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TUESDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2015 • 8 Dhul-Hijja 1436 • Volume 20 Number 6561 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 4455 7741 | Advertising: 4455 7837 / 4455 7780
Emir condoles with Dubai Ruler Fire forces mass evacuation from Qatar ranked first Makkah hotel
MAKKAH: A fire forced some 1,500 people from their hotel in the Saudi city of Makkah yes- in Internet usage terday as hundreds of thou- sands gathered for the Haj pilgrimage, the civil defence 2015 edition of State of Broadband report released department said. Four Yemeni pilgrims sustained minor inju- DOHA: Qatar was ranked said the Ministry of Information speeds and reasonable rates. ries following the pre-dawn fire first worldwide on the indica- and Communications Technology This pushes towards achieving in a 15-storey hotel, state news tor measuring the percentage (ictQATAR) in a press release sustainable development at the agency SPA quoted the depart- of individuals using Internet issued yesterday. economic, social and cultural lev- ment as saying. in the developing countries in In the same report, released els and enforcing Qatar’s National A preliminary investigation 2014 (91.5 percent) and first yesterday in New York by the Broadband Plan that ictQATAR found a short circuit in a room among Arab countries and UN Broadband Commission launched in the late 2013. to have caused the fire, it said. second globally on the indica- for Digital Development, Qatar The report said broadband The hotel’s guests are among tor measuring the percentage ranked 15th at the world level on Internet is failing to reach those close to two million Muslims from of households with Internet the indicator that measures the who could benefit most, with around the world expected for the (98 percent), according to the active mobile broadband subscrip- Internet access reaching near-sat- Haj, which begins officially today. 2015 edition of the State of tions per 100 inhabitants. uration in the world’s rich nations but The Haj is the world’s big- Broadband report. These figures show the amount not advancing fast enough to benefit gest annual event. It is one of the Qatar also came first among all of efforts exerted by ictQATAR the billions of people living in the five pillars of Islam and every able- Arab countries and 12th world- to build on the progress achieved developing world. It added that bodied Muslim who can afford it is wide on the indicator that meas- and continue promoting broad- 57pc of the world’s people remain Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani offered condolences to UAE expected to make the pilgrimage ures the percentage of individuals band penetration among all offline and unable to take advantage Vice President and Ruler of Dubai H H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid at least once. On Thursday about using Internet in 2014 (91.5 per- sectors and social segments, as of the enormous economic and social Al Maktoum on the demise of his son Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed 1,000 Asian pilgrims were evacu- cent) followed by Bahrain (91 well as building advanced world- benefits the Internet can offer. bin Rashid Al Maktoum, at Zabeel Palace in Dubai yesterday. The Emir ated from their high-rise hotel in percent) and UAE (90.4 percent), class infrastructures with high THE PENINSULA was accompanied by Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Makkah when a fire broke out. Two Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani. More pictures on page 2 Indonesian pilgrims were injured. Houthis capture Rising prices fuel debate on social media 2 Saudi soldiers RIYADH: Two Saudi Arabian DOHA: A debate raged on local moving eastward from Qatar, in rents were higher many times things were expensive in Qatar. QR23,000. “So it is natural for soldiers have been captured by social networking sites here on Asian countries, the cost of living over in Qatar as compared to the “If that is so why things are people to expect that this out- rebels in Yemen, the Saudi-led Sunday on rising prices. was much lower. neighboring country. costlier in Souq Waqif where shop let would sell food expensive to coalition confirmed on Monday, Those who saw galloping infla- But the opposite was true when In Saudi Arabia, average rents are bare minimum,” asked recover its high operating costs,” vowing to bring them back. tion as a worrisome trend in one moved westward, he argued, monthly rent for a two-bedroom the commentator. said the man. “We have evidence that they the country blamed it on soar- suggesting that the rising cost of apartment was equivalent of The reality is that it is a trend Another person, participating are alive and they are in captiv- ing rents. There were others, living here was something normal. QR2,557, while in Qatar it was in the Qatari market to sell things in the lively debate, said that peo- ity with the militia,” Brigadier though, who said the price rise Another commentator high- many times over — a whopping expensive, said the commentator. ple think that Qataris are very General Ahmed Al Assiri said was normal and Qatar was still a lighted the difference in house QR16,100. One man taking part in the rich and so they must be taken after Houthis last Wednesday cheaper place to live as compared rents in Qatar and Saudi Arabia Yet another commentator, debate said that a restaurant in for a ride. broadcast footage of a man claim- to London, for example. to show the former was an expen- however, said he wondered if high a smaller place like Umm Salal Continued on page 4 ing to be a captured soldier. AFP One commentator said that sive place. He claimed that the rents were the only reason why commanded a monthly rent of THE PENINSULA See also page 12
Pilgrims move to Mina today
Muslims pray at the Masjid Al Haram Mosque, Islam’s holiest site in Makkah, a day before the beginning of the Haj. Thousands from around the world will make their way to Mina to start piligrimage today. Russia deploys 28 fighter planes in Syria
WASHINGTON: Russia has deployed 28 combat planes in Assad responsible for crisis: Qatar Syria, US officials said yester- day, confirming the latest move GENEVA: Qatar yesterday renewed its stand that the Bashar Al in Moscow’s increasing military Assad regime bears responsibility for human tragedies in Syria. presence in the war-torn nation. “The Syrian people were forced to defend themselves against “There are 28 fighter and violence, killings and intimidation in response to peaceful and legiti- bomber aircraft” at an airfield mate demands,” Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the UN in in the western Syrian province Geneva Faisal bin Abdullah Al Henzab said at the 30th session of of Latakia, one of the officials the Human Rights Council. said, speaking on condition of Qatari envoy emphasised that the departure of Assad regime anonymity. is the first step towards implementation of the Geneva 1 plan and A second official, also speak- formation of a transitional governing body with full executive pow- ing on condition of anonymity, ers, which will provide an opportunity to build a new Syria. QNA confirmed the figure, and added there were about 20 Russian com- bat and transport helicopters at The United States has warned peace. Moscow, meanwhile, has the base. Washington in recent that Russian military backing been on a diplomatic push to weeks has expressed growing for the Syrian regime only risks get the coalition of Western concern over Russia’s increasing sending more extremists to the and regional powers fighting the military presence in Syria to sup- war-torn country and could fur- Islamic State group to join forces port President Bashar Al Assad. ther hamper any effort at bringing with Assad. AFP TUESDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2015 02 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME
Emir offers condolences to Sheikh Mohammed
Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani offering condolences to H H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE Vice-President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, on the demise of his son Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at Zabeel Palace in Dubai yesterday. The Emir also offered condolences to their Excellencies the Sheikhs, members of Dubai Ruling Family, ministers and dignitaries, praying to Allah the Almighty to give them solace and fortitude. The Emir was accompanied by Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani.
Emir, Deputy Emir, PM congratulate Defects didn’t cause flooding: Ashghal Armenia President on National Day DOHA: The Public Works conference organised to clarify on municipality directors to discuss and it does not hesitate to trans- DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani sent yes- Authority ‘Ashghal’ yesterday the water overflow. the emergency procedures that parently acknowledge any mistake terday a cable of congratulations to President of the Republic of said that there were no tech- The President pointed out that aim to reduce the impacts associ- and take action against any party Armenia Serzh Sargsyan on the occasion of his country’s National nical or design defects behind the Public Works Authority main- ated with such incidents. that underperforms. Ashghal is Day. Deputy Emir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani and water overflow at Lebsayyer tains a policy in place to make Among the procedures dis- also ready to submit any reports in Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Interchange (Interchange 42) on sure that any incident is looked cussed is the need for the presence this regards or for the concerned Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani have also sent cables of congratula- Dukhan Highway on September into and investigated before pro- of representatives from Ashghal government entities to investigate tions to President of Armenia on the occasion. QNA 11 and blamed heavy unusual viding any technical data so as to at the National Command Centre the issue, he said. rainfall for flooding. ensure that accurate answers are in emergency situations as well He said that water overflow “After technical studies, it was given. He also emphasized that as the deployment of emergency that took place in 2012 was in Emir, Deputy Emir, PM congratulate clear to us that there were no although there are no defaults equipment such as water pumps a different location that is 5km technical or design defects in the in design, the authority still and tankers in different loca- away from Lebsayyer Interchange, Malta President on Independence Day mentioned interchange, but the requested concerned departments tions in the country to reach the and Ashghal dealt with it when it DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani sent yes- heavy and unusual rainfall on the to re-evaluate the design and pre- intended location faster rather happened very transparently, and terday a cable of congratulations to President of the Republic of road and surrounding area that pare a comprehensive report. than launching from one single acknowledged that there was a Malta Marie Louise Coleiro Precaon on the occasion of the anniver- exceeded the network’s design The President mentioned that a location. design mistake. Action was taken sary of her country’s Independence Day. Deputy Emir H H Sheikh capacity prevented it from cop- meeting was held in the presence He added that Ashghal is a against the responsible party, and Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani and Prime Minister and Interior ing with big amount of water,” said of Minister of Municipality and responsible government body that Ashghal also took action on site Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani Eng. Nasser bin Ali Al Mawlawi, Urban Planning H E Sheikh Abdul is supervised and controlled by the back then. have also sent cables of congratulations to President of the Republic President of Ashghal in a press Rahman bin Khalifa Al Thani and concerned government entities, THE PENINSULA of Malta on the occasion. QNA TUESDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2015 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 03 Katara gets ready Falcon conference planned in Jan for Eid programme DOHA: The Qatar Society of The conference will focus on the sidelines of QSG’s participation The delegation was headed by Al-Gannas (QSG) has announced types of falcon diseases prevailing at the Abu Dhabi International its chairman Ali bin Khatim Al DOHA: Katara is expected to lure thousands of visi- it will be hosting the second edi- in GCC countries and finding medi- Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition Mahashadi. He said that QSG’s partic- tors this Eid Al Adha holidays to see stunning pyro- tion of the Qatar International cal solution for them. Stressing Al 2015 (ADIHEX 2015) which was held ipation in the expo was aimed at intro- technics and shadow play nightly. Conference on Veterinary Falconry Gannas’ desire to contribute to the from September 9 to 12. The exhibi- ducing the role of Qatar in maintaining Katara has prepared an entertaining Eid programme in January next year. promotion of veterinary culture tion was organised to enhance the falconry as an important heritage. for its visitors, a highlight of which is the shadow play The conference will be held on around the world, he extended invi- tradition of falconry in the GCC. Qatar was one of the countries which which is a very popular form of entertainment for dif- the sidelines of the seventh Qatar tation to all specialised centres and Al Gannas participated in different submitted the proposal leading to the ferent ages in various cultures. International Falcons and Hunting interested individuals and institu- sections of the expo such as in the inscription of falconry on UNESCO’s There are more than 20 countries known to have Festival, said QSG Vice Chairman tions in to attend the conference. guests and visitors lounge (majlis) list of cultural intangible heritage of shadow show troupes. It is an old tradition which has Mohammad bin Abdulatif Al Misnad. Al Misnad was speaking on the and the photography exhibition. humanity. THE PENINSULA a long history in Southeast Asia especially in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia. It is considered an ancient art in other parts of Asia such as China, India and Nepal. It is also known in Turkey, Greece and France. The shadow play will be staged from 7pm to 7.30pm on the first day of Eid, from 8pm to 8.30pm on the second day and from 9pm to 9.30pm on the third day. Fireworks display will start at 9.30pm every night following the giv- ing away of Eid gifts for children which will be held from 7pm to 8.30pm. THE PENINSULA QIB to open three branches during Eid Al Adha holidays DOHA: Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB) has announced that its The Gate Mall, Dar Al Salam Mall and City Center branches will be operational beginning on the evening of the second day of Eid from 4pm to 9pm and the three branches are to resume normal working hours for morning and evening shifts following the Eid Al Adha break. Normal working hours for the aforementioned branches are Saturday to Thursday, from 9am to 2:30pm and from 3:30pm to 9pm, and Friday from 4 pm to 9 pm. Meanwhile, QIB e-channels will be available 24/7 to include internet banking, mobile banking, the Call Centre, and over 165 ATMs spread across the country. THE PENINSULA Embassy of India will hold Open House tomorrow DOHA: Embassy of India will hold an Open House tomorrow to address any urgent consular and labour problems of Indian nationals in Qatar, a press release issued by the embassy said yesterday. The Open House will be held from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. Written information on issues/cases pro- posed to be discussed with the embassy may be given from 5.30pm to 6pm. This will be followed by meeting with embassy officials from 6pm to 6.30pm, the release added. THE PENINSULA TUESDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2015 04 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME
Labour Minister meets Philippine ambassador Stable weather Britain’s new likely during Eid holidays warship hosts DOHA: The Met Office has forecast stable weather during Eid Al Adha holidays that begin from tomorrow. Due to the extension of Indian monsoon low over the region, Qatar forces winds are expected to be north- westerly to northeasterly, and light to moderate in general. Military officers attend There are chances of early morning haze or mist in some DOHA: HMS Duncan, the and missile attack, a full dem- areas tomorrow and the day after, Royal Navy’s newest warship onstration of the complexities of the Met office said in a special hosted a special day at sea for this role was also provided in the bulletin released yesterday. military officers from Qatar’s ship’s Operations Room, the nerve Overall, during the Eid holidays Joint Command and Staff centre for all operations on board. the weather will be hot during the Course. Following his visit to HMS day becoming humid at night, As part of her deployment Duncan, the British Ambassador with chances of early morning to the Gulf region, the Type 45 to the State of Qatar, Nicholas mist or fog. air-defence destroyer laid on a Hopton said: “We are very proud Seas are expected to be slight demonstration of the range of that the Royal Navy’s newest to moderate in general. capabilities of a modern war- ship, HMS Duncan, is able to According to the Met office, ship for the Army, Navy and Air support the Qatari Staff College weather charts indicate a shift in Force officers currently studying and it gives the next generation Minister of Labour and Social Affairs H E Abdullah Saleh Al Khulaifi with Ambassador of the Republic of the wind direction from Friday until on the select postgraduate course of Qatar’s military leaders a clear Philippines to Qatar Wilfredo C Santos. The meeting dealt with relations between the two friendly countries Monday to turn northeasterly to at Qatar’s Joaan Bin Jassim Joint demonstration of the UK’s long- and ways of enhancing them as well as issues of common concern. southeasterly, light to moderate, Command and Staff College term commitment to Qatar.” causing an increase in relative (JBJJCSC). Commander Richard Atkinson, humidity especially at night. The day was based on the ones HMS Duncan’s Commanding Temperatures are expected the Royal Navy regularly arranges Officer, said, “I was delighted to to be around their average dur- for students of the Advanced host our Qatari friends and col- ing this time of the year, where Command and Staff Course run leagues on board HMS Duncan WCMC-Q meet explores impact maximum temperatures are at the United Kingdom’s own today. We have been working expected to range between 37 Defence Academy. with other navies in the Gulf and 39 degrees C and minimum Led by the Commandant of the for six months and it is always of heat on athletic performance temperatures between 28 and 31 College, Major General Nasser a great pleasure to demonstrate degrees C. Abdulla N A Al Sulaiti, the 40 this ship’s many capabilities to Latest weather forecasts can be staff and students from Qatar and our allies. For the many Army DOHA: The impact of heat 20-25 per cent of the energy used performance. Dr. Périard and his had through smartphone appli- neighbouring countries witnessed and Air Force officers we hosted on athletic performance was during exercise is converted into colleagues at Aspetar, a strategic cations of the Met office, social the ship’s Lynx helicopter and sea today, we aimed to provide a rel- explained in the first instal- athletic output, while 75-80 per partner of WCMC-Q, have con- media accounts and its website. boats simulating the interception evant introduction to maritime ment of the new season of Weill cent is converted into heat. In ducted experiments with a cycling Alternatively, people can call of a suspect vessel. The Royal capability and the effect of sea Cornell Medical College in order to counter the increase team from Denmark, which dem- 44480444 round-the-clock for Marine boarding team then dem- power; this introduction included Qatar’s Grand Rounds. in core body temperature this onstrated a significant decrease weather-related enquiries, the onstrated how they would search anti missile defence and combined Dr Julien Périard, Research causes, the hypothalamus region in performance in very high Met office said.THE PENINSULA the vessel for illicit cargoes; some- boarding capability demonstra- Scientist at Aspetar Orthopaedic of the brain activates two main temperatures. thing for which regional and coa- tions employing sea boats, Royal and Sports Medicine Hospital, cooling mechanisms: vasodilation, Dr. Périard said, “In Denmark lition navies and coast guards Marines, Maritime Sniper Teams described the basics of human which increases blood flow to the the cyclists completed a cycling regularly train together. and the embarked Lynx. Military thermoregulation and the ways skin to allow heat to be lost; and task at 8°C and then repeated the Timing for health The visitors were also briefed cooperation between nations in which heat stress influence sweating, which allows heat to be same task in Qatar in tempera- on the ship’s weapons and its relies heavily on mutual under- exercise performance. lost by evaporation. tures of 35-40°C and above. As centres during modern propulsion and naviga- standing and I am confident that Speaking to an audience of In hot weather, the body has you might expect, their perform- tion systems. As one of HMS today’s event will help strengthen physicians, researchers, students to work harder to maintain a ance was significantly poorer in Eid announced Duncan’s primary roles is ensur- already healthy partnerships.” and healthcare professionals, Dr safe core body temperature, Qatar.” ing the safety of ships from air THE PENINSULA Périard explained that only about which leads to a drop in athletic THE PENINSULA DOHA: Al Rayyan, Medinat Khalifa, Al Muntaza, Umm Ghuwailina Abubacker Siddiq, Omar bin Khatab, West Bay and Mesaimeer health centres will remain open during the Eid Indian wins $1m in QDF Millionaire Al Adha holidays. These centres will function in two shifts- from 7am to 2pm and from 4pm to 11pm. The Mesaimeer health Draw, Saudi citizen wins Bentley centre will work only in the morning shift on Friday. Dental DOHA: Qatar Duty Free is clinics at these centres will also delighted to announce that function in two shifts — from the winner of its $1m prize 7am to 2pm and from 4pm to draw in September is Sudish 10pm, except on the first day of Sukumaran. Sukumaran is Eid and on Friday morning. Qatar Duty Free’s 20th win- Al Khor, Al Shamal health ner of the Millionaire Draw centres will work in two shifts — held at Hamad International from 7 am to 11am and from 4pm Airport (HIA), Doha. to 11pm. Al Wakra health centre Qatar Duty Free has also will function from 7am to 11pm announced Abdullah Al Shareef, without an afternoon break. Djibouti Prime Minister Abdulqader Kamel Mohammad laying foundation stone a Saudi national who became Al Sheehaniya health centre for Doha Alkhair village yesterday. the proud new owner of a will be open from 7am to 9pm Bentley Continental GT Speed while Al Jumailiya, Al Kaaban, Al courtesy of QDF’s luxury car Ghuwairiya and Umm Bab cen- draw without even travelling tres will function on an on call Djibouti PM lays foundation to HIA, having purchased the Hamad International Airport’s Vice-President Commercial - HIA, system round the clock. Dental winning ticket online via www. Abdulaziz Al Mass (second from right) and Qatar Duty Free’s Vice- services in Al Wakra health cen- qatardutyfree.com.qa tre will be available from 7am to President of Branded Stores, Luis Gasset (second from left) hold a stone for Doha Alkhair village Both prize draws were con- 2pm and from 3pm to 9pm, except cheque of $1m for Qatar Duty Free’s 20th winner of the Millionaire Draw. DJIBOUTI: Djibouti Prime Minister Abdulqader Kamel Mohammad laid ducted at Hamad International on Thursday and Friday. foundation stone for Doha Alkhair village funded by Qatar Charity at a Airport and were presided Dental clinics in Sheehania and cost of QR4m. Doha Alkhair village includes 100 houses, a clinic, a mosque, over by Qatar Duty Free’s called my wife and family to President, Qatar Duty Free said: Al Shamal health centres will be an elementary school, a centre for stitching, water tanks and other facili- Vice President of Branded share the wonderful moment “Qatar Duty Free’s Millionaire closed from Thursday to Saturday. ties. It is expected to help 1,200 poor and needy persons in Djibouti will Stores, Luis Gasset and Hamad with them. I will save the money Draw has created 20 extremely The facility at Al Khor center will benefit from this integrated residential project and is scheduled to be International Airport’s Vice for my children’s education; I grateful millionaires in the past work on Saturday from 7 am to completed within a year. In his speech on the occasion, Charge d’Affaires President Commercial - HIA, want them to have the opportu- nine years. Together with the 147 2pm. Registration at family and at the Embassy of the State of Qatar in Djibouti Nasser bin Khamis Ali Abdulaziz Al Mass. nity to complete their academic luxury car draws we have com- new born clinics will be open from Al Mansouri said that the project represents a great hope to dozens of Winner Sudish Sukumaran, studies at the best schools and pleted Qatar Duty Free has been 8am to 12pm, except on the first families that will be able them to change their life and live in decent and an Indian national who lives in universities available. Thank you able to create many special occa- three days of Eid. suitable conditions, which will lead to create educated generation that con- Doha, said: “When I received Qatar Duty Free for this amaz- sions for passengers travelling THE PENINSULA tribute to local development more effectively. QNA the announcement that I had ing opportunity.” through Hamad International won the prize I immediately Keith Hunter, Senior Vice Airport.” THE PENINSULA Prices rising
Continued from page 1 “I had to change my bath- room geyser and the electrician Police Training College honours research winners demanded QR500 just for fixing it,” said the man. DOHA: The Police Training College honoured at the Institute’s theatre hall was attended by Still another commentator, the winners and participants in the fourth Director General of Public Security Staff Maj. talking about how he relied on Research Contest-2015 by Ministry of Interior. Gen. Saad bin Jassim al Khulaifi and several a contractor to build his villa The contest was themed “the role of social estab- department heads at the ministry. admeasuring 380 sq meters, said lishments in preventing rumours”. The ceremony Maj. Abdul Aziz Ali Al Mohannadi, Asst. he had to cough up QR1.8m for Director of the Police Training Institute told that. “Supposing I could organ- the gathering that the competition was held to ize the masons and workers on emphasize the commitment of the ministry in my own I would have been able strengthening community partnership and con- to get my villa built for less ducting researches in security related issues. than a third of that prices— He added almost 26 researches were submit- for just QR500,000,” said the ted by participants from citizens and residents. commentator. Winners were selected from two categories- There were others who attrib- three from citizens and three from residents. uted rising prices to increasing Col. Ahmad Zayed al Mohannadi, director of population and said a heavier Community Policing Department and one of influx of people into the country the winners in the contest said that the topic should have been closely moni- proposed for the research contest was very sig- tored. Much of the price rise in nificant because it needed great attention of the the country is due to rising popu- community members to prevent rumours cir- lation, argued the commentator. culating in the community. THE PENINSULA THE PENINSULA
TUESDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2015 06 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME HMC holds workshop Enjoying a ride on newborn screening Joint event with UCH on liver cell therapy also
DOHA: New strategies and newborn screening experience,” & Co. The programme has been approaches that will allow par- said Dr Abdoh. instrumental in facilitating the ents to have more positive new- More than 160 healthcare treatment of newborns affected born screening experience, has professionals including neona- with urea-cycle defect, a rare been identified by experts at the tologists, pediatricians,metabolic genetic disorder caused by a defi- sixth International Workshop laboratory personnel, and nurses ciency of the enzymes responsible on Newborn Screening and participated in the workshop, for cleaning out toxins from the Liver Cell Therapy held in Doha which served as a dynamic plat- blood stream. recently. form to emphasise early detection Prof Georg Hoffman, Professor Hamad Medical Corporation and prevention of inborn diseases. of Pediatrics and Chairman of (HMC), in collaboration with Many babies are born with the Department of Pediatrics, the University Children’s Hospital potentially severe diseases that University of Heidelberg said: (UCH) in Heidelberg, hosted the can have detrimental effects to “The workshop builds from the three-day workshop. their health. Effective newborn successful collaboration between The event highlighted latest screening programmes such as two world-class medical centres, advances and emerging ideas in the Qatar Newborn Screening HMC and UCH, in the area of the field of metabolic and endo- Program (QNSP) allow health- newborn screening and meta- crine screening and comprised care professionals to discover the bolic medicine. As a result of interactive presentations by lead- diseases within the first few hours this collaboration, hundreds of A young boy enjoying a ride on a decorated donkey at the Souq Waqif yesterday. A ride costs about QR10. ing experts and eminent scientists of life, resulting in prompt medi- children and families have been SALIM MATRAMKOT from Germany and Qatar. cal intervention. saved from experiencing the dev- Senior Consultant, Pediatrics Medical Director of Women’s astating effects of severe inher- Neonatology, and Head of the Hospital (WH) and Director of the ited diseases and now enjoy an Newborn Screening Unit at WH, QNSP, Dr Hilal Al Rifai, underlined improved quality of life. Qatar Dr Ghassan Abdoh said that an that QNSP is one of the most fruit- has certainly emerged as one of QU V-P among highly cited researchers important aspect of the work- ful preventive programs in Qatar, the few countries in the world to shop was the impact of newborn which requires all babies born in offer the most effective preventive DOHA: Qatar University exceptional impact due to writing screening on parents. the country to undergo comprehen- healthcare services.” (QU) Vice-President and Chief the greatest number of research “Parental anxiety and stress sive and free-of-cost screening for Prof Hoffman added that joint Academic Officer Dr Mazen papers in the period 2003-2013. during newborn screening is a a number of metabolic and endo- efforts by both organisations have Hasna (pictured) has been This has ranked them among the common phenomenon. This is crinal diseases. According to Dr Al led to increased training opportu- named among the Highly top 1 percent most cited for their usually due to parents’ lack of Rifai, over 200,000 newborns have nities for healthcare profession- Cited Researchers in Thomson respective subject area and year information and understanding of been successfully screened in Qatar als working in this field. “We have Reuters list of 2015. Dr Hasna of publication. the screening process and in some since the launch of the programme been able to provide highly-spe- was recognised as the only Dr Hasna said: “I am honoured cases due to the time it takes to in 2003. The workshop also shed cialised and advanced training to Highly Cited Researcher at and privileged to be named among receive the screening results. light on the latest outcome of the several doctors and nurses from Qatar University and Qatar this distinguished list of research- With the exchange of expertise International Safety and Efficacy Qatar and are now hoping to also as a whole for his research in ers. It is a testament to QU’s at this workshop, we have been of Liver Cell Application project, extend this wonderful programme Computer Science. ongoing commitment to encourage able to identify new strategies established as a joint venture to healthcare professionals from Dr Hasna’s achievement quality faculty output and impact- and approaches that will allow between HMC, UCH and German other GCC countries.” stands among 3,000 researchers ful research in areas of national parents to have more positive biotech company, Cytonet GmbH THE PENINSULA who earned this distinction of priorities.” THE PENINSULA
CMED-QU holds Alzheimer’s awareness meet VCUQatar opens global
DOHA: The College of Medicine at Qatar University exhibition Papercuts (CMED-QU) yesterday held an awareness event on the Alzheimer’s (ALZ) disor- der to commemorate World Alzheimer’s Day, and as part of its ongoing outreach activities that address health concerns within the community. The event was themed Alzheimer’s Purple Day and invited QU students, faculty and staff and members of the wider community to wear purple to rec- DOHA: Virginia Commonwealth shadow transform the ancient ognise people suffering with the University in Qatar (VCUQatar) technique of paper cutting into disease, to learn about its causes opened this semester’s gallery dynamic contemporary installa- and symptoms, and the toll it programme with the exhibi- tions filled with delicate illusions. takes on families. tion Papercuts scheduled to run Highlighting slow work wrought The event included a film Awareness event on the Alzheimer’s at the College of Medicine at Qatar University. through October 15. The exhibi- by hand, these meditative works screening, open discussion and a tion is open to the public. Gallery are charged with personal nar- visual learning experience about hours are Sunday to Thursday rative, cultural metaphor, and ALZ. A presentation by Hamad Comparing normal cognitive from their families and car- population. Due to Qatar’s pop- from 9am to 5pm. pristine beauty. Paper cuts was Medical Corporation (HMC) Head lapses and dementia, Dr Deleu egivers. “We are all encouraged ulation growth, we expect an Culminating a four-year and curated by Reni Gower. of Neurology and Neurophysiology noted that the former gave indi- to increase our awareness of increase by 30 times of ALZ suf- twelve-venue tour, Papercuts fea- Each artist contributes a Dr Dirk Deleu, aimed at promot- cations of everyday forgetfulness Alzheimer’s to learn about its ferers by 2050. This calls for effec- tures exquisite hand cut paper unique sensibility within a com- ing awareness about Alzheimer’s such as not remembering names symptoms and the most appropri- tive efforts to help reduce this works (pictured) by an inter- plex (often installation based) dementia and to boost support in and dates and misplacing keys, ate prevention methods”, he said. number. Cognitive enhancement, national roster of artists. Jaq construct that has hand cut paper the fight against the global wide- while the latter produces signs Dr Deleu went on to highlight individual and group therapy, Belcher, Béatrice Coron, Michelle at its core. Whether manifested as spread disorder. He said: “Dementia such as not recognizing family the situation of ALZ dementia in regular medical checkups, and Forsyth, Reni Gower, Lenka silhouettes, romanticised fictions, is common in elderly but is not an members, getting lost in normally Qatar for which he noted there communication with family and Konopasek, Lauren Scanlon, enigmatic reenactments, cryptic inherent part of aging. Alzheimer’s familiar places, and forgetting were no formal studies conducted caregivers are very efficient ways and Daniella Woolf skillfully use scripts, or poetic abstractions, dementia is the most common type one’s name. on its prevalence: “In less than to minimize and control symp- simple tools on paper in a proc- the artists address historical, cul- of dementia and there is no cura- He added that ALZ sufferers four decades, it may have a sig- toms of ALZ dementia.” ess dating back to 6th century tural, and personal identity. tive therapy at this time.” need special care and attention nificant impact on Qatar’s elderly THE PENINSULA China. With great effect, light and THE PENINSULA
QU to host travelling MathAlive
DOHA: Qatar University (QU) science, designed to inspire and the MathAlive! Exhibition, saying: will host the debut of the trav- spark the imagination, and to “The MathAlive! exhibition comes elling MathAlive! Exhibit at reveal the endless possibilities of as part of Raytheon’s continued a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Math outside the classroom. commitment to enriching STEM October 1. The exhibition is a It will bring to life the real Math education globally, and is in keep- partnership among QU colleges behind video games, sports, fashion, ing with the Qatari government’s of Engineering (CENG), Arts and music, robotics, and more, and cre- firm commitment and success in Sciences (CAS) and Education ate interactive and immersive expe- advancing academics and build- (CED)and Raytheon Company. riences that illustrate the math at ing a robust educational sector. The ceremony will be attended work in each, whether in design, Through its innovative approach by QU Vice-President and Chief application or use. The exhibition to learning, MathAlive! seeks to Academic Officer Dr Mazen will also feature activities, games, redefine the academic experience Hasna, Raytheon International seminars and workshops. and engage students through the Qatar President Yezen Munir, Dr Hasna said: “Qatar University activities they enjoy the most, and CENG Dean Dr Rashid Al continues to play a leading role in we hope to compliment the vision- Ammari, CAS Dean Dr Eiman promoting accessible solutions for ary efforts of Qatar’s leadership to Mustafawi, and CED Dean Dr youth in Qatar that engage their dynamically diversify their educa- Hissa Sadiq, in addition to stu- interest in science and Math. tional platforms and strengthen dents and faculty members and We are pleased to partner with their knowledge economy.” senior representatives from Raytheon in this innovative ini- Dr Al Ammari said: “This is part Raytheon.A number of govern- tiative that will positively impact of CENG’s commitment to bring ment, academic and business offi- a large number of QU students, awareness to the importance of cials are also expected to attend. as well as young students across science and mathematics to the MathAlive!, which is aimed at Qatar in a fun experience of dis- country’s development,and uplift late primary and early secondary covery and creativity.” the STEM skillsets of the younger school students, is an interactive Munir extended his thanks and generation by relating it to their and inspiring learning exhibition appreciation to QU leadership everyday life,” he said. Participants at the exhibition. in the world of mathematics and and CENG for their support of THE PENINSULA
TUESDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2015 08 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com GULF / MIDDLE EAST 51pc of Palestinians oppose 2-state goal Two-thirds want Abbas to resign, finds survey
RAMALLAH: More than half As well as increased doubts of Palestinians no longer sup- Tight security about the prospects for a peaceful port a two-state solution to resolution with the Israelis, there the conflict with Israel, a sur- is deep-seated mistrust of Abbas vey released yesterday showed, in Jerusalem and the Palestinian leadership rejecting the goal that has and growing support for a return underpinned four decades of JERUSALEM: Israel said to armed conflict with Israel. international diplomacy. yesterday that thousands of Nearly two-thirds of The poll by the Palestinian police would be deployed in Palestinians (65 percent) want Centre for Policy and Survey Jerusalem ahead of the Yom Abbas, who has been presi- Research, a leading research group Kippur and Eid Al Adha dent for 10 years, to resign. in the Palestinian territories, found holidays after three days of Furthermore, satisfaction with that 51 percent of Palestinians clashes rocked the Al Aqsa his performance as president oppose the two-state solution while Mosque compound. Yom has fallen from 44 percent three 48 percent support it. Kippur begins tonight and months ago to 38 percent. The figures were down from 51 lasts until tomorrow evening. If new elections were held in percent support and 48 percent The Eid Al Adha holiday the Palestinian territories, 35 opposition three months ago. The begins tomorrow and con- percent say they would vote for survey was carried out on 1,270 tinues until Sunday. The Al Hamas and 35 percent for Fatah, people in the occupied West Bank Aqsa compound will be open down from 39 percent three Pilgrims wearing hand free umbrellas, leave after the Asr prayer at the Grand Mosque in Makkah yesterday. and in Gaza from September 17-19. to visits as usual tomor- months ago. The two-state solution — an row, but Muslim men under Asked what the most effec- independent Palestine existing the age of 40 will be denied tive way of establishing an inde- side-by-side with Israel — has access during the four-day pendent Palestinian state next to 100,000 troops to secure Haj been the broad objective of nego- Eid holiday, police said. Israel would be, 42 percent said tiations since the mid-1970s and AFP armed action and 29 percent said MAKKAH: Saudi Arabia has spoke exclusively to the Associated required to perform the Haj once the overriding focus of US-led negotiation. Three months ago deployed 100,000 security per- Press from the Interior Ministry’s in their lives. diplomacy for the past 20 years. only 36 percent said armed action. sonnel to oversee the annual Haj security headquarters for the Haj, Members of an elite counter- Perhaps more worrying from in Palestinian politics between The day before Israeli elec- pilgrimage that begins today, located in the sprawling tent city terrorism unit, traffic police and a sentiment point of view is that the Fatah party of President tions in March, Prime Minister the Interior Ministry spokes- of Mina just a few miles outside emergency civil defense person- nearly two-thirds of those sur- Mahmoud Abbas and the Islamist Benjamin Netanyahu said there man said, underscoring both the the Grand Mosque in Makkah, nel are among those deployed veyed (65 percent) said they did group Hamas, which is in charge would never be a Palestinian state massive arrangements needed to that houses Islam’s holiest site, to help with crowd control and not believe the two-state solution in Gaza. on his watch, only to reverse him- secure one of the largest pilgrim- the Holy Ka’aba. safety. They are supported by was any longer practical because “Additionally, the developments self days later and recommit to ages in the world and the multi- Roughly 3 million people from additional troops from the army of Israel’s settlement expansion indicated in this poll might have the longstanding objective of a tude of threats the Haj faces. around the world are expected to and national guard, Al Turki said. in the West Bank. also been triggered by anger at two-state solution. “We always concentrate on converge at the Ka’aba, in Mina Inside the Interior Ministry’s The survey was conducted the Arab world as the overwhelm- However, the survey showed 78 hajj considering that a threat and other nearby areas for the nerve centre, police monitor doz- at a time of heightened Israeli- ing majority believes that Arabs percent of Palestinians think the might exist,” Maj Gen Mansour Haj, which lasts about five days. ens of screens with feeds from Palestinian tension, particularly no longer care about the fate of chances of getting their own state Al Turki said. “We’ve been tar- It is series of rituals meant to about 5,000 CCTV cameras over a Jerusalem shrine holy to the Palestinians,” the director of in the next five years are “slim to geted by terrorism for years now cleanse the soul of sins and instill installed throughout Makkah Muslims and Jews. the poll, Khalil Shikaki, wrote in non-existent”. and we know that we are a tar- a sense of equality and brother- and Madinah, the two cities fre- It also comes amid deep rifts a commentary. REUTERS get for terrorist groups.” Al Turki hood. All able-bodied Muslims are quented by pilgrims. AP
200,000 Syrian Iran collects samples for IAEA at Parchin site refugee kids in TEHRAN: Iran said yesterday the IAEA says ambiguities about “The agency can confirm the Lebanon to get that it independently collected past possible military dimensions integrity of the sampling process samples at a suspect military of Iran’s nuclear activities must be and the authenticity of the sam- free schooling site where illicit nuclear work resolved. Much work remains to be ples, which were taken at places is alleged to have occurred and done on that report, Amano said. of interest to the agency at the BEIRUT: Half of school-aged later handed them to the UN’s Iran’s environmental sam- particular location in Parchin.” Syrian refugees in Lebanon absent inspectors. pling from specific parts of the He did not name the place, will receive a free educa- The disclosure that interna- Parchin complex took place in but did say that he and Tero tion under a new campaign tional monitors were not physi- the past week. “It was done by Varjoranta, the IAEA’s chief launched yesterday by the cally present is likely to feed Iranian experts, in the absence of inspector, visited a building pre- host country and the UN’s critics of a nuclear deal between IAEA inspectors,” said Behrouz viously only monitored by satellite child and refugee agencies. Iran and world powers, who have Kamalvandi, spokesman for Iran’s technology, and indicated it had The government and the UN poured scorn on measures used Atomic Energy Organisation. been altered. agencies said in a joint state- to check if Tehran’s atomic pro- IAEA and Iranian officials have “Inside the building, we saw ment that the initiative would gramme is peaceful. previously said monitoring can be indications of recent renovation aim to reach 166,667 Lebanese In a mark of the high stakes verified in real time by satellites work. There was no equipment and 200,000 non-Lebanese vul- at play it drew a quick reaction and sophisticated geolocation in the building,” he said before nerable children for the 2015- from the UN’s International technology. Amano, speaking a appearing to criticise past con- 2016 academic year. Atomic Energy Agency, whose day after he visited Tehran and struction work at Parchin. “Our responsibility is to chief insisted that “the integrity was unexpectedly granted access “As I have stated in my reports.. ensure that every child on of the sampling process and the An August 13, 2004 picture shows a view of facilities of Parchin military site. to Parchin, appeared to reiterate the extensive work that has been Lebanese territory has access authenticity of the samples” was that capability while acknowledg- conducted at the location since to education,” said Education not compromised. to develop a nuclear bomb. that it conducted explosives tests ing Iran’s recent role. early 2012 undermines the agen- Minister Elias Bou Saab. The samples were taken under The site at Parchin, east of at Parchin — are groundless and “In the case of Parchin, the cy’s ability to conduct effective Lebanon, a country of four “established procedures”, IAEA the capital Tehran, has been at based on malicious information Iranian side played a part in the verification there. “Our experts million people, hosts more director general Yukiya Amano the centre of international scep- provided by its enemies. sample-taking process by swiping will now analyse this information than 1.1 million Syrian refu- said, noting “significant progress” ticism of Iran’s activities. Iran The sample taking is linked samples,” Amano said in Vienna, and we will have discussions with gees, including at least 400,000 is being made in its long-running says accusations from Western to a so-called roadmap with a adding his experts would analyse Iran in the coming weeks.” school-aged children, accord- probe of whether Iran ever sought intelligence agencies — including December 15 deadline by when them in the coming weeks. AFP ing to the UN’s refugee agency, UNHCR. The $94m project would cover the costs of school regis- tration, supplies, and parental funds for refugees as well as Istanbul riot police block new vulnerable Lebanese children up to grade nine. A similar programme last year provided migrant march to Greek border free education and supplies for 100,000 Syrian children. “This year marks a major ISTANBUL: A new march by a group told reporters at the scene. “They’re try- breakthrough: we will dou- of mainly Syrian migrants trying to ing to enter Europe out of despair. The ble the number of children reach Europe overland from Turkey government unfortunately is responsible enrolled in Lebanese public was blocked by police outside Istanbul for this situation,” he accused. schools compared to last year,” yesterday. Five people were arrested, Dogan news said Tanya Chapuisat, Unicef’s Around 700 men, women and children agency reported. Edirne, which lies around Lebanon representative. from a group that had been blocked for the 10km from the Greek border and 20km “However, with all the efforts past week at Istanbul’s main bus station from Bulgaria, has become a new rallying expended, at least 200,000 refu- set out yesterday evening on footfor the point for migrants trying to reach Europe. gee children still remain outside northwestern city of Edirne, 250km away. Encouraged by a social media campaign of the formal education system, After spending the night camped on demanding migrants be allowed to travel deprived of their basic right.” the hard shoulder of the motorway, some overland to the EU rather than risk their UNHCR representative of the migrants managed to board buses lives at sea, around 2,000 refugees, many Mireille Girard said the agen- or private vehicles. of whom have been living in Turkey for cy’s “priority is to identify But a few hundred others continued months, flocked to the city last week. out-of-school children and to walk along the emergency lane, in the Hundreds more who attempted to fol- encourage their integration in midst of snarling traffic, before being low in their path found themselves stuck Lebanese public schools.” brought to a halt by a cordon of riot police in Istanbul after bus operators, acting on “At a time when refugees are about 50km from Istanbul. orders from the authorities, refused to sell facing increasing challenges After hours of negotiations, they even- them tickets for the journey. in their daily lives, certified tually agreed to be taken back to Istanbul Edirne’s governor has warned that education for their children is by bus. The secretary-general of Turkey’s any migrants trying to smuggle illegally much needed.” main opposition Republican People’s into Europe through his province will be According to UNICEF, more Party, who attempted to mediate in the returned to refugee camps in southern than 2.6 million children from standoff, accused the government of fail- Turkey. Turkey has taken in more than war-ravaged Syria are out of ing the refugees. two million Syrians since 2011, of whom school, sparking fears of a “lost “No-one in Turkey is helping this peo- around 260,000 live in refugee camps. The A child cries in front of a police barricade after migrants were blocked by Turkish riot police while generation.” ple, no-one is offering them shelter, access rest try to eke out a living in communities walking towards Edirne in Istanbul yesterday. AFP to education or healthcare,” Gursel Tekin across the country. AFP
TUESDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2015 10 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com
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Needless furore Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate
UNGARY has been overreacting to the influx of migrants into its borders from Serbia. Hundreds of thousands of refugees from Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq, HLibya, Africa have been streaming into Europe for months now, precipitating a crisis that has been compared to Syriza’s victory a mixed the exodus of people during the Second World War. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has been crying himself hoarse over the migrants crossing the borders, as if they were a swarm of locusts descending on his country. And Hungary blessing for European left is one nation that has treated thousands of helpless Syrians fleeing war and misery in the most sordid way. BY PAUL TAYLOR Even as Tsipras grudgingly implements president Gerry Adams, whose radical First Orban tried to stem the flow of refugees with a bailout programme he once promised party is wilting in polls before Ireland’s razor-wire across the 175-km border with Serbia. Scenes of EFTIST Alexis Tsipras’s re-elec- to scrap, his strategy is to continue the election next year. desperate refugees breaching the wire fence — risking injuring tion as Greek prime minister car- rhetorical fight against German-led aus- Three months before a Spanish general themselves and children — to enter Hungary drove home the ries a mixed message for Europe’s terity policies. election, the two parties vying for left- point that it is hard to thwart the tide of refugees escaping Lbattered centre-left and for anti- “In Europe today, Greece and the Greek wing voters — Podemos and the main- capitalist radicals hoping to overturn the people are synonymous with resistance stream socialist PSOE — both rushed to persecution with sharp-edged barriers alone. Then came a continent’s austere economic orthodoxy. and dignity,” he told a victory rally on congratulate Syriza on its win. law that made it punishable for anyone illegally crossing the His victory on Sunday shows left-wing Sunday. “The struggle will be continued But while the anti-austerity Podemos country’s borders with up to five years in jail. On Sunday, parties can still win elections in Europe, together for another four years.” tweeted a picture of Iglesias on the phone Hungary convicted 23 migrants of illegally crossing its border after reverses in Britain, Denmark and Tsipras faced down Marxist hardliners with Tsipras, the socialists warned Syriza and expelled them for varying durations. Finland this year. Seven years of financial in his Syriza party and crushed a splinter against a coalition with the far-right and The Hungarian parliament yesterday passed a law that crisis and euro zone debt woes have mostly group led by his former energy minister, said Podemos should not try to turn this benefited the centre-right in the European but he still prefers the company of radicals victory of “new Syriza” into their own. gives sweeping powers to the army and police to keep migrants Union, along with anti-EU populists. It to suit-and-tie social democrats. “In Spain this is going to help Podemos, out of the country. The law allows the army to deal with also shows that with charismatic leader- Syriza applauded the election of hardline that is very clear. They are an alterna- migrants by participating in border controls, to restrict ship and after putting up a good fight, leftist Jeremy Corbyn as leader of Britain’s tive that is attractive now in Europe,” personal liberties and to use a left-wing government can sign up to opposition Labour party this month as “a said Juan Diez, president of the think- weapons without resulting in loss unpopular economic reforms and spend- message of hope to the people of Europe”, tank Analisis Sociologicos, Economicos Giving army of life. The police has been vested ing cuts without seeing him as a kindred spirit in trying to y Políticos (ASEP). “It does not mean being wiped out roll back austerity policies. Podemos are going to win the elections, powers to with powers to enter homes in at the ballot The star guests at Syriza’s final cam- but they might get a boost.” search of illegal migrants. box. paign rally in Athens were Pablo Iglesias, European Parliament president Schulz, deal with It is bewildering to see a Yet many pony-tailed leader of Spain’s youth- who telephoned Tsipras to congratulate country exert so much effort to Tsipras faced down would say it ful far-left Podemos party, and Pierre him, also said it was “bizarre” that the migrants is an thwart a purported threat from Marxist hardliners also shows that Laurent, secretary-general of the French Greek leader was sticking to his coalition leftist radicals Communist Party. with the hard right. something that is temporary, at overreach by in his Syriza party have to bow to And Tsipras opted immediately to renew In Portugal, where a tough bailout pro- the most. The migrants, majority and crushed a economic real- a coalition with the nationalist hard-right gramme has not generated the same sup- the Hungarian of them Syrians, are just looking ity once in office Independent Greeks rather than take up port for anti-austerity radicals as in Spain government. for a passage to western and splinter group and are unable offers of partnership from the centre-left or Greece, the opposition Socialist can- northern Europe through Hungary. led by his former to change policy Pasok party which used to run Greece or didate for prime minister in the October The Hungarian government, one significantly, the centrist opposition To Potami party. 4 election played down any connection energy minister, however bold The Greek leader’s U-turn, accepting between the two votes. gets the impression, is trying to create an issue when none their promises. stringent bailout conditions imposed by “What is being decided in Portugal has exists. Even if, as it says, it is trying to follow EU rules in but he still prefers Conservative euro zone leaders days after he had won a nothing to do with what is being discussed dealing with the refugees, it is creating problems than trying the company of governments in referendum rejecting similar terms, split in Greece,” Antonio Costa told reporters. to solve them. Spain, Portugal his comrades at home and abroad. His centre-left party, which led a minor- Hungary’s treatment of migrants has drawn criticism radicals to suit- and Ireland, Jean-Luc Melenchon, who was the pres- ity administration that was forced to seek from European leaders and rights bodies. A video footage of and-tie social facing elections idential candidate of France’s Left Front a bailout in 2011, is neck-and-neck with in the coming in 2012, denounced Tsipras for surrender- the centre-right ruling coalition in opinion sandwiches being thrown at refugees or a TV camerawoman democrats. months after ing to what he called a German “diktat”. polls, with support for smaller leftist par- tripping up a Syrian man fleeing police with his son inside implementing Melenchon threw his support behind the ties ranging from 2 to 10 percent. Hungary have sullied the image of the country. tough EU/IMF Popular Unity party, the Syriza breakaway Costa proposes boosting incomes, hiring The move to give extra powers to the army to deal with bailout terms, may take comfort from the which failed to win the three percent min- and economic growth while easing auster- refugees came on a day Lebanon announced that half of fact that it is possible to drink the poison imum required to enter the Greek parlia- ity measures but says he would still be able and survive politically. ment. Other radicals, hoping for a political to cut public deficits in line with European school-aged Syrian refugees in the country will receive a free Despite efforts by the mainstream coat-tails effect from Tsipras, tried to bask rules. Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho education. This is in sharp contrast to Hungary’s reaction to European left to embrace him, Tsipras in his victory. also drew a distinction with Greece, saying the migrants. Even Greece, suffering a debilitating debt crisis, is still eschewing the “you’re one of us “The success of Syriza in the general that Portugal under his rule was now pre- has dealt humanely with Syrian refugees. Hungary should now” message from centre-left Socialist election is all the more remarkable given paring for intensifying economic recovery tamp down its aggressive response to refugees and deal with President Francois Hollande of France and the appalling treatment of the Greek and employment, while Greece still faced a the problem in a manner that behoves an European Union European Parliament President Martin government by the EU and ECB during difficult bailout programme. Schulz, a German Social Democrat. the recent negotiations,” said Sinn Fein REUTERS state. The other side Quote of Xi’s visit and optimism of youths to boost Sino-US ties the day SURVEY conducted by China deem China-US ties as the most of the two countries’ efforts in recent have yielded positive results. Daily website found President important bilateral relationship for their years to deepen cooperation in trade. Xi has said many times that the Xi Jinping’s state visit to the countries. This is in conformity with With the volume of two-way trade bilateral relationship is based on peo- United States is an attention- the evaluation of both governments reaching $555.1bn last year, trade ple-to-people relations. And the bond This result does not Agrabbing event for both Chinese and and international observers focusing and economic ties between Beijing between Chinese and American peo- American youths. The majority of on interactions between Beijing and and Washington not only balance ples has never been stronger. Xi’s state belong to Syriza. This the respondents to the survey also Washington. their overall relationship but also help visit to the US is a golden opportunity result belongs to expressed optimism over the prospects But since the importance of boost world economic development. for both countries to further their com- of bilateral ties. China-US ties extends beyond the bilat- Therefore, it is in the interest of both mon interests and increase people- the working classes The survey released before Xi’s visit, eral realm, the two countries have to sides to keep the momentum in bilat- to-people exchanges. We have every of this country, the which begins on Tuesday, could help manage their ties in a more mature and eral trade. The favorable survey results reason to believe Xi’s visit will help drive people around the world gauge the skillful manner so as to avoid unneces- testify to the fact that years’ of mean- home the message that China and the people who fight for dynamics of China-US relations and sary ups and downs. The survey also ingful interactions have brought tangi- US are committed to building a new provide useful reference to decision- found that a great majority of youths ble benefits to people on both sides. model of major-country relationship a better tomorrow, makers on both sides when they chart on both sides believe bilateral trade to They also prove that the efforts made based on non-confrontation, non-con- who dream of a better the future of bilateral ties. be mutually beneficial and reciprocal, by both countries to deepen mutual flict, mutual cooperation and a win-win Alexis Tsipras More than half of the respondents which reflects the extent and depth understanding and build mutual trust principle. CHINA DAILY tomorrow. Prime Minister of Greece TUESDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2015 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 11 Rebels see tougher war with Russians in Syria Russia’s deployment is prompting a reassessment of the conflict among insurgents whose advances in western Syria in recent LATAKIA AIR BASE: Satellite image taken Sep 4 shows possible construction months may have been the catalyst for Russia’s decision. US of Russian base at Bassel al Assad International Airport in Latakia officials say Russian forces are already arriving. Helicopter Earthworks along entire length of runway pads under suggest improvements taking place to BY SULEIMAN AL KHALIDI about its goals - saying its support for the more ferocious they are in battle.” construction allow for heavier transport aircraft and TOM PERRY Damascus aims to fight terrorism - rebels Some fighters say there is no sign of in the west believe their area of opera- increased Russian support yet. Others EBELS who have inflicted tions is the priority because it poses the report more accurate air strikes and the big losses on Syrian biggest immediate risk to Assad. Russia appearance of new types of armoured President Bashar Al operates its only naval facility on the vehicles. Assad say Russia’s inter- Mediterranean in the Syrian city of A Syrian military source told Reuters vention in support of its Tartous near Latakia. last week the army has started using new Construction ally will only lead to an Islamic State, while a growing danger, types of weapons supplied by Russia. underway Rescalation of the war and may encourage is seen as a lesser threat to Assad for “The information we have is that the rebels’ Gulf Arab backers to pour in now, though it also seems likely to be hit. Russia has taken on the task of protect- more military aid. The insurgents fighting near the coast ing the coast and it is leading the bat- 200m Russia’s deployment is prompting a include the Nusra Front, Al Qaeda’s tles we are now fighting near Joreen,” 650ft reassessment of the conflict among insur- Syrian wing, 30 percent of whose fight- said a Nusra Front commander who was gents whose advances in western Syria in ers are foreign jihadists inspired by the using his nom de guerre, Abu Anas Al ! Assad regime TURKEY recent months may have been the cata- aim of battling the government. They Lathkani. Alawite lyst for Russia’s decision. US officials say include Russians, Asians and Chechens, Joreen is a government-held town heartland Russian forces are already arriving. the Nusra Front leader said in an inter- overlooking the Ghab Plain, and home Rebels interviewed by Reuters say view earlier this year. to an army base. “The Russian presence # $ Aleppo they have already encountered stronger Moscow has said its military support will change the nature of the battle. The government resistance in those areas - for Damascus is aimed at fighting ter- pace of our advances will become slightly Idlib notably the coastal heartland of Assad’s rorism, safeguarding Syria’s statehood more difficult,” Al Lathkani said. Alawite sect - and now predict an even and preventing a “total catastrophe” in # $ tougher war with Russian involvement. the region. It has sent greater quantities ‘ANOTHER AFGHANISTAN’ Hama Some see an opportunity in the and new types of weapons to a Syrian Damascus, an ally of Moscow since Russian deployment, predicting more army which has been suffering a man- Soviet times, says it will request Russian Homs military aid from states such as Saudi power problem. troops to fight alongside its own if the Arabia. That signals one of the risks of The support adds to the foreign back- need arises. It has denied the presence % & Russian involvement: A spiral of deep- ing Assad has already received from of Russian combat troops on the ground ! " SYRIA ening foreign interference in a conflict Iran and Lebanon’s Hezbollah, which now. But Lebanese sources familiar with ! already complicated by a regional strug- has been fighting alongside the army for the political and military situation have gle between Saudi Arabia and Iran. several years. Iran has mobilised Iraqi said Russians have already taken part in LEBANON Hoping to galvanise more support, and Afghani militias to support the military operations. # $ &