yesterday, as they commemorate the International Human Rights Day. The request comes nearly two ment created PDEA, which has months after Duterte declared that mandate and not to chase 5,000 drug-related killings Pabillo expressed disbelief Metro Manila and other parts illegal drugs to the PDEA from “Operation Double Barrel.” the liberation of Marawi City. after and kill the small people. have been reported by the PNP on allegations that the PNP of the country. On October 10, the PNP amid the rise in extra- Malacanang said despite the More than 1,100 people — They should be running after as “death under investigation” was not really doing anything the president issued a memo- judicial killings that have been return of the PNP, PDEA would mostly militants — were killed the suppliers.” but to date none of them were to solve the mysterious death randum that transferred lead- blamed on police operations continue to take the lead in and 350,000 displaced by the He also noted that some served justice. of drugs users and pushers in ership of the campaign against dubbed “Oplan Tokhang” and drug war. Marawi unrest.

Transport group chief warns of strike BIFF claims role in HIV cases if jeepney modernisation plan stays twin explosions rise in Manila Times Maneuver Platoon of the Eastern Manila Times Shariff Aguak Provincial Public Safety Manila Company in Barangay Nuro, Upi at about 12.15am on Sat- Visayas he Bangsamoro Is- urday. transport group leader lamic Freedom Meanwhile, Capt. Arvin warned of another strike TFighters (BIFF) has John Encinas told Manila By Eladio Perfecto Aif the government would claimed responsibility for Times the Marines were Manila Times, Catarman push through with its jeepney the twin explosions that with the police and bomb modernisation programme. wounded seven soldiers of experts in the post-blast in- George San Mateo, president the Philippine Marines and vestigation and were head- rise in HIV-Aids cases of the Pinagkaisang Samahan a policeman in Upi town of ing back to base when uni- in Eastern Visayas has ng mga Tsuper at Operator Na- Maguindanao. dentifi ed suspects detonated Aalarmed the Department tionwide (Piston), in a phone another improvised bomb in of Health (DoH) here, prompting call over the weekend, said: “If “Be agents of peace Barangay Mirab at about 1am it to issue a warning about the they will push through with it, and be vigilant in also on Saturday. spike in Region 8. we will stage a strike although our surroundings” Wounded in the second Roderick Boyd Cerro, a nurse, no date has been set.” explosion were Major Rom- said fi ve of the 127 HIV/Aids According to San Mateo, Abu Misry Mama, spokes- ulo Ducay, Corporals Ryan cases reported in August alone the strike may either be done man for the outlawed Is- Cabual, Arnel Jiun, Oliver this year led to the deaths of “before New Year or after New lamic State-inspired BIFF, Albo, Alvin Sangadan and the patients. The DoH warned Year.” said their armed group was Privates 1st Class Johnny the public in Eastern Visayas Piston, along with the No to behind the attack on govern- Panday and Gerwin Pe- to be cautious while having in- Jeepney Phaseout Coalition, ment combatants; he did not rez, all members of the 5th tercourse to avoid the spread of conducted an overnight can- elaborate. Marine Battalion Landing the disease. In Eastern Samar, dle light vigil in Mendiola on Senior Supt. Agustin Tel- Team (MBLT-5). They are 31 HIV-Aids cases were report- Saturday “to condemn govern- lo, Maguindanao police pro- now confi ned at the Army’s ed, with one case leading to the ment harassment and violation vincial director, identifi ed Camp Siongco Hospital in death of a patient in November. of the human rights of George the wounded policeman as Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Aside from the HIV/Aids cas- San Mateo and other drivers Police Offi cer 2 Esmael Ala- Maguindanao. es, 28 cases of sexually transmit- opposing the jeepney pha- A transport group leader has warned of another strike if the government goes ahead with its jeepney bat, a member of Upi mu- Mayor Ramon Piang of ted diseases were reported in the seout.” modernisation programme. nicipal police offi ce. Upi town issued this appeal province, three of them involv- San Mateo was arrested by Tello said Alabat was seri- to the public: “Let us work ing women 25 to 35 years old. policemen on Tuesday amid February. San Mateo posted a 4 and 5 but cancelled it after tion Secretary Arthur Tugade. ously wounded when a rifl e with Task Force Upi and the The Health department said allegations of violation of the P4,000 bail after the arrest. Senator Grace Poe called for a Poe is the chairman of the grenade fi red from M-203 local government. Be agents it will look into the 28 cases Public Service Act after con- Piston would have held a hearing on December 11, be- Senate Committee on Public rifl e landed at the roadside of peace and be vigilant in to determine if they involve ducting a transport strike last transport strike on December tween Piston and Transporta- Services. near the outpost of the1st our surroundings.” HIV-Aids.

Rights agency’s stance on govt eff orts to curb abuses slammed

Manila Times Philippine government to take nated to be the lead agency in the against drug personalities. simply off track,” he said. Manila responsibility for the question- government anti-drug opera- Singh issued the statement “Lest we forget, as much as able deaths linked to the anti- tion,” he added. last week, noting that Duterte due process governs the cases of drug operations of the Philip- Last week, President Rodrigo even committed to reinstate or alleged victims, the same must alacanang slammed the pine National Police (PNP). Duterte brought back the PNP to pardon police offi cers involved likewise be accorded to state Human Rights Watch “HRW has a penchant for the drug war but only in support in the killings of thousands of agents accused of being perpe- M(HRW) for accusing the playing blind, deaf and dumb, of PDEA, which would remain alleged drug suspects during the trators,” he said. Rodrigo Duterte administration refusing to acknowledge the ef- the lead agency in the campaign. illegal drug operations. Based on the records of the of not making any “genuine ef- forts of the administration in ad- The Palace offi cial was re- With this, Roque, a former hu- PNP, some 3,800 alleged drug forts” to hold accountable those dressing alleged abuses of scala- sponding to a statement by man rights lawyer, also branded suspects were killed in the mid- responsible for alleged abuses in wag policemen,” Roque said. HRW, through International the HRW’s claims as “off track.” dle of the police’s anti-drug op- the government’s war against il- “Perhaps this HRW must be Justice Programme Associate “The latest remarks of the Hu- erations since Duterte assumed legal drugs. reminded that an entire police Director Param Preet-Singh, man Rights Watch (HRW) that offi ce in July 2016. In a statement yesterday, Pal- force in Caloocan was relieved saying that the Philippine gov- the Philippine government has But local and international ace Spokesman Harry Roque because of alleged abuses, and ernment failed to prosecute or not made genuine eff orts to seek human rights groups claimed to said the HRW has “refused” to the PDEA (Philippine Drug En- convict any policeman who car- accountability on alleged abuses have recorded more than 10,000 Roque: criticism of rights agency acknowledge the eff orts of the forcement Agency) was desig- ried out the brutal crackdown in our anti-drug campaign are deaths from the campaign. Gulf Times Monday, December 11, 2017 25 SRI LANKA/BANGLADESH/NEPAL

Lanka parliament approves budget Sri Lanka’s parliament has passed the government’s budget for 2018 with a two- thirds majority, IANS reports from Colombo. Communist parties win The budget vote, which was taken up on Saturday evening, saw 155 lawmakers voting in favor and 56 voting against. The budget for 2018 was presented to the Sri Lankan parliament in November by Finance and Media Minister majority in Nepal vote Mangala Samaraweera. The 2018 Budget, which is AFP are directly elected and a fur- United Nations Secretary Samaraweera’s first after being Kathmandu ther 110 that are allocated to General Antonio Guterres de- sworn in as finance minister in parties based on proportional scribed the elections as “a May, saw many tax reductions representation votes. historic moment for Nepal in and proposals to strengthen n alliance of Nepal’s Early tallies show that the implementing its federal struc- several sectors including former Maoist rebels Communist alliance will also ture as enshrined in the 2015 foreign direct investment (FDI), Aand the main Commu- dominate in most of the sev- constitution”. education, health, tourism and nist party has won a majority en newly-created provincial Nepal emerged from a bloody economic development. of seats in parliamentary elec- assemblies. civil war in 2006 and ousted the Presenting a speech in tions and are expected to form “We feel that the people ac- monarchy two years later, be- parliament, Samaraweera the next government, accord- cepted our appeal to vote for the ginning its transition to a fed- said: “The budget focuses ing to preliminary results from ‘Left Alliance’ for stability and eral democratic state. on liberalisation to unlock the election commission late prosperity,” senior CPN-UML But over the last 11 years a the barriers to greater yesterday. leader Pradeep Gyawali said. series of short-lived govern- investment, trade, and The Communist CPN-UML “Our alliance is strong... We ments have bickered over the start-up enterprises. It and the Maoist Party look set will prepare to form the govern- country’s future, allowing cor- also allocates resources to for a landslide victory in the ment.” ruption to fl ourish and growth provide training and skill landmark polls that mark the The polls for national and stagnate. development for youth end of the Himalayan nation’s provincial parliaments were It has also hampered the to equip them with the drawn-out transition to federal held in two phases, with the recovery from a devastating capabilities to take advantage democracy 11 years after the end mountainous north voting on earthquake that hit in 2015, kill- of such opportunities.” of a brutal civil war. November 26 and the rest of the ing 9,000 and destroying more Key features of the budget The leftist alliance has won country on Thursday. than half a million homes. include introducing friendlier 84 seats in the national parlia- They are the fi rst elections The left alliance - which laws to register businesses to ment and leads in a further 31, held under the country’s new campaigned on a nationalistic attract larger FDIs, establishing securing a majority. federal constitution, which was platform that was at times anti- Former Nepal prime minister K P Oli, second right, yesterday looked set for a return to power after high-tech innovation parks and The incumbent Nepali Con- fi nally adopted in 2015 nine India - was tipped for victory winning his seat in parliament. transforming all vehicles in the gress has so far won just 13 years after the end of the con- but analysts expressed surprise country to be powered by non- seats, performing worse than fl ict and mandates a sweeping at the strength of the mandate ism,” said Sudheer Sharma, edi- year term as rules under the new take another 10 days due to the fossil fuel sources by 2040 expected. overhaul of the political system handed to them by voters. tor of the Kantipur newspaper. constitution make it harder to complicated counting process as and having all government The lower house of parlia- devolving power from the cen- “They cashed in on agendas The next government could oust a prime minister. well as the remoteness of some vehicles converted to hybrid ment comprises 165 seats that tre to the seven provinces. of development and national- be the fi rst to serve a full fi ve- Final results are expected to voting centres. or electric vehicles by 2025. Bangladesh mulls overseas job quota for people from backward districts

By Mizan Rahman told newsmen that the gov- Lalmonirhat, Thakurgoan, Nil- associate professor Tanzim said the government should Dhaka ernment found some districts phamari, Sherpur, Kurigram, Uddin Khan said the recruiting provide them quality training lagging behind in terms of mi- Joypurhat, Dinajpur, Rangpur, agencies should be compelled at technical training centres be- gration of workers mainly for Jhalakhathi, Narail, Barguna, to extend their offi ces at least to fore sending them abroad. n a signifi cant move to re- absence of recruiting agencies Pathuakhali, Gainbamdha, the district level as they are now Film4Peace Foundation duce future income dispar- in those districts. Magura, Bagherhat, Khulna, mostly based in Dhaka. chairman Pervez Siddiqui said Iity, Bangladesh has decided The aspirants from these ar- Netrakona, Chuadanga, Natore, “Recruitment services and the government should fi rst to send abroad more workers eas felt scared when it came to Satkhira and Rajshahi. medical test facilities should be send a specifi c number of work- from districts which lag be- communicating with unknown From 2005 to 2016, BMET provided for the migrant work- ers from the backward districts hind in terms of overseas job recruiting agencies of other data show that the lowest – ers at district level so that they through the state-owned re- opportunities. districts, he said. 2,761 – workers from Bandar- would not need to come to Dha- cruiting agency Bangladesh Abul Maal A Muhith For preparing the aspir- “We are thinking of fi xing a ban have so far gone to work ka from remote areas,” he said. Overseas Employment and ant workers for overseas jobs, specifi c quota for the recruit- abroad while the highest – WARBE Development Foun- Services Limited and BMET. the government will fi rst turn ing agencies to select and send over 700,000 – workers from dation secretary general Faru- Then, the government should Minister says wants them into skilled manpower by workers from the backward Comilla went abroad with jobs que Ahmed said people in the compel some dedicated private providing them training. districts in the coming days,” he during the same period. backward districts, particularly recruiting agencies to select work- Offi cials of the expatriates said. Migration experts and mi- in Rangpur region, should be ers from the backward districts for to ‘wipe out’ Manila welfare and overseas employ- The Bureau of Manpower, grants rights campaigners motivated for overseas job with overseas jobs, he observed. ment (EWOE) ministry said Employment and Training stress the need for taking qual- right information. On Wednesday, a meeting, the recruiting agencies would (BMET) has identifi ed some 24 ity projects targeting the young “For lack of right informa- chaired by EWOE Minister Nu- bank for heist role be asked to send the workers districts out of total 64 from people from the backward dis- tion, people in the backward rul Islam, decided that back- from backward districts under a where very small number of tricts to prepare them as skilled districts are often cheated by ward districts would be includ- Reuters want to wipe out Rizal bank specifi c quota system. workers went abroad with jobs. workers. the middlemen,” he said. ed on the agenda of Sustainable Dhaka from the world.” Narayan Chandra Barma, The districts include Bandar- Dhaka University interna- Faruque, also a returnee mi- Development Goal on overseas Muhith did not elaborate. He joint secretary in the ministry, ban, Rangamati, Panchagar, tional relations department grant turned rights campaigner, employment. did not respond to requests Bangladesh’s finance minister seeking comment. said late on Saturday he wanted Unidentified hackers stole China education fair attracts thousands to “wipe out” a Philippines bank the money using fraudulent that was used to channel $81mn orders on the SWIFT payments The second edition of China The exhibition was being held at a Bangladesh Army chief visits India stolen from the Bangladeshi system. The money was sent Education Fair 2017 concluded in time when the Chinese government central bank’s account with the to accounts at RCBC and then Kathmandu yesterday, with active has set a target of having half million Federal Reserve Bank of New disappeared into the casino participation of Nepali students foreign students by 2020. York last year. industry in the Philippines. aspiring to pursue higher studies Altogether 16 Chinese Abul Maal A Muhith was Nearly two years later, there at Chinese universities. universities participated in the responding to questions from is no word on who was Around 2,000 Nepali students fair, along with the presence of reporters about a Reuters story responsible and Bangladesh attended the two-day fair that representatives from various on Friday that said Bangladesh Bank has been able to retrieve aimed to provide information educational institutions Bank had asked the New York only about $15mn, mostly from and guidance to the Nepali and counsellors. Jiangsu Fed to join a lawsuit it was a Manila junket operator. students for their further studies University, Nanjing University of considering filing against The Philippine central bank in academic institutions of China. Aeronautics and Astronautics, Manila-based Rizal Commercial fined RCBC a record 1bn pesos The fair provided information China University of Mining and Banking Corp (RCBC) seeking ($20mn) last year for its failure about the Chinese education Technology were some of the damages. to prevent the movement of the system, tuition fee structures, participating universities. “The Bangladesh Bank (BB) stolen money through it. scholarship opportunities and According to the Nepal-China has taken a decision (on RCBC has said it would not pay visa policies for Nepali students. Cultural and Educational filing a suit). They will let me any compensation to Bangladesh “We provided detailed Council, nearly 5,000 Nepali know. We haven’t so far taken Bank and that Dhaka bank bore information to Nepali students students have studied in China, any steps as the Philippines responsibility for the theft since about foundation courses, starting since 1957. government was taking care it was negligent. bachelors, masters, and “I want to study in China of it (investigating the heist),” RCBC did not immediately doctorate degrees in the because of the gaining Muhith said. respond to a request seeking faculties like engineering, reputation of Chinese “But it seems Rizal bank has comment yesterday about science and technology, and universities. Their programmes Bangladesh Army Chief General Abu Belal Muhammad Shafiul Huq calls on Indian Army Chief been playing delinquent. We Muhith’s comments. economics among others,” are diverse,” said Sajan Thakuri, General Bipin Rawat in New Delhi. organisers told Xinhua. an undergraduate student. Tribal leaders in Bangladesh seek ‘indigenous’ identity

By Mizan Rahman tya Chattagram Jana Sanghati want development and full “The government is trying to come an ‘independent state’ if they do not believe in ‘indig- and chairman of the Task Force Dhaka Samiti (PCJSS), PCJSS (Reform- implementation of all the 72 implement some development the government signs the ILO enous rights’ and only want de- for Repatriation and Rehabilita- ist) and the United Peoples Dem- points of the Parbattya Chatta- projects here (CHT), such as es- C-169,” he added. velopment, peace and harmony tion of Tribal Refugees Returned ocratic Front (UPDF) – want gram Peace Accord, signed by tablishing educational institu- But the secretary to the Minis- among the communities in the from India, also asserted that wenty years after the the government to sign the ILO the government and the PCJSS tions and creating tourism spots try of the Chittagong Hill Tracts hills. they are Bangladeshis fi rst but an signing of a peace agree- Convention on Indigenous and in 1997. and gardens, by evicting the hill Aff airs, Naba Bikrom Kishore “We want peace. It is possible ethnic minority by birth. Tment in three southeast- Tribal peoples, 1989, known as UPDF spokesman Niran people. We don’t this type of Tripura, said ‘indigenous’ or only through the implementa- According to the CHT Rules ern hill districts, a section of lo- ILO C-169. Chakma said the government development,” said Niran Chakma. ‘ethnic minority’ is not the issue. tion of the peace accord and by Act, 1900, people who migrated cal political party leaders in the Leaders of these parties be- should sign the ILO C-169 to He also said that the govern- According to him, local people resolving land disputes as soon from Burma, Arakan, Assam, Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) are lieve that the signing of the ILO honour the United Nations ment has been continuing its re- want development but a certain as possible,” he added. Tibet and Tripura, as well as busy establishing their identity C-169 by the government would (UN) steps that would help pression of the hill people. section is still clamouring for Kang Jari Chowdhury, chair- the Bengalis of adjacent dis- as ‘indigenous people’ instead of help establish their rights as ‘in- establish the rights of the hill PCJSS spokesman Sajib Chak- ‘indigenous identity’. “We have man of Khagrachari district, tricts who settled in the hills, are working for full implementation digenous people’. people. ma said they only want to estab- taken up many development said: “It is not very important recognised as natives. of the peace treaty. But the people and leaders UPDF leaders said they do not lish their rights as indigenous projects in the hills to improve whether we are indigenous or The Chittagong Hill Tracts, To establish their rights as of other ethnic minority com- want development in the Chit- people. the lives of the locals,” he said. not. We are Bangladeshis fi rst spread over 5,093sq miles, cov- ‘indigenous people’, some of the munities in the Chittagong Hill tagong Hill Tracts, but the rights “It’s a wrong notion that the A leader of the Murong com- and we want peace.” ers Rangamati, Khagrachhari local political parties – Parbat- Tracts, excluding the Chakmas, of the indigenous people. Chittagong Hill Tracts will be- munity, Chin Aung Mru, said Jatindra Lal Tripura, lawmaker and Bandarban districts. Gulf Times 26 Monday, December 11, 2017 COMMENT

Chairman: Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Attiyah Editor-in-Chief: Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka Deputy Managing Editor: K T Chacko

P.O.Box 2888 Doha, Qatar [email protected] Telephone 44350478 (news), 44466404 (sport), 44466636 (home delivery) Fax 44350474 GULF TIMES Losing weight can reverse diabetes without medication

The fi nding of a new study that a liquid, low-calorie diet resulting in signifi cant weight loss can put diabetes in remission without medication, could be a ray of hope to millions aff ected by the condition. The clinical trial, done at the Magnetic Resonance Centre at Newcastle University in the UK, looked at 306 participants recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in the last six years. Half were given normal diabetes treatment, including medications and weight-loss counselling, while the other half were put only on a strict low-calorie diet. The diet provided just 825 to 853 calories per day, made up of four shakes or soups for three to fi ve months, followed by slow reintroduction The Hungarian govt’s of food over two to eight weeks. The participants were also given cognitive behaviour therapy for maintaining proper nutritional habits and encouraged to exercise. After a year, 24% of the diet test participants lost 15kg or more, while no one in the control group lost any weight. While 46% of participants in the test group failed campaign of lies reversed their diabetes and went into remission, only 4% of the control group saw their diabetes go away. By George Soros meaning of “open society.” So Hungary in 1947 as a refugee. I have Hungarian and Polish governments As many as 31 of 36 participants who lost 15kg or more New York allow me to clarify what I mean never encouraged others to become for refusing to accept refugees they do when I use the term. I do not mean refugees. My parents, together not want; but I do hold them largely experienced remission. Describing the fi ndings as very open borders and mass migration with 200,000 Hungarians, left the responsible for impeding a European exciting, Prof Roy Taylor from Newcastle University, n October, Hungary’s government aimed at destroying the supposedly country after the defeat of the 1956 solution. lead researcher in the trial funded by Diabetes mailed questionnaires to all 4mn Christian identity of Hungary, as the revolution, and they received asylum I remember what happened during UK, said they could revolutionise the way type 2 of the country’s households government contends. in the United States. World War II, when another group was asking for peoples’ views The open society is based on the I fi rst published my ideas on the scapegoated for Europe’s problems. diabetes is treated. “This builds on the work into the I on seven statements describing idea that nobody is in possession of refugee crisis in September 2015, and The wounds of the past have left deep underlying cause of the condition, so that we can target my alleged plan to fl ood Europe, the ultimate truth, and that to live I have revised them over time, as the scars that have not yet healed, and management eff ectively,” he explained. and Hungary in particular, with together in peace we must respect facts on the ground have changed. In which today are being reopened. The Muslim migrants and refugees. The minorities and minority opinions. 2015, I asserted that the developed true purpose of the government’s Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs either government made seven assertions Above all, it is a society based on world should be able to accept at least propaganda campaign is to stoke fear when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin about what it calls the “Soros Plan.” I critical thinking and vigorous public a million refugees annually; later I and hatred in the Hungarian people or when the body rebutted each and every one based on debate about public policies. That is reduced that global fi gure to 500,000, and render them indiff erent to the cannot eff ectively my published statements or the lack of why today my foundation – among of which I suggested Europe could take suff ering of others. Type 2 diabetes any published statements that could many others including the European 300,000. I am pleased to report that the use the insulin it substantiate them. Union – supports groups such as the My guiding principle is that the government’s propaganda campaign is largely the produces. Insulin Now, the government has released Hungarian Civil Liberties Union and allocation of refugees within the EU has been a dismal failure. Despite the is a hormone that the supposed results of its “national the Hungarian Helsinki Committee, should be entirely voluntary. Member- Hungarian government’s concerted result of excess regulates blood sugar. consultation” on my phantom plan, which protect and promote the values states should not be forced to accept eff orts, the public was not taken in. My Hyperglycaemia, or claiming that the exercise was an and principles on which the EU was refugees whom they don’t want, short speech on Hungarian television body weight and unprecedented success. I leave it founded. and refugees should not be forced to attracted more than a million viewers, raised blood sugar, to the Hungarian public to decide The government also claims that settle in countries where they are not and social media platforms were physical inactivity is a common eff ect whether and to what extent the fi gure I control the European institutions wanted. fl ooded with outpourings of sympathy of uncontrolled of 2,301,463 participants (out of a in Brussels, and that I am using that Member-states that refuse to accept and support. population of 9.8mn) was infl ated. It control to impose the nefarious “Soros refugees can make an appropriate I am greatly heartened by this diabetes and over time leads to serious damage to many should be possible to inspect the list of Plan” on EU member-states. This is contribution in many other ways, response. I pledge to devote of the body’s systems, especially the nerves and blood those who took part and check if they nonsense. Decisions about how to but the refugee crisis is a European the remaining years of my life vessels. According to the World Health Organisation did indeed participate. Instead, I want address the migration crisis are made problem, so it needs a European to supporting free thought and statistics, in 2014, 8.5% of adults aged 18 years and to focus on the campaign’s substance. by the EU’s member-states, including solution, not 28 separate solutions. It expression, academic freedom, and The national consultation and the Hungarian government. It insults is this set of policy recommendations the protection of minorities and older had diabetes. In 2015, diabetes was the direct the release of the results are the the intelligence of the Hungarian that the Hungarian government has minority opinions – not only in my cause of 1.6mn deaths and in 2012 high blood glucose latest elements of a massive ongoing people to suggest otherwise. deliberately distorted and labelled the native Hungary, but all over the world. was the cause of another 2.2mn deaths. propaganda campaign funded by I do have deeply held beliefs about “Soros Plan.” – Project Syndicate Type 1 diabetes (previously known as insulin- Hungarian taxpayers to benefi t a how Europe and the rest of the Unfortunately, the EU has not deeply corrupt government seeking developed world should respond to adopted my ideas, and the toxic zGeorge Soros, Chairman of Soros dependent, juvenile or childhood-onset) is to defl ect attention from its failure the refugee crisis, and I have been political atmosphere created by Fund Management and of the Open characterised by defi cient insulin production and to fulfi l Hungarians’ legitimate a vocal advocate of those views. Hungary (and Poland) has reduced Society Foundations, is the author of requires daily administration of insulin. The cause of aspirations, particularly in education My beliefs are born out of personal Europe’s capacity to receive and The Tragedy of the European Union: and healthcare. The campaign started experience. I arrived in Britain from integrate refugees. I do not blame the Disintegration or Revival? type 1 diabetes is not known and it is not preventable in the summer by fl ooding public with current knowledge. Type 2 diabetes (formerly spaces with posters featuring a close- called non-insulin-dependent, or adult-onset) results up of my grinning visage with the from the body’s ineff ective use of insulin. Type 2 words “Don’t let Soros have the last laugh.” diabetes aff ects the majority of people around the Other posters portrayed me as world, and is largely the result of excess body weight the puppet-master of opposition and physical inactivity. Symptoms may be similar to politicians. those of type 1 diabetes, but are often less marked. As a The government would have you believe that I am an enemy of the result, the disease may be diagnosed several years after Hungarian people. Nothing could be onset, once complications have already arisen. Until further from the truth. I fi rst opened recently, this type of diabetes was seen only in adults my philanthropic foundation in but it is now also occurring increasingly frequently in Hungary in 1984, when the country was still under the domination of children. the Soviet Union. Since then, it has Taylor also highlighted that the impact that diet and provided more than $400mn to lifestyle has on diabetes are “rarely discussed.” This is strengthen and support the country of a very valid point driven home by the study. If diabetes my birth. In the 1990s, as ordinary could be reversed through diet and exercise, there is Hungarians struggled with the nothing better than that. transition from communism to a market economy, the foundation funded free milk for elementary school children in Budapest and supplied To Advertise the fi rst sonogram machines for Hungarian hospitals. More than 3,200 [email protected] Hungarians have received academic Display scholarships from the foundation. Telephone 44466621 Fax 44418811 Many of them have completed their graduate studies at the Central Classified European University (CEU), which I Telephone 44466609 Fax 44418811 established in Budapest in the early 1990s. CEU now ranks among the Subscription top 100 universities in the world in [email protected] the social sciences – a remarkable achievement for an academic newcomer. 2017 Gulf Times. All rights reserved Another element of the propaganda The main caption reads: “Let’s not let Soros have the last laugh!” The smaller text at the top says: “National Consultation campaign has been to twist the 2017: 99% reject illegal immigration.” Gulf Times Monday, December 11, 2017 27 COMMENT The madness of King Donald

By Elizabeth Drew Democratic senator voted for it). And attributed to his growing anxiety Washington, DC he continued to bait North Korean about Mueller’s investigation into his leader Kim Jong-un, who seems and his campaign’s possible collusion equally unstable. with Russia in the Kremlin’s eff ort to uch of America’s capital At the same time, both the tilt the 2016 election in his direction has entered a state of Washington Post and The New – an investigation that could end near-panic. In recent York Times ran articles containing in a charge of conspiracy. (Trump Mdays, President Donald disturbing stories about the appears to be the only signifi cant Trump has been acting more bizarrely president’s private behaviour. Trump, fi gure in Washington who won’t than ever, and the question raised in it was reported, told people close to accept that Russia interfered.) And the mind of politicians and civilians him that he considers the infamous that increasingly bizarre behaviour alike, though rarely spoken aloud, “Access Hollywood” recording of him came even before the news broke, has been: What can be done with joking, off -camera, about grabbing on December 1, that Trump’s fi rst this man? Can the United States women’s genitals to be a fraud, even national security adviser and close really aff ord to wait for Special though he admitted its authenticity campaign aide, retired General Counsel Robert Mueller to wrap up and apologised after the Post released Michael Flynn, had agreed to plead his investigation (on the assumption it in the fi nal weeks of the presidential guilty to one count of lying to the FBI that he’ll fi nd the president guilty of campaign. in exchange for his co-operation with something)? That could still take quite Trump has also been revisiting the investigation. a while. his mendacious claim about Barack What made this highly signifi cant The question of timing has become Obama having not been born in was that Flynn is far and away the increasingly urgent, given the the US – the bogus allegation that highest former offi cial whom Mueller heightened danger that the US will launched his political career, which, has “fl ipped.” Indeed, the generous deliberately or accidentally end up under pressure from advisers, he’d plea deal makes it clear that Flynn is in a war with North Korea. That risk, renounced prior to the election. He prepared to name fi gures higher than coupled with Trump’s increasingly said in a tweet that he had turned he was in the campaign and the White peculiar behaviour, has made down Time magazine’s suggestion House. Washington more tense than I’ve that it would name him “Person of That’s not very many people. It ever known it to be, and that includes the Year,” because it wasn’t defi nite. has already been speculated, with the dark days of Watergate. To put it (Trump sets great store by such reason, that Flynn will point a bluntly: the worry is that a mentally appearances on Time’s cover). But a finger at Trump’s son-in-law and deranged president might lead the US Time offi cial said that no such thing senior adviser, Jared Kushner. But into a nuclear war. had occurred. Trump’s several earlier efforts to In just the past week, evidence The fact that Trump appears steer prosecutors away from Flynn of Trump’s instability has piled up. to have some mental disorder, or were strong signals that Flynn knows During an Oval Offi ce ceremony to disorders, has created a dilemma something that Trump desperately honour Native-American heroes of for psychiatrists, politicians, and President Donald Trump hopes that prosecutors won’t find World War II, he off ended them by journalists alike. The American out. We may learn what that is fairly issuing a racist comment. He picked Psychiatric Association has a rule that According to the Mayo Clinic, such traits that Trump regularly exhibits. of dementia include agitation, soon. an unprecedented and unnecessary its members may not off er diagnoses a disorder “is a mental condition in Another view held by a number of aggression, delusions, hallucinations, Meanwhile, American and the world fi ght with the prime minister of of people they have not examined. which people have an infl ated sense of medical professionals, based on how apathy, and disinhibition. nervously await Trump’s reaction to the United Kingdom, supposedly But, given what some psychiatrists see their own importance, a deep need for Trump spoke in interviews in the late Numerous Republican members of this latest very bad turn of events for America’s closest ally, by retweeting as a national emergency, many have excessive attention and admiration, 1980s and how he speaks now – with a Congress are deeply worried about him. – Project Syndicate a British neo-fascist group’s anti- broken the rule and spoken or written troubled relationships, and a lack far more limited vocabulary and much Trump’s capacity to handle the Muslim posts. In an eff ort to win a publicly about their professional of empathy for others.” Moreover, less fl uency – is that the president is presidency – an incredibly demanding zElizabeth Drew is a regular Democratic senator’s vote for his assessments of Trump’s mental state. “behind this mask of extreme suff ering from the onset of dementia. job. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, contributor to The New York Review pending tax-cut bill, he travelled to The most widely accepted view confi dence lies a fragile self-esteem According to the highly respected rumoured to be replaced soon, is said of Books and the author, most recently, her state and told lies about her record is that he suff ers from a narcissistic that’s vulnerable to the slightest medical reference UpToDate, a to have called Trump a “moron.” of Washington Journal: Reporting (though the tax bill was so tilted to personality disorder, which is far more criticism.” subscription-fi nanced service used Trump’s heightened erratic Watergate and Richard Nixon’s the richest 1% of Americans that no serious than simply being a narcissist. This defi nition is all too refl ective of by professionals, the symptoms behaviour in recent days has been Downfall.

How the humble potato stopped confl ict Three-day forecast TODAY engage in combat.” Maximum Temperature : 220c AFP Minimum Temperature : 160c New York The analysis does not detail the impact of specifi c wars or confl icts but TUESDAY says that most of those studied took Maximum Temperature : 240c he humble potato – drought- place on the borders of modern-day Minimum Temperature : 160c resistant, able to thrive in Austria, France, Russia and Turkey. WEDNESDAY diverse soils, and enjoyed Others were in the Near East and Maximum Temperature : 240c Tfried, steamed or baked – North Africa. Minimum Temperature : 170c brought centuries of relative calm The potato was selected for the Fisherman's forecast and prosperity to Europe after its study because it can be grown in introduction in the 16th century, a many types of soil and is resistant to WARNING Inshore : Strong wind at places new study says. “drought shocks,” researchers say, with poor visibility. The crop, discovered in Latin while other vegetables cannot be Offshore : Strong wind and high America in the 1400s before grown in conditions as hot or cold. sea. WEATHER eventually sweeping through Europe, Cultivation of the potato improved Inshore : Mild daytime with slight greatly boosted productivity, helping nutrition in periods of cold or dust to blowing dust lower land costs while improving drought, helping ease the pressures at places at times and nutrition and raising wages, from of supporting growing populations, cold by night. WIND peasants up to the ruling classes, said Murat Iyigun, one of the study’s Inshore : Northwesterly 12-22 KT according to the study for the National authors. reaches 28 at places at Bureau of Economic Research. The study’s conclusions square with times. Offshrore : Northwesterly 18-28 KT The blessings that fl owed from this previous research on the link between reaches 33 KT at places agricultural revolution helped ease climate shocks and a country’s entry at times. the economic and societal pressures into war. Visibility : 4-8/3 km or less at places at times. that can lead to costly and disastrous “The climatic shocks observed over SEA STATE confl icts, says the report. time, like rough winters, have tended Offshore : 6-9 FT, Rises to 12 FT at The introduction of potatoes and A potato field in Lobau, Austria. to favour the emergence of confl icts,” places at times. the resultant increase in productivity said Iyigun, a University of Colorado “dramatically reduced confl ict” both of the land on which potatoes tax revenues for the state, providing professor. “People have had to fi ght to Around the region within and between states for some were grown fell with advances in added governmental stability and survive.” Weather Weather two centuries, it says. productivity. Populations were able thereby helping to “buy” the peace, Do these theories apply to the tomorrow Max/min tomorrow Max/min The researchers, who examined to feed themselves on ever smaller the report states. contemporary world? Partially, he Baghdad Sunny 19/06 M Sunny 20/06 2,477 battles fought in 899 wars over amounts of land. To risk losing these resources – for said. Kuwait City Sunny 21/08 Sunny 22/07 a 500-year period, drew two key “Confl icts declined when the workers and for political leaders – “One of the keys to development, Manama Sunny 21/16 Cloudy 22/16 conclusions. value of the object for which one was represented a fi nancial danger that without risk of confl ict, for the very Muscat Sunny 26/17 Sunny 25/18 The fi rst is linked to the declining fi ghting decreased,” the study says. states were less and less willing to poor states still largely dependent Tehran Sunny 13/01 Sunny 12/01 value of land on which potatoes are Meantime, increases in farmers’ risk, resulting in “a decline in peasant on agriculture is linked to improving grown. incomes, often due to much bigger revolts and civil wars,” the study said. and steadying the supply of their According to the study, the value and more reliable harvests, boosted It had become “too expensive to agricultural output.” Live issues The nightmare of online debate Around the world

By Oliver Burkeman household chores. Or it’s the inner idiotic holder of Bad Opinions who Clinton’s campaign manager ran a Weather Weather New York voice arguing that having fi nally will never have a clue how much I child sex ring from a Washington tomorrow Max/min tomorrow Max/min persuaded the baby to take a nap, I cared. pizzeria – if you’re a basically decent Athens Sunny 18/10 Sunny 18/10 deserve the small pleasure of a few I realise you don’t need me to and undeluded sort, in other words Beirut M Sunny 23/16 M Sunny 23/16 have come to think of it as moments on social media. It’s rarely tell you that something has gone – it’s easy to assume you’re doing Bangkok M Sunny 33/26 P Cloudy 32/26 the Vortex: the psychological relaxing or pleasurable in practice. badly wrong with how we discuss nothing wrong. Berlin S Showers 04/03 Cloudy 06/00 whirlpool into which I can But by the time I remember that, the controversial topics online. Fake But this, I am reluctantly beginning Cairo P Cloudy 24/12 Sunny 26/14 feel myself getting sucked current is too strong: I’m already news is rampant; facts don’t seem to to understand, is self-fl attery. One Cape Town Cloudy 23/15 Cloudy 21/14 I Colombo P Cloudy 29/25 S T Storms 29/24 almost every time I open Twitter, fi ring off sarcastic one-liners, change the minds of those in thrall important feature of being trapped or Facebook, or any of the websites vigorously favouriting posts from to falsehood; confi rmation bias in the Vortex, it turns out, is the way Dhaka Cloudy 27/21 Sunny 29/19 devoted to chronicling the people intelligent enough to share my drives people to seek out only the it looks like everyone else is trapped Hong Kong Sunny 20/16 M Cloudy 18/17 mendacity and stupidity of the world opinions, or else actively searching for information that bolsters their views, in the Vortex, enslaved by their anger Istanbul Sunny 14/11 M Sunny 16/11 – by which I mainly mean politics updates from commentators whose while dismissing whatever challenges and delusions, obsessed with point- Jakarta S T Storms 31/24 S T Storms 32/24 – in 2017. This metaphor is slightly views, I know in advance, will render them. (In the fi nal three months of the scoring and insult-hurling instead of Karachi Sunny 26/13 Sunny 26/11 self-serving, since it suggests not me livid. By this time, my stomach 2016 presidential election campaign, with establishing the facts – whereas London Snow 03/-2 M Sunny 01/-1 a failure of self-discipline on my muscles have tightened and my jaw is according to one analysis by Buzzfeed, you’re just speaking truth to power. Manila P Cloudy 31/24 M Cloudy 31/25 part but an external force so strong clenched, which is the point at which the top 20 fake stories were shared Yet in reality, when it comes to the Moscow Rain & Snow 02/-7 F Rain 01/01 I could hardly be expected to resist some people erupt into sweary tirades more online than the top 20 real ones: divisive, depressing, energy-sapping New Delhi P Cloudy 24/12 P Cloudy 23/10 it. Still, that’s how it feels. Once the or vicious personal feuds. But that’s to a terrifying extent, news is now nightmare that is modern online New York P Cloudy 05/02 Showers 08/-4 waters claim you, you’re no longer not really me. more fake than not.) Yet, to be honest, political debate, it’s like the old line Paris Rain 08/01 M Sunny 06/01 really in control. Mostly, my ranting continues I’d always assumed that the problem about road congestion: you’re not Sao Paulo P Cloudy 28/16 M Cloudy 22/15 At the very edge, the Vortex exerts inwardly, sometimes for hours, so that rested solely on the shoulders of other, “stuck in traffi c”. You are the traffi c. Seoul M Sunny -5/-13 Sunny -4/-12 only a gentle pull, which usually I can easily fi nd I’ve spent an entire stupider, nastier people. And by “you”, of course, I mean me. Singapore T Storms 31/24 T Storms 29/24 manifests for me as the thought that session at the gym, or a trip to the If you’re not the kind of person (And you too, though. Don’t try to Sydney Sunny 26/18 P Cloudy 25/18 catching up with the news might supermarket, mentally prosecuting a who makes death threats, or uses wriggle out of this one.) — Guardian Tokyo Clear 16/07 Clear 12/03 be a relaxing break from writing or devastating argument against some misogynistic slurs, or thinks Hillary News and Media Gulf Times 28 Monday, December 11, 2017 QATAR

Prominent Qatari entrepreneur HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani, British ambassador Ajay Sharma and other dignitaries at the Qatar-UK alumni’s 4th annual gala dinner. Qatar British Festival 2017 closing finale concert. Qatar British Fest closes to great acclaim elebrated British con- such as James Bond 007, along- with the world premiere of Qatari ised by the British Council Qatar Engineering and University Col- ductions and the participation of nutritionist and co-founder of ductor-composer James side music from Independence composer Dana Alfardan’s latest which ran from November 26 to lege London – Qatar, attracted Ajyal Competition jury from the “Low Calories” Fahad al-Ruwai- CShearman conducted the Day, and The Bridge on the River work, A Paper Heart, written to December 8, featured a variety of more than 100 professionals, ac- UK and around the world. li, and Sharma discussed ways to Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra Kwai, among others, showcasing mark 200 years since the death events for all the family, includ- ademics and students, combin- The Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim improve lifestyles and make peo- (QPO) in a concert at the Abdul the strength of British contribu- of British author Jane Austen, ing public art and architecture, ing Qatari and British architec- Al Thani Museum was the venue ple healthier, a topic that refl ects Aziz Nasser Theatre, Souq Waqif, tion to fi lm music. further highlighting the way that fi lms and musical performances, tural perspectives, which covered for a Healthy Lifestyle UK Alum- Qatar’s fi ve-year health strategy. which marked the concluding “The Festival has provided a Britain helps nurture local Qatari and showcased the best of British the topics of ‘Transformation of ni networking event on Decem- The Welsh Government, in part of the fourth annual Qatar fantastic platform for Qatar and talent. culture. The Built Environment in Doha ber 2, which was attended by 200 partnership with the British Em- British Festival on December 8. the UK to forge deeper partner- Dana Alfardan believes that Winners of the British Coun- and Its Impact on the Architec- alumni members. bassy, Qatar Airways and Cardiff The concert was attended by ships in culture, education, de- the British Festival was the per- cil’s Unlimited Doha Design tural Identity’ and ‘Everyday Life Prominent Qatari entrepre- Airport, also organised a busi- an 850-strong audience, in- sign and architecture,” Sharma fect setting for A Paper Heart’s Prize, along with special guest and Public Space’. neur HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim ness briefi ng to highlight op- cluding British ambassador Ajay said. “It has been encouraging premiere and hopes the audience speakers Ibrahim Mohamed Jai- The Council also supported al-Thani, director of Health Pro- portunities for developing links Sharma, British Council Qatar to see so many residents of Qa- enjoyed the performance and dah and Mohamed Ali Abdullah, the recently held fi fth Ajyal motion and Non-communicable between Qatar and Wales. These director Dr Frank Fitzpatrick and tar getting involved in the superb celebration of the valued cultural held a lively panel discussion on Youth Film Festival, organised by Diseases at the Ministry of Public links will be further boosted HSBC COO Ed Knox. activities on off er over the last relationship between the two na- November 29. the Doha Film Institute, which Health Dr Sheikha al-Anoud al- by the launch of Qatar Airways QPO performed The Planets fortnight.” tions. The discussion, in partnership included the screening of several Thani, fi rst health coach in Qa- fl ights between Doha and Cardiff and other works from the UK The performance concluded The two-week festival, organ- with Qatar University’s Faculty of British productions and co-pro- tar Noora al-Kuwari, advanced from May 1, 2018.

Unesco launches environmental awareness pilot programme in protected biosphere reserve

The Unesco Office in Doha, The new initiative is in support Plan for Al Reem (2018-2022).’ It of the value of biosphere in harmony with nature. The and an initial select student who will pack a “zero waste” in collaboration with Qatar’s of Unesco’s ‘Man and the will take place in the Al Numan reserves and the ecology that programme, administered population in Qatar through lunch with the least amount of Department of Protected Areas Biosphere (MAB) Programme,’ Rawdat of Al Reem. they encompass; to inform by expert desert ecologist scientific activities exploring the plastic. of the Ministry of Municipality aimed at “establishing a Al Reem was enlisted as a them on aspects of waste Dr Aspa D Chatziefthimiou, Al Numan Rawdat of Al Reem. The first tour will take place on and Environment, and Richer scientific basis for enhancing biosphere reserve under pollution and on ways to be and Environmental Actions Informational brochures on Friday (December 15) while the Environments, has launched the relationship between people Unesco’s MAB programme in pro-active stewards of nature organiser Jeanne Bédard, is biosphere reserves and ways to second tour is set on January an environmental awareness and their environment,” and 2007. globally and locally; to increase designed in two parts: targeting be pro-active will be handed out. 20, 2018. The meeting place for pilot programme in the Al Reem towards the implementation of The programme aims to enrich exposure to biospheres; and the general public through a In addition, awards will be given carpooling is at the Family Food protected biosphere reserve. the ‘Integrated Management the participants’ understanding encourage sustainable lifestyles free-of-charge educational tour, to the top three participants Centre (Airport Road) at 8am.