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Monday 31 December 2018 | 24 Rabia II 1440 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 23 | Number 7757 | 2 Riyals

2019

Hamad Port sees strong Amir receives message from Pakistan Prime Minister rise in cargo movement

SACHIN KUMAR The Port handled 90,955 tonnes of break THE PENINSULA bulk cargo in November compared to 76,228 tonnes of cargo in October. Hamad Port continues to add new chapters to its success story as it has registered a strong rise It handled 7,432 vehicles in November in cargo movement in compared to 6,730 vehicles in October. November. The movement of break bulk cargo in the port surged by Huge rise in cattle movement as the Port around 20 percent last month received 2,178 heads of cattle last month as it handled 90,955 tonnes of against 1,500 cattle a month before. break bulk cargo in November compared to 76,228 tonnes of cargo in October. The Port received 137 ships in November. The port, which is one of the largest ports in the region, Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani received yesterday a verbal message from Prime Minister received 137 ships in November. milestones in 2018. operations in December 2016, of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Imran Khan, pertaining to bilateral relations and ways to boost and The port also handled The Ministry of Transport Hamad Port has modernised the develop them. Deputy Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani received the message during a 107,631 Twenty-Foot Equivalent and Communications on way Qatar handles imports and meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi, at the Amiri Diwan. Units (TEU) containers last November 13 had celebrated a exports and has helped in facil- month, Qterminals said in a major milestones by Hamad itating the growth and diversi- tweet. Port of handling two million fication of the country’s Qterminals was set up by TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent economy. It has acquired 28 Qatar Navigation (Milaha) and units) and five million tonnes of percent share in the volume of Qatar Ports Management general cargo in a record time trade in the Middle East. Company (Mwani Qatar) to of less than two years. Within a short period of Boy with facial palsy smiles anew at Sidra manage the port. The port accomplished time, the port has reached a The port handled 7,432 another feat in early this year as global port connectivity cov- THE PENINSULA clearly were difficult. communication and positive, vehicles in November compared it celebrated, in March, handling erage with 40 ports spanning DOHA Ozair underwent two oper- meaningful social interactions. to 6,730 vehicles in October, of its first one million TEUs over three continents. ations, led by Dr Graeme Glass, For children with facial palsy, reflecting a rise of 10 percent. It containers. The port has seen tre- Sidra Medicine has successfully Attending Plastic and Cranio- trying to smile can come across also witnessed huge rise in cattle QTerminals current opera- mendous growth in a short operated on a four-year-old facial Surgeon at Sidra Medicine. as a grimace instead. This can movement as it handled 2,178 tions at Hamad Port include a duration and is further patient, born with congenital The first was to rebalance the result in the child being misun- heads of cattle last month container terminal with a cementing Qatar’s position as a facial palsy. muscles of his lower lip, and the derstood and socially isolated. against 1,500 cattle a month capacity of two million TEUs regional maritime hub. The child, Ozair, could not second, a more complex surgery, Ozair came to us when he was before, showing an increase of and general cargo, RORO and It also plays a major role in move the left side of his face was to take a muscle from his three and a half years old, and around 45 percent. livestock terminals with a securing the needs of local because of the underdevel- thigh to recreate a smile. a multidisciplinary team The port is ending the year capacity of 1.7m tonnes. The port markets and projects imple- opment of his facial nerve at Commenting on the case, Dr involving a number of specialists on positive note as it witnessed has a capacity to receive mented by Qatar, ensuring birth. This also meant that Graeme Glass said, “Conveying have helped devise a man- huge rise in vessel and cargo 500,000 vehicle per year. access of Qatari products to the simple functions like smiling or feelings by way of facial agement plan to give him his movement and achieved several Since commencing global markets. being able to communicate expression is crucial to good smile back.” `P2 120,000 receive physiotherapy from HMC in 2018

THE PENINSULA use the service recovering from patients recovering from an accident DOHA surgery or trauma. or illness. “Physiotherapy is a form of physical “Physiotherapy can be used to treat Over 100,000 and 120,000 patients therapy that uses exercise and injuries, whether they are from sports, were received at the orthopedic equipment and helps allow people to day-to-day activities, work-related, or division of Hamad Medical Corpora- restore or improve their body’s func- resulting from an automobile accident tion’s (HMC) Outpatient Physiotherapy tioning abilities. It is a speciality that such as breaks, sprains, and back and Department in 2017 and 2018 respec- treats injury, disease, and disorders neck pain. Physiotherapy is also used tively. through physical movement. The spe- in the treatment of more serious The Physiotherapy Department, cialty uses exercise, manual therapy, medical conditions, such as arthritis, which provides treatments to indi- and physical manipulation, versus muscular dystrophy, neurological dis- viduals with mobility challenges, medication and surgery,” said Noora orders, and heart and stroke rehabili- impairments, and disabilities, aged Essa Al Mudehka, Chief Physiotherapist tation,” said Al Mudehka. from 14 to 70 years, saw more than and Head of the Physiotherapy HMC’s orthopedic physical therapy 12,000 new patients at its Outpatient Department. specialists are highly trained health Physiotherapy Clinics in 2017 and over According to Al Mudehka, physio- professionals who provide high-quality Tennis stars get a taste of Qatar at Cultural Village 15,000 in 2018. therapy and physical therapy are used treatment. Providing postoperative and post- to treat different parts of the body for “Our aim is to improve a person’s FROM LEFT: Serbia’s World No.1 Novak Djokovic, Austria’s Dominic Thiem and traumatic physiotherapy man- a variety of reasons. She said staff quality of life by using a variety of treat- Switzerland’s Stan Wawrinka at the Katara Cultural Village in Doha yesterday, agement, the department offers spe- provide a comprehensive range of ments to alleviate pain and restore ahead of the ExxonMobil Qatar Open Tennis Tournament which kicks off at the cialised care to individuals with physiotherapy services and notes that function or, in the case of permanent Khalifa Tennis and Squash Complex today. orthopedic, neurosurgical, and spine physiotherapy has become an essential injury or disease, to lessen the effects of disorders, with many patients who part of the rehabilitation process for any dysfunction,” said Al Mudehka.

Mahaseel shopping festival to begin at Katara today Travel & Tourism PAGE | 4-5 PAGE | 8 Qatar Airways touches Qatar cements down for the first time position as cruise THE PENINSULA in Da Nang, Vietnam tourist destinationn dairies and meat products. sheep meat, poultry, eggs, dairy Mahaseel serves as a good On its second edition, the SPONSORS SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT MONDAY 31 DECEMBER 2018 DOHA The market features Qatari products and natural juices are marketing platform for local festival saw an increasing farms selling various types of participating in the souq. farms, which offer reasonable interest among Qatari companies The third edition of the Mahaseel fresh fruits and vegetables, The festival also offers prices for their produce. with a rise in the number of local shopping festival will open today at flowers and ornamental plants several entertainment and The Mahaseel souq had seen farms who took part, from 14 last the southern seaside of the Cultural and local companies offering food awareness activities for children remarkable success in previous year to 22. PICS: BAHER AMIN/THE PENINSULA Shop Qatar boosts retail and hospitality sectors Village Foundation – Katara. products related to livestock, in and adults to enhance the expe- edition by introducing different Not only did Mahaseel Fes- RAYNALD C RIVERA OidbhNil The market festival which addition to natural honey pro- rience of visitors and educate varieties of Qatari agricultural crops tival offer products but also will continue until January 5 duced by the Qatari farms and the them on the best practices while from fresh vegetables to flowers and useful information on the vast Included with opening its doors from 9am until best varieties of local dates. shopping. The activities will also ornamental plants, in addition to array of local farm produce and 9pm, this year is hosting some 22 Twenty-two Qatari farms and six include workshops on plan- local farm products such as honey, their health benefits through today’s edition is a local farms, flower nurseries and major national companies spe- tation, flower arrangement and milk and their derivatives, poultry, seminars, workshops and com- special supplement six other national companies for cialised in producing and selling essential agricultural knowledge. meat, and natural juices. petitions organised on the side. 02 HOME MONDAY 31 DECEMBER 2018 Qatar and Pakistan discuss bilateral relations ‘Screen For Life’ celebrates another year of achievements

QNA In the year 2018, importance of timely screening DOHA a total of 6,917 of breast & bowel cancer.” people came forward “Various initiatives in the The Primary Health Care Corpo- form of hosting guest lectures, ration (PHCC), the main provider for breast cancer events, mobile unit activation of primary healthcare services screening and 9,185 for mammogram screening and across the State of Qatar, for bowel screening. corporate tie-ups have shown through its programme Screen significant results in raising for Life, has continued during awareness.” she added. 2018 its bandwagon of effective 2011-2016, PHCC once again PHCC has endeavoured to campaigns to raise awareness declared its commitment make sure the Breast and Bowel on breast & bowel cancer. towards driving its campaigns Cancer Screening awareness is In the year 2018, a total of in full throttle for the upcoming spread in Qatar and has suc- 6,917 people came forward for year 2019. ceeded to hold many events and breast cancer screening and The Manager of Screening initiatives around this pro- 9,185 for bowel screening. These Programs at PHCC, Dr Shaikha gramme. From lectures to numbers continue to grow Abu Shaikha, said, “Screen for private and public sector, malls through the dedicated efforts Life over the years, has grown activations, mobile unit for and initiatives of the pro- from just a programme to a mammogram screening acti- Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khallifa Al Thani with the grammes team. great movement to change peo- vation, and more, all these activ- Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Screen for Life, initiated by ple’s lives. As part of our key ities led to increased awareness and his accompanying delegation, on the occasion of their visit to the country. During the meeting, the Ministry of Public Health strategic goal, we have been among the public to start they discussed the bilateral relations and ways of developing and strengthening them, in addition under Qatars National Cancer taking measure to ensure that breaking the taboo, and to lead to a number of regional and international issues of common concern. Program in accordance with the we create awareness among our people to take action and care National Health Strategy fellow citizens on the about their health. Dreama launches importance of fostering orphans campaign

THE PENINSULA bring happiness to them. Director of the Orphan Care integration and empowerment of changing the society’s perspectives Dreama Centre’s responsibility DOHA Through this campaign Center, made clear that the Center the children of Dreama, raise towards the orphans’ issues has towards the orphan children but Dreama also seeks to reach all is undertaking a key role in pro- awareness on the responsibility of been one the challenges that the it is the entire community’s as they The Orphan Care Center, Dreama, community segments to promote viding the foster families and con- the community towards this Center has tackled successfully. are an essential part of the society has launched an awareness their awareness on the importance tinuous support for the orphan important category of the society, An example for this is that and they have tremendous campaign under the banner of of fostering orphans, being the children category. develop the society’s vision of the there are tens of families who are potential and capabilities that ‘Their Happiness Is Ours’ to raise natural environment for the “Dreama has also launched orphan child that he, along with willing to foster children following should be developed and pro- awareness among the society indi- orphan child, and stressing the ‘Their Happiness Is Ours’ cam- his companions, will form the a number of intensive campaigns moted to serve their country. viduals with regard to the impor- importance of growing the child paign that reflects Dreama’s belief future, expectations and power, that were promoted by means of “The campaign will continue tance of fostering orphans and its in a normal upbringing envi- in the importance of integrating and they are a main component media, and organising workshops for a whole month seeking to impact on their happiness. ronment, in which societal justice the orphans as a social principle of the society.” in which religious scholars and raise awareness on the issues of Thirty public figures from dif- is achieved based on integrity and and the positive role that a foster The campaign further preachers took part where they the orphans and the importance ferent sectors in the Qatari com- interrelations among the people family can play throughout the encourages Qatari families to contributed to guiding the society of fostering the children of munity will participate in the cam- of the society, and based on the upbringing of the orphan child and foster orphans; such a process and people on the virtues of fos- Dreama. For our part we have paign that will continue up to teachings of our righteous religion its support for his stability and entails undertaking the responsi- tering orphans. focused during 2018 on January 25. The campaign will that urge for such values of the welfare,” she said. bility of fostering an orphan child, For his part Ahmed Al Ghanim, launching a variety of awareness provide awareness massages Qatari community. She added: “Through this bringing him up, providing care Head of Preparation & Design Unit campaigns and we affirm that we through social media platforms on In this framework Mariam bint campaign and other similar events and maintaining a sustainable and at the Community Awareness will continue to organise such fostering orphans and efforts to Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad, Executive we are seeking to promote society honourable life, noting that Office, stressed that it is not just campaigns in 2019,” he said. MoI signs cooperation deal with Supreme Judiciary Council

THE PENINSULA DOHA

The Ministry of the Interior, represented by the Information Systems Department, signed a coop- eration agreement with the Supreme Judiciary Council at the headquarters of the Council for establishing an electronic link between them. The agreement aims to regulate the process of linking the Ministry of Interior and the Supreme Judiciary Council, in order to achieve speed and accuracy in the exchange of information, inte- gration of information and promotion of the concept of the Paperless Ministry. The agreement includes provision for pro- Nahar Al Mutawah, head of Operations and Maintenance Sector viding the Supreme Judiciary Council with per- at Qatar Cool, and Khaled Al Yazidi, Head of Public Relation sonal information and vehicle information, pro- Department at Qatar Charity, at the ceremony. viding the Ministry of Interior with the relevant verdicts concerned with the work of the The officials at the signing event. Qatar Charity receives in-kind Ministry. donations from ‘Qatar Cool’ THE PENINSULA and its staff who contributed to Boy with facial palsy smiles anew at Sidra DOHA this great humanitarian work. “We are keen to participate FROM PAGE 1 Qatar Charity’s (QC) in-kind in activities that benefit the local continue to receive. We are very donations project ‘Tayf’ has community and our company Ozair’s second operation grateful to the Government of received donation from Qatar organises many other activities,” took approximately six and a Qatar and Qatar Foundation for District Cooling Company (Qatar said Nahar Al Mutawah, head of half hours. It required removing their commitment to providing Cool), which will be channeled Operations and Maintenance muscle from his inner thigh and highly specialized medical facil- to support charity works bene- Sector at Qatar Cool. transferring the muscle to his ities for children in the country.” fiting low-income families and “Our contribution came in face. The blood vessels were re- The Plastic and Craniofacial workers. the form of unused clothes, as we attached under a microscope. A Surgery program at Sidra Med- The benefactions were believe that the investment of new nerve supply was borrowed icine leverages the expertise of delivered at the Qatar Cool’s surplus resources is necessary from the muscle used to clench a distinguished team in pro- building in the presence of Nahar and positive. Through this con- the teeth and was connected to viding cutting edge care to indi- Al Mutawa, head of the Opera- tribution, we aim to ease the the transferred muscle. Using a viduals with congenital and tions and Maintenance Sector at burdens on low-income families portable ultrasound machine to acquired deformities of the skull, the company. Fareed Khaleel Al and workers, and encourage “listen” to the reconnected blood face and hand. It provides a Siddieqy, Director of Projects and other institutions and companies supply, Ozair’s new smile muscle comprehensive range of services Centers Department at Qatar to participate in such charitable was monitored closely in the first for children and young people Charity expressed his pride in this and humanitarian campaigns”, 48 hours. He was discharged with isolated and syndromic initiative, which instills the values Mutawah added. after four days. His post-oper- craniofacial conditions – of love of humanitarian and vol- He also applauded QC’s ative recovery took three weeks. including total cranial vault untary work in the company’s humanitarian efforts to support “The surgery was one of the remodeling, distraction and employees, contributes to serving the low-income people, pointing most challenging operations for spring expansion; the full range the local community, and sup- out that Qatar Cool will partic- plastic surgeons. The nerve Ozair with his parents. of cleft lip and cleft palate sur- ports the charity’s humanitarian ipate in such initiatives organised supply will take at least three geries, orthognathic surgery, projects for the low-income by Qatar Charity in the future. months to grow into the nerve huge step towards him rediscov- the wider team at Sidra Medicine orbital and eyelid recon- workers. Qatar Charity receives of the new muscle to make it ering his confidence and being have all played a key role in struction, ear reconstruction; Al Siddieqy underlined the in-kind donations, including move. I am confident that with able to express himself more transforming not only his smile facial re-animation surgery; readiness of the charity to coop- clothes, shoes, children toys, fur- the help of our therapists, Ozair clearly,” said Dr Glass. but also his life. We are already primary and secondary facial erate with all, either institutions niture and electronic appliances will learn to smile symmetrically Ozair’s parents said, “It is starting to see subtle changes to trauma reconstruction; as well or individuals, within the country for its ‘Tayf” projects to benefit and spontaneously over the next truly beautiful to see our lovely his personality since the oper- as the treatment of complex to serve the noble humanitarian workers and families with 12-18 months. The presence of little boy Ozair being able to ation and appreciate the post- hand anomalies and vascular goals. He also thanked Qatar Cool low-income. a spontaneous smile will be a smile. Dr Glass, Dr Stotland and operative follow up and care we anomalies. MONDAY 31 DECEMBER 2018 HOME 03 Deputy PM & FM meets Pakistan Foreign Minister Qatar takes part in GCC Wildlife Day celebration

QNA balance in the Gulf region and to next two days until completion of DOHA intensify awareness-raising all the violations in the region. efforts on the Gulf Wildlife Day Furthermore, the General The State of Qatar, represented on December 30, each year. Cleanness Department by the Ministry of Municipality Moreover, the Ministry, rep- announced the implementation and Environment, participated resented by Al Shamal Munici- of a comprehensive clean-up yesterday in the celebration of the pality and General Cleanness campaign for the north-west Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Department, announced the coast of the state (75km) and has Wildlife Day 2018, which falls on success of its campaign to clean so far removed 480 tonnes of 30 December each year, under and remove neglected cars, boats miscellaneous waste. the slogan “nature reserves is a and abandoned cabins in Al Director of General Clean- national treasure”. Shamal’s industrial area, especially liness Department Safar Al Shafi This celebration comes in the as this waste has an impact on said that this campaign comes context of the efforts of Qatar in hygiene, environmental integrity within the framework of special conjunction with the rest of the and the overall landscape of the programs implemented to clean GCC countries to preserve wildlife region. The Ministry revealed that the beaches in all regions of Qatar, and protect species threatened in the first day of the campaign the adding that work is implemented with extinction in the GCC, by municipality removed 12 aban- in a streamlined manner to not highlighting the importance of the doned cars, one dump wagon, and affect the daily work programs. He conservation, protection and one cabin, in addition to the boats’ explained that the campaign began Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani development of biodiversity owners moved more than 30 boats 20 days ago, where the work was met yesterday with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Makhdoom through the development and and a number of cabins. distributed in three stages. He said Shah Mahmood Qureshi, who is visiting the country. During the meeting, they discussed bilateral implementation of programs and The cleaning rate of the area the second phase will start next relations and ways to boost and develop them, as well as the latest updates in the region especially activities that lead to the conser- reached about 75 percent during week from Al Zubara to Um Haish, in Afghanistan. In addition, they discussed issues of common interest. vation and protection of biodi- the first day of the campaign. The and the third phase from the area versity and environmental campaign will continue for the of Um Haish to Zekreet. QSRSN organises sign language workshop

QNA DOHA

Qatar Society for Rehabilitation of Special Needs (QSRSN) is organising a specialised course in sign language for medical terms for employees of Sidra Medicine. The three-week course Imams and Muazins at a ceremony held at the end of the programme includes training in the names of organised by the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs. departments, diseases, medicines and medical and administrative procedures in hospitals, as well Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic The participants attend the event organised by Qatar Society for Rehabilitation of Special Needs for as formation of sentences and the employees of Sidra Medicine. Affairs trains Imams of mosques simulation of deaf sign language with intensive practical training THE PENINSULA “The Department developed on them. The participants in the Al Thani, stressed that the praised the excellent cooperation impairment. DOHA a special course and invited course are accredited as trans- training course is part of the great between QSRSN and Sidra to He said that trainees receive experts to deliver the lectures on lators for sign language at Sidra cooperation between Qatar serve persons with disabilities intensive practical training on The Ministry of Awqaf and various subjects related to in order to facilitate the inter- Foundation and other institutions and society in general. sign language from gestures and Islamic Affairs represented by the Islamic law because the trainees action and communication with operating in the State and its Prof. Naji Zakarneh, hearing intimations through the body lan- Religious Calls and Guidance played important role in the the hearing impaired persons and various disciplines, with the aim impairment advisor to QSRSN guage and the identification of Department has concluded a four fields of learning and reciting enable them to access all the of empowering members of the and the workshop presenter, medical and health terminology month programme for training holy Quran,” said Jaber. He said services provided by Sidra. community to better commu- noted that the training program with applied training to become Imams and Muazins of mosques. that Imams and Muazins should Chairman of Qatar Society for nicate with persons with disabil- is designed to enable participants qualified at the end of the course Imam leads prayer and have enough knowledge about Rehabilitation of Special Needs, ities in general and the hearing to be able to communicate well on excellent communication with Muazin calls for prayer. “Under Sharia’h like Islamic jurispru- H E Sheikh Thani bin Abdullah impairment in particular. He with persons with hearing the hearing impaired persons. the programme the participants dence and Quran science so they received lessons on Islamic juris- could reply properly to the ques- prudence, doctrine and tions of people. Tajweed,” said Malullah Jaber, “2019-training plan includes Director the Religious Calls and 30 speicilised prgrammes. Five Nomination for Katara’s Award for Prophet’s Poet begins tomorrow Guidance Department. programmes are dedicated to He said the programme was Qatari preachers and orators THE PENINSULA The nomination will continue Nabti). The general supervisor of and third prizes will get QR1m, organised under ‘2019-training under which over 500 clerics DOHA until April 30. The contest, fea- Katara’s Award for the Prophet’s QR700,000 and QR400,000 in plan’ to educate the participating from all over the country will turing original Arabic poems on Poet, Khaled Abdul Rahim Al both categories. Imams and Muazins specific receive the training about The nomination for fourth the life and traditions of Prophet Sayed, said that as per the The award seeks to encourage information about Sharia’h Sharia’h including calling, Islamic Katara’s Award for the Prophet’s Mohammed (Peace Be Upon Him) requirement the candidate should people to preserve poetry. Poetry because they played key role in science, jurisprudence, doctrine, Poet worth QR4.2m will begin is divided into two categories — fill a form online at www. helps to instil Islamic values in the creating values and morality in Tajweed, prophetic traditions,” from January 1, 2019, Katara, Classical Poetry (Shaar Al Faseeh) katarapoet.com before April 30, minds of many, preserving her- the community. said Malallah Cultural Village has announced. and Colloquial Poetry (Shaar Al 2019. The winner of fist, second itage across generations. QA, QDF welcome tennis champions to Qatar ExxonMobil Open

THE PENINSULA marks a great beginning to the before and after the matches, and world, will give Qatar Airways DOHA start of the new year. to welcoming players and spec- extensive marketing and branding “We continue to support the tators alike through our home and rights at the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar Airways and Qatar Duty emergence of sports in Qatar and hub Hamad International Airport. Qatar. The agreement also sees Free (QDF) are sponsoring the being the bridge to welcome world We wish them a successful Qatar Airways become the Official Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2019 champions to our country. Our tournament.” Airline Partner of the 2019 editions tournament on its 27th edition this longstanding sponsorship of the Qatar Airways and Qatar Duty of the FIFA Club World Cup, the year taking place at the Khalifa Qatar ExxonMobil Open tourna- Free will mark their presence at FIFA U-20 World Cup, the FIFA International Tennis and Squash ments each year shows our com- the tournament by hosting special U-17 World Cup, the FIFA Beach Complex in Doha, from today till mitment to the Qatar 2030 vision booths, offering visitors a taste of Soccer World Cup, and the FIFA January 5, 2019. to become a global sports desti- their award-winning services. The eWorld Cup. The Qatar ExxonMobil Open nation. We look forward to show- Qatar Airways booth will feature The airline has an existing 2019 tournament, one of two ATP casing our world-class hospitality an interactive green screen where sponsorship strategy with premier World Tour events held in the and wish all the players the best tennis fans can get their photos sporting clubs around the world. Middle East, hosts many of the of luck.” printed in virtual backgrounds Qatar Airways recently revealed world’s best tennis players Qatar Duty Free Vice-Pres- such as upcoming destinations and multi-year sponsorship agree- including world number one ident Operations, Thabet Musleh, on an aircraft. The QDF booth will ments with several sports entities, Serbian tennis player, Novak said: “Qatar Duty Free is once feature a guessing game accom- which includes being official Djokovic. again proud to sponsor the Qatar panied by a photo opportunity, airline sponsor of CONMEBOL Qatar Airways Senior Vice- ExxonMobil Open 2019 tour- visitors will have to guess the professional football competitions President Marketing and Cor- nament. Sport brings people number of branded balls in an across South America for the next porate Communications, Salam together and we are delighted to acrylic box and share it on social 4.5 years including the Copa CON- Al Shawa, said: “Qatar Airways is be able to contribute to bringing media for a chance to win prizes MEBOL Libertadores, Copa CON- thrilled to bring the world’s top this significant global sporting offered by Qatar Duty Free. MEBOL Sudamericana and the tennis players to Qatar to compete event to people around the world. In May 2017, Qatar Airways CONMEBOL Recopa. at the state-of-the-art Khalifa We have participated in the Qatar announced a groundbreaking In addition to the tennis, Qatar International Tennis & Squash ExxonMobil Open for more than sponsorship deal with FIFA, which Duty Free has also sponsored the Qatar Airways and Qatar Duty Free (QDF) are sponsoring the Qatar complex. Being the Official Airline 10 years and we are committed to saw the award-winning airline Commercial Bank Golf Masters ExxonMobil Open 2019 tournament on its 27th edition this year. Sponsor of the world renowned supporting the Qatar 2030 vision. become the Official Partner and since 2009 and, this year, Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2019 We look forward to hosting vis- Official Airline of FIFA until 2022. extended its sponsorship of this welcomes more than 3,000 duty reaching over 2,000 key execu- tournament is a major highlight itors in our booth at the public The partnership, one of the biggest sport to the annual TFWA con- free and travel retail brands and tives from major landlords and on Qatar’s sporting calendar and village for some entertainment sporting sponsorships in the ference in Cannes which 500 international exhibitors, duty free retailers. 04 HOME MONDAY 31 DECEMBER 2018 Pakistan Navy Task Group to dock at Hamad Port today

THE PENINSULA DOHA

Four Pakistan Navy ships will be docking at Hamad Port, from today to January 3, 2019 in display of goodwill and deep bonded friendly relations between both countries. The Task Group comprising Ships — PNS Khaibar, PNS Madadgar, PNS Rah Naward and PMSS Zhob — are visiting Qatar with an aim to enhance maritime Farewell ceremony for Moroccan Ambassador collaboration between two navies. Besides regular participation of PNS Khaiber will dock at Hamad Port today. The Secretary-General of the Foreign Ministry, H E Dr Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi, held yesterday Pakistan Navy ships in Dimdex a farewell ceremony in honour of the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco to the State of Qatar, Exhibition, this visit marks the Nabil Zniber, on the occasion of ending his tenure in the country. A line-up of Their Excellencies, heads largest number of Pakistani The 1600 tonnes twin screw Officers and Men. of diplomatic missions and bureaus accredited to the country attended the ceremony, which was held Vessels visiting Qatar at any one utility ship is designed for Multi- PMSS Zhob, named after a at the Diplomatic Club, along with Foreign Ministry department directors. given time. The Port Call by Paki- Purpose roles and operations at river in Balochistan province, is a stani Ships is testimony of growing high seas and has been optimised Maritime Patrol Vessel (MPV), security and defence relationship for provision of logistic support to indigenously built at Karachi between State of Qatar and Islamic coastal stations, replenishment of Shipyard & Engineering Works, Republic of Pakistan, said a press surface ships at anchor/adrift/at Pakistan. The ship was launched release issued by embassy of harbor and towing operations. The on December 5, 2017 and commis- Pakistan. PNS Khaibar derives its Ship is characterised by excellent sioned in Pakistan Maritime name from a famous battle in 629 maneuverability, spacious layout Security Agency on August 9, 2018. AD during which seemingly invin- and adequate Bollard Pull capacity. PMSS Zhob is one of the lead ships cible fortress of Khaibar was Since commissioning, it has par- of Hingol Class MPVs 6HT (600 overcome by Muslims. PNS ticipated in numerous national and tons Maritime Patrol Vessel). Khaibar (Ex HMS Arrow) is the international exercises. Ship has been optimized for fourth of eight Type-21 Amazon PNS Rah Naward (Ex-Prince maritime policing, EEZ patrolling Class Frigates and was acquired William) was commissioned on and SAR roles, enabling quick by Pakistan Navy from UK in early September 23, 2010 at Hull United response, optimum presence and ‘90s. Since its induction in Pakistan Kingdom. Since commissioning, reduce turnaround times. Ship is Navy Fleet, it has undergone major the ship has been entrusted with fitted with four high speed diesel qualitative modifications in its the responsibility to impart pro- engines, driving four shafts ena- weaponry and sensors. Due to its fessional, educational, and bling it to ensure sustained high unique capabilities, the Ship is physical training to officers and speeds and excellent maneuver- capable of undertaking a variety men of Pakistan Navy. The ship, ability. Ship has an overall length of Naval Operations across entire being the first ever Tall Ship of PN, 68.5 meters, beam of 11 meters and spectrum of Naval Warfare. provides a unique opportunity for can achieve maximum speed of PNS Madadgar, meaning understanding the essence of 27 knots. The officers and men of ‘Logistic Support Provider’, is a teamwork, leadership, and the visiting Task Group will hold Small Tanker cum Utility Ship enhanced self esteem. professional discussions and inter- (STUS), with an overall length Sail training provides an actions with their counterparts 47.20 meters, beam of 11 meter unconventional yet an extremely from Qatar Navy on subjects of Amiri Guard Commander meets UK Defence Attache and can achieve maximum of 15 effective way of building many mutual interest. The visit will knots. The Ship has been indige- useful skills which can prove strengthen mutual desire of pro- The Amiri Guard Commander, Major General Hazza bin Khalil Al Shahwani, met here yesterday with nously built at Karachi Shipyard highly beneficial ashore and at moting peace and security in the UK Defence Attache to the State of Qatar, Colonel (Pilot) Simon Blake, on the occasion of assuming his & Engineering Works, Pakistan sea. The ship is making a pow- region beside enhancing maritime duties in Doha. During the meeting, they exchanged views on topics of common interest in military areas. and was commissioned in erful contribution in shaping cooperation between the two sea- Pakistan Navy on July 19, 2011. professional acumen of Naval faring nations.

QICC to set up a joint committee CONDOLENCES to improve workplace relations

THE PENINSULA DOHA

Qatar International Cables Company (QICC) is collaborating with the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs (MADLSA) and the Inter- national Labour Organization (ILO) to set up a pilot joint committee in order to ensure good workplace relations. Employees of Qatar International Cables Company at a work site. offers its heartfelt The move aims at promoting employees’ participation rights condolences to through a new communication of whom are blue-collar on Dispute Resolution. channel that will be an avenue for employees. The creation of the This joint committee will facil- management to share information joint committee will play an itate open communication to the employees and at the same important role in breaking down between management and time enable them to raise ques- the barriers between management employees helping to solve work- Abraham V Augusthy tions, issues or concerns to and operators,” said Karima related issues and enhance management. Cherifi, QICC HR and Admin working conditions. The joint Graphic Designer As part of this joint effort, Director. committee will also consider areas QICC’s HR and Admin Director, “We were impressed with such as employment regulations, The Peninsula Karima Cherifi invited both organ- QICC’s existing labour-man- training, health and safety as well isations represented by Marie-José agement communication culture. as working conditions.The project Tayah, ILO’s Technical Officer on Supervisors discuss key per- is expected to start by mid-January Dispute Resolution and formance indicators and safety 2019. Mohammed Saied Salem Al Athba guidelines on a monthly basis with Qatar International Cables Al Merri and Abdulaziz factory workers. Further, bulletin Company is a Nexans Company on the sad demise of his Mohammed Sharif from ADLSA boards, safety technical flash established in Qatar in June 2008 to tour the facilities in QICC’s cable reports and employee skill score- as a joint venture company factory in Mesaieed. On this cards can be found across the between Nexans and Al Mirqab occasion, they also discussed the factory. This is certainly a good Capital and is fully managed by Father details of the formation of the joint base for taking labour-man- Nexans. The head quarter and the committee. agement relationships in QICC a plant is in Mesaieed with a Sales “The Ministry of Ministry of step further through the formation and Administrative Office in Doha. Administrative Development, of joint committees,” said Marie- The production range includes Labour and Social Affairs support José Tayah, ILO Technical Officer Low- and Medium- Voltage power all efforts that help facilitate strong cables, control cables, LSZH cables, May God bless the departed workplace relations as these will The move aims at fire safety cables with the main benefit employers and employees promoting employees’ market covering GCC, Yemen, Iran soul and give fortitude to the alike. We warmly welcome the participation rights and Iraq. The expansion will cover steps QICC is taking to pilot this also include low end High-volt- bereaved family members to joint committee and look forward through a new agepower cables with the target to replicating this initiative across communication to supply to Kahramaa power bear this irreparable loss. Qatar,” said ADLSA official. channel that will network expansion projects. The “It is an honour to support the be an avenue for plant is among the most advanced realization of Qatar’s 2030 vision Nexans factories in the MENA and to pilot the creation of a joint management to share (Middle-East North Africa) region. committee. QICC is a multicultural information to the Nexans brings energy to life company employing workers from employees. through an extensive range of 18 nationalities, some 60 percent cables and cabling solutions. MONDAY 31 DECEMBER 2018 HOME 05 Jumbo plans expansion with new stores and online shopping portal

THE PENINSULA Sulaiman, Vice Chairman & Man- range and premium products DOHA aging Director, Video Home & which include the OLED TV, Electronic Centre, Jumbo Elec- InstaView Refrigerator, TwinWash Jumbo Electronics is one of the tronics, said, “The Jumbo in 2019 Washing Machine, Inverter AC’s, leading business groups in Qatar will be different from the Jumbo OLED Digital Signage and Hotel offering a diverse range of of the past, but it will still retain its Interactive TV’s with an effort to products and services across its essence of delivering outstanding provide more meaningful inno- various business verticals in quality products and service to the vations with every product being consumer electronics & durables people of Qatar. We will be re- intuitive, responsive and func- retailing, wholesale, telecom innovating the retail shopping tional. Its very own electronic and services, B2B, MEP and after sales experience for our customers in appliances brand ‘Oscar’ has service. With over 13 retail outlets, the months to come with some ini- expanded its range to include a over 100 channel partners and tiatives in the digital space and variety of kitchen appliances and many more customers in public some in the traditional brick & home entertainment products and private sector, it has mortar shops.” over the past five years. It is cur- Jumbo Electronics’ Sajed Jassim Mohammed Sulaiman, Vice-Chairman & Managing Director, hands over developed a formidable sales CV Rappai, Director & CEO, rently the number 1 cooking range the 2019 Business Strategy Document to C V Rappai, Director & CEO, as Rohit Pandit, COO, looks on. network over the last 4 decades. Video Home & Electronic Centre, brand in Qatar. Its products are It continues to diversify into new Jumbo Electronics, said, “The year sourced from factories in the Far businesses and bring in new 2018 has shown us that unless East, Turkey, Italy etc. with R&D brands to enhance its offerings to companies evolve and innovate facilities focusing on innovation providing a variety of products Medina Centrale in The Pearl as a City Centre showrooms with plans the people of Qatar. they will not be able to sustain in and quality. Oscar, a Qatari brand from leading brands to be shopped franchise store bringing the total to open specialised stores shortly. Jumbo’s plans include the coming future. We are also with registered trademarks will online and delivered to the count to 3 franchise outlets It is currently meeting customer expansion of its current retail changing the shopping experience diversify its sales and marketing doorstep of the customer. The site managed by Jumbo. requirements by providing solu- operations with the addition of for our customers by providing activities across other markets in will be uniquely tailored for the In the business to business tions from leading brands like new stores and launching of an them with additional avenues to the Middle East. Qatar market providing multiple (B2B) segment, Jumbo has been Rational, Arosa Mobilia, Allmilmo online shopping portal dedicated shop online for our products using Jumbo’s retail business is set payment options with quick hassle steadily making significant strides and Muhendisler. to IT, mobiles, electronics and just their mobile phones. With the to be strengthened in the year to free delivery anywhere in Qatar. in catering to the various needs of Jumbo ElectroMech (MEP arm appliances. It has also brought in booming projects in the country come with the opening of 2 new Jumbo is also a Premium government, semi government of Jumbo Electronics) has been one the world leader in air purification our company is geared up to com- outlets, one at Palms Mall in dealer for Ooredoo and will be and different private companies. of the fastest growing divisions of solutions, Blueair to Qatar earlier plete the supply & installation of Rayyan and the other at Doha building on this relation further by It is currently on path to supplying the company providing ELV (Extra this year. The year 2019 will also products in the B2B & MEP Souq in Al Nasser. While these opening a cobranded shop in shop a range of built-in and free Low Voltage) and commercial air see a significant refresh of Jumbo segment” showrooms will replace the older at its Barwa Village retail outlet. standing appliances to various real conditioning solutions in the Electronics brand identity in the Some of the key focus areas showrooms in the same area, it At this cobranded counter cus- estate complexes comprising of country. In preparation for the market as it continues to grow and under its various verticals for 2019 marks a shift in the company’s tomers will be able to avail of all over 400 Villas and over 650 2022 FIFA World Cup, Jumbo expand; the new identity will help are as follows. LG, its leading direction from standalone stores services typically available at any apartments. Its Built-in Kitchen through its association with Bosch it be relevant in an evolving brand continues to grow from to showrooms within malls. Ooredoo outlet. In addition to this, Solutions business that it began in can provide CCTV advanced market in the years to come. strength to strength and will Jumbo will soon be launching it will also begin managing the 2018 also has a dedicated expe- security camera solutions with Sajed Jassim Mohammed maintain its focus on its Signature an online shopping portal Ooredoo branch at rience zone at its Airport road and Artificial Intelligence capabilities. QM hosts Executive Teachers’ Council ahead of new year THE PENINSULA teachers and students in Qatar. The of Education, the event was an into the classroom. Educational Specialist said, “Stu- world around them and express DOHA event was a chance for QM to interactive session whereby The highly engaging discussion dents in schools are getting their themselves in creative ways. The introduce schools to its projects and teachers were asked to review stressed the importance of collab- inspiration and being encouraged session was very productive and Under the patronage of its Chair- initiatives as well as get their lesson plans developed by QM and oration between QM and the edu- by their teachers who should have we are pleased to head into 2019 person, H E Sheikha Al Mayassa perspectives on how to better inte- share their feedback. The session cational sector, highlighting QM’s access to the best resources. It is with a fresh set of ideas and bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, grate museum collections with the also saw teachers work with a set commitment to develop a thriving therefore vital that we work closely perspectives.” Qatar Museums (QM) hosted a national educational curriculum. of artworks and artefacts from QM cultural sector by inspiring a new with teachers and educators to The Four-hour long discussion meeting with teachers at the Fire Organised by QM’s Department to develop lesson plans incorpo- generation of creators and pro- provide learners with access to our generated several suggestions from Station as part of its efforts to make of Education and hosted in coop- rating the objects and finding new ducers. Commenting on the event, museums and collections, thus teachers on how schools can foster its cultural resources available to eration with the Ministry ways of brining QM’s vast resources Haya Al Jabor Senior Programs encouraging them to explore the close collaboration with QM.

QDA opens 19th edition of Al Bawasil Diabetes Camp A leading Media Company

THE PENINSULA in Qatar is looking for: DOHA

The 19th Al Bawasil Diabetes Camp, organized by Qatar Diabetes Association (QDA), a member of Qatar Foundation Business Reporter (QF), kicked off yesterday. The event is being held [ .Q%CR .:0V : CV:  7V:` V6]V`1VJHV8 under the patronage of [ :H.VCQ`; RV$`VV 1J =Q%`J:C1I5 I: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, HQII%J1H:QJ Q` : `VC: VR VCR8 Chairman of Al Shaqab – a A QatarDebate delegation during a visit to the US. member of QF. [ $ :JRLQ` &'() V6]V`1VJHV 1Q%CR GV :J The five-day camp will run until Thursday, January 3, :R0:J :$V8 QatarDebate strengthens at Guest Services at Al Majilis al Janoub – Student Housing [ 1C1J$%:C ^)`:G1HL'J$C1._ ]`V`V``VR8 Complex in Education City. It ties with US universities has brought together 50 children – between the ages THE PENINSULA Several meetings of 7 and 11 representing 12 dia- DOHA were held with betes associations from Sub-Editor universities officials various countries across the A delegation from QatarDebate to discuss forms of region, including Qatar, [ '6HVCCVJ 1J 'J$C1. $`:II:` :JR ]%JH %:QJ8 visited five universities in the Kuwait, Oman, Sudan, Algeria, US to strengthen ties for future cooperation with Libya, Palestine, Iran, Jordan, [ &1J1I%I 7V:` V6]V`1VJHV 1J %GG1J$ corporation. QatarDebate after the Tunisia, and Morocco. They visited the University growing demand of Dr Abdulla Al Hamaq, JV1]:]V` Q` I:$:<1JV8 of Utah, University of Western the Arabic debates Executive Director, QDA, Kentucky, University of said, “The Al Bawasil camp is [ )G1C1 7 Q 1`1 V HQI]VCC1J$ .V:RC1JV5 H:]QJ8 Chicago, Harvard University among students an excellent opportunity for and New York University. which was generated children to learn about type [ 1`V]:`V Q 1Q`@ 1J V61GCV .Q%`8 Several meetings were held by participations in 1 diabetes, outside of a hos- [ '6]V` @JQ1CVR$V Q` 4J5V1$J8 with universities officials to previous international pital. As part of the program, discuss forms of cooperation the participants are taught [ )G1C1 7 Q 1Q`@ _%1H@C7 :JR :HH%`: VC7 %JRV` with QatarDebate after the events hosted by how to do a blood glucose growing demand of the Arabic QatarDebate. test, how to use specific ]`V%`V8 debates among students which equipment such as a gluco- was generated by participations meter, glucose strips, and [ )G1C1 7 Q $`:] :  Q`7 :JR `V1`1 V 1` `V_%1`VR8 in previous international events with the support of QatarDebate insulin, how to eat well, and hosted by QatarDebate. Center, whereby QatarDebate how to recognise symptoms [ $ :JRLQ` &VJ: V6]V`1VJHV 1Q%CR GV :J Abdulrahman Al Subaie will support the academic insti- of hypoglycemia.” Head of Outreach at tutions with trainers, educa- The camp features a series :R0:J :$V8 QatarDebate said,“QatarDebate tional materials and arbitrators of fun and educational work- center plays a leading role in with the aim of becoming on shops, some of which have spreading the Arabic language going events in the US. been organized in collabo- internationally through edu- It was also agreed with ration with QF Recreation %:C1VR H:JR1R: V :`V 1J01 VR Q VJR .V1`  Q7 cating the art of debate.” multiple universities to sign Center. ces with one another. Al Subaie explained that memorandums of under- ORYX GTL Qatar, a long- [email protected] some universities expressed standing in the aim to standing supporter of QDA, their aspiration to organise a strengthen develop ties with is a sponsor of this year’s debate competition in Arabic QatarDebate. edition. 06 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA MONDAY 31 DECEMBER 2018

Assad authorises UN calls out Iraqi forces to strike IS in Syria Houthis over AP DAMASCUS

Syria’s state news agency says peace gestures President Bashar Assad has authorised Iraqi forces to attack the Islamic State group inside AP from the brink of famine. Syria without waiting for SANA’A The fighting in Yemen, the permission from authorities in poorest Arab nation, has killed Damascus. The United Nations cast doubt tens of thousands of people and The announcement high- yesterday on claims by Yemen’s driven millions to hunger. The lights the close relations between Shia rebels to have withdrawn UN calls it the world’s worst the two neighbouring Arab from the Red Sea port of humanitarian disaster. countries. IS once controlled Hodeida, saying such steps can The Houthis said on Sat- large parts of both countries Turkish Armed Forces’ armoured military vehicles and personnel carriers, which were installed on only be credible if all other urday they handed over control when it declared a caliphate in train from several military units in Turkey, arrive in Iskenderun train station in Hatay, yesterday. parties can verify them. of the Hodeida port to the coast 2014. Stephane Dujarric, guard under the Sweden Iraqi warplanes and artillery spokesman for UN Secretary- agreement, but the government have in the past pounded IS posi- General Antonio Guterres, said denied this, saying it was a ploy Turkey fortifies Syria border tions inside Syria after getting Houthis also failed to honour an by the rebels to maintain control. the green light from Syrian agreement to open a “humani- Government officials said the authorities. tarian” corridor between Houthi-appointed commander ANATOLIA reinforcements ahead of a pos- successfully carried out two The extremists have been Hodeida and the capital, Sana’a, of the coast guard in Hodeida is HATAY sible counter-terrorism oper- similar military operations in defeated in Iraq but still hold a to deliver assistance. Both cities a longtime rebel commander ation in northern Syria. northern Syria. small area in Syria. are under rebel control. who had never served in the Turkey sent military reinforce- Turkey has been reinforcing In its more than 30-year On Saturday, Assad received He said retired Dutch Maj. coast guard before. ments to its southern Gaziantep its military presence on the terror campaign against Turkey, a letter from Iraq’s Prime Min- Gen. Patrick Cammaert, who The estimated 300 members province near Syrian border, border with Syria since Turkish the PKK — listed as a terrorist ister Abdul-Mahdi calling for heads a UN team of monitors in of Hodeida’s coast guard had not according to Anatolia Agency President Recep Tayyip Erdogan organisation by Turkey, the US both countries’ coordination in Hodeida, has expressed his “dis- reported for work in months and correspondent in the area. has signalled that Ankara will and the EU — has been respon- “fighting terrorism.” appointment at their missed have been replaced by per- A military convoy carrying soon launch a cross-border sible for the death of some US President Donald Trump opportunity to build confidence sonnel loyal to the Houthis, said howitzers first arrived in Hatay operation against the terrorist 40,000 people, including announced earlier this month between the parties” in a the officials. province then in Gaziantep as YPG/PKK in northern Syria. women and children. The YPG that the US will withdraw all of meeting with rebel representa- In his meeting with the rebel part of Turkey’s recent military Since 2016, Ankara has is its Syrian branch. its 2,000 forces in Syria. tives about their failure to open representatives, Cammaert wel- the corridor. comed the Houthis’ efforts to The confidence-building start implementation of the measures agreed in Sweden this Sweden agreement, but noted month, which include an that this must be “concurrent,” New Iraq minister quits over videos linking her brother to IS exchange of prisoners, could said Dujarric, the UN spokesman. pave the way for a political set- The Dutch envoy also empha- AFP ister Adel Abdel Mahdi. accompanied by two videos IS,” Shaima Al Hayali said. tlement of Yemen’s 4-year-old sized that any redeployment BAGHDAD “I announce that I have dating back to 2016 showing But she added that her war, which pits the Iran-aligned would only be credible if all submitted my resignation to the Layth in IS propaganda videos, brother “never touched a Houthis against the government parties and the UN were able to Iraq’s newly appointed prime minister... and it is up to at a time when he worked for weapon and never helped kill and a Saudi-led coalition. observe and verify it. Cammaert education minister has said she him to decide whether he will a local administration in a fellow Iraqi citizen”. The two sides have observed planned to meet tomorrow with tendered her resignation over accept it once he has ascer- IS-held Nineveh province, According to media reports a cease-fire in Hodeida for representatives of both sides to online accusations her brother tained any link between me where Mosul is located. and two activists, one of Layth nearly two weeks, ending discuss “the redeployment plans was a member of the Islamic and terrorists,” she said in the In these videos, the man, Al Hayali’s sons was killed months of fierce fighting for of the parties and the liaison, State group. tweet. whose whereabouts are cur- while carrying out a suicide control of the city. Some 70 monitoring and coordination Shaima Al Hayali Her decision comes days rently unknown,can be heard attack and another while percent of Yemen’s imports mechanism that will be required announced her decision in a after MPs and local officials denouncing US-led air strikes fighting against Iraqi forces. come through Hodeida, and the to monitor the ceasefire and tweet, two weeks after par- from Mosul made accusations against the group. There was no immediate Sweden deal is designed in part ensure that credible rede- liament approved her nomi- online that her brother, Layth “He was forced, under the reaction from the prime min- to facilitate the delivery of relief ployment is achieved,” according nation, saying she had handed Al Hayali, was an IS member. threat of arms, to work in an ister’s office concerning Hay- supplies to pull Yemen back to Dujarric. her resignation to Prime Min- The accusations were administration controlled by ali’s resignation.

Voters queue in order to cast their ballot for the DR Congo’s general elections at the College St Raphael polling station in Kinshasa, yesterday. Volatile DR Congo votes after two-year delay

AFP suspicion of President Joseph changes to the text. KINSHASA Kabila, who refused to quit in The UN, US and Europe have 2016 after his two-term limit appealed for the elections to be Presidential elections that will expired. free, fair and peaceful -- a call shape the future of one of The election’s credibility has echoed by the presidents of Africa’s biggest and most been strained by repeated Angola, Botswana, Namibia, unstable countries were delays, fears of problems on Zambia and the neighbouring underway in the Democratic polling day and accusations that Republic of Congo. Republic of Congo yesterday voting machines would help to And in the Vatican, Pope after a two-year delay. rig the result. Francis led thousands of wor- But observers reported wor- On election eve, talks aimed shippers in St. Peter’s Square on rying problems, from long at averting violence after the Sunday in prayers for “normal queues to hitches with elec- vote broke down. and peaceful” elections. tronic voting machines whose Opposition frontrunners Many voters said they were introduction caused a storm. Martin Fayulu and Felix Tsh- exhilarated to be taking part in The vote gives the DRC the isekedi refused to sign a pro- the first elections after the chance of its first peaceful posed code of conduct with nearly 18-year Kabila era. transfer of power since it gained Kabila’s preferred successor, “I feel liberated, freed,” said independence from Belgium in Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary. Victor Balibwa, a 53-year-old 1960. Analysts, though, say the They accused officials with the civil servant, casting his ballot threat of upheaval is great, given Independent National Election in Lubumbashi, the country’s organisational problems and Commission (CENI) of thwarting mining capital in the southeast. MONDAY 31 DECEMBER 2018 ASIA07 Modi urges nation to seek ‘loftier goals’ in 2019

IANS Modi said: 2018 saw launching of world’s biggest was conferred on India. spoke about the tradition of called on people to give impor- NEW DELHI health insurance scheme ‘Ayushman Bharat’; Modi said the country’s self- Kumbh Mela and celebration of tance to positive news and make in honour of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India defence mechanism got further Republic Day on January 26. positivity “viral” instead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi reinforced and that it was during “The world famous Kumbh dwelling on negative news. yesterday asked the people to witnessed the unveiling of the tallest statue in this year that India successfully Mela is also a huge medium of self- Modi referred to certain seek “loftier goals” with the world, ‘Statue of Unity’; electricity reached accomplished the nuclear triad, discovery, where every visitor news and opinion websites like “renewed zeal” in the coming each and every village of the country; the ease which means India is now armed experiences a unique feeling and thebetterindia.com, and year as he recalled the various with nuclear capabilities in sea, learns to look at the worldly things yourstory.com, which, he said, strides India made in 2018. of doing business in India improved notably and land and sky. from a spiritual perspective. This write about “inspiring lives” and Delivering his last ‘Mann Ki the highest United Nations Environment Award He said the Swachcha Bharat is expected to have a footfall from are “infusing more sensitivity Baat’ address of 2018, which was ‘Champions of the Earth’ was conferred on India.” Scheme and sanitation coverage more than 150 countries, the spir- into society” through their the 51st edition of the monthly have been rapidly advancing ituality of Kumbh spreading stories. radio programme, the Prime towards crossing the 95 per cent India’s splendour throughout the “Can we join hands in one Minister summed up the year’s Asserting that the country has ‘Ayushman Bharat’; in honour of mark and dedicated the success world,” he said. endeavour?.. Let us share such achievements in the field of taken strides in the area of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India to the people. He said this year the country websites among ourselves. Let’s economy, social sector, solar poverty alleviation at a record witnessed the unveiling of the He also listed opening of will celebrate the 150th birth come together to make positivity energy, climate change, sports pace, the Prime Minister said it tallest statue in the world, ‘Statue India’s first multi-modal ter- anniversary of Father of the viral. Spreading negativity is and others, saying it could has also seen unprecedented of Unity’; electricity reached each minal on the Ganga river in Var- Nation Mahatma Gandhi. fairly easy. But some really good happen because of the collective improvement in the “ease of and every village of the country; anasi and Sikkim’s first airport “South African President work is being done around us in efforts of the people. doing business” rankings and the ease of doing business in as major achievements. Cyril Ramaphosa is going to our society,” he said. “Whether it is the life of a noted that world institutions India improved notably; on the The Prime Minister also grace the Republic Day celebra- Conveying his greetings for person, life of a nation, or the have acknowledged India’s 75th anniversary of Azad Hind mentioned that India clinched a tions as chief guest. Mahatma Lohri, Pongal, Makar Sankranti, life-span of a society, inspiration growth. government, a Tricolour was large number of medals in Asian Gandhi and South Africa shared Uttarayan, Magh Bihu, Maaghi is the basis of progress,” Modi Listing the achievements of unfurled at Delhi’s Red Fort for Games and performed very well an unbreakable bond,” he said Purnima, he said, all the festivals said, appealing for renewed zeal the government in 2018, he said: the first time, and the highest in Para Asian Games and cricket remembering former President may carry different names, the and loftier goals to “change 2018 saw launching of world’s United Nations Environment too. of South Africa, Nelson Mandela. underlying or inherent feeling of oneself and the country too.” biggest health insurance scheme Award ‘Champions of the Earth’ The Prime Minister also The Prime Minister also celebrating them is singular.

No news of trapped miners Normal life as Navy, NDRF begin rescue disrupted as unusual cold IANS Commandant NDRF, Santosh KSAN Kumar Singh said. grips Agra “We have decided to resume The Indian Navy and National pumping of water from the pit on IANS Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Monday morning with 100 horse- AGRA yesterday began their operation power pumps from Odisha fire to rescue 15 miners trapped services. Moreover, we have With the mercury dipping to inside a flooded illegal coal pit decided that Navy and NDRF 1.7 degrees Celsius, normal life for 18 days in Meghalaya’s East divers will simultaneously dive remains badly affected in the Jaintia Hills district, but there inside during the water extraction city of Taj. In view of the was no news as yet of the miners. so that we can try to get to the severe cold, district authorities Lieutenant Commander bottom of the pit,” he said. have revised school timings. Santosh Khetwal led a team of Singh said that the Navy will Schools will now start at six divers, including five from the also use the underwater Remotely 9.30am instead of 8.30am. Navy and one from NDRF and Operated Vehicle (ROV) in today’s “Extreme cold conditions assessed the depth of the water rescue operation. during morning and evening in the illegal coal mine. Noting that the ultimate aim hours force people to rush Two Naval divers dived of the rescuers is to evacuate the back home and stay indoors,” about 80 feet inside the main trapped miners, Singh said, “Res- Indian Navy personnel prepare diving equipment before entering a coal mine that collapsed in Ksan said a shopkeeper of Johri shaft of the flooded coal pit, but cuers never lose hope, as we in Meghalaya, yesterday. Bazar Bankey Lal. couldn’t locate any of the work to rescue them.” Coal India However, owing to the trapped miners. The divers spent Limited (CIL) continued to sur- minute,” A K Bharali, General pumping out water from the coal a hunt is on for more people holiday season, the tourist more than two hours inside the veyed the abandoned coal mines Manager of CIL, Kolkata said. pit since December 24 with the including the manager of the rush continues to remain high pit in a inflatable raft with all located at the adjacent areas of Crew members of Odisha two 25 horsepower pumps illegal coal mine. with over 50,000 visiting the necessary equipment. the mining tragedy site. Fire Services have placed their became ineffective due to con- Chief Minister Conrad Taj Mahal on Saturday. “They dived about 80 feet “We have surveyed the 100 horsepower pumps a tthe tinuous operations. Sangma had met Union Home “But people are avoiding late inside the main shaft of the coal abandoned mines. We will soon tragedy site to dewater the pit Meghalaya police have Minister Rajnath Singh and Coal evening outings. The Agra pit but they couldn’t locate any- get one of the six submersible from Monday morning. arrested Jrin alias Krip Chulet, Minister Piyush Goyal and sought Municipal Corporation has pro- thing due to high accumulation high-capacity equipment that The district administration the owner of the coal mine, from immediate Central support to vided gas heaters at road of water in the pit,” Assistant can dewater 500 gallon per has temporarily suspended Narwan village. Police said that rescue the trapped miners. crossings and the night shelters run by a local NGO, Sri Nathji Nishulk Jal Sewa, are full to capacity,” said Sudheir Gupta, a samaritan of Vijay Nagar Colony. Police arrest 11 over Ghazipur constable’s murder Voluntary groups are dis- tributing blankets, woollens and eatables to the homeless, IANS Shukla said. He said the police at the Karimuddin Police Station, carcasses to block a road from control the crowd around 4pm, Gupta added. GHAZIPUR/LUCKNOW have named 32 known and over died after he sustained head where a large number of after finishing his duty at Prime Potato growers across the 100 unknown persons in the case. injury by the stone pelting mob Muslims were to return after a Minister Narendra Modi’s rally district, too, face challenging The Uttar Pradesh Police Condoling Vats’ death, of the Nishad party. religious congregation. in the district, which was 15 km conditions. The fear of being yesterday said that it has Director General of Police O.P. This is the second such death According to police, Vats was away. However, an hour later he hit by frosty conditions that arrested 11 people in the killing Singh tweeted, “The death is involving police personnel and part of a police team trying to succumbed to his injury, he said. could devastate their crops in of a head constable by a violent extremely tragic. So far 19 mobs this month in the state. control the crowd which was Vats was attached with the the fields looms large. mob on Saturday. accused in three cases have been On December 3, police protesting against the detention Karimuddinpur police station for The district agriculture “We have arrested 11 people arrested, which include 11 in the inspector Subodh Kumar Singh of a few of its members during a over a year and belonged to department has circulated for the death of head constable case of murder.” “Strict action was killed in Bulandshahr in series of demonstrations during Pratapgarh district. Vats is sur- instructions listing out pre- Suresh Pratap Singh Vats,” will be taken against those western UP when he tried to stop the day. vived by his wife and three cautionary measures that Ghazipur Assistant Superin- involved in violence,” Singh said. a mob of right-wing activists and The official said that Vats had children — a son and two farmers should take to protect tendent of Police Chandra P Vats, a head constable posted villagers from keeping cattle arrived at the protest site to daughters. their crops. Nation mourns iconoclast filmmaker Mrinal Sen IANS chronicler of our times. A loss to KOLKATA Bengal, to India and to the world of cinema,” the President said on India mourned for the auteur, his official Twitter handle. Mrinal Sen (pictured), yesterday, Modi said India is grateful to as prominent personalities, from Sen for making some of the most politicians to celebrities, paid memorable films. glowing tributes to the genius “Our country is grateful to film-maker who died here Shri Mrinal Sen for giving us following age-related ailments. some of the most memorable Sen, 95, the Dadasaheb films. The dexterity and sensi- Phalke award-winning film tivity with which he made films director, who was famed for his is noteworthy. His rich work is ability to put searching ques- Kovind lauded Sen for his admired across generations. tions before the society - espe- “penetrating and sensitive por- Saddened by his demise. My cially the middle class, died at trayal of social realities”. thoughts are with his family Akali Dal protest against ‘fake polls’ around 10am at his south “Sad to learn of the passing and admirers,” Modi said on Kolkata residence yesterday. of acclaimed filmmaker Mrinal Twitter. Supporters of the opposition Shiromani Akali Dal party block road traffic as they protest against the Leading the nation in the Sen. From ‘Bhuvan Shome’ to the West Bengal Chief Minister Punjab government and police for alleged fake polls outside a polling station in Naushera village mourning were President Ram ‘Calcutta’ trilogy, his penetrating Mamata Banerjee said Sen’s on the outskirts of Amritsar, yesterday. Nath Kovind and Prime Minister and sensitive portrayal of social demise was an “irreparable loss Narendra Modi. realities made him a fine to the world of filmmaking. 08 VIEWS MONDAY 31 DECEMBER 2018 Turkey’s new regional ESTABLISHED IN 1996

CHAIRMAN security role, 70 years late SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

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

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR DR ADAM MCCONNEL MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED ANATOLIA [email protected] he British Ambassador’s private secretary asked DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR urgently that his chief might MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI see the Secretary of State to “Tdeliver ‘a blue piece of paper,’ the trade [email protected] name for a formal and important message from His Majesty’s Government…. Hend- erson shortly received not one but two documents. They were shockers. British aid to Greece and Turkey would end in six weeks…. The British could no longer be of EDITORIAL substantial help in either. His Majesty’s Government devoutly hoped that we could assume the burden in both Greece and Turkey.” in northeast Syria. provided to the PKK/PYD/YPG. Despite Qatar’s strong port sector — Former US Secretary of State Dean Actually, since President Obama heavy — and justified — skepticism, the US Acheson, recounting the events of 21 Feb- dropped the ball in 2012-2013 and allowed has repeatedly claimed that those weapons atar’s maritime sector got another boost with ruary 1947, in his memoir “Present at the Russia to assert dominance in Syria, the US will be retrieved. Frankly, I will only commencement of expansion at Al Ruwais Port. Creation” “You know what? It’s yours. I’m has had little-to-no real influence over believe that American withdrawal and QThe second phase of expansion of Al Ruwais leaving.” events there. Despite the usual platitudes weapons collection have been satisfac- Port, was announced on Thursday. The — US President Trump handing about human rights and the occasional torily concluded when Turkish intelligence expansion includes enhancing 156,000sqm of storage responsibility for security in northeastern Tomahawk strike for domestic US con- and security officials affirm publicly that space that will triple its capacity. Syria to Turkey, 14 December 2018 sumption, the infamous “red-lines-that- the US has, indeed, packed up and gone The port has come a long way after its expansion US President Donald Trump’s decision weren’t” illustrated America’s lack of both home, taking all of the weaponry supplied began few years ago. Ruwais Port is now able to receive to withdraw US forces from Syria was will and ability to push the Syrian conflict to the PKK with it. and export about 20,000 containers per year com- greeted, in the US, by full-spectrum into a different trajectory. What more clear-sighted observers pared to about a 1,000 containers in previous years. political outrage. From hard-right Repub- Instead, the US administrations went should concentrate on is the historical After the launch of its first phase of expansion in lican hawks lamenting any sort of US for image and media manipulation that meaning of this moment. The US has seen January 2015, the port was able to achieve significant retreat, to liberal centrists and leftists convinced only the US audience that things the Eastern Mediterranean as its “stomping steps which have played an important role in meeting wringing their hands over the fate of were going their way. Few in Turkey’s grounds” since February 1947, when the the increasing needs of the domestic market. It is America’s “Syrian Democratic Forces” region have been deceived by these efforts, British abruptly handed over the region’s playing crucial role in meeting the requirements of (SDF) partners, condemnation was loud despite Ben Rhodes’s (former foreign security responsibilities. different projects being implemented in Al Shamal. and indignant. policy advisor to President Obama) decla- During the past 70 years, the US per- The new expansion will serve the port for next 10 The New York Times, a staunch PKK/ ration to the New York Times Magazine’s formed its own version of the famous years as infrastructure is being developed at the tra- PYD sup- David Samuels that all a US administration British predilection for “muddling ditional fishing port, which is being expanded to add porter (the had to do on foreign issues was tell media through,” stumbling from intervention to 300 berths and is expected to be complete by 2020 PKK is a organizations what to publish. intervention and disaster to disaster in a with all services needed for fishermen. violent mil- “They literally know nothing,” claimed region which it did not understand, but The expansion aims to itant organi- Rhodes, so any US administration only which the logic of geopolitical strategy deepen the navigational The US adminis- sation desig- needed to propagate the information that it demanded remain under US control. channel of Al Ruwais Port trations went for nated “ter- wanted known, and everyone else would At least some of those disasters could which helps in receiving image and media rorist” by US simply swallow the story. have been averted if the original plan for a The port has come vessels with larger cargo. manipulation that state institu- In the end, the only American accom- Middle East Command (MEC), which was The second phase of tions) ran a plishment on Syria was intense, over- strongly supported by President Harry a long way after its expansion of the port convinced only serious of whelming self-deception; all of the Truman and Secretary of State Dean expansion began would greatly help in the the US audience alarmist edi- brouhaha about Trump’s decision stems Acheson, had been instituted. One of the few years ago. flow of goods from the that things were torials and from that delusion and from efforts to justifications for Turkish (and Greek) ships directly to the going their way. articles conceal impotence with displays of mis- admission to Nato was the proposed estab- Ruwais Port is now storage area. It will also bewailing guided righteousness. In Turkey, as a lishment of an Eastern Mediterranean able to receive help in facilitating the Few in Turkey’s the fate of result, President Trump’s decision elicited security structure in which Turkey would and export about process loading and region have been Syria and the only grim amusement from some, and out- have a primary role. Turkey’s regional 20,000 containers storing the goods into an deceived by these SDF. This is right schadenfreude from others. knowledge could then have been applied integrated storage area despite the For now, the most important issue is more directly to the problems affecting the per year compared The port has become efforts. fact that the whether US withdrawal from northeast region. to about a 1,000 a source of pride due to SDF is Syria will leave a power vacuum for the The MEC, later renamed the Middle containers in consist rise in the number nothing but a grotesque camouflage for the Syrian regime to fill through cooperation East Defense Organization (MEDO), was previous years. of vessels calling at the PKK’s Syrian branch that fools no one but with the PKK/PYD/YPG. No one should never realised because the Eisenhower port, increased trade and the US public. feign surprise at that suggestion because Administration decided not to pursue the imports and exports. It has Typical was David Halbfinger’s 20 collaboration with Damascus is exactly plan against strong regional resistance. In become a vital contributor December article, titled “American With- what the PKK/PYD/YPG has done in the its place other arrangements, the ulti- to the economic development and an important player drawal from Syria Shakes up the Middle past any time it saw the necessity. To mately doomed Baghdad Pact and its in Qatar’s economic development. East,” in which the author claims that prevent that eventuality, Turkey and the equally doomed successor, the Central Development at Al-Ruwais Port began in 2014. A Trump’s decision “abruptly scrambled the US are working to coordinate the Treaty Organization, were instituted. plan was put in place to develop the port in three stages geopolitics of the Middle East.” Halbfinger changeover. Today, Turkey’s regional prestige has and to develop six berths to receive various types of is obviously a recent arrival to the region. US official statements have also indi- greatly increased along with its industrial- vessels and commercial goods. No one over here, other than the PKK, feels cated a maximum of three months for izing economy and enhanced military Qatar’s maritime sector is well supported by any sort of “shaking.” The real actors in complete withdrawal. This means that the capacities. President Trump’s decision to Hamad Port. Since commencing operations in Syria — Russia, Iran, and Turkey — have US disengagement from Syria will need hand security matters to Turkey, thus, December 2016, Hamad Port has modernised the way been negotiating over the fate of the close observation for several months. finally grants a prime regional security role Qatar handles imports and exports and has helped in country for the past two years while the US Another issue vitally important to Turkey to Turkey 70 years late, but “better late facilitating the growth and diversification of the coun- trucked in weapons for the PKK’s canton is the collection of weaponry the US than never,” as the American saying goes. try’s economy. It has acquired 28 percent share in the volume of trade in the Middle East. Within a short period of time, the port has reached a global port connectivity coverage with 40 ports spanning over three continents. The port has seen tre- mendous growth in a short duration and is further A travesty of an election cementing Qatar’s position as a regional maritime hub. THE WASHINGTON POST They deserve better electoral flimflam came in the electoral process; voters in It can be easily said that Hamad and Al Ruwais because the country, two- days before the scheduled these three cities are being Port take Qatar’s economic development to new or two years after the thirds the size of Western Dec. 23 vote. A mysterious fire told they can cast their ballots heights. official expiration of Europe, sits on huge deposits broke out in a warehouse after a new president is President Joseph of mineral wealth that have holding thousands of voting already sworn in. Kabila’s term, the not been used to benefit more machines. The electoral com- On December 10, DemocraticF Republic of Congo than the ruling elite. They mission announced a one- European Union foreign min- failed to muster an election to deserve better because this week delay in the vote, isters renewed sanctions on 14 QUOTE OF THE DAY choose a successor. This was vast Central African expanse stirring uncertainty. individuals responsible for largely the fault of the corrupt has yet to experience a This week brought even human rights abuses and Kabila, who lingered in office peaceful democratic transfer more signs of subterfuge. The obstruction of the electoral There is a “50-50” and dragged his feet on of power since independence electoral commission process in Congo, including chance that Brexit election preparations. This from Belgium in 1960, and has announced that the voting former interior minister may be stopped if year, under strong domestic often been a cauldron of would be postponed until Emmanuel Ramazani parliament rejects and international pressure, he misery and death, marked by March in three cities, Beni, Shadary, who is Kabila’s and his coterie handpicked a sexual violence, child sol- Butembo and Yumbi, which handpicked choice but hardly the government’s loyal successor and promised diering and the bedlam of account for more than 1.2 a popular one. The gov- divorce deal with balloting would be held Dec. rebel militias. million of Congo’s approxi- ernment expelled the EU the European Union 23. After another delay, a vote Congo’s people need a mately 40 million registered ambassador. is set for Sunday in most of the chance to defy the chicanery voters, and are strongholds of The Trump administration next month. country. But the whole two- and repression of a regime opposition to Kabila. has imposed some targeted year farrago of phony determined to avoid a true The explanation that an sanctions on the Kabila Liam Fox promises, topped by violence competitive election. Unfortu- ongoing Ebola outbreak near regime but has not been British Trade Minister and repression in recent nately, credible opposition two of the cities would nearly forceful enough lately weeks, amounts to a travesty. candidates have fought an endanger voters was lame. in speaking up for free and Congo’s people deserve better. uphill battle. The latest The postponement taints the fair elections. MONDAY 31 DECEMBER 2018 OPINION 09 What’s next for the United States in Afghanistan?

almay Khalilzad is likely not a US negotiators, it’s a punch to the gut. squandered Washington’s best chance countries don’t get along with happy man right now. Kha- Getting the Taliban to agree to to date to launch peace talks. The Washington, but they also have no lilzad, the US special envoy formal talks was a hard-enough sell Taliban is poised to capitalise on the interest in Afghanistan reverting to for Afghanistan reconciliation, before Trump’s decision. The insur- new battlefield advantage generated an al-Qaeda sanctuary. Zhad been on an urgent mission: gents, who have pushed back hard by a drawdown unaccompanied by a There may be an opening. Launch a peace process with the against beleaguered Afghan forces peace deal. Tricia Bacon, a scholar who studies Taliban, and launch it soon. With US and hold more territory than at any What are Washington’s options alliances between terror groups, President Donald Trump eager to time since the 2001 US-led invasion, now? has written that the Taliban is not MICHAEL KUGELMAN wind down the war, Washington has had little reason to stop fighting. Ideally, Trump would walk back as dependent on the operational BLOOMBERG been eager to get a deal to give the The Taliban has previously said it his drawdown decision and give Kha- and financial support it used to president cover for a withdrawal. may be open to formal talks with the lilzad’s diplomatic efforts more time. receive from al-Qaeda, while al- Khalilzad had made some Afghan government to end the war It’s easier to justify a withdrawal if Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri progress. He facilitated several high- once Washington commits to troop you can say that at least you tried to enjoys less standing within the level meetings between senior US withdrawals. So why not view make peace first. Taliban than did his predecessor, officials and Taliban representatives. Trump’s decision as an opening to Realistically, Trump is unlikely to Osama bin Laden. The most encouraging exchange launch a peace process? change course; he’s never been com- Third, Washington should occurred in the UAE earlier this Unfortunately, so long as Afghani- fortable remaining in Afghanistan. extend its full backing to Afghan month. “They told me we cannot stan’s current government remains in Additionally, the White House - espe- presidential elections scheduled for defeat you,” Khalilzad said in an power, that’s likely not in the cards. cially with the impending departure next year. Given security, techno- interview with the Afghan TV station Even with a troop drawdown plan, the of Defense Secretary James Mattis - logical, and logistical challenges, Tolo News shortly after the UAE talks, Taliban won’t be itching to talk to the has few remaining senior officials the poll will likely be flawed, but referring to the Taliban. The insur- current Afghan government. who support staying the course and the chances of the Taliban talking gents told him that “we should first sit Ever since US forces expelled the are in a position to convince Trump to to Kabul are higher if Afghanistan’s with you, which means the US, then Taliban from power in 2001, the change his mind, or even to slow leadership is the product of an with Afghans, and resolve the issues group has denounced Afghan govern- down the pace of the drawdown. election, warts and all, rather than through political means.” Given that ments as illegitimate and puppets of Trump could well announce a full an external US-led meditation. the Taliban representation included Washington. The Taliban would argue withdrawal in the coming months. In recent days, Afghan election the head of its political office and that such crude characterisations So what can Washington do to officials have indicated the poll will Getting the Taliban chief of staff to supreme leader Mullah apply particularly well to the present pick up the pieces of a shattered be postponed by several months to Akhundzada, such a conciliatory administration - a national unity gov- opportunity? fix technical glitches. In the best- to agree to formal message is nothing to sneeze at. ernment that is the product of a The first step is damage control. case scenario, the delay would not talks was a hard- And then, like a bolt from the blue, US-led negotiation, not an election. Top US officials should assure Kabul only fix problems in the election enough sell before Khalilzad’s boss pulled the rug out After Afghanistan’s 2014 presi- that despite imminent troop reduc- process and make it more credible, Trump’s decision. from under him. Trump abruptly dential election ended inconclusively, tions, they aren’t abandoning Afghan- but it would also allow for more decided to withdraw nearly half of the US Secretary of State John Kerry was istan. Washington should emphasise time to build a blueprint for peace The insurgents, 14,000-strong US troops in Afghan- dispatched to Kabul, where he ham- that it will continue to provide critical talks with the Taliban to begin once who have pushed istan. This move makes Khalilzad’s mered out a power-sharing deal funding to Afghan security forces and the new government takes office. back hard against job much more difficult, as Wash- between the two top vote-getters, to support efforts to expand the Amid a suddenly receding US beleaguered Afghan ington seems to have lost ample lev- Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah. Afghan Special Forces, the crown role and presence in Afghanistan, erage in future talks. These two men lead the current jewel of Afghanistan’s army which is Kabul’s participation in a potential forces and hold Trump squandered a precious government. badly suffering from overexertion. peace process has never been more more territory than opportunity So when Taliban statements, such Such measures can ease Afghan critical. Khalilzad can limit the at any time since The US president has given the as the one released in November, concerns about US abandonment and damage of his boss’s rash decision Taliban what they’ve long demanded refer to the Afghan government as limit the Taliban’s potential battlefield by helping create the right condi- the 2001 US-led - a commitment to withdraw troops - “installed by the Americans and gains following US troop departures. tions for an eventual launch of an invasion, had little and they didn’t need to give up any- imposed on the Muslim Afghan Second, if and when contacts with Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace reason to stop thing in return, much less conclude a nation,” they’re not off the mark. the Taliban resume, Washington process that Afghanistan and its fighting. deal. For the Taliban, the withdrawal Ultimately, Trump’s unilateral should focus on getting the Taliban to long-suffering citizenry richly decision is manna from heaven. For drawdown decision may have formally renounce ties with al-Qaeda. deserve. Analysts have long feared that Afghanistan will revert to an interna- tional terrorism sanctuary in the event of a US withdrawal, and this fear may be one reason why a reluctant Trump agreed to keep troops in the country when he announced his Afghanistan D-RING ROAD strategy last year. POST BOX: 3488 The same fear also drives the US DOHA - QATAR negotiating strategy. In his Tolo News [email protected] interview, Khalilzad said, “If the menace of terrorism is tackled, the United States is not looking for a per- EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE manent military presence in Afghan- TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 istan.” The Taliban is actively fighting FAX: +974 4455 7758 a local affiliate of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known MANAGING EDITOR TEL: as ISIS), but it retains ties to al-Qaeda. 4462 7505 Here is where Pakistan can be helpful. Washington should press DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR TEL: Islamabad, which enjoys extensive 4455 7769 influence over the insurgents, to take up the al-Qaeda issue with the LOCAL NEWS SECTION TEL: Taliban, and to enlist key regional 4455 7743 actors Russia, Iran, and China in this campaign, as well. These four BUSINESS NEWS SECTION TEL: 4462 7535

SPORT NEWS SECTION TEL: 4455 7745 or math geeks like me, 2018 (Hint: check the cipher’s second numbers, note the second-largest is was a banner year: not only line.) 3; and delete every third number. ONLINE SECTION was it a year in which the And 2,018 is a crystallogen The third-largest number TEL: 4462 7501 field’s top prize was number, giving it a property remaining is then 7, so now delete [email protected] Fawarded, it was the only year in this derived from chemistry that means every seventh. The fourth-largest is century featuring days lining up it’s slightly unbalanced: atoms with then 9, so delete every ninth, and so PUBLIC RELATIONS SCOTT DUKE KOMINERS with both the Golden ratio, an full shells containing 2,022 elec- on. TEL: BLOOMBERG 4455 7613 elegant proportion found trons are electronically stable. But Putting the preceding two [email protected] 2,018? It’s, well, just a few short. observations together, we see that (Maybe three years from now will 1,009 is happy-go-lucky! Numbers ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT be less volatile?) like that are pretty rare — although TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 But that shouldn’t stop us from there’s another one coming up FAX: 4455 7870 having fun! Although 2,018 might soon. [email protected] This was a great year seem a bit concerning on the whole, Indeed, 2,019 is another happy- its constituent parts are much more go-lucky number. So that gives us CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT salutary. something to look forward to as the TEL: 4455 7857 to be a math geek As I pointed out a year ago, New Year’s clock counts down. That [email protected] 2,018 is two times 1,009. And 1,009 said, 2,019 is also an apocalyptic is prime, however, you look at it: its power(2) — so what the year will SUBSCRIPTION & only divisors are one and itself, and bring is anyone’s guess. DISTRIBUTION when you read it backward — (1) This is all just mathematical TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 throughout art and nature, and the 9,001 — you get another number musing, of course — any resem- FAX: 44557819 mathematical constant e, which is with the same property. This makes blance to actual events is purely [email protected] As I pointed out a at the core of calculus. 1,009 a special kind of number that coincidental. But the mathematician in me mathematicians call an emirp. (Can (2) This means that tworaised to year ago, 2,018 is also can’t help but note that the you guess why?) Not only that, if the 2,019th power contains 666, the two times 1,009. number 2,018 has some ominous you write 1,009 in binary — number of the beast. All thoughts and views And 1,009 is prime, properties: It’s deficient, meaning 1111110001 — you get a number that expressed in these columns that the sum of all its positive is the decimal representation of a The author is the MBA Class of 1960 however, you look at divisors is less than itself. And it’s prime. Associate Professor of Business are those of the writers, it: its only divisors also odious, meaning that it has an And 1,009 is happy, meaning Administration at Harvard Business not of the newspaper. are one and itself, odd number of 1s in its binary that if you take the sum of the School, and a faculty affiliate of the and when you read expansion, 11111100010.(1) squares of its digits, and then take Harvard Department of Economics. All correspondence This year is pretty cryptic, as the sum of the squares of the digits Previously, he was a junior fellow at it backward — 9,001 well — it features prominently in of the result, and so forth, you the Harvard Society of Fellows and regarding Views and — you get another the first of the three Beale ciphers, eventually get to 1. It’s also lucky, the inaugural research scholar at Opinion pages should be number with the an 1880s cryptographic puzzle that which means that it survives the the Becker Friedman Institute for send to editor-in-chief same property. supposedly describes the location following curious elimination Research in Economics at the Uni- office or mailed to the of a multimillion-dollar treasure. process: Start with the odd versity of Chicago. [email protected] 10 ASIA MONDAY 31 DECEMBER 2018 Hasina heading for victory after violent Bangladesh elections

AGENCIES Early results showed Moazzem Hossain Alal told DHAKA Hasina racing into a reporters there were “irregular- clear lead, winning ities” in 221 of the 300 seats con- Bangladesh Prime Minister tested. Its Islamist ally Jamaat- Sheikh Hasina appeared headed each of the first e-Islami said it would reject the for a landslide win in a general 29 seats declared. results. election yesterday marred by Election-related “Voters are not allowed to opposition claims of rigged violence killed 17 enter booths. Especially women voting as several people were voters are being forced to vote killed in clashes between rival people yesterday, a for the boat,” Alal said, referring supporters. police spokesman to the Awami League symbol. Early results showed Hasina said, including seven Bangladesh election com- racing into a clear lead, winning people from the mission spokesman S M Asaduz- each of the first 29 seats declared zaman said the body had — some by tens of thousands of ruling party and five “received a few allegations of votes — according to Channel 24, from the opposition irregularities” and was which is compiling results from investigating. alliance. Presiding officers count votes at a voting centre after polling has ended in Dhaka, Bangladesh, yesterday. around the country. Authorities ordered mobile The deadly violence and operators to shut down high bitter rivalry that marred the An auxiliary police member speed Internet services until “They told me not to bother, opponents. The Bangladeshi leadership election campaign spilled over was also killed by armed oppo- midnight Sunday “to prevent the ‘We’ll cast your vote on your The opposition says more has alternated between Hasina into voting day, even as author- sition activists, according to spread of rumours” that could behalf’,” he said. than 15,000 of its activists were and Zia, allies-turned-foes, over ities imposed tight security with officials. trigger unrest. One independent The opposition said the detained during the campaign, the last three decades. 600,000 troops, police and other Hasina, 71, has been lauded television news channel com- unrest was stirred up to deter crushing its ability to mobilise Hasina rejects accusations of security forces deployed across for boosting economic growth in plained that its broadcasts were voters, and presiding officers support. authoritarianism but analysts say the country. the poor South Asian nation blocked. reported a low turnout across the Human Rights Watch and she feared young voters would Election-related violence during her decade in power and Voting in the capital Dhaka country. other international groups said support the BNP. killed 17 people yesterday, a for welcoming Rohingya ref- was largely peaceful as convoys Yesterday’s deaths brought the crackdown created a climate Her government was criti- police spokesman said, including ugees fleeing a military of soldiers and paramilitary to 18 the official police toll for of fear which could prevent cised this year for its heavy han- seven people from the ruling crackdown in neighbouring forces were on the streets where election violence since the ballot opposition supporters from dling of weeks of major student party and five from the oppo- Myanmar. most traffic was banned. was announced on November 8. casting ballots. protests that brought Dhaka to a sition alliance. But critics accuse her of “I have never missed voting Police said they acted “in The United States raised con- standstill. Spokesman Sohel Rana said authoritarianism and crippling in my life. This is probably the self-defence” in the southern cerns about the credibility of the Hasina, daughter of Bangla- more than 20 people were the opposition — including arch- last election for me and I want a town of Bashkhali, when they election while the United Nations desh’s first president Sheikh injured. rival Khaleda Zia who is serving suitable candidate for my fired on opposition supporters called for greater efforts to make Mujibur Rahman, was gifted Over 10 people were killed 17 years in prison on graft country,” 98-year-old Abdus who stormed a polling booth, the vote fair. victory in the 2014 election when in clashes between Hasina’s charges — to cling on to power. Salam said at a Dhaka polling killing one. Seventeen opposition candi- the BNP boycotted the vote ruling Awami League party and The BNP-led opposition station. In a separate incident a man dates have been arrested over claiming it was not free and fair. supporters of the main oppo- alliance yesterday accused However, voters in pro- was shot by police after he tried what they claim are trumped-up Rights groups have since sition Bangladesh Nationalist Hasina’s party of using stuffed vincial areas reported intimi- to steal a ballot box. charges while another 17 were accused her administration of Party, police said, while three ballot boxes and other illegal dation. Atiar Rahman said he was Hasina needs 151 seats to disqualified from running by stifling freedom of speech by men were shot by police who means to fix the result, which beaten by ruling party activists control parliament but experts courts, which Hasina’s oppo- toughening a draconian anti- said they were protecting polling was to be announced Monday. in the central district of say a victory would be sullied by nents say are government press law and the enforced dis- booths. BNP spokesman Syed Narayanganj. accusations that she hamstrung controlled. appearance of dissenters.

Pakistan PM to pay official Taliban dismiss Afghanistan’s peace talks offer visit to Turkey REUTERS But the Taliban have refused leaders of the group would not and a ceasefire in 2019. to establish a direct line of dip- KABUL/PESHAWAR to hold formal talks with the talk to the Afghan government. But the United States has lomatic communication with the ANATOLIA Western-backed Afghan The militants have insisted insisted that any final settlement Taliban. ISLAMABAD The Taliban have rejected government. on first reaching an agreement must be led by the Afghans. “Talks should be Afghan-led Kabul’s offer of talks next month “We will meet the U S offi- with the United States, which the According to data from the and Afghan-owned,” the aide Pakistani Prime Minister Imran in Saudi Arabia where the mili- cials in Saudi Arabia in January group sees as the main force in Nato-led Resolute Support said on condition of anonymity. Khan this week will pay a tants, fighting to restore strict next year and we will start our Afghanistan since US-led forces mission published in November, “It is important that the Taliban two-day official visit to Turkey, Islamic law in Afghanistan, will talks that remained incomplete toppled the Taliban government the government of President acknowledge this fact.” according to Pakistani officials. meet U S officials to further in Abu Dhabi,” a member of the in 2001. Ashraf Ghani has control or U.S. President Donald Trump Khan’s first official visit to peace efforts, a Taliban leader Taliban’s decision-making Lead- Diplomatic efforts to resolve influence over 65 percent of the has announced a pullout of Turkey after taking office this said yesterday. ership Council said. the conflict have intensified after population but only 55.5 percent American troops from Syria, a August comes at the invitation Representatives from the “However, we have made it Taliban representatives started of Afghanistan’s 407 districts, decision that prompted the res- of Turkish President Recep Taliban, the United States and clear to all the stakeholders that meeting US envoy Zalmay Kha- less than at any time since 2001. ignation of Defense Secretary Tayyip Erdogan. regional countries met this we will not talk to the Afghan lilzad this year. Officials from the The Taliban say they control 70 James Mattis, and there have Accompanied by Foreign month in the United Arab government.” warring sides have met at least percent of the country. been reports that he is consid- Minister Makhdoom Shah Emirates for talks to end the Taliban spokesman Zabi- three times to discuss the with- A close aide to Ghani said the ering a partial pullout from Mahmood Qureshi, Planning 17-year war in Afghanistan. hullah Mujahid also said the drawal of international forces government would keep trying Afghanistan. Minister Makhdoom Khusro Bakhtiar, and adviser Abdul Razak Dawood, Khan will leave for Turkey on Wednesday, Mohammad Faisal, Pakistani Punjab cabinet holds first Foreign Ministry spokesman, confirmed to Anadolu Agency. meeting in Bahawalpur During the visit, Khan will meet Erdogan and discuss the entire spectrum of bilateral INTERNEWS presented in the provincial relations between the two LAHORE assembly. countries, as well as exchange It also gave its consent to views on regional and inter- Punjab Chief Minister Sardar the draft of the Punjab Water national developments, said Usman Buzdar has chaired the Policy. The draft of the Water the premier’s spokesperson. first ever meeting of Punjab Act would be prepared in the Khan will also address a cabinet in Bahawalpur and light of the policy and the Water business forum and hold discussed a 22-point agenda. Council would be constituted. several meetings with Turkish Speaking on the occasion, the The proposal of the con- businessmen and potential chief minister said another struction of Dadhocha Dam investors in Ankara. promise had been fulfilled by under the private-public part- “Pakistan and Turkey holding the meeting of Punjab nership was also approved. The enjoy historic and unparalleled cabinet in Bahawalpur. “We will agenda of the control of the ties based on a common reli- end the deprivation among the lower portion of the Chashma gious and cultural legacy that people of South Punjab. The whole Right Bank Canal and the pro- dates back centuries. The two province is my home and I will go vision of complete share of countries have excellent to its every corner,” he added. water to the Punjab from the political, economic, defence, He said the least developed canal was also approved. cultural and people-to-people Fish market in Lahore areas would be brought at a par The report of the Auditor relations that continue to grow with the developed areas. The General of Pakistan on the Dis- from strength to strength each Pakistani vendors sell fish at a fish market in Lahore yesterday. cabinet meetings would also be aster Management Organization passing year,” he said held in other divisions as well. Punjab’s accounts for the year The public service done by 2017-18 was also approved. the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf The audit report of the (PTI) government in a short Auditor General Pakistan for time was the result of team district health and education China probe readies to land on dark side of the moon work, he said, vowing to con- authorities of Punjab for the tinue working for public facil- year 2017-2018 was also REUTERS forward its space programme. The moon is tidally locked month, carried by a Long March- itation with the same zeal, approved. The formulation of SHANGHAI The probe, the Chang’e-4, to Earth, rotating at the same 3B rocket. It includes a lander according to a handout issued the Labour Policy of Punjab entered a planned orbit on rate that it orbits our planet, so and a rover to explore the here. was also approved. A Chinese space probe is moving Sunday “to prepare for the first- the far side — or the “dark side” surface of the moon. The cabinet approved the The meeting also gave its into position to land on the dark ever soft landing on the far side — is never visible from Earth. Xinhua said that the probe policy of impartial allotment of consent to the appointment of side of the moon for the first of the moon”, the news agency Previous spacecraft have seen had entered an elliptical lunar vehicles to provincial ministers the vice chancellor of the time, the official Xinhua news said, citing the China National the far side of the moon, but orbit at 08.55 Beijing time, which and officers, and also the Cholistan University of the Vet- agency reported yesterday, a Space Administration. It didn’t none has landed on it. brought it at its closest point just annual report of Punjab Power erinary and Animal Sciences, mission seen as an important say when the landing would China launched the 15 kilometres away from the Development board for the year and the formation of search step as the country looks to push occur. Chang’e-4 probe earlier this surface of the moon. of 2017, which would be committee. MONDAY 31 DECEMBER 2018 ASIA 11 Kim calls for more talks with Moon in 2019

AP and a historic June meeting with a single year and implementing policy decisions and goals. SEOUL US President Donald Trump. bold measures to overcome the Kim used his New Year’s “There will still be a lot of dif- long period of conflict lifted our speech a year ago to initiate North Korean leader Kim Jong-un ficulties ahead,” Moon said in his (Korean) nation from military diplomacy with Seoul and Wash- sent a letter to South Korean Pres- message. “However, our hearts tension and war fears,” Kim Eui- ington, which led to his meetings ident Moon Jae-in yesterday will become more open if we put kyeom, Moon’s spokesman, said with Moon and a historic June calling for more peace talks in that much effort. There’s no in a televised briefing. summit with Trump. In his between the leaders in the new change in our heart about wel- “Chairman Kim said he will meetings with Moon and Trump, year following their active coming Chairman Kim (to the keep a close eye on the situation Kim signed on to vague statements engagement in 2018, South South).” and expressed strong will to visit calling for a nuclear-free Korean Korea’s presidential office said. The tweet also included a Seoul.... Chairman Kim also Peninsula without describing Moon’s office said Kim also photo that showed a ruby-col- expressed his intentions to meet when or how it would occur. expressed regret that he couldn’t oured folder emblazoned with the President Moon frequently again Post-summit nuclear talks make a planned visit to Seoul, seal of Pyongyang’s powerful State in 2019 to advance discussions on between Washington and South Korea’s capital, by the end Affairs Commission and the top North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (left) sent a letter the Korean Peninsula’s peace and Pyongyang quickly settled into a of December as pledged by the part of Kim’s letter, which started to South Korean President Moon Jae-in calling for prosperity and discuss issues on stalemate as the countries leaders during their last summit with: “Dear your excellency Pres- more peace talks between the leaders in the new the denuclearisation of the Korean struggled between the sequencing in September in Pyongyang, the ident Moon Jae-in. Our meeting in year following their active engagement in 2018. Peninsula,” the spokesman said. of the North’s disarmament and North Korean capital. The Blue Pyongyang feels like yesterday but Moon’s office did not reveal the removal of US-led interna- House didn’t fully disclose Kim’s about 100 days have already how Kim Jong-Un’s letter was tional sanctions against the North. letter. passed and now we are at the delivered or whether he made any There continue to be doubts about Moon later thanked Kim for close of an unforgettable 2018.” that international sanctions could destroying some front-line guard comments about his planned whether Kim will ever voluntarily his “warm” letter in a tweeted Through three summits end to allow such activity. posts and creating buffer zones second summit with Trump in relinquish his nukes, which he message and said without elabo- between Moon and Kim this year, The rivals have also taken along their land and sea bound- 2019. The letter comes days before may see as his strongest guarantee rating that Kim expressed strong the Koreas agreed to a variety of steps to reduce their conventional aries and a no-fly zone above the Kim is expected to address North of survival. willingness to carry out the agree- goodwill gestures and vowed to military threat, such as removing border. Koreans in a New Year’s speech Kim and Trump are trying to ments he made this year during a resume economic cooperation mines and firearms from the “Chairman Kim said that the that North Korean leaders tradi- arrange a second summit in early series of inter-Korean summits when possible, voicing optimism border village of Panmunjom, leaders by meeting three times in tionally use to announce major 2019. Philippine storm death toll rises to 22 Under fire, Japan

AFP MANILA joins whalers

At least 22 people died from a storm that swept through the Iceland & Norway central Philippine islands at the weekend, authorities said ANATOLIA an ardent proponent of com- yesterday, with rescue opera- ANKARA mercial whaling. Following a tions under way in flood-inun- global moratorium sponsored by dated communities. Japan is drawing criticism the US in the IWC in 1986, Japan The death toll rose from four worldwide for withdrawing from discontinued its commercial a day after the storm brought an international authority on whaling activities, instead con- heavy rain to the Bicol and whaling as well as for its decision ducting “scientific whale Eastern Visayas regions, causing to restart commercial hunting of research” in the Antarctic Circle. massive flooding and landslides, whales. Tokyo announced on Japan thus allowed the con- the government’s office of civil Wednesday it will quit the Inter- tinued capture of the marine defence said. Many of the deaths national Whaling Commission mammals, landing them on the were due to landslides and (IWC) next year, and resume shelves of Japanese markets. drowning, it added, saying floods commercial hunting in its terri- In 2017, Japan caught over had yet to recede even as the torial waters and exclusive 300 whales in the Antarctic weather disturbance known economic zone starting in July. alone. Japanese whalers hunt locally as “Usman” weakened The governments of Aus- roughly double that amount into a low pressure area. tralia and New Zealand were the yearly in the northwest Pacific “Most of the (affected) areas first to decry the decision, urging Ocean and along its own coasts, are underwater. We are sending A general view shows a flooded area in the town of Baao in Camarines Sur province, yesterday. Japan to remain in the pact. according to media reports. troops and rubber boats to Greenpeace condemned the Jap- Founding IWC members rescue families. In some areas in Eastern Visayas, civil defence officials. Government forecasters people and leaving millions in anese government’s “sneaky Norway and Iceland have con- the floods have reached the roofs officials said. More than 22,000 said that heavy rain would con- near-perpetual poverty. withdrawal” from the IWC. tinued their whaling practices as of homes,” Claudio Yucot, head people fled their homes ahead tinue over the next 24 hours in The most powerful was SeaLegacy, a non-profit part of the body, breaking with of the Bicol region’s office of civil of the storm, which destroyed the northern Philippines. Super Typhoon Haiyan which organisation which aims to raise the 1986 moratorium. defence, said. rice and corn crops and left some An average of 20 typhoons left more than 7,360 people dead awareness of ocean conser- They both rejected an At least 16 people died in roads and bridges inaccessible, and storms lash the Philippines or missing across the central vation, said in a tweet: “This is attempt earlier this year to pass Bicol while six others were killed according to regional disaster each year, killing hundreds of Philippines in 2013. madness — a barbaric move that a declaration that would con- could set species recovery back tinue the moratorium, blasting it decades.” as “intended to be divisive.” This While it is world’s largest year Norway caught at least 434 major whaling economy, Japan whales, and Iceland caught 81, Bali’s volcano spews ash in fresh eruption is by no means alone in the according to the Environmental whaling business. Today, three Investigation Agency, a British- AFP stranded. Yesterday morning, On December 22, an warned residents near rivers in major whale-hunting countries based NGO. Last May, Norway JAKARTA the volcano — which is about eruption from Anak Krakatoa the area to be on alert for cold — Japan, Norway and Iceland — drew international criticism by 70km from the tourist hub of triggered a tsunami which hit the lava flows — a type of mudflow catch hundreds of whales and raising its commercial whaling A volcano on the Indonesian Kuta —sent ash skywards as it western tip of the neighbouring that can form from rock and ash other aquatic mammals each quotas to over 1,200 — up nearly holiday island of Bali erupted erupted for about three minutes, island of Java and southern in the rainy season and which is year. Operating for the most part 30 percent — though it has con- yesterday, belching ash high into according to the country’s vol- Sumatra, killing at least 426 and often a prelude to the blazing around their own coasts and in sistently fallen short of this limit the air and over nearby villages canology centre. leaving more than 7,000 injured. orange lava of popular the Arctic and Antarctic circles, by substantial margins. as officials warned tourists to “Residents near Mount In the latest eruption, several imagination. these countries argue that Both Iceland and Norway keep clear of the area. Agung as well as climbers and villages on Bali were covered in In June, dozens of flights whaling is an integral part of their supported a Japanese proposal Mount Agung has been tourists should not carry out any a thin layer of ash but no smoke were cancelled after Agung culture and at times criticise the to reform the IWC, calling for the erupting periodically since it activity in the danger zone or or lava was detected coming erupted and shot a fresh plume IWC for not representing these establishment of whaling quotas rumbled back to life in 2017, within 4km radius from the from the crater and no evacu- of smoke and ash more than sensitivities. and greater emphasis on the IWC when it grounded hundreds of crater,” the centre said in a ation has been ordered. 1,000 metres (3,300 feet) into An IWC member state since as a regulation rather than con- flights and left 120,000 visitors statement. The volcanology centre also the sky. 1951, Japan has consistently been servation body.

Heat wave bakes China issues Australia for 7th day blizzard warning REUTERS over 40 degrees Celsius (104 F) as cold snap bites SYDNEY from Western Australia down through the sparsely populated REUTERS Seven people have drowned as central desert into the populous SHANGHAI a heat wave grips Australia, eastern seaboard states for sending big crowds to the beach seven days, with the weather China issued a blizzard alert as to cool down, while a tropical bureau predicting the heat to temperatures around the country depression in the far north continue after a brief New plunged yesterday, shutting down threatens to turn into a cyclone Year’s Eve respite. train lines, bus routes and by New Year’s Day. “Over the coming days the grounding some flights. Five of the deaths were in heat will contract inland but The National Meteorological the southeastern state of Vic- will build again from mid-week Center issued a code blue alert, toria between Christmas Eve on Wednesday,” said Jonathan with heavy snowstorms closing and Saturday. How, a forecaster at the Bureau in on regions in the eastern and A South Korean drowned of Meteorology. southern provinces of Zhejiang, on Christmas Day while snor- The bureau’s “extreme heat Jiangxi, Anhui and Hunan. kelling in a lake in the eastern wave” warning included Aus- Freezing temperatures and state of New South Wales while tralia’s most populous city, heavy snow saw high-speed lines another man died in surf on the Sydney, but sea-side cities linking southern Hunan province Sunshine Coast in the eastern including Hobart, Adelaide and to the manufacturing hubs of state of Queensland. Melbourne were cooled by sea Guangzhou and Shenzhen A man and a child walk in the snow-covered Shanshan wetland in Wuhan, Hubei province, yesterday. Temperatures have soared breezes. suspended. 12 EUROPE MONDAY 31 DECEMBER 2018 EU is not trying to keep Britain in: Juncker

REUTERS said of tensions between the EU BRUSSELS and Washington around car tariffs. He said he felt EU citizens were The European Union is not trying The head of the increasingly growing apart, UK govt eyes military to keep Britain in and wants to start another problem to tackle ahead discussing future ties the moment European Commission, of Europe-wide parliamentary the UK parliament approves Brexit, Jean-Claude Juncker, elections in May. bases abroad: Report partly to focus on its own unity said the EU was ready “We have to ensure that these ahead of May elections, the head to start negotiating a rifts do not become too deep,” of the bloc’s executive said. Juncker said. “We must not imply BLOOMBERG said. The UK already has bases in Cyprus, It is being insinuated that our new deal with Britain that the populists are right ... they LONDON Gibraltar, the Falkland Islands and Diego aim is to keep the United Kingdom right after the British are just loud and do not have any Garcia, the newspaper reported. in the EU by all possible means. parliament approves specific proposals to offer on The UK is working on plans to build two new Williamson predicted that the “political That is not our intention. All we solving the challenges of our time.” military bases in the Caribbean and southeast focus will shift quite dramatically” after Brexit want is clarity about our future the divorce deal. He said Europe had to stand Asia, the Daily Telegraph reported, citing an and the UK has to build “deeper relationships relations. And we respect the result united “in combating the trolls and interview with Defence Secretary Gavin with Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Car- of the referendum.” Jean-Claude assumption that it will leave, hacker groups from China or Williamson. ibbean countries, but also nations right across Juncker, the head of the European because that is what the people of Russia” that could seek to sway the The plans are part of an effort to make Africa.” Commission, told German news- the United Kingdom have decided,” European vote. the UK “a true global player” by increasing The defence secretary also said in the paper Welt am Sonntag. he added, refusing to be drawn into He expressed doubt about EU the country’s role on the international stage interview that the UK government’s no-deal Juncker said the EU was ready whether Britain would hold a state Romania, which takes over after it leaves the European Union, Williamson Brexit contingency plan — which involves to start negotiating a new deal with second Brexit vote. “That is for the the bloc’s rotating presidency from was quoted as saying. placing 3,500 troops on standby in the event Britain right after the British par- British to decide.” January 1, but struggles with cor- It also marks a shift from the so-called of a chaotic exit from the EU in March — was liament approves the divorce deal. On other challenges facing ruption and bitter divisions. 1968 East of Suez strategy in which the UK “good sensible planning.” A vote is now due in the week Europe, Juncker said he was “The government in Bucharest withdrew from military bases in southeast “We were always planning to carry a con- starting January 14. watching closely US President has not yet fully understood what Asia and the Persian Gulf, the minister told tingency there, just to make sure things run He also said Britain should get Donald Trump on trade. it means to take chair over the EU the paper. smoothly with or without a deal,” he said. A its act together. “I trust him for as long as he Member States...Romania’s internal “We have got to make it clear that that is spokesman for the UK Ministry of Defence “And then tell us what it is you keeps his word. And if he no longer situation is such that the country a policy that has been ripped up and Britain said he did not dispute the secretary’s com- want,” he said. keeps it, then I will no longer feel cannot act as a compact unit in is once again a global nation,” Williamson ments quoted in the Telegraph’s report. “I am working on the bound by my word either,” Juncker Europe,” Juncker said.

British actress Sacked Macron aide defends June Whitfield dead at 93 use of diplomatic passports

AP REUTERS LONDON PARIS

British actress and comedic Emmanuel Macron’s former star June Whitfield, whose security aide, who was sacked long career included memo- this summer after his violent rable roles in TV series “Abso- conduct fuelled a political lutely Fabulous” and “Terry scandal, acknowledged and June,” has died. She was yesterday he was still travelling 93. According to her agent on a diplomatic passport, in an she died on Friday night. affair that has rattled the Whitfield enjoyed a French presidency. career spanning decades, After he was fired when a appearing on some of Brit- video emerged of his beating a ain’s most popular TV shows May Day protester, Alexandre these passports,” Benalla said, and earning generations of Benalla (pictured) returned to in a telephone conversation fans drawn by her wide range the spotlight in France this from overseas according to the and impeccable timing. Thousands of demonstrators attend a the protest “One in five millions” to demand resignation of week, under scrutiny over his JDD. She was prominent in the Serbian Interior Minister Nebojsa Stefanovic in Belgrade, Serbia on Saturday. recent consultancy work and “But I want to make it clear “Carry On” series and the unauthorised use of diplomatic that I only did it for my own sitcom “Terry and June” with passports. ease, to facilitate my passage Terry Scott in the ‘80s before Anti-govt protest in Serbia The original Benalla scandal through airports.” playing a vital role in “Abso- became a major headache for The French presidency has lutely Fabulous.” Macron just over a year into his sought to distance itself from Her time on “Ab Fab” AFP long time,” protester Vladimir come out to voice despair with tenure, after the president, the former bodyguard, and the playing the slightly odd mother BELGRADE Tosic said. the situation”. whose popularity ratings have government said it had formally of Jennifer Saunders’ boozy He and most other demon- Vucic, a hardline nation- since slipped, was criticised for requested the passports be character Edina introduced Serbian protesters piled more strators marched without alist-turned-European, is acting too slowly in dealing returned on at least two Whitfield to fans who hadn’t pressure on President incident or overt signs of accused by the opposition and with a member of his inner occasions. been born when she started on Aleksandar Vucic as thousands political affiliation in the centre civil society of having estab- circle. Paris prosecutors on Sat- radio decades earlier. turned out for a fourth week of of the capital, with some lished autocratic rule and total Benalla said in an interview urday opened a preliminary Fellow “Ab Fab” stars anti-government demonstra- chanting “Vucic, thief” or waving control over media, using them with France’s Journal du inquiry into Benalla’s usage of Saunders praised Whitfield for tions in Belgrade. placards that said “Enough lies”. to campaign against Dimanche (JDD) yesterday that the passports. the warmth and wit she Around 25,000 people Many blew whistles, a opponents. he would return the diplomatic Benalla maintained in the brought to the hugely popular joined the rally, according to a symbol of Serb protests since The protests represent the passports in the coming days, JDD, however, that he had ini- show. “I will always be grateful witness. former strongman Slobodan biggest challenge to his rule so and rejected that he was tially returned the two ID doc- that she agreed to be in Ab Fab “This is a citizen’s demon- Milosevic held power in the far, and were first called by somehow trying to profit from uments in August, and that they and even more grateful that stration against the situation in 1990s. opposition parties after one of his status as a former insider by were returned to him along she became a dear friend. She the country, which has been Tosic, who is in his 50s, said their leaders was beaten ahead using them or in his work as a with other personal items by a lived and worked with an economically and politically the latest protest “united normal of a political gathering in central consultant. member of the president’s staff extraordinary grace.” complicated, even critical, for a Belgrade inhabitants who have Serbia last month. “Maybe I was wrong to use in October.

Five detained Six men found on UK beach in Dutch ‘yellow as Channel crossings mount vest’ protests ANATOLIA AP Britain’s Home Office, which of small inflatable craft. THE HAGUE LONDON oversees immigration, said the He warned that it was only two ministers agreed to an a matter of time before people At least five people were The governments of France and “enhanced action plan” and plan died in the water and declared detained in ‘yellow vest’ Britain scrambled to respond to meet again in January. The the crossings to be a “major protests in the Netherlands. yesterday to a mounting number office did not provide details on incident,” a designation that Responding to calls on of migrants attempting to cross what the plan entails. allows the government to social media, around 200 pro- the English Channel, a trend The six Iranian men were quickly mobilise various testers gathered in front of the illustrated by six Iranian men discovered on a beach in Kent agencies. country’s parliament and who turned up on a beach in along with a rigid-hulled The crossing is risky because marched to the city centre, and southeastern England. inflatable boat they are believed of rough seas and a high volume clashed with security forces. The recent increase in to have travelled in from France, of commercial and ferry traffic. Police detained five migrants departing France in British officials said. Border It is often extremely difficult for people for making insults, small boats with England as agents were called to the beach the captains of large cargo ships setting off fireworks, or their destination led to an urgent yesterday morning. to see and avoid small inflatable ignoring official warnings. telephone call yesterday The men received medical boats with a handful of people Pauline Krikke, the mayor between French Interior Min- checks and were turned over to on board. of The Hague, said the pro- ister Christophe Castaner and immigration officials for British officials blame tests were being called off due British Home Secretary Sajid processing, the Home Office organised crime gangs for the to security concerns. Javid. said. recent surge in migrants being Preparing for New Year Another group of activists The two European countries Javid said he cut short an launched toward England. dubbed ‘red vests’ announced People stack wooden pallets as they build a bonfire for the “are coordinating to strengthen overseas holiday because of the Many of the boats are leaving an anti-government protest celebration of New Year at Scheveningen beach, in Amsterdam, our actions to combat Channel growing number of such inci- from the area around Calais, a in the central city of Utrecht crossings undertaken by certain dents. On Christmas Day, about French port city that has long yesterday. Two Dutch villages compete in building the biggest on January 13. irregular migrants on small 40 migrants were rescued while been a magnet for migrants bonfire which will be lit on New Year’s eve. The group said they boats, at peril of their lives,” travelling from northern France fleeing conflict or poverty in would protest in Utrecht for Castaner wrote on Twitter. to southern England in a number Africa and the Mideast. a stronger welfare state. MONDAY 31 DECEMBER 2018 EUROPE / AMERICAS 13

Russian army set to get S-350 Russia ready for talks with US: Putin Vityaz missile Russian Foreign complex in 2019 REUTERS saying that now it was up to the Chinese President Xi Jinping. MOSCOW Minister Sergei Lavrov United States whether to hold a Putin wished “well-being REUTERS was quoted as saying new meeting in 2019. and prosperity to the British MOSCOW Russian President Vladimir Putin that now it was up “The issue should be people”, the Kremlin said. (pictured) told his US coun- to the United States addressed to Washington. Both Russia’s embassy in London Russia will in 2019 deploy the terpart Donald Trump in a New our president and his represent- said on Friday Moscow and S-350 Vityaz new generation Year letter yesterday that whether to hold a new atives have said that we are London had agreed to return short-to-mid range surface- Moscow was ready for dialogue meeting in 2019. ready for the talks when Wash- some staff to their respective to-air defence missile on a “wide-ranging agenda”, the ington is ready for it,” TASS news embassies after they expelled complex, the Russian Defence Kremlin said following a series agency quoted Lavrov as saying dozens of diplomats early this Ministry said yesterday, in a of failed attempts to hold a new centenary commemoration of in televised remarks. year. long-planned move to replace summit. the Armistice. The two leaders In a separate letter to Syrian Britain expelled 23 Russian its ageing S-300 system. At the end of November, held their one and only summit President Bashar Al Assad, Putin diplomats over accusations the The ministry also said that Trump abruptly cancelled a in Helsinki in July. pledged continuation of aid to Kremlin was behind a nerve the Russian military had planned meeting with Putin on “Vladimir Putin stressed that agenda.” the Syrian government and toxin attack in March on former deployed Pantsir-S and the sidelines of a G20 summit in the (Russia-United States) rela- Moscow has said one of the people in the “fight against ter- double agent Sergei Skripal and S-400 complexes in 2018 in Argentina, citing tensions about tions are the most important key issues it wanted to discuss rorism, in defence of state sov- his daughter in the English city Crimea as well as in its Arctic Russian forces opening fire on factor for providing strategic sta- with the United States is Wash- ereignty and territorial integrity”. of Salisbury. region, the Kaliningrad Ukrainian navy boats and then bility and international security,” ington’s plans to withdraw from Putin also sent New Year Russia, which denies any exclave on the Baltic Sea, and seizing them. a Kremlin statement said. a Cold War era nuclear arms greetings to other world leaders involvement in the poisoning, in Khabarovsk region. Trump and Putin also failed “He confirmed that Russia is pact. including prime ministers sent home the same number of Russia has been flexing its to hold a full-fledged meeting in open for dialogue with the USA Russian Foreign Minister Theresa May of Britain and British embassy workers in military muscles abroad in Paris on the sidelines of the on the most wide-ranging Sergei Lavrov was quoted as Shinzo Abe of Japan, as well as retaliation. recent years, and its involvement in the Syrian con- flict and Ukraine has soured relations with the West. Belgium to appeal German police seizes 850kg of order to repatriate firework stash families of IS rebels AFP REUTERS just willingly accept them.” BERLIN BRUSSELS Both women were con- victed in absentia of being German police said they Belgium will appeal against a members of IS militant group, confiscated 850kg of fire- judge’s order forcing it to repat- and each sentenced to five works and firecrackers from riate two Belgian women years in jail by an Antwerp a man in Hamburg, ahead of convicted of being IS militants court in March. New Year’s festivities. and their six children from Hundreds of European cit- Police were tipped off by Syria, the migration minister izens, many of them babies, are the man’s neighbour that he said yesterday. being held by US-backed was stockpiling a large A judge said on Wednesday Kurdish militias in three camps quantity of pyrotechnics. that Belgium had to bring back since IS group was ousted from Officers descending on Tatiana Wielandt, 26, Bouchra almost all its territory last year, the man’s home found the Abouallal, 25, and the children according to Kurdish sources. fireworks packed into his they had with militants, from European nations have apartment, cellar and two the Al Hol camp where they been wrestling with how to vans, a police spokeswoman were being held in a Kurdish- handle suspected militants and told national news agency dominated part of Syria. their families seeking to return DPA. Maggie De Block, the min- from combat zones in Iraq and The pyrotechnics con- Aerial dance ister in charge of migration Syria. tained around 80 kilos of policy, told broadcaster VTM France is working to bring Aerial dancers of the Kitonb theatre group, hanging from a crane, perform during rehearsals ahead explosive substances — 80 that a distinction had to be back children held by Syrian of their New Year’s show at the Circus Maximus, in Rome, yesterday. times over the limit of fire- made between the mothers and Kurdish forces, but will leave works that can be legally the children. their mothers to be prosecuted stored in a private home. “The children have not by local authorities, French offi- chosen to be born in such cir- cials have said. cumstances ... Four of the six Paris is concerned that if are Belgian children, they have these minors are left in Syria, grandparents here, one child is they could eventually also 15 terror suspects dead in joint French-Niger raid reportedly very ill. We are become militants. responsible for seeing what we The Kurds say it is not their AFP fighters and Tiger attack heli- forces’ soldiers. During the sweep, “some 20 can do,” she told VTM. job to prosecute or hold them PARIS copters struck” militants Nigerien and French sol- motorbikes were recovered, She did not specify what the indefinitely, leaving the women gathered near Tongo Tongo, in diers, backed by helicopters, along with 26 weapons, including country might do about the and children in legal limbo. Some 15 terror suspects have southwestern Niger, the high took control of several key posi- machine guns, and ammunition, other two children. The judge said on been killed near the Niger-Mali command said in a post in tions in the area before mounting the high command said. “The mothers, that’s a dif- Wednesday that Belgium must border by a joint Franco- Twitter. a 48-hour sweep. French Defence Minister ferent story. They have been organise the travel within 40 Nigerien task force, the French Tongo Tongo was the site of Overall, about 15 militants Florence Parly praised the oper- convicted here. They have con- days after being notified of the military high command said. an ambush on October 4, 2017 were “put out of action”, a term ation in a tweet as “an example tributed to the planning of ter- decision or pay a daily penalty “On the night of December where militants killed five generally used by the military to of a successful joint operation in rorist attacks here. I think we of $5,718 for each child, up to a 27 (...) an air raid mounted by Nigerien and four US special say they were killed. western Niger”. have to assess the risks and not maximum 1 million euros.

House blaze in Former Argentine Long Island leaves foreign minister dead three people hurt

AP attempt to solve the case, in AP BUENOS AIRES reality ensured that the Iranians NEW HYDE PARK involved would never be pros- Hector Timerman, a foreign ecuted. A joint “truth com- A young boy who jumped minister in former President mission” called for by the deal from the window of a burning Cristina Fernandez’s was approved by Argentina’s house was one of three government who played a key Congress but it was never people injured in a fire on role in the disputed investi- formed because it was later Long Island. gation into the deadly 1994 ruled by local courts to be The fire started around bombing of the AMIA Jewish unconstitutional. 3am yesterday at a two-story center, has died, his family said Timerman, who as a sig- house in New Hyde Park. yesterday. He was 65. natory to the agreement, and New Hyde Park Fire Chief Timerman’s brother, Javier, Fernandez both denied there Brian Sherwood told confirmed his death in a tweet, was a cover-up. Newsday that a 10-year-old writing “I am going to miss you Investigators have linked boy escaped the blaze by more than you can imagine.” former Iranian officials to the jumping out of a window. He He had been suffering from attack, but Iran has denied any landed on a car below. cancer. connection with the attack and Sherwood said a Hector Timerman was declined to turn over 68-year-old woman and a Argentina’s top diplomat from suspects. 4-year-old girl were found 2010 to 2015. He was detained In one of his final public unconscious inside the house late last year and placed under appearances in July, Timerman and were carried out by house arrest, accused of taking took part in a video conference firefighters. part in a cover-up of Iran’s role and spoke about his health Brazil set to inaugurate new President All three victims were in the bombing of Jewish Center problems, saying “the only hospitalised. Two other in Buenos Aires, which left 85 thing that advances is my people in the house were A police convoy forms part of the security preparations for the inauguration ceremony of Brazilian people dead in Argentina’s cancer.” uninjured. President-elect Jair Bolsonaro tomorrow, in Brasilia. Bolsonaro will take power as an untested leader worst terrorist attack. “Goodbye, dear friend,” More than 200 fire- Prosecutor Alberto Nisman, tweeted Anibal Fernandez, the vowing a crackdown on crime and corruption and ideological opposition to the left. On Saturday, fighters from seven depart- whose 2015 death remains former Cabinet chief under he said that on taking office, he will issue a decree guaranteeing citizens without a criminal history ments responded to the fire. unsolved, had contended that Cristina Fernandez, “they hurt the ability to possess firearms. Nassau County police said a 2013 agreement with Iran, you without reason. They will the fire does not appear to be which was portrayed as a joint pay for this.” suspicious. 14 AMERICAS MONDAY 31 DECEMBER 2018

Four fatally shot Trump blames in Missouri; suspect arrested

AP Democrats for ST CHARLES A St Louis-area man shot to death his girlfriend, her two young children and her mother migrant deaths in the home they all shared, authorities said. He exchanged gunfire with officers as he fled AP and was captured several YUMA hours later in a convenience store, covered in blood and President Donald Trump Homeland Security wounded. deflected any blame from his Prosecutors filed 15 administration for the deaths of Secretary Kirstjen charges against Richard two Guatemalan children this Nielsen met with Darren Emery of St Charles, month in US government medical staff at the Missouri, including first- custody as his Homeland degree murder, assault and Security chief visited Border border and said in a attempted robbery. Author- Patrol medical officials amid statement that “the ities said Emery, 46, aban- promises of more thorough system is clearly A group of Central American migrants hoping to reach the United States walk along the US-Mexico doned his own pickup and health screenings for migrant overwhelmed and we border fence, in Playas de Tijuana, Baja California State, Mexico, yesterday. tried unsuccessfully to steal children. a woman’s car while on the Instead, the president, whose must work together symptoms as a result of the lack Martin Heinrich, sent her a letter and the tragic deaths of two run, attacking her as well. administration has faced wide- to address this of fortitude in Washington, on Friday seeking answers about children in DHS custody. Emery remained in a local spread criticism over the deaths, humanitarian crisis.” both sides of the aisle, to deal the boy’s death. The government of El Sal- hospital with two gunshot pointed the finger on Twitter at with our immigration policy,” the “The timeline, action and vador is pushing back against wounds that authorities said Democrats “and their pathetic Republican said. factors that led to Felipe’s death Trump’s assertion it doesn’t do did not appear self-inflicted immigration policies that allow that “the system is clearly over- Nielsen’s trip came days after are still developing, but the enough to stem migration north and most likely came from people to make the long trek whelmed and we must work the death of 8-year-old Felipe information that has become to the United States. the shootout with officers. thinking they can enter our together to address this human- Gomez Alonzo in Alamogordo, public so far is alarming and The Central American nation St Charles County Prose- country illegally.” They were his itarian crisis.” She called on Con- New Mexico. Felipe was the demands immediate attention said it has made strides in eco- cuting Attorney Tim Lohmar first comments on the deaths. gress to “act with urgency.” second Guatemalan child to die and investigation,” the letter nomic and social improvements said investigators did not He also tweeted that the Her office said she was in government custody in three says. to try to tamp down the root know the motive for the children were “very sick before briefed in El Paso, Texas, on weeks. A 7-year-old girl died in US Representative Raul Gri- causes of the phenomenon. shootings as of yesterday. they were given over to Border Friday on “recently instituted El Paso earlier this month. jalva, an Arizona Democrat A statement released on Sat- “We may never know,” Patrol.” secondary medical screenings Nielsen has called the death whose district includes Yuma urday said that the Salvadoran Lohmar said. “This one in The president’s comments and the more thorough initial “deeply concerning and heart- and much of the US-Mexico- government has pushed a media particular was the worst came the same day Homeland health screenings of migrants.” breaking” and requested medical border, on Saturday issued a campaign urging its citizens not example of a domestic vio- Security Secretary Kirstjen El Paso Mayor Dee Margo help from other government statement saying Nielsen was to risk their lives making the lence case. Anytime you have Nielsen was in Yuma, Arizona, said he met with Nielsen and said agencies, including the US Coast visiting Yuma “under the dark dangerous journey, and espe- a domestic violence case you to meet with medical staff at the that he agreed with her that the Guard. As Nielsen made the trip cloud of a Republican-induced cially not to expose children. It worry about the safety of the border. immigration policy is “broken.” to Texas, New Mexico’s Demo- government shutdown, the pres- says migration from the country victim, and this would be your Nielsen said in a statement “El Paso is dealing with the cratic senators, Tom Udall and ident’s threats to close the border has fallen significantly this year. worst nightmare.”

Oregon hotel Colombia probes alleged fires two staff for mistreatment plot to assassinate leader of black guest AP of Valledupar and Barranquilla BOGOTA this month had in their pos- AP session an assault rifle with a PORTLAND Colombian authorities are telescopic scope as well as a investigating a possible plot 9-mm mini-Uzi, ammunition An Oregon hotel said it fired involving Venezuelans to assas- and stun grenade. two of its employees for sinate President Ivan Duque, a Citing sources it didn’t mistreatment of a black guest top official said. identify, Blu said any alleged who was talking on his phone Foreign Minister Carlos plot would have likely had the in the lobby when he was Holmes said Colombia’s intel- support of armed Colombian asked to leave a week ago. ligence services had been leftist rebels or drug-trafficking DoubleTree by Hilton hearing chatter about alleged organizations and would have hotel in Portland tweeted plans to kill the conservative been timed to coincide with the they have “terminated the Duque. He said the arrest in start of Venezuelan President employment of the two men recent days of three Vene- Nicolas Maduro’s second term involved.” They said the zuelans in possession of assault next month. men’s actions “were incon- weapons had heightened Holmes’ 90-second video sistent with our standards & authorities’ concern. did not cite any evidence and values.” The hotel didn’t “With immense concern carefully avoided saying identify the employees. and the utmost condemnation, whether authorities had ver- Jermaine Massey accused I want to inform the interna- ified the existence of any con- the hotel of racially profiling tional community that, in effect, spiracy. There was no imme- him after a security guard Rose Parade in LA for the past several months diate reaction from Venezuela’s called police to remove him intelligence investigations have government. Volunteers working on floats to be included in the annual Tournament of Roses Parade which will from the lobby December 22. been taking place about pos- Holmes appealed to Colom- take place before the Rose Bowl collegiate football game between Ohio State University and the He was staying at the hotel, and sible attacks on the president’s bians to share any information his attorneys said they want a University of Washington on New Year’s Day, in Pasadena, Los Angeles, California, yesterday. This life,” Holmes said in a video that they have that could affect public explanation and intend year’s 105th Rose Parade, will be seen by hundreds of thousands of spectators on the parade route posted on Twitter. the president’s safety. He also to pursue legal action, Oregon and broadcast to millions of fans in over 100 countries. The tradition dates back to 1890. Blu Radio reported that the thanked unidentified foreign Public Broadcasting reported. Venezuelan nationals arrested intelligence agencies for in the northern Caribbean cities helping protect Duque. Escaped inmate in California prison captured Senator to urge Trump Cyberattack hits US newspapers AP REUTERS Times customers received their New York Times did not imme- SAN QUENTIN to rethink Syria pull-out WASHINGTON papers Saturday morning, albeit diately respond to requests for several hours late. comment. California authorities on a AFP has frequently visited US troops A cyberattack caused major Tribune Publishing, whose Most San Diego Union- nearly four-day manhunt for WASHINGTON in conflict regions, said Trump printing and delivery disrup- newspapers also include the Tribune subscribers were an inmate who walked away was “frustrated” by the limited tions at the Los Angeles Times New York Daily News and without a newspaper on Sat- from San Quentin State Prison A senior Republican senator options available in Syria. and other major US newspapers, Orlando Sentinel, said it first urday as the virus infected the captured him yesterday. said yesterday that he would be “I’m going to talk to him,” including ones owned by detected the malware on Friday. company’s business systems and Officials from the state meeting with US President Graham said. “The president is Tribune Publishing Co such as The West Coast editions of hobbled its ability to publish, the Department of Corrections Donald Trump to urge him to reconsidering how we would the Chicago Tribune and the Wall Street Journal and New paper’s editor and publisher Jeff and Rehabilitation said they reconsider his plan to withdraw do this. He’s frustrated. Baltimore Sun. York Times were hit as they are Light wrote on its website. took 21-year-old Shalom all US troops from Syria and “I get it. We’re not the The cyberattack appeared also printed on the shared pro- A spokeswoman for the Mendoza into custody at a fast many from Afghanistan. policemen of the world here. to originate outside the United duction platform, the Los Department of Homeland food restaurant without “If we leave (Syria) now, the We’re fighting a war against States, the Los Angeles Times Angeles Times said. Security said it was studying the incident. He was taken to the Kurds will get slaughtered,” ISIS,” he said, using an alter- reported, citing a source with Tribune Publishing spokes- situation. Salinas Valley State Prison. Lindsey Graham said on ABC’s native name for the IS militant knowledge of the situation. woman Marisa Kollias said the “We are aware of reports of A resident alerted author- “This Week,” referring to the group. The attack led to distri- virus hurt back-office systems a potential cyber incident ities after seeing Mendoza at Kurdish troops allied with US “They’re not defeated in bution delays in Saturday used to publish and produce affecting several news outlets, the restaurant in Paso Robles. forces in Syria. Syria. I’m asking the president edition of The Times, Tribune, “newspapers across our and are working with our gov- He’s suspected of car- “I’m going to ask the pres- to make sure we have troops Sun and other newspapers that properties.” ernment and industry partners jacking a vehicle in a store ident to do something that Pres- there to protect us.” share a production platform in “There is no evidence that to better understand the situ- parking lot less than a mile ident Obama would never do: Graham added: “I’m going Los Angeles, the Los Angeles customer credit card infor- ation,” said DHS spokeswoman from the prison after fleeing reconsider.” He did not say to ask him to sit down with his Times reported. mation or personally identifiable Katie Waldman in a statement. a work assignment outside when the two would be generals and reconsider how The report said it could not information has been compro- Representatives of the the prison walls. He was meeting. to do this. Slow it down. Make provide firm numbers on how mised,” Kollias said in a Federal Bureau of Investigation reported missing just after Graham, who sits on the sure we get it right and ISIS many subscribers were statement were not immediately available 9:30pm on Wednesday. Armed Services committee and never comes back. ” impacted but a majority of LA The Wall Street Journal and for comment. MONDAY 31 DECEMBER 2018 HOME 15 A year of march to 2 18 progress for Qatar BUSINESS REVIEW

Despite the ongoing unjust siege, Qatar’s economy is performing solid and showing strong resilience. Most of Qatar’s key economic and market indicators are all close to or even above pre-crisis levels, and key sectors of the economy, including energy, real estate, construction, capital market and other industries are growing and expanding CAPITAL MARKET within Qatar and overseas. Qatar beats its Gulf peers in 2018’s Asset Scorecards: Bloomberg

ECONOMY QSE benchmark index outperforms regional peers by rising 20.71% YTD.

Qatari economy adjusts to blockade. Significant fiscal and external buffers Qatar stock market delivers highest returns among Emerging and Developed have enabled Qatar to successfully absorb the adverse shocks from the 2014-‘16 World markets. decline in oil prices and the diplomatic rift with its neighbours: IMF Qatar leads GCC bond and Sukuk issuance in H1, 2018, raising a total of $19.97bn Qatar’s state budget for 2019 features the first surplus in three year; expects through 47 issuances, representing 31.9% of total value raised in the GCC. substantial rise in revenues. QSE launches two ETFs. Qatar more than doubled its trade surplus year-on-year to QR18.99bn in October 2018. The exports of non-crude shot up 71% year-on-year to QR2.44bn. Number of listed companies reaches 46 with the listing of Qamco.

QNB says Qatari economy is on the course for an overall growth of 2.6% and QSE launches ITESG platforms; electronic disclosure system using XBRL. non-hydrocarbon growth of 5%. Activity is expected to accelerate further in 2019 with GDP growth of 3.2% and non-hydrocarbon growth of 5.3%. The market sees $1.45bn in foreign net inflows in 2018 (1.08.2018 figure).

IMF forecast Qatar’s GDP will grow to 3.1 pct for 2019 and said the country’s QFMA approves not to suspend stock trading on AGM day. foreign exchange reserves are expected to increase to $36bn.

QATAR RAISED $12BN IN INVESTMENT

JUMBO BOND Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani announces €10bn investment in ISSUANCE IN Germany. APRIL, DESPITE Qatar announces to invest $15bn in Turkey.

BLOCKADE QP announces raising foreign and shareholder ownerships limits in energy sector companies and listed subsidiaries.

Qatar announces to allow 100% foreign ownership of firms in all sectors and BANKS incentives to promote foreign investments. Global credit rating agency Moody’s has upgraded Qatar’s banking sector Hassad Food plans to invest $500m in Sudan. outlook to “stable” from “negative”, reflecting the resilience of the country’s economy and banking system to the ongoing economic and diplomatic blockade. QP announces its commitment to invest $20bn in the US.

S&P Global Ratings has affirmed its ‘AA-/A-1+’ long- and short-term foreign and Foreign investments in Qatar reached QR682.3bn in Q2, 2018. local currency sovereign ratings on Qatar.

S&P Global Ratings has revised its outlook on Commercial Bank from negative to stable, affirming a short-term rating of A-2 and a long-term rating of BBB+ for the Bank. REAL ESTATE/CONSTRUCTION Qatar’s top banks delivered a combined net profit of a solid QR12bn for the first half of 2018, up 10.6 percent compared to QR10.85bn reported during the same period a year ago. Among the largest eight banks, QNB led the pack by recording Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa QR6.65bn net profit or 6.67 percent up from H1, 2017. Al Thani inaugurates Manateq warehousing parks in Umm Salal.

Barwa Bank and the International Bank of Qatar (IQB) have reached a final Manateq and five Qatari property developers sign QR488.5m deal. merger agreement, creating a combined group with total assets of QR80bn ($22bn). UDC announces plans to invest around QR5.5bn over next five years.

Qatar Central Bank (QCB) Governor H E Sheikh Abdulla bin Saoud Al Thani Real estate transactions for the first 9 months grew by 14.4 percent announced QCB will be launching a banking service platform before the year- year-on-year. end to support and promote the fast growing financial technology (Fintech). Important milestones in Qatar’s energy sector

Qatar Petroleum (QP) decided to QP signed ‘Guiding Principles’ to QP signed a 3-year contract to QP wins explo- QP sign deal with an Exx- become the exclusive marketer of all reduce methane emissions across supply India’s Haldia Petrochem- ration rights for an onMobil affiliate to Qatari crude oil exports effective natural gas value chain. icals with a total of 600,000 tonnes offshore block in acquire a 10% interest in January 1 2018. of Light Naphtha starting in 2018. Brazil, in part- 3 offshore exploration nership with blocks in Mozambique. QP sings deal for sale of LPG & ExxonMobil. QP and Partners won rights for 5 Naphtha to Vietnam with up to 2 exploration blocks offshore in Mexico. mtpa for a period of 15 years. QP signed an QP announced an agreement with IPO of shares rep- Eni to acquire a QP signed a concession 35% partici- agreement with ADNOC for QP sign deal with ExxonMobil resenting 49% of to become a 30% equity holder the issued share pating interest in the continued development three offshore oil and operation of the shared in 2 ExxonMobil affiliates in capital of QAMCO.

January 2 February 1 March 13 March 24 April 29 June 4 September 12 September 28 October 22 December 8 December 16 Fields in Mexico. Al-Bunduq oil field. Argentina.

May 6 QP announced that it will be Qatar withdraws from June 27 March 19

offering 49 percent of its shares in October 3 OPEC effective January January 3 March 29 March 31 December 3 February 5 October 16

Qatalum for IPO. 2019 December 31 QP selected Chiyoda Corporation of Japan September 26 to execute FEED of the onshore facilities QP announced raising QP sign SPA deal of the North Field Expansion project. the non-Qatari own- QP announced to to supply China ership limit in the move forward to with 600,000 QP signed agreement with Total to energy sector com- increase Qatar’s LNG tonnes of LPG per acquire a 25 percent participating output from 77 to 100 panies and in its sub- year for 5 years. QP is set to distribute today free interest in the exploration block mtpa. sidiaries listed on the incentive shares of Mesaieed Pet- 11B/12B, offshore South Africa. QSE to 49 percent. QP signed two 5-year rochemical Holding Company QP announced the start of operations sales agreements to (MPHC) to investors. This comes in by the new ‘Qatargas’ as the only QP wins exploration rights in four off- QP announced its decision to further supply Japan’s implementation of QP’s company to export Qatari LNG fol- shore blocks in Brazil, as part of two increase the capacity of Qatar’s LNG Marubeni a total of 1.2 announcement at the time of the lowing the integration with RasGas. bidding consortia. expansion project from 77 to 110mtpa. mtpa of Naphtha. MPHC IPO in December 2013. 16 MORNING BREAK MONDAY 31 DECEMBER 2018

PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR 04. 57 AM SHOROOK 06. 19 AM

ZUHR 11. 37 AM MAGHRIB 04. 56 PM ASR 02. 35 PM ISHA 06. 26 PM

WEATHER TODAY

Souq Waqif Spring Festival Performers entertain visitors during Souq Waqif Spring Festival. For the Spring Festival, several stages have been erected in Al Ahmed Square and the Western parking area where shows were played. Throughout the 15-day festival, a circus show is expected to wow the visitors with acrobats, jugglers, magicians, stilt walkers and other artistes coming from other countries showcasing their skills in their performances. PICS: ANWAR SADATH

20oC 23oC Minimum Maximum Student shopping Expected thundery rain associated with strong wind and high seas to the North.

HIGH TIDE 01:30 – 11:30 LOW TIDE 05:30 –19:15 festival opens at Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department Night Market

THE PENINSULA attitude and encouraging their love for DOHA work. Salah Al Yafie from Tarbiya Center, The first student shopping festival one of the partners and supervisors of opened yesterday at the Night Market the initiative, said that the idea is in Al Duhail with the participation of unique. 24 students from 22 government and “We chose the best group of stu- private schools. dents and trained them to acquire a The participation is aimed at number of marketing, selling and pur- enhancing students’ investment chasing skills. Then we went on a

People visiting the first student shopping festival which opened yesterday at the Night Market in Al Duhail.

business trip to China to get a close the participating centers with the look at the most famous international Ministry of Education schools,” said markets there. Many Chinese goods Khalid Hamad Al Madfaa, a 12-year were bought and brought to Doha to student, from Al Hayat International be sold in the Qatari market by the stu- School. dents themselves.” He also said that during the trip to Talal Al Tamimi, one of the organ- China, they bought a wide variety of isers of the initiative, explained that accessories. “We succeeded in our organising of such a student festival investments,” he added. comes with the aim of pushing students “The idea of the initiative and the to the field of honest work, relying on festival is a unique idea, and for the themselves. first time students participated in it. “We received training courses The place of the market is also suitable and then travelled as a group of stu- and the shops are well prepared for dents to China’s Quanzhou city, sale, purchase and auction. We have a which is famous for markets and wide variety of products,” said student trade fairs under the supervision of Abdullah Rabia Al Kuwari.

Ohio researcher creates ‘Aquaman’ leads Box Office in second week AP the Golden Globe Awards this coming bed bug information app LOS ANGELES Sunday, the film earned mixed reviews from critics and a C+ CinemaScore from AP how to spot them or what to do, In the final weekend of 2018, “Aquaman” audiences. TOLEDO she said. still led the pack at the Box Office, but other “That a movie with that subject matter There are right ways and films like “Mary Poppins Returns,” ‘’The can ride a wave to sixth place is really Just the thought of a bed bug infes- wrong ways to get rid of them, she Mule” and “Second Act” enjoyed post- indicative of how interested people are in tation is enough to make you start said, noting that most store-bought holiday bumps too, even amid an onslaught this movie,” Dergarabedian said. “This is scratching and tossing out chemicals advertised as ways to of new Christmas offerings like “Vice,” required viewing for anyone studying the furniture. eradicate bed bugs don’t work. It’s ‘’Holmes and Watson,” ‘’On the Basis of Sex” awards season race.” A new app created by a a job that should be handled by and the Netflix phenomenon “Bird Box.” Driven by the star-power of Will Ferrell researcher at Ohio State University professionals, Jones said. Warner Bros said yesterday that and John C. Reilly, “Holmes and Watson” has the answers and information Too often, people who can’t “Aquaman” added an estimated $51.6m in managed to take in $7.3m despite the neg- on what to do next. afford to pay someone, try to do it North American ticket sales over the US actor Jason Momoa, who plays the role ative audience and critic reviews. The Sony The app funded by a grant themselves, she said. weekend to take first place again. Down of ‘Aquaman’. film has grossed $19.7m since Christmas from the US Environmental Pro- A year ago, a woman acciden- just 24 percent from its domestic debut, Day. tection Agency is set up as one- tally started a fire while trying to the DC Comics pic, which has been No. 1 in its sixth weekend in theaters, with $6.5m. And in limited release, the Ruth Bader stop information source for eve- kill bed bugs with rubbing alcohol internationally for four weeks, has now “There is a bit of a lull on the weekend Ginsburg film “On the Basis of Sex” starring rything bed bugs. There are guides at a multi-family home in grossed nearly $748.8m worldwide. leading into Christmas. People are busy Felicity Jones grossed $690,000 from 33 for identifying and getting rid of Cincinnati that left people Although other films in theatres were and distracted,” said Comscore’s senior locations, for a total of $1.5m since its debut. them along with tips for homeless. left in “Aquaman’s” wake, more than a few media analyst Paul Dergarabedian. “But The Laurel and Hardy film “Stan & Ollie,” travellers. That’s just one — extreme — in the top 10 experienced an uncommon the weekend after, most of these films in also with Reilly, opened on five screens to Susan Jones, an entomologist example of what can go wrong. uptick in returns this weekend. Disney’s the top 10 got a bounce.” $79,674,” and “Destroyer,” with Nicole at Ohio State, said the app was Michael Potter, an entomol- “Mary Poppins Returns” ended the This so-called “catch-up” weekend Kidman, earned $58,472 from three needed because there’s a lot of ogist at the University of Kentucky, weekend up an estimated 19 percent, in made it a little difficult for the Christmas locations. misinformation out there about the said bed bugs have been making second place, with $28m, while “Bum- newcomers to make a huge impact, The box office year as a whole is bar- critters. a major resurgence and that while blebee,” down only five percent, settled in however, especially when the big wide- reling toward a record $11.9bn in returns, “If you don’t know anything most people think of them when third with $20.5m. releases this time were either politically as time runs out on 2018, although final about an organism, then you are travelling, they are most often Up 11 percent, “Spider-Man: Into the charged (the Dick Cheney movie “Vice”) numbers won’t be in from all the studios sort of at the mercy of that found in houses and apartments. Spider-Verse” got fourth with $18.3m, and or poorly reviewed (“Holmes and Watson,” until mid-week. creature,” said Jones, who has The cost of eliminating bed “The Mule,” up 24 percent, took fifth with which is in the single digits on Rotten “This is the perfect way to end a record been studying bed bugs for about bugs, Jones said, is a reason they $11.8m. Tomatoes and got a deathly D+ box office year,” Dergarabedian said. “This 10 years. continue to be a problem. They can The Jennifer Lopez-led “Second Act,” CinemaScore). weekend represented everything that this The app works on Android and reproduce quickly, can hide from which got off to a slow start last weekend, Annapurna’s “Vice,” starring Christian year was about: Diversity, escapism and iOS devices and can be found by floor to ceiling, and they’re noc- also found itself up 11 percent, with $7.2m Bale as the former Vice-President, came the movie-going experience in the theater, searching “bed bug field guide.” turnal, she said. in seventh place. But the biggest bump of out on top for the new films, grossing $7.8m once again proving that the movie theater Bed bugs can cause instant “You don’t know where they’re all came for Disney’s “Ralph Breaks the from the weekend and $17.7m since its can take on all competition and come out panic, but few people really know hiding,” Jones said. Internet,” which was up nearly 40 percent Christmas opening. A leading contender at a winner.”