BUSINESS | Page 1 SPORT | Page 8 Almoez shines as Duhail ZAD Holding in beat Al ‘profi table growth trajectory in 2018’ Ain published in QATAR since 1978

WEDNESDAY Vol. XXXX No. 11163 April 24, 2019 Sha’baan 19, 1440 AH

GULF TIMES www. gulf-times.com 2 Riyals

Qatar, Nigeria to strengthen ties

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani being received by Nigerian His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari chairing off icial talks in Abuja yesterday. President Muhammadu Buhari at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja yesterday. O Amir, President Buhari hold off icial talks in Abuja; discussions focus on developing economic co-operation

QNA for developing them in all sectors, es- reception upon his arrival at the presi- The banquet was attended by mem- Abdulaziz bin Mubarak al-Mohannadi, ter Onyeama and other dignitaries. Abuja pecially in the economic, investment, dential villa. bers of the delegation accompanying the and members of the Qatari embassy. The Amir sent a cable to President energy, agriculture and infrastructure His Highness the Amir and Buhari Amir and a number of Nigerian minis- During the reception, the Amir re- Buhari in which he expressed sincere fi elds. also held a bilateral meeting during ters and senior offi cials. ceived an honorary key to the capital thanks and appreciation to the presi- is Highness the Amir Sheikh They also exchanged views and which they discussed aspects of pro- Earlier upon arrival at the Nnamdi Abuja from the Minister of the Federal dent and the friendly people of Nigeria Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani stances of both countries on all regional moting relations and developing areas of Azikiwe International Airport on a state Capital Territory as a welcome gift. It for the warm welcome, hospitality and Hand Nigerian President Mu- and international developments. co-operation in various fi elds. They also visit to Nigeria, His Highness the Amir was followed by a welcome perform- honour accorded to him and the ac- hammadu Buhari held offi cial talks at The session was attended by mem- discussed issues of common concern. and the accompanying delegation were ance by a folkloric Nigerian group. companying delegation during the vis- the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja bers of the offi cial delegation accompa- The Amir later attended a luncheon received by Minister of Foreign Aff airs The Amir left Abuja yesterday evening it. The Amir wished the president good yesterday. nying the Amir and a number of Nige- banquet hosted by President Buhari Geoff rey Onyeama, Minister of the Fed- after concluding the state visit to Niger- health and happiness and the Nigerian During the session they discussed rian ministers and senior offi cials. in his honour at Aso Rock Presidential eral Capital Territory Abuja Muhammad ia. He was seen off at Nnamdi Azikiwe people further development and pros- bilateral relations and the prospects The Amir was accorded an offi cial Villa. Bello, Qatar’s ambassador to Nigeria International Airport by Foreign Minis- perity. Pages 2, 22

In brief QIA, Crown acquire Oud festival kicks off at Katara QATAR | Offi cial Amir congratulates iconic properties in NY new Ukrainian leader His Highness the Amir Sheikh rown Acquisitions (Crown) 21, and Disney, at 1540 Broadway, and Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani sent and Qatar Investment Author- the retail space at one of the world’s yesterday a cable of congratulations City (QIA) announced a co-in- most popular touristic destinations, to Volodymyr Zelenskiy on vestment deal to acquire prime retail the Marriott Marquis at 1535 Broad- the occasion of his wining the properties in Fifth Avenue and Times way. presidential elections in Ukraine. His Square in New York City. The world famous Fifth Avenue, Highness the Deputy Amir Sheikh Crown Acquisitions and QIA have New York City, has been synony- Abdullah bin Hamad al-Thani also co-invested to acquire a nearly 24% mous with luxury retailing and home sent a cable of congratulations to stake each in a Vornado Realty Trust to many of the world’s leading brands Zelenskiy. portfolio of prime retail properties, for more than a century. The portfo- estimated at $5.6bn and more than lio of assets acquired includes fl agship QATAR | Telecoms 910,000sq ft, containing many of brands and famous stores such as Vic- New York City’s “high end shopping toria’s Secret, Salvatore Ferragamo, Vodafone provides 5G and most iconic” leisure destina- Massimo Dutti, Harry Winston, and networks for homes tions. the St. Regis Hotel on Fifth Avenue, Vodafone Qatar announced yesterday Vornado Realty Trust is one of the respectively. that it is making 5G technology largest owners and managers of street Commenting on the deal announce- commercially available with the retail properties in Manhattan. On ment, Haim Chera, principal, Crown launch of its latest innovation - Times Square, the portfolio of assets Acquisitions, said: “Crown Acquisi- Vodafone GigaHome - the new home include one of New York’s most rec- tions looks forward to this long-term Internet solution. Page 8 ognisable retail blocks and home to and successful partnership with QIA, brands including MAC, Polo, Forever and we are delighted that they share our ASIA | Attack vision for this exclusive and high-class Katara Oud festival manager Mohamed Abdullah al-Marzouqi with artistes who were felicitated at the end of the performance portfolio”. yesterday. Suspects with explosives QIA CEO Mansoor al-Mahmoud still at large in Lanka said: “We are pleased to have partnered atara – the Cultural Village from diff erent community groups in stressed that Katara was committed Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil with Crown Acquisitions to acquire Foundation launched the third Doha. to pursuing its message of hosting and Wickremesinghe has warned that this portfolio of exclusive properties Kedition of the Katara Oud Festi- The opening night saw a number supporting art and culture from around there are still several suspects at large in one of the world’s most iconic retail val yesterday, featuring prominent oud of stirring performances by artistes the world. after a series of explosions on Easter space. players and manufacturers from vari- from various countries, which en- “The great success witnessed by Sunday left more than 320 people QIA’s investment in the portfolio is ous countries. thralled the audience. the previous two editions of the Oud dead. Some of the suspects may be in part of its broad and long-term part- Present at the inauguration were Ka- The event is being held under the Festival obliged us to launch the third possession of explosives, the prime nership with Crown Acquisitions, and tara general manager Dr Khalid bin Ib- theme ‘Alkindi’, inspired by the famous edition under the theme of ‘Alkindi’, minister told parliament yesterday, fundamental to QIA’s aim of increas- rahim al-Sulaiti and several other dig- Arab scholar and philosopher, Yacoub after the famous Arab philosopher,” designated as a national day of ing its US investments to $45bn in the nitaries and VIP guests, in addition to a bin Ishaq al-Kindi. he said. mourning for the victims. Page 13 coming years. large number of visitors and oud lovers In his opening speech, Dr al-Sulaiti To Page 24 Gulf Times 2 Wednesday, April 24, 2019 QATAR

Amir accorded ceremonial welcome in Abuja

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani with Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari at the off icial reception ceremony in Abuja yesterday.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, accompanied by Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, reviews a guard of honour at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja yesterday.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani receiving the honorary key to the capital Abuja from the Nigerian Minister of the Federal Capital Territory as a welcome gift. A Nigerian group performing a folkloric dance on the occasion of the Amir’s visit to Nigeria.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, accompanied by Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, being received by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani holding talks with Nigerian President Nigerian off icials in Abuja yesterday. Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja yesterday.

Doha symposium Amir, Rwandan leader vow to strengthen ties discusses response QNA commitment to promoting good Kigali relations between Qatar and to natural disasters Rwanda through their support in various fi elds, including edu- is Highness the Amir cation, trade, investment, infra- QNA The event, to be moderated Sheikh Tamim bin Ha- structure, information technol- Doha by Director of the Department Hmad al-Thani paid a state ogy and tourism. of International Co-operation visit to Rwanda from April 21 to The two leaders encouraged of the Ministry, ambassador 23 at the invitation of Rwandan the exchange of expertise in he Ministry of Foreign Tariq bin Ali al-Ansari, will be President Paul Kagame. development and technology, Aff airs’ Department of attended by a number of dis- During the visit, the Amir and which will benefi t the peoples of TInternational Co-op- tinguished offi cials from the President Kagame held a bilat- the two friendly countries. eration will organise today a ministry. eral meeting, followed by an ex- President Kagame hosted a symposium on “responding to The symposium, to be held tensive session of talks on ways dinner in honour of the Amir and natural disasters”, especially in the Dr Hassan Al Mohanna- to enhance the friendly rela- the accompanying delegation human-made ones. di Hall at the Ministry, will be tions and co-operation between and thanked him for accepting The symposium will focus attended by relevant institu- the two countries, in addition the invitation to visit Rwanda. on disasters caused by wars in tions and a number of people to exchanging views on various On the second day of the visit, general and in the Arab world interested in the fi eld of disas- regional and international issues the Amir, accompanied by Presi- in particular. ter response. of common concern. dent Paul Kagame, toured the The meeting was followed by Akagera National Park, in the a signing ceremony for memo- eastern province of Rwanda. randa of understanding (MoUs) Following the tour, President and an agreement between the Kagame hosted a luncheon of two countries: the Amir on the shores of Lake Al-Muraikhi meets z Memorandum of Under- Muhazi. standing (MoU) in the fi eld of President Kagame warmly His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani being accorded a ceremonial send-off at Kigali culture. recalled his recent visit to Qatar yesterday. US congressman z Memorandum of Under- and reaffi rmed the importance standing (MoU) in the fi eld of that Rwanda attaches to its rela- Later yesterday, the Amir left President Kagame, express- ing the friendly relations and sport. tionship with Qatar. Kigali city for Nigeria. ing deep thanks and appre- co-operation between the two QNA Congress Republican Repre- z Agreement between Qatar The Amir expressed his sin- The Amir and the accompa- ciation for the hospitality and countries in various fields for Doha sentative Neal Dunn who is Airways and the Aviation and cere appreciation to President nying delegation were seen off honour accorded to him and the good and the benefit of the visiting Qatar. Logistics Authority of Rwanda. Kagame and to the government at Kigali International Airport the accompanying delega- two peoples. They discussed bilateral re- z Memorandum of Under- and the people of Rwanda for by Prime Minister of Rwanda tion during the visit, which The Amir wished the presi- E the Minister of lations and means of boosting standing (MoU) for co-operation the warm welcome and honour Edouard Ngirente and a number provided the opportunity to dent the best of health and hap- State for Foreign Af- them along with enhancing in the fi elds of tourism and busi- accorded to him and the accom- of ministers and senior Rwandan exchange views on issues of piness, and the friendly people Hfairs Sultan bin Saad co-operation prospects and ness activities. panying delegation during the offi cials. common concern and means of Rwanda further progress and al-Muraikhi yesterday met US issues of mutual interest. The two leaders affi rmed their visit. The Amir sent a cable to of strengthening and promot- prosperity.

Gulf Times 4 Wednesday, April 24, 2019 QATAR

Volkswagen Touareg 2019 model recalled

The Ministry of Commerce the Ministry’s continuous will communicate with Qatar and Ethiopia review ties and Industry, in eff orts to protect customers to ensure that collaboration with Q-Auto, consumers and ensure that the necessary repairs are Dates expo has announced the recall of car dealers follow up on carried out. The Ministry Volkswagen Touareg model vehicle defects and repairs. urges all customers to of 2019 over a malfunction The Ministry said that report any violations to in the right front shock it will co-ordinate with its Consumer Protection absorber fork. the dealer to follow up and Anti-Commercial begins today The recall campaign comes on the maintenance Fraud Department, which within the framework of and repair works and processes complaints. he 2019 International Dates will take part in the exhibition, Exhibition will kick off to- including 89 local companies Tday with the participation and 59 foreign companies spe- of local and international compa- cialised in the production, sup- HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser nies and institutions specialising ply and distribution of dates, bin Khalifa al-Thani met the visiting Minister of Labour and Social Aff airs in dates and date products, in ad- from 10 countries. of Ethiopia, Dr Ergoge Tesfaye, and her accompanying delegation, in Doha dition to a number of local farms, He added that the exhibition yesterday. They reviewed the bilateral relations between Qatar and Ethiopia Hassad Company and other bod- is an opportunity to showcase and the means of supporting them in various fields, in addition to issues of ies in the country. The exhibition all types of local and non-local common concern. will continue until May 4. dates and derivatives, which will Organised by the Agriculture positively aff ect their sales vol- and Fishery Aff airs Department ume and enhance the ability to of the Ministry of Municipal- increase production. It is also an ity and Environment (MME), in opportunity to establish strong collaboration with Souq Waqif, ties and exchange of experienc- Fakhro meets Gambian minister the exhibition aims to promote es between date producers and the national product of dates, manufacturers from inside and to identify its diff erent types, to outside Qatar. supply its various types, to at- He stressed that the organis- tract visitors and tourists and to ing committee of the exhibition encourage the conservation and has placed a set of conditions on care of the palm tree, in addition dates and their derivatives to be to making this event as an an- showcased in the exhibition, in- nual event linked to the cultural cluding that it must be produced heritage of Qatar. this year and in good condition The exhibition aims at intro- and well packaged with packag- ducing dates and date products, ing showing the production and enhancing the cultural and her- validity dates. itage awareness associated with Souq Waqif acting director Ali HE the Minister of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Aff airs the palm tree and highlight- Shabib al-Mannai said that the Yousef bin Mohamed al-Othman Fakhro met yesterday with Gambian Minister ing the importance of its dates Souq Waqif management has of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology Badara Joof, and in terms of food and culture, set up a large tent with about the accompanying delegation, who are visiting Qatar. During the meeting, for which demand increases at 148 pavilions to display various they discussed aspects of co-operation between the two sides and means this time of year before the holy types of dates, both from local of advancing them. The Gambian minister also visited the Institute of Public month of Ramadan. and international companies, in Administration at the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and MME’s Agricultural Aff airs addition to ensuring all security Social Aff airs and was briefed on the training systems and programmes that it Department director Youssef and safety measures and facili- provides. Khalid al-Khulaifi said some 150 ties for the participants in the national and foreign exhibitors exhibition. (QNA)

Chief of Staff meets US Air Force Central Command commander

HE the Chief of Staff of the Qatar Armed Forces Lieutenant General (Pilot) Ghanem bin Shaheen al-Ghanem met yesterday with Commander of US Air Forces Central Command Joseph Guastella. The meeting discussed military relations between the two sides and ways of strengthening and developing them. It was attended by president of the international military co-operation authority Brigadier General Abdulaziz Saleh al-Sulaiti.

Khayr Qatarna showcased at Oman expo

QNA Muscat

hayr Qatarna ini- tiative, which is Klaunched by Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, is participating in the Agro- Food Oman exhibition in Muscat. ‘Sahtak Awalan – Your Health First’ has showcased its Khayr Qatarna initiative, which teaches secondary school students about food Qatari and Omani off icials at the Agro-Food Oman exhibition in Muscat. security, agriculture and commerce. ‘Sahtak Awalan’ initiative brought a booth to Agro- Food Oman to share the success of Khayr Qatarna with the international com- munity and demonstrate the potential for engag- ing the younger generation with the agriculture sector, which many countries in the region have identifi ed as a key area for economic growth and diversifi cation. Nesreen al-Rifai, chief communications offi cer at WCM-Q, said that Khayr Qatarna has been greeted with great enthusiasm by students in Qatar and is raising awareness about the crucial importance of envi- ronmental issues, sustain- ability and food security. “Agro-Food Oman gives us the perfect platform for showcasing the success of Khayr Qatarna to the in- ternational community, so that others can learn how they too can inspire their young people to embrace environmental sustain- ability, food security and healthy eating,” she said. Launched in 2018, the in- novative Khayr Qatarna ini- tiative has installed large- scale climate-controlled greenhouses at 10 second- ary schools across Qatar, giving students the chance to learn how to cultivate a wide range of crops. The three-day exhibition held under the patronage of the Sultanate of Oman’s Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries Wealth and brings together more than 150 companies and or- ganisations from all over the world. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 24, 2019 5 QATAR

Ministry of Awqaf honours students

The Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Aff airs honoured the schools and institutions participating in an educational programme during a ceremony held yesterday at the Sheraton Hotel Doha under the patronage of HE the Minister of Awqaf and Islamic Aff airs Dr Gaith bin Mubarak al-Kuwari. More than 23,000 students participated in the programme from 388 school and educational institutions, and more than 265,000 gifts have been distributed over the last six years. In his speech, the Director of the Department of Religious Call and Guidance Mal Allah al-Jaber said that the programme aims at correcting behaviour, promoting good morals and developing scientific aspects and it encourages creativity and upgrades participants’ skills. The honouring ceremony was attended among others by HE Dr Gaith bin Mubarak, Mal Allah al-Jaber and the Director of School Aff airs Department at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education Khalifa bin Saad al-Derham.

Ministry to mark Regional Environment Day today

QNA In its national vision and under its and Jamaica, is spearheading the cli- Doha environmental pillar, the ministry has mate and carbon pricing package at made specifi c statements about climate the World Climate Summit, convened change. by the secretary-general of the United he Ministry of Municipality and It has also undertaken several Nations in September 2019. Environment will today cele- projects aimed at reducing greenhouse It said that marine pollution is one of Tbrate the Regional Environment gas emissions. the main and pressing issues at present, Day, held on April 24 every year, the day The statement referred to Al Shaheen and the world strives to reduce its risks that countries bordering the maritime project, the largest project under the and work to develop eff ective and ap- zone of the Kuwait-based Regional CDM in the world, and also prepared propriate solutions. Organisation for the Protection of the an integrated coastal zone management ROPME executive secretary Dr Ab- Marine Environment (ROPME) signed plan in the country and seeks to pre- dulrahman Abdullah al-Awadhi said the Kuwait Regional Convention for pare a national strategy for adaptation that the celebration of the Regional En- Co-operation in the Protection of the to climate change. vironment Day will draw the attention Marine Environment from Pollution in The ministry confi rmed that the of various social groups to the priority 1978. State of Qatar has been active at the environmental issues in the region and This year’s celebration comes un- international level to address the phe- raise awareness of the common envi- der the theme ‘The Risks of Climate nomenon of climate change as a cross- ronmental issues. Change on the Marine Environment... border phenomenon, and hosted the He added that climate change aff ects Preparing for Confrontation”. eighteenth conference on climate the marine environment of the region In a statement on the occasion, the change in 2012. and its living organisms and its impact Ministry of Municipality and Environ- The State of Qatar was one of the fi rst on the human being living on its shores, ment stressed that the State of Qatar signatories to the Paris Climate Change considering that climate change is one attaches great importance to climate Agreement. of the major threats facing the marine change. Qatar, in partnership with France and coastal environments in the world. Gulf Times 6 Wednesday, April 24, 2019 QATAR Minister meets Moroccan law official HIA installs new art piece at concourse B amad International Air- open to national as well as inter- port (HIA) in celebration national artists living and working Hof World Art Day revealed in Doha. HE the Minister of Justice and Acting Minister of State for Cabinet Aff airs Dr yesterday a new art piece named IAD artists are engaged in ex- Issa Saad al-Jafali al-Nuaimi met yesterday with president of Morocco’s National ‘Wings’ by International Artists pressing their vision of contempo- Committee for International Humanitarian Law, Dr Farida El Khamlichi, and her Doha (IAD) and, sponsored by Qatar rary art contributing to the artistic accompanying delegation. During the meeting, they reviewed co-operation fields Airways. scene in Qatar as well as engaging between the National Committee for International Humanitarian Law of the ‘Wings’ is installed at concourse in social activities. Moreover, the Ministry of Justice and its Moroccan counterpart. The meeting was also attended B at the airport and will be on group provides its members with by president of the National Committee for International Humanitarian Law Sultan temporarily display. a platform for sharing experiences bin Abdullah al-Suwaidi. The inspiration behind ‘Wings’ in learning from one another and comes from the basic structure of an in interacting with other artists airplane wing. Standing 7m wide, from around the globe. Currently and 2.80m high, the piece is fi lled the annual show-case exhibition of with the diverse artistic works of Some of the artists with HIA’s Abdulaziz al-Mass and Austrian ambassador the group can be visited until May 17 IAD Artists. Willy Kempel in front of ‘Wings’. 5 at the 29 Floor Gallery at the W AG holds talks in Morocco The main abstract outlay of Hotel Doha. HE the Attorney-General Dr ‘Wings’ embraces several pieces mented: “We are delighted to host are proud to have the opportunity HIA features a fascinating selec- Ali bin Fetais al-Marri met of frames that represent each art- the creative artwork of Interna- to showcase our creativity in such tion of art, curated in partnership Mohamed Abdennabaoui, ist’s unique style. The artwork is tional Artists of Doha in HIA. We a vibrant art space. We would like with Qatar Museums. The airport’s president of the Prosecutor stretched across a 20sq m grey col- trust that this art piece will inspire to thank HIA for recognising IAD continuous investments and ef- General Off ice of Morocco, in oured wall made of wooden par- our passengers and better defi ne work and celebrating World Art Day fort towards arts stems from their Rabat yesterday. During the tition carrying the weight of the their experiences at the airport. HIA through our new public art piece, focused vision for culture to be a meeting, they exchanged piece, which resembles the serene brings in a number of very dynamic Wings. We hope that travellers at central and enriching part of the views on issues of mutual neutral colour of a safe fl ight. and seasoned Artists that contrib- Hamad International Airport will passenger’s travel experience and concern, and ways of At the backside of the ‘Wings’ ute continuously and signifi cantly fi nd joy in our diverse artistic ap- environment. enhancing the legal and artwork, IAD artists have provided to the development of HIA’s art proaches used in the piece. We also HIA has been recently ranked judicial co-operation and the a space for travelling passengers to space and culture. We would like to thank Qatar Airways and in par- as the fourth ‘Best Airport in the exchange of experiences interact with the public art and to thank International Artists Doha ticular the Group chief executive World’ by Skytrax World Airport between the two countries. express their thoughts about ‘trav- for their creative display and eff orts HE Akbar al-Baker, for the gen- Awards 2019. HIA has also retained elling’. Colour markers and pencils in contributing to make the air- erous support in sponsoring this its fi ve-star Airport status and was are provided next to the art piece to port a unique location for arts and installation. ” honoured with the title of ‘Best Air- establish dialogue with travellers. culture.” IAD have been established in 2011 port in the Middle East’ for the fi fth Abdulaziz al-Mass, vice presi- Commenting on the day, Willy by two Dutch expat artists. From the year in a row and ‘Best Staff Service dent – Marketing and Corporate Kempel, Austrian ambassador to very beginning, IAD was conceptu- in the Middle East’ for the fourth Communications at HIA, com- Qatar and IAD chairman said: “We alised as a non-profi t organisation year in a row. Qatar tops Farewell for outgoing envoys region in providing coverage of vaccines

he Director of the Public Health De- Tpartment at the Ministry of Public Health HE Ministry of Foreign Aff airs Secretary-General Dr Ahmed bin Hassan al-Hammadi (MoPH) said yesterday that held yesterday a farewell ceremony in honour of Afghanistan ambassador to Qatar tops the countries of Qatar Faizullah Kakar and Liberia ambassador to Qatar John Akel Ballout Jnr on the region in providing the the occasion of ending their tenure in the country. A lineup of heads of diplomatic highest coverage of safe and missions and bureaus accredited to Qatar attended the ceremony, along with a high quality vaccines, ex- number of the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs department directors. ceeding 95%. The MoPH is marking World Immunisation Week from April 24 to 30 under the theme “Protected To- Sheikh Dr Mohamed bin gether: Vaccines Work”, Hamad al-Thani speaking chosen by the World Health at the event. Organisation (WHO) as the theme for this year’s cel- ebration. During the week, emphasis is placed on the need for further work in im- munisation fi eld around the world, and on highlighting the role that can be played by all in the achievement of this work. Speaking on the side- lines of a workshop organ- ised by the MoPH yesterday to review the activities of World Immunisation Day, Sheikh Dr Mohamed bin Hamad al-Thani said that Dr Soha al-Bayat the celebration of World Immunisation Week aims many diseases. During the to encourage people to get workshop, the participants the necessary vaccinations in the immunisation ac- at the specifi ed times to en- tivities and events were also sure protection against in- honoured. fectious diseases, stressing Dr Soha al-Bayat, head of that Qatar is keen to deliver the MoPH’s immunisation vaccinations to all citizens department, said that the and residents to give them ministry, in co-operation immunity for a long healthy with HMC, Primary Health life and wellness. Care Corporation, National The MoPH will organise Advisory Committee and several events and activities all health authorities, aims in co-operation with gov- to emphasise the quality ernmental, semi-govern- and safety of vaccinations mental and private health available in Qatar that are institutions on the occasion adopted by the WHO, in of World Immunisation addition to co-operating Week, including a work- with ministry partners to shop during which special- achieve vaccination targets. ists from the MoPH and She explained that the ac- HMC highlighted the latest cess to vaccinations is not development in the nation- limited to those in the ap- al vaccination programme proved schedule, but also which is considered one of includes vaccines for travel, the best national immuni- study or treatment abroad, sation programmes in the noting the need to ignore Eastern Mediterranean re- rumours about vaccinations gion as it provides a wide and to receive information range of vaccines against from offi cial sources. (QNA)

Gulf Times 8 Wednesday, April 24, 2019 QATAR QU opens annual research forum atar University (QU) The fi rst day was focused on A number of senior represent- Forum and Exhibition is a meet- opened yesterday the students in postgraduate pro- atives from QU, including Pro- ing point for students, research- Q“Annual Research Forum grammes. fessor Mariam Al-Ali al-Maa- ers and academics from QU’s 10 & Exhibition 2019” under the The event featured tadTalks deed, vice president for Research colleges, centres and institutes theme Research Transformation for graduate students under the and Graduate Studies, and from a – including partners and stake- Qatari rally driver Mohamed al-Mannai addressing a session during through the Fourth Industrial theme “Resilience in Research”, number of educational institutes holders – to assess and review the Annual Research Forum & Exhibition 2019 at QU yesterday. Revolution: Challenges and Social held in QU’s research complex, as around Qatar, attended. the institution’s research enter- Innovations. part of the events activities. The two-day Annual Research prise. Bin Khalifa University, Doha In- The fi rst day also included a The high-profi le event is an stitute for Graduate Studies, and panel discussion on the scholarly occasion to demonstrate new from the US, Canada, Nether- peer-review system, which was tools, report on the implementa- lands, Turkey, Japan, and Aus- conducted by QU Press founding tion of new programmes, collab- tralia. director and editorial committee orations, innovations and other Professor al-Maadeed said chair Professor Talal Abdulla al- relevant projects that take bear- during the event: “Progress in Emadi, who is also an Oil & Gas ing from the QU Research Road- civilisation depends on human law professor. map 2018-2022, Qatar National construction. For this reason, During this panel discussion, Research Strategy, and Qatar Na- we created this research forum, the experience of publication of tional Vision 2030. which features an elite group of research in scientifi c journals by The forum highlights the students from Qatar and abroad QU PhD students was discussed. award-winning research being in tadTalks discussions targeting The event also featured rally conducted at QU, which pro- postgraduate students. driver Mohamed al-Mannai, who motes the vision and research “Technology is a gift, but man boasts a 32-year career which priorities of Qatar in the areas of is the most important gift, with saw him compete and win in nu- water security, energy security, which without, there would be merous local and international cyber-security, social priorities no innovation or transformation. championships. and health, and the goals of the “We are thrilled to discuss After being injured in an ac- Qatar National Vision 2030. with our fellow academics and cident, he showed persistence by Prof al-Maadeed: Technology is a During the tadTalks portion talented students under the slo- continuing to compete, becom- gift, but man is the most of events, a group of students gan of resilience and excellence. ing an icon and infl uencer in the important gift, with which participated in the sessions from “To excel is the basic concept community through motivation- without, there would be no The participants of the tadTalks. QU, Qatar Foundation, Hamad to achieve progress.” al speeches. innovation or transformation.

Vodafone makes 5G available in Qatar homes

Vodafone Qatar has said it continues its lifestyle off ers – including Entertainer and leadership in driving digital innovation WAVO by OSN, which provides live channels Qatar National Library takes part with news that it is making 5G technology from across the globe, TV shows and on- commercially available with the launch of its demand movies. latest innovation – Vodafone GigaHome – the With Vodafone GigaHome, there are no new home Internet solution. installation fees, no charges for moving to in university’s Reading Week Vodafone GigaHome “covers every size house a new house, and seamless installation, the with guaranteed Wi-Fi in every room using a statement notes. state-of-the-art Giga-Wi-Fi Hub powered by For more information on Vodafone atar National Library recently Vodafone’s GigaNet network, including Fibre GigaHome, one can visit the nearest participated at Qatar Universi- and 5G”, the company has said in a statement. Vodafone store or go to www.vodafone.qa/ Qty (QU)’s Reading Week, which Alongside this, customers can enjoy free GigaHome brought together members of the aca- demic community, authors, and read- ers to celebrate this year’s World Book Day. The three-day activity, which concluded yesterday, was under the theme, Reading is Life. The library showcased its serv- ices through a portable library booth, where librarians and staff were present to interact with visitors and share in- formation on its books, journals and multimedia collections, as well as its vast online resources. As part of the Reading Week, the li- brary launched its fi rst portable library storytelling activity for students at the Early Childhood Centre. “Qatar National Library has encour- A moment from the portable library storytelling activity for students at the Early aged me to complete my studies and Childhood Centre of Qatar University. spend as much time as possible in the library to take advantage of the rich re- portunity to learn about their services during Qatar University Reading Week sources available,” said Dana al-Marri, and their participation has encouraged fi lled me with pride in the role played a Qatar University student. many to register as members,” said Sa- by my Library through its various ac- “We are delighted to have the Qatar rah al-Nuaimi, a psychology student. tivities and services,” said Eman al- National Library and its presence at “The talks by students and profes- Shammari, an information librarian at Qatar University. It is an excellent op- sors about the librarianship profession Qatar National Library.

Qatar family law lecture today at HBKU

he College of Islamic Studies (CIS) at that enshrine this body of law and deem it to Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) be comprehensive, relevant, and free of sec- Tis to host today a public lecture on tarian bias, while drawing attention to iden- “Qatari Family Law: Features and Gaps”, led tifi able gaps and possible areas of improve- by guest speaker Dr Ibrahim Alwan, profes- ment.” sor of Shariah at the Qatar Police College. The Qatari Family Law plays an integral The lecture will be held in Conference role in nurturing and preserving the family Room 1 at Minaretein in Education City from unit – a cornerstone for the development and 7pm to 9pm. survival of all modern societies – and ensur- Dr Alwan will shed light on the intrinsic ing the equitable representation of all of its role of the Qatar Family Law as well as its ap- members. plications, justifi cations, and inferences. The law, which comprises 301 articles, be- He will use real life examples to illustrate came legally binding in 2006 and outlines a important themes within the law, and pro- robust framework for three key areas, includ- vide a comprehensive and balanced analysis ing marriage, spousal separation, and inher- of its articles. itance. Dr Mohamed El Gammal, associate pro- Last month, the CIS hosted a lecture on Dr Alwan: to shed light on fessor of contemporary comparative fi qh (Is- “Domestic Workers and their Impact on the the intrinsic role of the lamic jurisprudence) at the CIS, said: “The Psychological Stability of Children”, pos- Qatar Family Law as well Qatar Family Law safeguards families and ing important questions on how outsourced as its applications, contributes to an integrated and cohesive so- childcare can complement or contradict so- justifications, and cial and cultural infrastructure. ciety’s principles, beliefs, ethics, and legal inferences. “The lecture will highlight legal aspects system.

VCUarts Qatar, QF and Mall of Qatar to present student fashion show

Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in interim chair of VCUarts Qatar’s Fashion Design programme. Qatar (VCUarts Qatar), Qatar Foundation, and Mall of Qatar “Edge” is the university’s 20th annual fashion show. will be presenting “Edge”, the University’s 20th Annual “We are thrilled to be hosting Virginia Commonwealth Fashion Show, on April 27 from 6pm to 7pm at the Ooredoo University School of the Arts in Qatar’s annual fashion show Stage of Mall of Qatar. at the iconic Ooredoo stage. It is an honour to showcase the The show features collections from sophomore, junior, and creativity and innovation of the community,” said Mall of senior students from VCUarts Qatar, as well as from three Qatar chief executive Stuart Elder. senior students from the university’s Richmond campus. VCUarts Qatar alumna Maryam al-Darwish, who graduated The 2019 fashion show is a platform to inform the audience with a BFA in Fashion Design from VCUarts Qatar in 2015, will about a group of emerging, young designers who are be the guest designer at the show, where she will present her exploring what fashion design is today and into the future. most recent collection. This event will increase the visibility of diverse design talent Her senior collection titled, The Details won the W Doha and celebrate collaboration. Award. The show is designed to support the vision of a uniquely Maryam also won the “Emerging Talent Award” from Grazia developing fashion design industry in Qatar and hopes Magazine in 2018. to highlight the potential of the University’s graduates in The event is sponsored by the Mall of Qatar, Salam becoming leaders of that movement. International, Heya, and has partnered with Tajmeel Qatar “The Edge theme is about undefining boundaries to discover International Beauty Academy, Trinity Talent Qatar, and new and unique opportunities,” said Kimberly Guthrie, the Martians. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 24, 2019 9 QATAR MoPH raises awareness of thyroid cancer atar’s public healthcare pro- Catherine Gillespie, director of cantly in older patients. Approxi- Qatar Chamber chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim al-Thani and QSRSN president Khalid al-Shuaibi look on as director general viders along with Qatar Can- the National Cancer Programme, mately 1.2% of all men and women Saleh bin Hamad al-Sharqi addresses the meeting. Qcer Society are working to- highlighted the continuing col- will be diagnosed with thyroid can- gether to raise awareness of thyroid laboration between the Ministry of cer during the course of their life- cancer through public engagement Public Health and the providers of time. Less than 1% of all thyroid and media activities, in recogni- healthcare across the country to help nodules are cancerous in nature and tion of Thyroid Cancer Awareness raise awareness of thyroid cancer. the fi ve-year survivorship is 98%. 16 Qatari fi rms recruit people with disabilities Month, observed every year in April. “Individuals diagnosed with thy- The Thyroid MDT at HMC provides The aim of this collaboration is roid cancers have a very high chance a comprehensive multi-disciplinary to raise awareness of thyroid cancer of successful treatment. As with approach to the management of thy- atar Chamber, in co- jobs and merging them in the tant category of the society.” Al-Sharqi also affi rmed the in Qatar, highlighting the signs and many cancers, it is important that a roid cancer.” operation with the local labour market, Qatar Al-Sharqi underscored interest and support of the symptoms of the disease to increase diagnosis is made at an early stage of “If the physicians identify any QQatar Society for Re- Chamber said in a statement. QSRSN’s role in fi nding many wise leadership and govern- public understanding of the impor- the disease. Working together with likelihood of thyroid cancer, the pa- habilitation of Special Needs The meeting was also at- jobs for members in the pri- ment for this segment in so- tance of prevention and early detec- our colleagues, we aim to ensure an tient will be referred to HMC within (QSRSN), held the ‘Career tended by offi cials and rep- vate sector institutions and ciety, noting that the cham- tion, as well as maintaining a healthy awareness of the disease and en- 48 hours for an immediate action Day for Recruiting People resentatives of 16 Qatari companies. ber would organise a number lifestyle to reduce the risk of this courage people who are worried they — where experienced staff with the with Disabilities’ in Doha companies and a number of He also thanked business- of events and forums to urge disease. may be experiencing symptoms to right expertise to conduct the ap- yesterday. people with special needs men and companies that re- the private sector to hire peo- Thyroid cancer is the second most see their primary healthcare physi- propriate investigations and man- The event, was attended seeking employment. sponded to the chamber’s ple with disabilities. common cancer among the female cian” said Gillespie. agement will see the patient,” said by Qatar Chamber chairman Addressing the meeting, al- initiative. Al-Shuaibi expressed his population in Qatar and it accounted Dr Mohamed Salem al-Hassan, Dr Shaikha Abu Shaikha, manager Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim al- Sharqi said Career Day aims He stressed on the cham- gratitude and appreciation to for 53 new cases (8.63%) according chair of the Thyroid MDT, HMC of Screening Programmes, Primary Thani, director general Saleh to provide an opportunity for ber’s interest to support all Qatar Chamber for its sup- to the QNCR 2015 Annual Report. said: “Most thyroid cancers are very Health Care Corporation. bin Hamad al-Sharqi, and people with disabilities to fi nd eff orts made to merge peo- port and initiative to help re- The Thyroid Multi-Discipli- curable; thyroid cancer can occur in Symptoms of thyroid cancer in- QSRSN president Khalid al- jobs befi tting their abilities and ple with special needs in the cruit people with disabilities. nary Team at Hamad Medical Corp any age group, although it is most clude unexplained swelling of the Shuaibi, is an initiative aimed absorb their skills. labour market, describing This support stems from (HMC) diagnosed 63 females with common after the age of 30 and its neck, rapid growth of neck lump and at recruiting people with He lauded the role played by it as a “positive energy that Sheikh Khalifa’s interest to thyroid cancer in 2018. aggressiveness increases signifi - unexplained changes in the voice. special needs in appropriate QSRSN “in helping this impor- should be benefi ted from.” help this segment of society. Ooredoo supports telecom meet on digital security

oredoo, the region’s leading cations at Ooredoo – said: “Ooredoo Al-Muraikhi said: “In 2019, one enabler of digital business returns to sponsor the Quality Con- of the biggest digital business trends Oinnovation, has announced ference as a prime platform to con- in Qatar will be for CIOs to gain re- that it will serve as the offi cial tel- In the face of a rapidly increasing tribute to a security-mature culture al-time and predictive analytics on ecommunications sponsor of the number and complexity of cyber- with our customers and partners cyber-threats. Ooredoo is enhancing 10th Quality Conference, support- threats, Qatar’s CIOs (chief informa- incorporating information security the security of our business custom- ing Qatar’s information security to tion offi cers) are enhancing their in- into their digital transformation. Our ers in order to prevent and protect Showing off their trophy. ensure secure digital transformation formation management and security business customers can rest assured against cyber-threats from malware of organisations. systems and processes. that Ooredoo’s Qatar Data Centre to phishing, especially for connected Hundreds of industry leaders are The Quality Conference is an ideal and our industry-leading security Internet of Things infrastructure.” expected to attend the 10th Quality platform for industry leaders to ex- solutions can prevent, manage, and Showing its industry leadership Conference, which will be held under change best practices. resolve cyber-threats.” in information management and Life Skills contest concludes the theme of ‘Quality and Protection Security of physical and digital sys- Ooredoo will present in keynotes security, Ooredoo recently secured of Information Systems’. tems is also a major aspect of Qatar and panel discussions on the latest three internationally-recognised The Gulf Consultant and Quality National Vision 2030, and in protect- trends in information security, work- Bureau Veritas ISO certifi cations for spire Academy concluded yester- Hamza Ibn Abdulmutalib Independ- Centre is organising the conference, ing critical national infrastructure the ing with the government and public its Qatar Data Centre, in information day its sixth Life Skills Competi- ent were announced winners of the 2019 which will be held today at the Sher- inter-connected Internet of Things era. sector to enhance information secu- security, business continuity and Ation, an annual tournament for pri- edition, while Aljazeera Academy came aton Grand Doha Resort and Con- Manar Khalifa al-Muraikhi, direc- rity regulations, and training partners service management systems, the vate and independent schools that aims to second, followed by Al Maha Academy in vention Hotel. tor of PR and Corporate Communi- on the security skills of the future. company said in a statement. inspire young people in Qatar to learn life the third place after the three-hour com- and leadership skills. petition. The tournament is part of the regular Dalloul awarded the participating academic activities of Aspire Academy’s schools with medals and certifi cates of Leadership Department’s Ehteraf (becom- appreciation. ing a pro) programme, an initiative that Aspire Academy’s leadership pro- teaches young student-athletes valuable gramme aims not only to make a diff erence Conference brings together life skills such as responsibility, respect in the student-athletes own lives but also for others, time management, teamwork the lives of others, the statement adds. and goal-setting, a press statement notes. Aimed at all age groups, the programme The 2019’s edition featured 42 partici- focuses on developing students to enable pants from Aspire Academy, Al Anadalus them to take a lead on issues in their com- leading educationists and Al Forqan Private Schools, Hamza Ibn munity, socially and as they develop into Abdulmutalib Independent as well as Al- sports champions. oredoo will be the offi cial as showcasing new innovations in sharing of screens, whiteboards, meet- and security and off ering peace of jazeera and Al Maha Academies. Through the holistic leadership pro- telecommunications spon- the education sector. ings, fi les and conversations. mind to parents through its cyber Abdulaziz Dalloul, senior Life Skills gramme, student-athletes learn about Osor for the 2019 edition of the For the fi rst time this year, an ex- Business Collaboration Solutions safety products for mobile devices. coach at Aspire Academy, said: “This important values of the Academy such as Education Conference, to be held to- hibition will run along with the main off ering immersive video conferenc- Manar Khalifa al-Muraikhi, direc- competition builds on Aspire Academy’s responsibility, discipline, respect, loyalty day and tomorrow at Qatar National conference featuring several founda- ing, instant messaging, intelligent tor PR and Corporate Communica- existing eff orts to develop young talents and teamwork. Convention Centre. tions and companies from Qatar in- voicemail, and much more. tions at Ooredoo, said: “Supporting into future leaders by equipping them Student-athletes also learn about the The event – organised by the Minis- cluding Ooredoo. Ooredoo will have Remote Back-up as a service, which education is a key focus for us as part with strong teamwork and leadership importance of peer coaching, constructive try of Education and Higher Education a booth at the exhibition to present provides highly scalable data backup of our corporate responsibility strat- skills in a safe and supportive learning en- criticism, collaboration (through internal — aims to bring together local, region- relevant Ooredoo business products and storage with data protection in egy, and we’re pleased to have this vironment.” camps) and multi-culturalism, enabling al and international education experts and services such as: Qatar Data Centre for enterprises and opportunity to show practical sup- The tournament included several chal- students to apply life skills and leadership to share and discuss knowledge, infor- Cisco Webex Teams, which enables organisations needing to store mul- port for education in Qatar as well as lenges and team-building competitions principles in a cross-cultural context. It mation, experience and research. real-time interaction and communica- tiple applications and various work- showcasing the many Ooredoo Busi- such as football, basketball, swimming also focuses on developing character and This year’s conference will include tion to happen anywhere and anytime loads with minimal investment. ness products and services that can and mind games where students were leadership qualities of a global citizen a number of workshops held by ex- with a simple, secure and complete Safe To Net, an upcoming Ooredoo support education and related busi- granted points on a scoring system. within the students. perts from all over the world, as well communication service including partner specialising in online safety nesses in Qatar and further afi eld.”

Education ministry celebrates International Book Day HEC aims to hone entrepreneurship skills The Ministry of Education and be an occasion to encourage Higher Education organised reading, motivate authors, and a book fair under the slogan preserve their rights. he Entrepreneurship and ing this certifi cate, professionals we enable participants to share “Together towards an educational The three-day exhibition Business Development will learn how to understand en- knowledge and leadership ap- society that supports reading” to includes a collection of books Ttrack of the Specialised trepreneurial ventures holisti- proaches with peers coming from celebrate the International Book for sale from local publishing Master’s Degree at HEC Paris cally, such as business modelling, diverse cultural, educational and Day, which falls on April 23 of houses, including Lusail Qatar is equipping professionals fi nancing, creating an entrepre- professional backgrounds as well every year. House, Dar Al-Wedt and with innovative thinking and en- neurial culture, team building, as world-class renowned faculty, The event was approved by the Beit Al-Maarifah. The Center trepreneurship skills, according and negotiation. They will not researchers and guest speakers,” United Nations Educational, for Protection and Social to an offi cial. only be exposed to best practices he elaborated. Scientific and Cultural Rehabilitation (AMAN) has also “The Specialised Master’s De- but also apply them such that they HEC Paris has been a member Organisation (Unesco) at its exhibited its children’s literature gree in Strategic Business Unit can put them to work straight of Qatar Foundation since 2010, meeting in Paris in 1995 to through vending machine. Management is constantly en- away in a variety of programme providing executive education in hanced and the Entrepreneurship settings,” he continued. Qatar and the region. Advisory Council’s Services and and Business Development track The offi cial noted that the He also maintained that the to the programme is a proof of it. global marketplace is witness- programme will benefi t not only Public Utilities Committee meets This track allows participants to ing tremendous upheaval in its the private sector but also the further personalise their learning economy, requiring successful public sector that will have tre- The Advisory Council’s Services a draft law amending certain journey to suit their career goals leaders to contend with stiff glo- mendous opportunities to grow and Public Utilities Committee provisions of Law No 15 of and the needs of their organisa- Ammar Baig bal competition, political turmoil from the learning achieved in held a meeting yesterday 2010 on the prohibition of tion,” said Ammar Baig, special- and adverse fi nancial eff ects. class. A total of 34 participants under the chairmanship of its housing workers within family ised Master’s Degree Programme ture to let participants explore decisions in today’s changing “To be able to overcome these were welcomed to the fi rst co- Rapporteur HE Mohamed bin residential areas, and decided adviser, HEC Paris Qatar. an entrepreneurial mindset and times,” explained Baig. challenges, it is imperative that a hort of the Specialised Master’s Mahdi al-Ahbabi. to complete its study at its next “The 10-day track has been learn how to integrate innovative The offi cial also said that the leader is equipped with the right Degree in Strategic Business Unit At the meeting, the committee meeting. designed to develop the skills thinking. With the help of real new Entrepreneurship and Busi- knowledge and skills to steer Management class of 2020. The continued to examine the The meeting was attended that are necessary to be suc- life case studies, students will ness Development track can be their business through these university is still open to accept- request for general discussion by Assistant Undersecretary cessful in starting a business learn the tools that could enable taken separately as a 10-day ex- obstacles. In all programmes ing new candidates for the next on the terrestrial and marine for Environmental Aff airs Eng or developing an existing ven- them to make the right business ecutive certifi cate. “When choos- off ered at HEC Paris in Qatar, intake in July 2019. environment. It also discussed Ahmed Mohamed al-Sada. Gulf Times 10 Wednesday, April 24, 2019 QATAR/REGION/ARAB WORLD QFFD, Al Fakhoora programme support schools in Gaza Strip

QNA According to the statement, all the schools targeted by the project Gaza have been used as emergency shelters for displaced persons and refugees. The project allowed the implementation of intensive mainte- he United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refu- nance and repair works in schools. gees in the Near East (UNRWA) and representatives of Qatar In addition, certain schools were provided with additional mate- TFund for Development (QFFD) and the Education Above All rials according to specific needs of each school such as generators, Foundation, through its programme “Al Fakhoora”, have organised seats, laptops and water pumps. a ceremony to celebrate the UNRWA’s partnership with Al Fakhoora Deputy Director of UNRWA operations in the Gaza Strip, David programme at the conclusion of the project, “Support UNRWA Edu- de Bold appreciated the strategic partnership between UNRWA cational Programme in Gaza Strip”. and the Education Above All Foundation and its programme, Al Fa- QFFD and Guinea Conakry off icials during a meeting. Al Fakhoora programme receives support from Qatar Fund for De- khoora. velopment and has benefi ted about 86,000 students of Palestinian He underlined that the support provided by Qatar Fund for De- refugees. velopment, through Al Fakhoora programme, was essential to en- UNRWA said in a statement that the closing ceremony was held able the Agency to restore a safe learning environment for tens of yesterday at UNRWA’s Jabalia Preparatory School B, and was attended thousands of children in UNRWA schools following the 2014 con- QFFD signs Guinea pact to by a high-level delegation from Qatar Fund For Development and the flict. For his part, CEO of the Education Above All Foundation Fa- Education Above All Foundation, as well as senior UNRWA staff , stu- had al-Sulaiti said educational establishments which are seen to- dents and representatives from the Parents’ Council and the commu- day are a real demonstration of the depth of the partnership built nity. A generous donation of $4,612,022 provided by QFFD through by the Education Above All Foundation with UN institutions that fund projects in rural areas the Al Fakhoora programme had enabled UNRWA to carry out main- share the same vision and goal. tenance and rehabilitation work, and to modernise school equipment These investments in building educational institutions aim at in 43 UNRWA schools in the Gaza Strip. investing in Palestinian people, in line with the vision of the Edu- atar Fund for Develop- The project aims to benefi t ter conditions. In addition, the The funding also enabled the UN agency to raise the level of cation Above All Foundation which is based on providing oppor- ment (QFFD) signed rural communities by rehabili- project includes the digging of quality and safety of the students’ learning environment, follow- tunities for a better future and real hope for children and youth Qan agreement with the tating several road sections 5,000 water wells and the in- ing the hostilities which took place in the besieged sector in 2014. through quality education. Ministry of Agriculture and with a total of 866km of roads stallation of solar water pumps Livestock and the Ministry of in 17 provinces. In addition, a and water tanks in seven rural Energy and Hydraulics of the total of three bridges of 395m provinces. This project will Republic of Guinea-Conakry have already been constructed ensure a decent standard of to fi nance several development under this project, providing living for the population in projects in the rural areas of the better accessibility to the local those areas. country at an estimated total communities. These projects are part of the cost of $20mn. This project will facilitate QFFD’s interest in long-term The agreement includes mobility of the population, development projects. They road infrastructure rehabilita- promote economic growth will enhance security; ensure tion projects, construction of and create new jobs. It will stability and a decent standard bridges, reservoirs and digging also contribute to improving of living for the current and fu- wells. the mobility of goods in bet- ture generations.

Conference discusses equine health

he Equine Reproduction and Neonatology Con- Tference 2019, co-hosted by the Equine Veterinary Medi- cal Center (EVMC), member of Qatar Foundation (QF), in association with Al Galayel Equine Centre, has concluded. Off icials with participants in the contest. The three-day event com- prised lectures, round-table discussions, and practical (wet-lab) sessions by interna- tionally-renowned veterinar- ians. A session from the conference. AAB service technicians It was held at the Qatar Na- tional Conference Center and edsson, Professor, Maxwell H director of EVMC, said: “The EVMC’s state-of-the-art fa- Gluck, Equine Research Center, Equine Reproduction and Ne- cility located in Al Shaqab, and University of Kentucky; Dr Jes- onatology Conference 2019 was attended by equine spe- sica Johnson, acting director of addressed several signifi cant cialists and horse owners. EVMC and specialist in Equine topics related to reproduction showcase skills at contest issues in horses, while high- Speakers addressed a wide Surgery, EVMC; Dr Stefania range of equine reproduction- Bucca, specialist in Reproduc- lighting the latest research he Customer Service Di- the capability of AAB’s certi- highly trained diagnostic spe- how being put to the test, this related issues, ranging from tion, EVMC; Dr Florent David, fi ndings. By incorporating lec- vision of Abdullah Ab- fi ed service technicians as they cialist who can reliably explain year’s winners further enhance the pitfalls of breeding the specialist in Equine Surgery, tures, discussions, and wet-lab Tdulghani & Bros Co (AAB) provide the best quality service the faults and symptoms of cus- the quality of service that we are sub-fertile individual through EVMC; Dr Benjamin Uberti, sessions, it helped to ensure recently concluded the National to our customers,” AAB said in a tomers’ vehicle and the Skills able to provide our customers,” to the optimisation of embryo assistant professor, Institute that the benefi ts of this con- General Job Technician Skills statement. AAB’s service tech- Contest is the breeding ground the statement added. performance, and the identifi - of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, ference went beyond providing Contest, which showcased the nicians have “model-by-model for future diagnostic specialists. R K Murugan, COO – Au- cation of high-risk pregnancy Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, value to veterinarians alone, technical skills and talents of knowledge to fi x problems the This year’s competition for- tomotive Division; along with profi les in advanced gestation. Universidad Austral de Chile; but also to educating veteri- AAB’s service technicians in fi rst time, every time” with real- mat had two category levels that Kamal al-Hajj, director – Cus- A neonatology section was and Dr Luis Losinno, professor, nary students and horse own- complex repairs. time technical information up- each participating technician tomer Service Division (CSD); also featured. Equine Production Laboratory, ers alike. I would like to thank The AAB service technicians dates from TMC. had to complete. Muthusamy Chinnappan, senior The complementing wet-lab Department of Animal Sci- all those who helped with have Toyota Technician Certifi - They also have access to com- In addition to the on-vehicle manager — CSD; and other AAB session held at EVMC on the ences, Agronomy & Veterinary sponsoring and supporting cation from Toyota Motor Corp prehensive training to stay up to troubleshooting where the con- senior managers led the event fi nal day included sessions on Faculty, Rio Cuarto National this event, especially our co- (TMC), attesting to their skills date with the latest technologi- testants were able to demon- with Masayuki Fukumori, Field embryo transfer, ultrasonogra- University, Argentina. hosts, Al Galayel Equine Cent- and qualifi cation. cal advances that help support strate their technical skills, a quiz Operations manager at TMC’s phy of the high-risk pregnancy, Roundtable discussions were er, and our platinum sponsors, “The General Job Techni- and protect customers’ invest- portion was introduced to assess Bahrain Representative Offi ce, and neonatology. moderated by leading veteri- Paskacheval, Minitube, Botu- cian Skills contests are held to ment, the statement noted. their technical knowledge.”With during the prize-giving cer- Keynote speakers at the con- narians of EVMC. pharma, and Draminski Ultra- enhance and develop further Further, AAB said it has a both skills and theoretical know- emony. ference included Dr Mats Tro- Dr Jessica Johnson, acting sounds & Scanners.”

POLICY Five killed after Iran authorises firm action against US heavy fighting in Yemen’s Taiz: MSF Govt forces push back Haftar’s troops Iran’s parliament passed a bill yesterday requiring the government take firm steps to respond to “terrorist actions” by US forces, state TV re- Five people have been killed and ported, retaliating against Washington’s blacklisting of the country’s elite dozens wounded in Yemen’s Reuters The Tripoli forces had also Revolutionary Guards. third city of Taiz, Doctors Without Hira seized two Soviet-made tanks President Donald Trump on April 8 designated the Islamic Revolutionary Borders (MSF) said yesterday from the arsenal of former Guards Corps (IRGC) a foreign terrorist group, in an unprecedented step after clashes erupted between ruler Muammar Gaddafi , one that drew Iranian condemnation and raised concerns about retaliatory various pro-government factions. orces supporting Libya’s of them heavily damaged. attacks on US forces. Tehran reacted to the designation, which took eff ect “Heavy fighting has once again internationally rec- As the Reuters team was on April 15, by naming the US Central Command (CENTCOM) a terrorist resumed inside Taiz,” a city just Fognised government about to leave, rockets were organisation and the US government a sponsor of terrorism. inland from the Red Sea port of pushed back troops loyal to fi red nearby from LNA posi- “The bill authorises the government to take firm and retaliatory measures Mokha, MSF wrote on Twitter. eastern commander Kha- tions. against terrorist activities of American forces that endangers Iran’s inter- “MSF supported facilities have lifa Haftar to more than 60km According to United Na- ests,” TV reported. received some 91 wounded and southwest of the capital tions fi gures 264 people, in- “The government should use legal, political and diplomatic measures in recorded five deaths directly Tripoli yesterday, Reuters re- cluding 21 civilians, have been response to the American actions.” Highly loyal to Iran’s Supreme Leader related to the fighting,” since April porters said. killed by the fi ghting since Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the IRGC is a powerful force which controls 19, it added. The medical charity The town of Aziziya was April 5 and 1266 wounded, in- much of the Iranian economy and wields political influence in the coun- added the clashes are prevent- fully under the control of the cluding 69 civilians. try’s faction-ridden clerical establishment. The semi-off icial Tasnim news ing patients from reaching an Tripoli forces, with shops reo- About 32,000 civilians have agency said some 168 lawmakers out of 210 present at the parliament MSF supported hospital in the pening after days of fi ghting, a fl ed their homes for safer ar- voted for the bill. Tensions have been on the rise between Tehran and city — the only facility providing Reuters team at the scene said. Members of the Libyan internationally recognised eas. Washington since last year, when Trump withdrew from a 2015 nuclear maternal healthcare to Taiz resi- Haftar’s Libyan National government forces inspect the damaged military vehicles, The latest military action is deal between Iran and six major powers and reimposed sanctions on dents. The city is under siege by Army (LNA), which is allied to belonging to Eastern forces commanded by Khalifa Haftar, in a setback to Haftar’s plans to the country. In recent years, there have been periodic confrontations the Houthi rebels but controlled a rival government in eastern southwestern Tripoli, yesterday. install himself as ruler of the between the IRGC and US military in the Gulf. by pro-government forces, who Libya, mounted an off ensive on whole country and could ease are backed by a military coalition the capital almost three weeks terday, with shelling heard it to about 25km from Gharyan, a dangerous situation that has led by Saudi Arabia and the ago but despite heavy fi ghting throughout the day even in the forward base for Haftar’s divided and confounded for- CONFLICT United Arab Emirates. According last week it has failed to breach central Tripoli, residents said. off ensive to take Tripoli. eign governments with an in- Palestinian boy, 13, dies in grenade blast to the World Health Organisation, the city’s southern defences. The Reuters team driving The town could still be a terest in Libya. nearly 10,000 people — most of In recent days, forces back- south of Aziziya through vil- challenge to recapture as it lies However, the front remains A 13-year-old Palestinian boy died in the Gaza Strip yesterday after a hand them civilians — have been killed ing the Tripoli administration lages on the road to Hira saw in the mountains starting after fl uid and his fortunes could grenade he found reportedly exploded. The Hamas-run Health Ministry and more than 60,000 wounded have pushed back the LNA in several burnt-out cars be- Hira. change again. said that Mohamed Elbaz died in the central Gazan town of Deir El Ballah. since the alliance intervened in some areas. longing to Haftar’s forces and One tired-looking LNA Both sides have gained and Security sources in the town said that the boy had picked up a hand March 2015. But fi ghting still raged in fi ve dead fi ghters. prisoner sat on the back of a lost territory within days or grenade he had found and that it exploded while he was carrying it. some southern suburbs yes- The Reuters reporters made pickup truck. even hours. It is unclear where the grenade came from. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 24, 2019 11 ARAB WORLD/AFRICA Kushner confi rms Protest train arrives Mideast peace plan to to join demonstrators come after Ramadan Reuters Khartoum

AFP New York iled onto the roof of a train or packed inside, Phundreds of protest- S President Donald ers from the birthplace of the Trump’s son-in-law uprising that toppled Sudan’s UJared Kushner said yes- former President Omar al- terday he would present his Bashir rolled into Khartoum long-awaited Middle East peace yesterday to support activists proposal around June and that demanding that the military re- it would include a “robust busi- linquish power to civilians. ness plan” for the Palestinians. About 4,000 protesters, Kushner, speaking at a forum many of them waving Sudan’s of Time magazine, said he had green, red, black and white hoped to off er the proposal late flag, greeted them at Khar- last year but that Israeli Prime toum’s main station as the Minister Benjamin Netanyahu train arrived from Atbara. had called elections and still Demonstrators began a sit- needs time to form a coalition. in outside the Defence Minis- “Once that’s done we’ll prob- try compound on April 6, five ably be in the middle of Ram- Senior Adviser to the US president Jared Kushner speaks during the days before the military an- adan, so we’ll wait until after Time 100 Summit event, in New York, yesterday. nounced Bashir’s removal. Ramadan and then we’ll put our It has continued as protest- plan out,” said Kushner, a senior “We deal with all the core sta- saw Netanyahu win a record fi fth ers push for a swift handover adviser to Trump, referring to tus issues because you have to do term in offi ce. to civilian rule and the number the fasting month which ends in it, but we’ve also built a robust The Trump administration of demonstrators has swelled early June. business plan for the whole re- has also cut funding that the in recent days. Kushner’s plan has already gion,” he added. United States had supplied to a Two witnesses said author- been met with deep scepticism Kushner also said the plan UN agency helping Palestinian ities attempted to disperse the from the Palestinians, who say would address Israel’s concerns refugees and their descendants. sit-in about midday. Trump cannot be an honest bro- over security. “I think that what Last year, it slashed funding to They used loaders to try to ker after he took the landmark we do is something that allows the agency by $300mn and said take down the roadblocks and step of recognising bitterly dis- for Israel to maintain security, it would not repeat the $60mn barriers put up by protesters, puted Jerusalem as Israel’s capi- but there will be tough compro- that it did provide. but were chased away by dem- tal. But Kushner, whose own role mises for both,” he said. Kushner has also cultivated onstrators, witnesses said. Sudanese protesters from the city of Atbara, sitting atop a train, cheer upon arriving at the Bahari has been questioned due to his Netanyahu in his election close personal ties with Saudi The Sudanese Profession- station in Khartoum, yesterday. longstanding family ties with campaign vowed to annex parts Arabia’s crown prince Mohamed als’ Association (SPA), the Netanyahu, said he remained of the West Bank where Israeli bin Salman as part of his eff orts main protest organiser, also feed the protesters. hopeful that his “unconvention- settlers live, a prospect that to forge regional backing for his said security forces had at- State news agency SUNA US backs ‘legitimate demand’ for civilian-led govt al approach” would bear fruit. would doom longstanding Pal- plan. tempted to disperse the sit- said that Transitional Military “I think that if people focus on estinian hopes of a state. The heir to the Saudi throne in. Council head Abdel Fattah al- Washington backs the charge of eastern Africa, said the old traditional talking points The Israeli leader said yester- has however been the focus of The group encouraged pro- Burhan had told the BBC that “legitimate demand” of the during a visit to Khartoum. we will never make progress,” he day he plans to name a new set- widespread criticism over the testers to put up more barri- the TMC would never use vio- Sudanese people for a civilian- “The people of Sudan have said. tlement in the occupied Golan death of Saudi journalist Jamal ers and keep protesting. lence against the protesters. led government, a top off icial made their demand very clear,” He declined to answer if the Heights after Trump in appre- Khashoggi in its Istanbul con- “We call on everyone to Protests in Sudan were said yesterday, as the country’s she said. “We want to support plan would include longstand- ciation of his recognition of Is- sulate. go to the sit-in in anticipa- sparked by an attempt to raise military rulers resisted calls to them in that as the best path ing US support for a Palestinian rael’s claim of sovereignty there. Kushner sidestepped a ques- tion of any other attempt bread prices amid a deepening transfer power. forward to a society that is state, after hints by the adminis- Trump broke with longstand- tion yesterday about reports and to welcome the Atbara economic crisis, quickly turn- “We support the legitimate de- respectful of human rights, that tration that it would not, but said ing international consensus last that the US intelligence services revolutionaries who are on ing against Bashir’s 30-year mand of the people of Sudan respects the rule of law and it would include investment to month when he recognised Is- had concluded that the prince their way to the sit-in,” the rule and spreading to cities. for a civilian-led government that would be able to address boost the Palestinian economy. rael’s claim of sovereignty over had ordered the journalist’s SPA said. Dozens of journal- Atbara, about 290km and we are here to urge and to this country’s very serious is- “Our focus is really on the the part of the strategic plateau murder. ists marched toward the sit- northeast of the capital, is a encourage parties to work to- sues.” During her ongoing trip, bottom up, which is how do you it seized from Syria in the 1967 “I’m not going to dispute in yesterday and dozens of railway hub with a large rail- gether to advance that agenda James met the country’s mili- make the lives of the Palestinian Six-Day War. American intelligence services’ teachers also planned to join. worker population and has as soon as possible,” Makila tary council chief Lieutenant people better, what can you re- The decision came only two recommendations. I’m also not Villagers from northern historically been known to be James, the State Department’s General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan solve to allow these areas to be- weeks ahead of the tightly con- going to talk about anything in- Khartoum brought livestock the hotbed of opposition un- deputy assistant secretary in and several other off icials. come more investable?” he said. tested Israeli election, which telligence related,” Kushner said. to the sit-in to slaughter and ions and unrest.

TRAGEDY 37 dead in another Algeria’s richest man Malawi pilots groundbreaking malaria vaccine boat sinking in DR Congo in jail over graft probe AFP the children must also con- testing — including fi ve years has stalled and even reversed Thirty-seven bodies have been Lilongwe tinue to use other preventive of clinical trials on 15,000 in some areas,” WHO Direc- recovered after another boat sink- measures such as sleeping un- people in seven countries — tor-General Tedros Adhanom ing in the Democratic Republic AFP Cevital, was placed in detention der a mosquito net. and was approved for the pilot Ghebreyesus said in a state- of Congo, off icials said yesterday, Algiers overnight, the APS news agency alawi yesterday The fi rst vaccinations were programme in 2015.Malaria ment. a week after a vessel capsized reported. launched the world’s administered at Mitundu episodes reduced by 40% in “We need new solutions to with nearly 130 people on board. Forbes lists Rebrab as Alge- Mfi rst malaria vaccine Health Centre, 45 kilometres the trials. get the malaria response back Sixteen survivors were found near lgeria’s richest man Is- ria’s richest man and the sixth- in a landmark programme to west of Lilongwe. Although the vaccine will on track, and this vaccine the spot where the boat sunk on a sad Rebrab has been de- wealthiest in Africa, with a net prevent a disease that kills “This new vaccination is a not give full protection against gives us a promising tool to get river in the country’s east on April Atained in jail on the public worth of $3.38bn. hundreds of thousands, most- new tool for the control and the mosquito-borne disease, there,” he said. 9, acting governor Papy Omeonga prosecutor’s orders, state media He is “suspected of having ly children, across Africa and elimination of malaria in this it is the furthest along in de- Malaria killed 435,000 peo- Tchopa of Maniema province said reported yesterday, a day after made fake statements concern- around the world each year. country,” Michael Kayange, velopment and so far the most ple in 2017. yesterday. his arrest as part of a corruption ing the transfer of funds to and After more than three dec- deputy director in Malawi’s eff ective. Malaria is spread to people “We found and buried 37 bodies.” probe. from abroad”, APS reported. ades in development and al- health ministry said. Scientists say if it was rolled through the bites of infected He said the motorised boat cap- The crackdown on alleged He is also suspected of im- most $1bn in investment, the Kayange said, once rolled out on a large scale it could female anopheles mosquitoes. sized near the village of Katalama, graft follows the resignation porting “used equipment” de- most advanced vaccine yet out, the vaccine has the capac- save hundreds of thousands of The WHO’s latest report 120 kilometres from the provincial of veteran president Abdelaziz spite enjoying tax and tariff has been rolled out in Malawi’s ity to prevent 1mn of the 6mn lives. on malaria showed that the capital Kindu on the Kindu- Boutefl ika in early April after breaks intended for the purchase capital Lilongwe, before it is malaria cases recorded annu- The World Health Organi- number of cases climbed to Kibombo-Kasongo part of the weeks of mass protests against of new products. extended to Kenya and Ghana ally in Malawi, helping prevent sation (WHO) believes that 219mn in 2017, 2mn more than river — a stretch that off icially is his 20-year rule. On Monday, Rebrab tweeted in coming weeks. 4,000 deaths. the new vaccine brings a key in 2016. not navigable. Tchopa added that News of Rebrab’s arrest came as that he had gone voluntarily to a It aims to immunise 360,000 “So, this vaccine is a huge new tool beyond mosquito “Despite gains over the last the suspected causes included “a thousands of students thronged police station to discuss “equip- children aged two years and plus to Malawi,” he said. nets, insecticides and drugs in decade, we have seen a stagna- drunk skipper, travelling at night the capital’s streets calling for the ment that has been held up at under in the three countries to Trade-named Mosquirix, the battle against the disease tion in malaria control eff orts and overloading.” overthrow of the “system” and for the Algiers port since June 2018”. assess the eff ectiveness of the the drug has been developed which kills a child every two in recent years,” said research- “The skipper is on the run. He had trials against members of the de- Cevital, which he founded, em- pilot vaccine and whether the by British pharmaceutical gi- minutes. er Jonathan Juliano from the already been banned because of posed leader’s inner circle. ploys 18,000 people, produces delivery process is feasible. ant GlaxoSmithKline in part- “We have seen tremendous University of North Carolina. previous violations,” said Tchopa. Rebrab, the 74-year-old chief electronics, steel and food, and Four successive doses must nership with the PATH Malaria gains from bed nets and other “In certain areas of Africa, Exactly a week earlier, a boat went executive of Algeria’s biggest in recent years acquired busi- be administered on a strict Vaccine Initiative. measures to control malaria in we have actually seen rates of down on Lake Kivu with some 130 privately-owned conglomerate nesses in France. timetable for it to work, while It passed previous scientifi c the last 15 years but progress malaria infection get worse.” people on board. Dozens are still off icially missing.

POLITICS Presidential SA fl oods, mudslides kill 33, children missing hopeful under house arrest

AFP pulled out of a house belonging were also fl ooded. Those killed A Ugandan pop singer and law- Durban to a school caretaker in Westcliff , were either crushed to death by maker seeking to challenge veteran a working class suburb on the mudslides or drowned in fl ood President Yoweri Museveni at the outskirts of Durban. waters, Rescue Care spokesman next election said yesterday he had he death toll from fl oods The victims were buried un- Garrith Jamieson said. been placed under house arrest, as and mudslides that der a wall that had collapsed on Search and rescue operations the US government criticised what Tcrushed homes in the them while they were sleeping. have combed the debris for those it called authorities’ “heavy-handed” South African port of Durban At least 145 people have been who might be trapped under- use of force against citizens. Police yesterday has risen to 33, with displaced, the government said. neath. and military personnel used teargas reports of children missing and A Hindu temple in the city was In addition to collapsed build- and water cannon on Monday scores of people displaced, au- entirely fl ooded with water lev- ings and fl ooded roads, sewer lines to disperse a large group of Bobi thorities said. els of up to 10 metres, the pho- were blocked and electricity py- Wine’s supporters as they gathered “Heavy rains have since tographer reported. lons had toppled over. South Afri- for a concert at a lakeside beach claimed 33 lives so far,” Nomusa Heavy rains have lashed South can military personnel have been resort, footage from local NTV Dube-Ncube, a KwaZulu-Natal Africa in recent days, with the dispatched to help rescue and showed. Before the concert, Wine, provincial minister said in a southern and eastern parts of the evacuation eff orts. Government, whose real name is Robert Kyagu- statement. Among those killed country badly hit since the start political and religious groups were lanyi, was removed by police from a were a six-month-old baby and of Easter weekend. yesterday handing out food par- vehicle near the beach, the footage a child aged around 10. “Last night the weather con- cels to the aff ected people. showed. Wine said he was taken to She added that 10 children are ditions worsened signifi cantly,” The South African Weath- his home in a northern suburb of missing in Durban and 42 people Dube-Ncube said. er Services warned that more the capital, Kampala. have been injured. Government said dozens of heavy rain and gale force winds In a series of tweets yesterday the An AFP photographer saw incidents of collapsed walls and were expected until today, which singer said he was blocked from two of the nine bodies — includ- fl ooded homes were reported could threaten low-lying bridges A man tries to retrieve some of his furniture at an informal settlement of BottleBrush, south of Durban, leaving his home by security ing that of a small child — being throughout the night, as roads and roads. after torrential rains and flash floods destroyed his home, yesterday. personnel. Gulf Times 12 Wednesday, April 24, 2019 AMERICAS

SUPERBLOOM IN THE FRAY JUSTICE CAUSE UNKNOWN ‘BIASED’ Biden to announce 2020 Ex-coach to plead guilty in 6 killed as twin-engine Trump lashes out at Twitter, election run tomorrow admissions scandal airplane crashes in Texas wants ‘fairer’ social media

Former US vice president Joe Biden plans to A former University of Southern California assistant All six people on board a twin-engine plane President Donald Trump yesterday called for announce tomorrow that he is seeking the women’s soccer coach has agreed to plead guilty died when it crashed on a private ranch near an the creation of “more, and fairer” social media Democratic Party’s presidential nomination for to engaging in a racketeering scheme in which airport in Kerrville, Texas, on Monday. The pilot companies in response to discrimination he said the 2020 election, NBC News and CNN reported she accepted bribes to help wealthy parents get of the Beechcraft BE58 was preparing to land he has faced as a Republican from Twitter Inc. He yesterday. Biden, 77, a longtime senator who their children into the school as part of the largest at Kerrville Municipal Airport when the plane also cheered the involvement of US lawmakers, served for eight years under Democratic President college admissions scandal in US history. She went down, said Federal Aviation Administration who have called on executives from several Barack Obama, would join a crowded field of becomes the 20th person to agree to plead guilty spokesman Lynn Lunsford. The wreckage was technology companies to testify in connection nearly 20 other candidates seeking to defeat to participating in the more than $25mn fraud, found about 10km northwest of the airport, to various scandals. “No wonder Congress wants People visit the poppy fields at the Antelope Republican President Donald Trump. The Atlantic where parents were accused of using bribes to win which is about 160km west of Austin, the state to get involved — and they should,” he wrote Valley Poppy Reserve in Lancaster, California previously reported that Biden would announce their children spots at universities. Laura Janke, capital. The National Transportation Safety on Twitter. Trump has one of the most-followed to view the orange poppies and other his candidacy today. Next week, Biden will meet who worked at USC until 2014, has agreed to Board will investigate the crash. The flight had accounts on Twitter, with nearly 60mn followers, wildflowers after a superbloom of wildflowers with union workers in Pittsburgh, a pivotal election plead guilty to one count of conspiring to commit departed earlier on Monday from West Houston but he has repeatedly criticised the company exploded across California’s once-parched hills region in Pennsylvania that backed Trump in 2016, racketeering, according to a plea agreement filed Airport in Texas, Lunsford said in an e-mail. All and its social media competitors for what he has following a particularly wet winter season. an NBC news reporter said on MSNBC. yesterday in a Boston federal court. the victims were from Houston. called bias against conservatives.

Trump ‘not inclined’ Top court sympathetic on to release tax returns

Reuters maker in the House of Rep- Washington resentatives authorised to request taxpayer information under federal law. resident Donald Trump Democrats say they are census citizenship query is unlikely hand over his confi dent of succeeding in Ptax returns to lawmak- any legal fi ght over Trump’s Reuters ers despite a Tuesday deadline returns. Washington facing the Treasury Depart- “The law is on our side. ment and Internal Revenue The law is clearer than crys- Service, the White House tal. They have no choice: he US Supreme Court’s said, even as a congressional they must abide by (it),” Rep- conservative majority yes- aide said the decision was not resentative Bill Pascrell, who Tterday appeared inclined up to the president. has been leading the Demo- to hand President Donald Trump “As I understand it, the cratic push for Trump’s tax a victory on his administration’s president’s pretty clear: Once records, said in a statement plan to add a citizenship question he’s out of audit, he’ll think to Reuters. to the 2020 census, a move op- about doing it, but he’s not Democrats want Trump’s ponents call a Republican eff ort inclined to do so at this time,” returns as part of their in- to deter immigrants from taking White House spokesman vestigations of possible con- part. Hogan Gidley told Fox News fl icts of interest posed by During arguments in the closely in an interview yesterday. his continued ownership of watched case, conservative jus- Representative Richard extensive business interests, tices rallied in defence of the ad- Neal, Democratic chairman even as he serves the public ministration’s stated justifi cation of the House of Representa- as president. for using the citizenship ques- tives Ways and Means Com- Republicans have con- tion in the decennial population mittee, requested six years demned the request as a po- count, while their liberal counter- of Trump’s individual and litical “fi shing expedition” by parts remained sceptical. business returns on April 3 Democrats. The court has a 5-4 conserva- and had set a fi nal deadline Despite the law’s clar- tive majority. of 5pm EDT yesterday, in- ity, Democrats have long ac- Among the conservative jus- forming IRS Commissioner knowledged that the eff ort tices indicating support toward Charles Rettig in a letter that would likely result in a legal the administration’s stance were Demonstrators rally outside the Supreme Court yesterday to protest a proposal to add a citizenship question in the 2020 Census. failure to comply would be battle that could ultimately Trump’s two appointees, Brett viewed as a denial. be settled by the US Supreme Kavanaugh and Neil Gorsuch, as Roberts and other conservative Trump has pursued hardline US Solicitor General Noel Fran- violate the Constitution’s man- Failure to meet the congres- Court. well as Chief Justice John Roberts, justices appeared to embrace the immigration policies. cisco, arguing on behalf of the date to enumerate the population sional deadline could mire the “If the IRS does not com- considered the court’s pivotal administration’s argument that The Supreme Court already has administration, said Commerce every 10 years. administration and lawmakers ply with the request, it is vote. the question would yield better handed him some major victories, Secretary Wilbur Ross, whose In November, when the Su- in a lengthy legal fi ght. likely that chairman Neal Lower courts have blocked the data to enforce the Voting Rights including last year allowing his department includes the Census preme Court allowed the trial “This is not up to the pres- will subpoena the returns,” question, ruling that the admin- Act, which protects eligible voters travel ban targeting people from Bureau, acted within his discre- before Furman to proceed, three ident. We did not ask him,” Representative Judy Chu, a istration violated federal law and from discrimination. several Muslim-majority countries. tion in deciding to add the citi- of the court’s conservative jus- said a Democratic committee Democratic member of the the US Constitution in seeking to Roberts challenged New York The case comes in a pair of law- zenship question. tices — Gorsuch, Clarence Tho- aide, who cited a law saying Ways and Means Committee, include it on the census form. Solicitor General Barbara Under- suits by a group of states and lo- “It boils down to whether the mas and Samuel Alito — said they the Treasury secretary “shall told Reuters. A ruling by the Supreme Court wood, whose state sued the ad- calities led by New York state, and secretary’s judgment is a reason- would have blocked it, indicating furnish” taxpayer data upon “If they do not comply is due by the end of June. ministration over the plan to add a coalition of immigrant rights able one,” Francisco said. they may be sympathetic to the request from an authorized with that (subpoena), a legal Opponents have said inclusion the question, saying citizenship is groups challenging the legality of Business groups and corpora- administration’s legal arguments. lawmaker. battle will begin to defend of a citizenship question would critical information for enforcing the question. tions such as Lyft, Inc, Box, Inc, Furman found that Ross con- “In terms of the law, what the right of oversight in Con- cause a sizeable undercount by the Voting Rights Act. The census forms are due to be Levi Strauss & Co and Uber Tech- cealed his true motives for his he says is largely irrelevant,” gress,” she said. frightening immigrant house- Roberts also said it is “quite printed in the coming months. nologies Inc also opposed the citi- March 2018 decision to add the said the aide, who was not Trump broke with a dec- holds and Latinos from fi lling out common” for census questions Liberal justices noted evidence zenship question, saying it would question. authorized to speak publicly ades-old precedent by refus- the census forms, fearful that the to capture demographic informa- presented in the case from the compromise census data that they The Census Bureau itself es- about the White House re- ing to release his tax returns information would be shared with tion. Census Bureau’s own experts that use to make decisions including timated that households corre- marks. as a presidential candidate in law enforcement. Kavanaugh cited other coun- showed the citizenship ques- where to put new locations and sponding to 6.5mn people would Acting White House Chief 2016 or since being elected, This would cost Democratic- tries that ask a citizenship ques- tion would lead to a population how to market products. not respond to the census if the of Staff Mick Mulvaney has saying he could not do so leaning areas electoral represen- tion as part of their censuses. undercount, and, contrary to the Manhattan-based US District citizenship question is asked, vowed that Trump’s tax re- while his taxes were being tation in Congress and federal aid, “It’s a very common question administration’s stated goal, less Judge Jesse Furman on January leading to less accurate citizen- turns would “never” be audited. benefi ting Trump’s fellow Repub- internationally,” Kavanaugh said. accurate citizenship data. 15 ruled that the Commerce De- ship data. handed over to Democrats. But his former personal licans and Republican-leaning Gorsuch and fellow conserva- They also appeared sceptical partment’s decision to add the Citizenship has not been asked But Treasury Secretary lawyer, Michael Cohen, told a parts of the country, they said. tive Justice Samuel Alito both about the administration’s stated question violated a federal law of all households since the 1950 Steven Mnuchin said he in- House panel in February that The census is used to allot seats challenged evidence that ask- justifi cation regarding the Voting called the Administrative Proce- census. It has featured since then tends to “follow the law” he does not believe Trump’s in the US House of Representa- ing about citizenship could cause Rights Act. dure Act. on questionnaires sent to a small- while pledging to keep the taxes are under audit. tives and distribute some $800bn census response rates to decline, “You can’t read the record Federal judges in Maryland er subset of the population. IRS from being “weap- Cohen said the president in federal funds. as the challengers contend. without sensing this need is a and California also prohibited While only US citizens can onized” for political gain. feared that releasing his re- During extended arguments Gorsuch noted that “it’s not like contrived one,” Justice Elena Ka- the question’s inclusion in sub- vote, non-citizens comprise an As Ways and Means chair- turns could lead to an audit that lasted about 80 minutes, this question is improper to ask.” gan said. sequent rulings, saying it would estimated 7% of the population. man, Neal is the only law- and IRS tax penalties. Conservative stars cast shadow River road challenge on hopes of Trudeau challenger

By David Ljunggren, Reuters he tries to make himself more polls and risks becoming the fi rst Instead, he can sometimes Ottawa widely known ahead of the Octo- prime minister since the 1930s to come across as fl ustered. ber 21 election. lose power after a single majority Scheer’s chief spokesman “Andrew Scheer is not the mandate. Brock Harrison dismissed such ight-leaning Canadian conservative leader. Andrew Liberal insiders say Trudeau concerns, saying he was happy politicians have won im- Scheer may be leader of the fed- might prefer to turn the cam- with eff orts to cut the recogni- Rportant elections over the eral Conservative Party of Cana- paign into a fi ght against Ford tion gap with Trudeau. last year, but it may do Liberal da, (but) the conservative leaders and Kenney, which would shift “The leader of the opposition Prime Minister Justin Trudeau are Jason Kenney and Doug Ford,” attention away from Scheer is never going to be a household more good in October’s national said Duane Bratt, a political sci- while linking the Conservatives name until they become the vote than his little-known Con- ence professor at Mount Royal to right-wing policies associated prime minister of Canada,” Har- servative Party challenger. University in Calgary. with Trump, who is deeply un- rison said in a phone interview. Andrew Scheer, 39, has strug- Though Scheer has experience popular in Canada. “We feel like we’ve done every- gled to become a household in Ottawa, his role as speaker “Conservative politicians like thing we need to do, or that we name since taking over as leader of the House of Commons from Doug Ford don’t seem to believe should be doing, to increase his of the federal Conservatives in 2011 to 2015 was a back-room job in investing for the future...sad- profi le.” 2017, a problem not shared by the which required him to be impar- ly, Andrew Scheer takes his cues While Kenney and Ford would telegenic Trudeau, whose father tial and did not allow him to build from the Ontario premier on a not formally be involved in cam- led the country for more than 15 up a public image. whole host of fronts,” Trudeau paign planning, they were likely years. Kenney, on the other hand, said at a Liberal rally last week. to make appearances as part Last week, Alberta’s United was a high-profi le Cabinet min- “Trudeau can run against of a Conservative push against Conservative Party leader Jason ister from 2008 to 2015. Trumpism with (Kenney and Trudeau’s plan to fi ght climate Kenney, a former federal minis- Ford is the Canadian politi- Ford) as the embodiment of change by imposing a carbon tax, ter, won a landslide victory in the cian most-often compared to US Trumpism in Canada, and he can Harrison added. energy-rich province. President Donald Trump, and he be the champion of Canadian Jonathan Malloy, a politi- Kenney’s election follows that has not shied away from pushing values,” said Peter Donolo, who cal science professor at Carle- of Ontario populist fi rebrand controversial policies — like cut- was a spokesman for former Lib- ton University in Ottawa, said Doug Ford, who ended 15 years of ting spending on healthcare and eral prime minister Jean Chret- that while Kenney’s election last Liberal rule in the country’s most education — that likely would ien. week showed conservative sup- populous province in 2018. not help Scheer in a national One well-placed Conservative port was getting stronger, Scheer A Canadian Armed Forces vehicle navigates flood waters in Rigaud in the suburbs of Montreal While those victories signal fi ght. said another challenge was that still does not grab the public im- on Monday. Flooding in eastern Canada has forced the evacuation of 1,200 people while more that conservative momentum is Damaged by a scandal over Scheer’s aff able personality and agination. than 600 troops have been deployed in response. Warming weather over the weekend has building, the experienced and allegations of interference in a ability to connect with people in “There isn’t a huge ground- brought spring floods due to heavy rains and snow-melt from Ontario to southern Quebec and better-known Kenney and Ford corporate corruption case, Tru- a room did not always translate swell of personal following for New Brunswick. could steal Scheer’s thunder as deau, 47, is trailing Scheer in the onto the big screen. him,” Malloy said. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 24, 2019 13 ASIA Lanka falls silent for

Sunday attack victims Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe gestures as he answers questions during a press conference in Colombo yesterday. AFP Colombo

ri Lanka fell silent for three minutes yesterday on a IS group claims Sday of national mourning to honour more than 300 peo- ple killed in suicide bomb blasts that have been blamed on a local group. Lanka blasts Flags were lowered to half- mast on government build- AFP The men detonated their ings, and people bowed their Colombo bombs as guests queued for heads and refl ected silently on breakfast at the Shangri-La and the violence that has caused Cinnamon Spice hotels. international outrage. he Islamic State (IS) A fourth attack against a hotel The silence began at 8:30am group yesterday said it on Sunday failed, sources also (0300 GMT), the time that the Twas behind a devastating said, though it was not immedi- fi rst of six bombs detonated on string of suicide attacks against ately clear if the bomber’s explo- Sunday morning, unleashing churches and hotels in Sri Lanka sives had failed or he had chosen carnage at high-end hotels and that killed more than 320 people not to detonate them. churches packed with Easter on Easter Sunday. He later blew himself up when worshippers. The claim emerged more than police tracked him to a lodging in Shortly after the silence was 48 hours after the near-simulta- the capital. observed, a police spokesman neous blasts tore through three President Maithripala Sirisena’s said the death toll had risen to high-end hotels popular with for- offi ce said there was intelligence 310, with several people dying of eigners and three churches packed that “international terror groups” their injuries overnight. with Christians marking Easter. were behind the local perpetrators The fi rst memorial services It came after Sri Lanka’s gov- and that he would seek foreign for the victims, among them ernment said initial investiga- help to investigate. Police have dozens of foreigners, were be- tions suggested the attack had detained at least 40 people as they ing held yesterday, hours af- been carried out as “retaliation” investigate the worst act of vio- ter the government imposed a for shootings at two mosques lence in Sri Lanka since a civil war state of emergency and said an in New Zealand last month that ended a decade ago. Islamist group was behind the killed 50 people. But Prime Minister Ranil violence. Relatives pour soil on the coff in of a bomb blast victim during a funeral in a cemetery in Colombo yesterday, two days after a series of bomb The Sri Lankan government Wickremesinghe said more At St Anthony’s Shrine in Co- attacks targeting churches and luxury hotels in Sri Lanka. had already pointed the fi gure were at large, including “some” lombo - where scores died as at a little-known local extrem- armed with explosives, and that they gathered for Easter Sunday Bangladesh PM’s relative killed in blast were also killed, according to majority and Muslims. ist group called National Thow- further attacks were possible. prayers - a few dozen people Sri Lankan offi cials and foreign The attacks have sparked lo- heeth Jama’ath (NTJ), but said it “There are possibilities, we have held candles and prayed silently, An eight-year-old relative of boy’s mother and younger governments. cal and international outrage, was investigating whether they not ruled out anything. We are palms pressed together. Bangladeshi Prime Minister brother were in their hotel The UN said at least 45 chil- and have been condemned by Sri had international support. trying to apprehend them, people And at St Sebastian’s Church Sheikh Hasina was among room at the time, bdnews24. dren, Sri Lankans and foreigners, Lankan Muslim groups. “Those that carried out the who are on the run,” he said. in Negombo, north of the capi- 321 people killed in the Easter com reported. were among those killed. Burials were expected to begin attack that targeted members of The government has imposed a tal, an elderly man wept uncon- Sunday suicide bombings in Sri Chowdhury was the grandson The suicide bombers hit three for some of the dead yesterday. the US-led coalition and Chris- state of emergency, giving police trollably by the coffi n bearing Lanka. of Sheikh Fazlul Karim Selim, a Colombo luxury hotels popular At St Sebastian’s, the at- tians in Sri Lanka the day before and the military special pow- the body of his wife. Zayan Chowdhury, who leader of Bangladesh’s ruling with foreign tourists - the Cin- mosphere was heavy with yesterday are Islamic State group ers including the ability to arrest The attacks were also the was also a relative of British Awami League party and cousin namon Grand, the Shangri-La grief as coffi ns were brought in fi ghters,” a statement released by suspects without a court order. worst ever against the country’s Labour lawmaker Tulip Siddiq, of Hasina. and the Kingsbury - and three the grounds one at a time for the group’s propaganda agency Offi cials are investigating why small Christian minority, who was having breakfast with his The Dhaka Tribune reported churches: two in the Colombo services. Amaq said. more precautions were not taken make up just 7% of the 21mn father at a hotel in Colombo that the boy’s father was injured region and one in the eastern city “There are so many bod- It presented no immediate ev- after an April 11 warning from Sri population. when a suicide bomber in the blast and admitted to a of Batticaloa. ies that we can’t accommodate idence for the claim. In a subse- Lanka’s police that a “foreign in- Tensions remained high and detonated his device. The hospital. (IANS) Two additional blasts were them all at once,” Anthony quent longer offi cial statement, telligence agency” had reported security heavy after a bomb dis- triggered as security forces car- Jayakody, auxiliary bishop of the group gave aliases but not the NTJ planned suicide attacks covered by police on Monday ried out raids searching for Colombo, said. the full names of seven attackers on churches. near one of the targeted church- More details have begun to A Danish billionaire lost suspects. The attacks have sparked lo- it said were involved. Government spokesman Ra- es blew up before police could emerge about some of the for- three of his children in the at- Ethnic and religious violence cal and international outrage, Sri Lankan police sources said jitha Senaratne said the warning defuse it. Although there was a eigners killed in the blasts. tacks, a spokesman for his has plagued Sri Lanka for dec- and have been condemned by Sri that the attackers who targeted was not passed on to Wickremes- powerful blast, no injuries were The United States reported at company said. ades, with a 37-year confl ict Lankan Muslim groups, with one two of the hotels hit Sunday inghe or other top ministers. reported. least four Americans killed - in- Eight Britons, 10 Indians and with Tamil rebels followed by urging the “maximum punish- were Muslim brothers, sons of Two additional blasts were trig- Police also found 87 bomb det- cluding a child - and the Nether- nationals from Turkey, Austral- an upswing in recent years of ment for everyone involved in a wealthy Colombo spice trader gered as security forces carried out onators at a Colombo bus station. lands raised their toll to three. ia, France, Japan and Portugal, clashes between the Buddhist these dastardly acts”. and both in their twenties. raids searching for suspects. Thai poll body moves to disqualify politician

Reuters tional election since a 2014 Thaksin government. the Election Commission, told He could also face criminal criticising the junta last year. Bangkok military coup is still unclear. The Pheu Thai Party loyal to reporters. charges for contesting the elec- In a separate legal proceed- Le Duc Anh Final results due on May 9 will Thaksin won the most seats in “This disqualifi es him from tion knowing he was ineligible, ing, the Thai Supreme Court indicate whether a pro-army parliament but not a majority. having the right to become a punishable by up to 10 years in yesterday sentenced former hailand’s Election Com- party has enough seats to allow The pro-army Palang Pracharat candidate for member of parlia- prison and a ban from politics premier Thaksin in absentia to mission yesterday ac- junta leader Prayut Chan-o-cha party came second. ment based on the constitution for 20 years. three years in prison for confl ict Tcused a prominent anti- to remain in power. Thanathorn, the heir to an and the election law.” Thanathorn, who was trav- of interest by ordering a state- Vietnam junta politician of breaching Thanathorn’s progressive, auto parts fortune, has brought Thanathorn has previously elling back to Thailand from owned bank to lend money to the election law, moving to dis- youth-oriented Future Forward a new element to Thai poli- denied breaching electoral law, the Netherlands, posted on Fa- Myanmar so it could buy prod- qualify him from parliament al- Party came third in the elec- tics that have for 15 years been saying he sold his shares in cebook: “I was just told from ucts from Thaksin’s own busi- ex-leader most a month after the disputed tion in a surprisingly strong divided between the royalist- the media company on Janu- Thailand to quickly return to ness while he was in offi ce. March 24 election. showing. military establishment and the ary 8, prior to registering as a prepare for an unexpected situ- Thaksin, who was over- Rising political star Thana- His party has joined an op- populist “red shirts” linked to candidate. ation. See you in Thailand.” thrown by the military in 2006 is dead thorn Jungroongruangkit, 40, position “democratic front” Thaksin. He has seven days to submit Thanathorn faces two other and lives in self-imposed exile, is accused of holding shares in with a party loyal to Thaksin “The evidence has shown evidence to the Election Com- criminal charges, one of sedi- has already been sentenced to AFP a media company after register- Shinawatra, ousted as prime that Thanathorn is the owner or mission to refute the allegation. tion for allegedly aiding anti- two years in prison in a separate Hanoi ing his candidacy, which would minister by the military, to a shareholder of V-Luck Media If found guilty, Thanathorn junta protesters in 2015, and 2008 corruption conviction. He violate the election law. try to block Prayut, who led company,” Sawang Boonmee, would be banned from run- another for cybercrime for a said the corruption cases were The outcome of the fi rst na- a 2014 coup against a pro- deputy secretary general of ning for election for one year. speech he made on Facebook politically motivated. eneral Le Duc Anh, a Communist party hard- Gliner and former Viet- namese president who led the invasion of Cambodia which led to the fall of the Khmer Rouge Appeal by jailed Myanmar journalists rejected Over 50 feared killed regime, has died aged 99. Duc Anh spent much of his life in southern Vietnam, where he joined Reuters years in prison. The Yangon in landslide at mine the communist war eff ort against Naypyidaw High Court rejected an earlier the French and then the US. appeal in January. AFP said, asking not to be named. Duc Anh passed away late Mon- The appeal to the coun- Yangon “There’s no way they (the day “following a long illness,” the yanmar’s top court try’s most senior court, the missing) could have survived.” and state media announced. yesterday rejected Supreme Court, cited lack of Only two bodies had been re- He served as president during Mthe appeal of two proof of a crime and evidence ore than 50 people covered so far. 1992-1997, championing the con- Reuters reporters sentenced to that the pair were set-up by were feared dead after The ministry of informa- tinued primacy of the Communist seven years in jail for breaking police. A policeman testi- Ma landslide in northern tion confi rmed the accident and party as Vietnam embarked on the Offi cial Secrets Act, in a fi ed last year that offi cers had Myanmar engulfed jade miners number of missing, adding that sweeping market reforms. landmark case that has raised planted secret documents on while they were sleeping, local the area was mined by Myanmar He was one of the “liberators of questions about the country’s the two reporters. police said yesterday, the latest Thura Gems and Shwe Nagar Saigon” as deputy commander of the transition to democracy. “Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo deadly accident in a notoriously Koe Kaung companies. off ensive that toppled the US-backed “They were sentenced for did not commit any crime, nor dangerous industry. Myanmar Thura Gems direc- South Vietnamese government. seven years and this decision Pan Ei Mon, right, and Chit Su Win, the wives of jailed Reuters was there any proof that they Dozens die each year in land- tor Hla Soe Oo said he was on his He is best remembered for play- stands, and the appeal is re- reporters Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo speak to media outside did,” Reuters chief counsel Gail slides caused by jade mining, a way to the site and had no fur- ing a commanding role in the inva- jected,” Supreme Court Justice the court in the Myanmar capital Naypyidaw. Gove said in a statement. poorly regulated industry rife ther details. sion of Cambodia that drove Pol Soe Naing told the court in the “Instead, they were victims with corruption and sandwiched Local media shared images, Pot’s Khmer Rouge out of Phnom capital, Naypyitaw, without gon’s Insein prison and were “Our husbands are good of a police set-up to silence between the country’s borders unverifi ed by AFP, that showed Penh in 1978, earning him the elaborating. not present to hear the Su- people,” she said. “We want their truthful reporting. We with China and India. the walls of a mine stretching nickname “Tiger of Cambodia”. Wa Lone, 33, and Kyaw Soe preme Court verdict. them to be released as soon as will continue to do all we can to Local police described a freak vertically a couple of hundred “At the time, the Khmer Rouge had Oo, 29, have spent more than 16 Their wives emerged from possible.” free them as soon as possible.” accident in Kachin state on Mon- metres above a vast pool of mud, plans to fi ght their way to Saigon,” he months in detention since they the courtroom quietly wiping The journalists were found Than Zaw Aung, a lawyer day night so big it created a huge revealing only the tops of two told Vietnamese media in 2009. were arrested in December 2017 away tears. guilty under the Offi cial Se- for the defence, said the fami- “mud lake” that buried the min- yellow excavation vehicles. “Without our support... how while working on an investiga- Panei Mon, Wa Lone’s wife, crets Act last September by lies of the two men planned ers as well as some 40 vehicles. Hundreds of onlookers gath- would the Cambodians have ris- tion into the killing of 10 Ro- who gave birth to their fi rst a district court judge in My- to submit a letter to Myanmar “Fifty-four people are missing ered nearby, staring at the site en up to liberate their own coun- hingya Muslim men and boys. child last year, said she had anmar’s largest city, Yangon. President Win Myint’s offi ce in the mud,” a duty offi cer from and taking photos with their try?” he added. They are being held at Yan- been “hoping for the best”. They were sentenced to seven seeking a pardon. Hpakant township police station phones. Gulf Times 14 Wednesday, April 24, 2019 ASIA/AUSTRALASIA Kim, Putin to hold talks in Russia amid standoff with US

AFP cal and diplomatic solution to the begin one-on-one and then move year embarked on a series of diplo- broke down over what North Moscow with Fiona Hill, a foreign a crucial backer and main aid Moscow nuclear problem on the Korean into an “expanded format”, with- matic overtures. Since March 2018 Korea was prepared to give up policy adviser to Trump, for talks provider to Pyongyang during Peninsula,” Ushakov told a brief- out providing further details. He the formerly reclusive North Ko- in return. Last week Pyongyang on North Korea. The US special the Cold War. The USSR started ing yesterday. said no joint statement or sign- rean leader has held four meetings launched a blistering attack on envoy for North Korea Stephen to reduce funding to the North im Jong-un and Vladimir “Russia intends to help con- ing of agreements was planned. with Chinese President Xi Jinping, US Secretary of State Mike Pom- Biegun was also in Moscow at the as it began to seek reconcilia- Putin will meet in Russia’s solidate positive trends in every Russia’s Ria Novosti news agency three with the South’s Moon Jae- peo, demanding he be removed time for meetings with Russian tion with Seoul in the 1980s, and KFar East tomorrow, the way,” he said. Anticipation for quoted sources in the country’s in, two with US President Donald from the negotiations just hours offi cials. The summit will be the Pyongyang was hit hard by the Kremlin said, as the North Ko- the summit had been building rail service as saying a train car- Trump and one with Vietnam’s after announcing it had carried fi rst between the two neighbours demise of the Soviet Union. rean leader looks to rebuild ties since the Kremlin announced last rying Kim was expected to arrive president. out a new weapons test. since Kim’s father Kim Jong-il China has since stepped in to with an old ally amid a standoff week the two men would meet by at Vladivostok station at 6pm lo- Analysts say he is now looking Moscow has called for the met Dmitry Medvedev in Russia become the isolated North’s most with the United States. Kremlin the end of April. cal time today. for wider international support sanctions to be eased, while the eight years ago. Putin previously important ally, its largest trading foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov Russian and North Korean Kim, who travels to interna- in his standoff with Washington. US has accused it of trying to help met Kim Jong-il in Vladivostok in partner and crucial fuel supplier. said the meeting — the fi rst be- fl ags were already fl ying on lamp tional meetings on an armoured At Kim’s last summit with Trump Pyongyang evade some of the 2002. Ties between Pyongyang Analysts say that by reaching out tween the two men — would take posts yesterday on Vladivostok’s train, was expected to cross into in Hanoi in February, Pyongyang measures – accusations Russia and Moscow, once its most im- to Russia Kim could be looking to place in the Pacifi c coast city of Russky island, where the summit Russia at the border town of Khas- demanded immediate relief from denies. The Vladivostok meeting portant ally, go back decades. balance Beijing’s infl uence, while Vladivostok, before Putin heads is expected to take place at a uni- an, news agency Interfax reported. sanctions imposed over its nu- appears to have been discussed The Soviet Union installed Putin is keen to project Russian to Beijing for another summit. versity campus. The talks follow repeated invita- clear weapons and ballistic mis- with Washington. Kim’s grandfather Kim Il-sung infl uence in another global fl ash- “The focus will be on a politi- Ushakov said the talks would tions from Putin since Kim last sile programmes. But the talks Ushakov met last week in as North Korea’s leader and was point. China shows off new destroyer as Xi views naval parade

Reuters Qingdao Chinese Navy’s nuclear-powered submarine Long March 11 takes part in a naval parade off the eastern hina showed off the fi rst port city of Qingdao. of its new generation of Cguided missile destroyers rines will start in the 2020s. “It development,” Xi said, in re- participated in international yesterday as President Xi Jinping does appear that this is a modi- marks carried by the offi cial Xin- anti-piracy patrols off Somalia reviewed a major naval parade fi ed version rather than an en- hua news agency. since late 2008. through mist and rain to mark 70 tirely new submarine, something “Everyone should respect each The United States has sent a years since the founding of Chi- which would have been a more other, treat each other as equals, low-level delegation to Qingdao, na’s navy. signifi cant development,” said enhance mutual trust, strength- led by the naval attache at its Xi is overseeing a sweeping Koh, of Singapore’s S Rajaratnam en maritime dialogue and ex- Beijing embassy, and no ships. plan to refurbish the People’s School of International Studies. changes, and deepen pragmatic However, the USS Blue Ridge, Liberation Army (PLA) by de- “Outside analysts still don’t have co-operation between navies,” the command ship of the Japan- veloping everything from stealth a complete picture of the precise he added. based U.S. Seventh Fleet, is visit- jets to aircraft carriers as China modifi cations.” “There cannot be resorts to ing Hong Kong, having arrived in ramps up its presence in the China’s last major naval parade force or threats of force at the the city on Saturday. disputed South China Sea and was last year in the South China slightest pretext,” Xi said. “All A senior US naval offi cial around self-ruled Taiwan, which Sea, also overseen by Xi. Yester- countries should adhere to equal aboard the ship said the Seventh has rattled nerves around the re- day’s parade featured 32 Chinese consultations, improve crisis Fleet would continue its exten- gion and in Washington. vessels and 39 aircraft, as well as communication mechanisms, sive operations in the region, The navy has been a major warships from 13 foreign coun- strengthen regional security including so-called freedom of benefi ciary of the moderni- tries including India, Japan, Vi- cooperation, and promote the navigation operations to chal- sation, with China looking to Chinese Navy’s guided missile destroyer Taiyuan takes part in a naval parade off the eastern port city of etnam and Australia. proper settlement of maritime- lenge excessive maritime claims. project power far from its shores Qingdao, to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy, China. A total of 61 countries have related disputes.” China objects to such patrols and protect its trading routes and sent delegations to the event, China has frequently had to close to the Chinese-held fea- citizens overseas. After boarding chairman,” they replied. “Serve pictures of the Nanchang at the said that based on the available which includes a naval symposi- rebuff concerns about its mili- tures in the Paracels and Spratlys the destroyer the Xining, which the people.” review, the fi rst of a new fl eet evidence, the larger submarine um on Wednesday and Thursday. tary intentions, especially as its archipelago in the South China was only commissioned two China’s fi rst domestically of 10,000-tonne destroyers, on show was a modifi ed ver- For a special report on China’s defence spending reaches new Sea, where US warships are rou- years ago, Xi watched as a fl o- produced aircraft carrier, which though details of that and other sion of China’s existing Jin-class military click: heights. Beijing says it has noth- tinely shadowed by Chinese ves- tilla of Chinese and foreign ships is still unnamed and undergo- ships were hard to determine nuclear-powered ballistic mis- Earlier, meeting foreign naval ing to hide, and invited a small sels. sailed past, in waters off the east- ing sea trials, was not present, from the footage, due to the in- sile submarines – a key part of its offi cers at Qingdao’s Olympic number of foreign media on- The US offi cial said he believed ern port city of Qingdao. though the carrier the Liaoning termittent thick mist and rain. nuclear deterrent. sailing centre, Xi said the navies board a naval ship to watch the an incident last September, when “Salute to you, comrades. was, the report said. China had said it would also The navy has four Jin-class of the world should work togeth- parade, including from Reuters. a Chinese destroyer sailed within Comrades, thanks for your hard The Liaoning, the country’s show new nuclear submarines, submarines, which are based in er to protect maritime peace and China’s last naval battles were 45m of the American destroyer work,” Xi called out to the offi c- fi rst carrier, was bought second- and state television did show Hainan island in the south, and order. with Vietnam in the South China USS Decatur, was an isolated ers standing on deck as the ships hand from Ukraine in 1998 and submarines taking part in the the Pentagon says it believes “The Chinese people love and Sea in 1974 and 1988, though event and other routine inter- sailed past, in images carried on refi tted in China. display. Singapore-based re- construction on a new genera- long for peace, and will unswerv- these were relatively minor skir- actions with the PLA navy had state television. “Hail to you, State television also showed gional security expert Collin Koh tion of ballistic missile subma- ingly follow the path of peaceful mishes. Chinese ships have also proved more professional.

Singapore PM promotes heir apparent before power transfer

Singapore’s leader yesterday will retain his post as finance stable societies is linked in many Malaysia says it is promoted his heir apparent minister and act as premier in people’s minds to the rule of Christchurch attack to deputy prime minister Lee’s absence. In November, the Lee family. Premier Lee, as the city-state’s founding Heng was named to a key who will lead his party into the family prepares for a sensitive post in the People’s Action forthcoming elections before survivors off ered New keen for more ‘fair’ transfer of power to a Party – which has held power in handing over power, said that younger generation. The Singapore for decades – putting the cabinet changes are “part cabinet reshuff le comes amid him on course to become the of the ongoing leadership Zealand residency speculation elections could be next prime minister in the renewal”. “The next generation deals with China held as early as this year, as coming years. leadership is taking shape, and part of a carefully orchestrated The power handover will be progressively taking over from Reuters Immigration New Zealand said political transition that has been a sensitive moment for the me and my older colleagues,” he Wellington a new visa category called the Reuters tion of the two projects — both a hallmark of the country since financial hub of 5.6mn people, said. Lee also announced that Christchurch Response (2019) Kuala Lumpur part of China’s ambitious Belt independence in 1965. which has been mostly ruled two deputy prime ministers, Teo visa had been created. People and Road Initiative (BRI), a key Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, by either Lee or his father, Chee Hean, 64, and Tharman ew Zealand will grant who were present at the mosques policy of President Xi Jinping 67, said in a statement that late founding leader Lee Shanmugaratnam, 62, will permanent residency to when they were attacked on alaysia is hopeful of that envisions rebuilding the old Finance Minister Heng Swee Kuan Yew. The country’s relinquish their posts and be Nall survivors of the mass March 15 can apply, as can imme- getting more “fair” in- Silk Road to connect China with Keat, 57, will become deputy transformation into one of the appointed as senior ministers in shooting at two Christchurch diate family members. Mvestment from China, Asia, Europe and beyond with prime minister from May 1. He world’s wealthiest and most the cabinet. mosques in which 50 Muslim Applicants must have been liv- its foreign minister said yester- massive infrastructure spend- worshippers were killed, it said ing in New Zealand on the day day, after both countries agreed ing. Mahathir will travel to Bei- yesterday. of the attack, so the visa will not to resume two multi-billion jing today to attend a forum on Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, be available to tourists or short- dollar projects just before a Belt the Belt and Road initiative. Emperor Akihito visits Imperial Graveyard a suspected white supremacist, term visitors. and Road conference in Beijing Mahathir and the Malaysian has been charged with 50 counts Applications can be made from this week. delegation are also expected of murder for New Zealand’s today. Prime Minister Jacinda Ar- Malaysian Prime Minister to hold a bilateral meeting on worst peacetime mass shooting dern said the attack was an act of Mahathir Mohamad, who came the sidelines with Xi, premier in which 50 other people at Friday terrorism and passed fi rearm laws to power after a stunning elec- Li Keqiang and Li Zhanshu, prayers were wounded. banning semi-automatic weapons. tion victory last May, had vowed the chairman of the stand- The government had said it was A Sri Lankan minister said yes- to renegotiate or cancel what he ing committee of the national considering giving visas to sur- terday that the Easter bombings calls unfair Chinese projects au- people’s congress, according to vivors, but no decision was an- at churches and hotels that killed thorised by his predecessor. the Malaysian foreign ministry. nounced. Yesterday’s news was 321 people appeared to be retalia- Earlier this month, both Saifuddin, who will be part of only released as a link on the im- tion for the New Zealand mosque countries agreed to resume con- Malaysia’s delegation, said Ma- migration website, which some say attacks.The Islamic State group struction of the East Coast Rail laysia is open to Chinese invest- was done to avoid any backlash by later claimed responsibility for Line (ECRL) at a discount. Last ments from “any sector”, but opponents of immigration. the co-ordinated blasts. week, Mahathir announced the particularly in high-tech manu- resumption of a multi-billion facturing. dollar property development He said Malaysia is also op- Japan varsity stops hiring smoking professors linked to China. “We want to timistic that China will in- improve our ties with China. crease its imports of Malaysian A Japanese university has stopped hiring professors and teachers That is a fact. But it doesn’t palm oil, on top of an increase who light up, off icials said yesterday, as the nation steps up an anti- mean we will do whatever it of 500,000 tonnes premier Li smoking campaign ahead of the 2020 Olympics. Nagasaki University takes,” Malaysian Foreign Min- had pledged during Mahathir’s spokesman Yusuke Takakura told AFP they have “stopped hiring any ister Saifuddin Abdullah told last visit in August. Palm oil is teaching staff who smoke”, although applicants who promise to kick Reuters in an interview. a key Malaysian export. “We are the habit before taking up their post could still be off ered employment. “Agreements and arrange- hopeful that with the BRI con- The university will also ban smoking entirely on campus from August, ments have to be fair for both ference and the positive closure Japan’s Emperor Akihito visits the Emperor Hirohito’s mausoleum in Musashino Imperial opening a clinic for those who cannot give up, said Takakura. “We have sides,” he said. The minister said of the two projects, we would Graveyard in Hachioji, western Tokyo yesterday to ceremonially report forthcoming abdication. reached a conclusion that smokers are not fit for the education sector,” ties between the countries had be receiving more investments Akihito will step aside and make way for his son Crown Prince Naruhito on April 30. the spokesman said, adding that the university had sought legal advice improved since the resump- from China,” Saifuddin said. and does not believe the policy contravenes discrimination laws. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 24, 2019 15

BRITAIN/IRELAND LATIN AMERICA

Prosecution lawyers threaten to walk out in protest at low pay

Guardian News and Media who carry out prosecution work the CBA, said: “The criminal bar its budget and lacks the capacity Overburdened with work, work able prosecution fee schemes for Richard Atkins QC, the chair London in England and Wales responded, has spoken with one voice. The to deal with increasing numbers that was never part of any pre- the future. of the Bar Council, which rep- virtually all of those working on current relationship with the of complex cases. vious agreement and underpaid “We have already begun our resents barristers in England piece rates for the CPS. CPS is broken – 95% are pre- “Our goodwill and profes- in a way that beggars belief, the review and understand the wish and Wales, said: “The many rosecutors are threatening The CBA is considering pared to walk out or refuse to take sionalism has been abused for criminal bar is saying plainly and for this to be agreed quickly. barristers who are instructed to walk out next month in launching an initial protest ac- cases if the DPP (director of pub- far too long. There have been simply: no more.” However, there is a signifi cant by the CPS perform a vital pub- Pprotest at low fees of as lit- tion on the fi rst Tuesday in May, lic prosecutions) refuses to fi x it. no increases in fee levels for 20 The CPS and the CBA met amount of research and analy- lic function, without whom the tle as £46.50 for a day in court. potentially causing chaos at There has been no investment for years. You can spend a whole day earlier this month to discuss pay sis needed to make sure we get a system of justice in this country A survey of members of the magistrates and crown courts. 20 years. Nothing. It is unsus- at court presenting a serious and levels. A CPS spokesperson said: broad and deep understanding would not operate. I hope that Criminal Bar Association who The survey found 99% of tainable to carry on like this. complex case for £46.50.” “We understand that the self- of the issues with the current the current review of prosecu- handle cases for the Crown Pros- members felt they were under- “Police forces have been de- Caroline Goodwin QC, the employed bar do have an impor- schemes. This work will take at tion fees will lead to a substan- ecution Service found 95% said paid for their advocacy skills, nied the resources they need and vice-chair of the CBA, said: tant role in the criminal justice least four months. We are com- tial increase in the fee levels they were prepared to take indus- while 85% said they felt under- now can’t cope with soaring se- “This is not rocket science. All system and are working with mitted to getting this right and which were originally set in trial action. valued by the CPS. rious crime rates. The CPS has we ask for is fair remuneration for them to make sure we have sim- will keep the profession updated 2001 and have not seen an in- More than 2,040 barristers Chris Henley QC, the chair of been battered by savage cuts to work presently done for nothing. ple, fair, aff ordable and sustain- throughout the process.” crease since then.” New IRA takes MPs urged to act on climate change responsibility for killing journalist

AFP statement said. London “On Thursday night, follow- ing an incursion on the Creggan by heavily armed British crown issident republican forces which provoked rioting, group the New IRA the IRA deployed our volunteers D yesterday took respon- to engage,” the New IRA state- sibility for killing Northern ment said, according to The Irish journalist Lyra McKee Irish News. last week as police said they In the wake of McKee’s death, had arrested a 57-year-old Northern Ireland’s six main po- woman in connection with the litical parties — including rival shooting. unionists and republicans who The New IRA “off ers our full have been unable to form a de- and sincere apologies to the volved government for more partner, family and friends of than two years — issued a rare Lyra McKee for her death,” it said joint statement. in a statement to The Irish News. “It was a pointless and futile The newspaper said the act to destroy the progress made paramilitary group used a rec- over the last 20 years, which has ognised codeword — an estab- the overwhelming support of Baroness Jennifer Jones (fourth left) escorts climate change activists bearing letters addressed to their respective MPs, asking them to take action on environmental is- lished method of communi- people everywhere,” it said. sues, into the Houses of Parliament to deliver the letters, during the ongoing Extinction Rebellion climate change demonstration, in central London yesterday. cation during the decades of The Saoradh party, which sectarian confl ict in Northern represents dissident republi- Ireland known as “The Trou- cans but denies being the po- bles”. litical wing of the New IRA, said McKee, 29, was shot in the on Friday that “heavily armed” head on Thursday as dissident police had gone in to the area republicans clashed with police “to attack republicans”. in the Creggan housing estate “The inevitable reaction to in Northern Ireland’s second such an incursion was resist- city Londonderry, also known ance from the youth of Creg- as Derry. gan,” it said. Trump to make state Police in Northern Ireland On Monday a crowd gathered said yesterday that a 57-year- outside the Londonderry offi ce old woman had been arrested of Saoradh, marking its walls under the Terrorism Act in con- with handprints of red paint in nection with the killing. an act of protest. Two men aged 18 and 19 who A march by the dissident were arrested earlier in the in- group in central Dublin on Sat- visit to Britain in June vestigation have been released urday was also met with wide- without charge. spread scorn from politicians Reuters likely to be controversial given which she off ered Trump when ready close ties in areas such as Labour’s foreign aff airs spokes- Tributes to McKee, who was and the press. London many Britons deeply dislike the she became the fi rst foreign trade, investment, security and woman, said in a statement after also a writer, were led by her Irish Prime Minister Leo Var- man and reject his policies on is- leader to visit him after his inau- defence, she said. the visit was announced. partner Sara Canning, who said adkar said their actions were sues such as immigration. guration in January 2017. The White House said the trip “Unless May is fi nally going her “amazing potential was “beneath contempt” and “an S President Donald Almost 1.9mn Britons signed a May, who is facing calls for would reaffi rm “the steadfast to stand up to him and object to Trump will make a state petition in 2017 saying he should her resignation from some law- and special relationship” be- that behaviour, she has no busi- snuff ed out by this single bar- insult to the Irish people”. visit to the United King- not be given a state visit — a makers in her own Conservative tween the allies. ness wasting taxpayers’ money baric act”. McKee’s killing, the latest U dom in June, Buckingham Pal- pomp-laden aff air involving a Party over her handling of the During his trip last year, on all the pomp, ceremony and While admitting responsibil- violent act to shake the troubled ace announced yesterday, a trip carriage trip through London country’s exit from the European Trump shocked Britain’s po- policing costs that will come ity, the New IRA attempted to province, came in the run-up to Britain hopes will cement trans- and a banquet at Buckingham Union, which is still stalled, will litical establishment by giving a with this visit.” justify its actions by claiming Easter weekend, when repub- atlantic relations but one that Palace. be hoping for strong backing for withering assessment of May’s Few details of the trip were she was killed during an attack licans opposed to the British immediately prompted criticism Protests involving tens of a post-Brexit US-UK trade deal. Brexit strategy. He said she had given, but it will include a meet- on “enemy forces”, and accused presence in Northern Ireland and promises of protests. thousands of demonstrators “The UK and US have a deep failed to follow his advice such as ing with May in Downing Street police of provoking the riot mark the anniversary of a 1916 Trump will be only the third overshadowed his non-state trip and enduring partnership that suing the EU but later said May and also a ceremony in Port- which preceded her death. uprising against British rule. A US president to have been ac- to Britain last July. is rooted in our common history was doing a fantastic job. smouth on the south English “In the course of attacking car-bombing and the hijacking corded the honour of a state visit The opposition Labour Party and shared interests,” May said “This is a president who has coast to mark the 75th anniver- the enemy Lyra McKee was of two vans in Londonderry ear- by Queen Elizabeth during her strongly criticised Prime Min- in a statement. systematically assaulted all the sary of the D-Day landings in tragically killed while stand- lier this year were also blamed on 67-year reign. ister Theresa May for pressing The state visit would be an shared values that unite our two Normandy, France during World ing beside enemy forces,” the a dissident paramilitary group. But the trip, from June 3-5, is ahead with the ceremonial stay, opportunity to strengthen al- countries,” Emily Thornberry, War II.

Prince Louis turns one Mental illness among 36 migrants saved trying to reach UK doctors high: survey Daily Mail They were taken to Dungeness London by the RNLI and treated before being handed over to immigra- Daily Mail denying that being a doctor is a tising medicine or delivering care tion offi cials. London challenging and demanding role, but we are often under-prepared hirty six migrants – in- A short while later, Border too often the line of what can be for the everyday emotional experi- cluding children – were Force intercepted a third boat considered routine pressures of ences of the job, never mind when Trescued as they tried to with nine men and one woman quarter of doctors and the job has most defi nitely been these experiences become excep- reach Britain on dinghies. on board, who said they were medical students have been crossed and the consequence is a tional.” Offi cials said they were Iranian. They were then brought Adiagnosed with a mental workforce that has been pushed to A separate study, published by stopped in three separate inci- to Dover. health condition, it was revealed. literal breaking point.” the BMA and Swansea University, dents off the Kent coast as they A Home Offi ce spokesman Stresses of the job have pushed The NHS is the largest employer said doctors often work when they attempted to cross the Channel. said: “Anyone crossing the many into depression, anxiety and in Britain, with 1.7mn staff . But know they are unwell. The groups are thought to Channel in a small boat is taking problem drinking. 80% of doctors and medical stu- One respondent said: “I thought have been tempted to make the a huge risk. It is an established A survey of more than 4,300 dents are at high or very high risk it would be a complete failure to journey because of the recent principle that those in need of medics found 27% have been diag- of burnout, driven mainly by ‘ex- have to have time off work.” fi ne weather. The total number protection should claim asylum nosed with a mental health condi- haustion’, and that rises to 91% for The BMA said support must be caught in one day was a record in the fi rst safe country they tion. Two in fi ve are facing psycho- junior doctors. publicised and available, as 9% re- for this year so far. reach. Since January more than logical and emotional problems, A third of those surveyed ad- ported having asked for help with- In the fi rst incident, a Border 20 people who arrived illegally in including stress, depression, anxi- mitted using alcohol, drugs or self- out getting it. Force cutter was scrambled to the UK in small boats have been ety and emotional distress. medication to cope. A spokesman for the depart- intercept a small vessel. returned to Europe.” Women struggle more than Dr Thomas Kitchen, an anaes- ment of health said: “Our upcom- A group of 11 men on board, Border Force currently has two men, while consultants, GP part- thetist specialist trainee, who ing People Plan will lay out the ac- who said they were Iranian and patrol vessels in the Channel as ners and those working more than works at Health Education and tions we will undertake to overhaul Iraqi, were brought on to the well as three cutters – HMC Vig- 51 hours a week are most likely to Improvement Wales, struggled the mental health and well-being Border Force ship and taken to ilant, HMC Searcher and HMC blame their job for their health with his mental health after a col- support on off er for all NHS staff . Dover. They were medically as- Seeker – which can rescue sev- problems. league’s suicide. “Alongside the BMA, we re- Prince William and his wife Kate have released three new sessed and transferred to immi- eral boatloads of people at once. The British Medical Asso- He said: “As doctors, our daily cently announced improve- photographs of their youngest son, Prince Louis, on his first gration offi cials for interview. A fourth cutter, HMC Protec- ciation, which carried out the re- interactions with patients and ments to shared parental leave birthday yesterday. Two of the photographs show Louis in a In the second incident, a din- tor, is also on standby in UK wa- search, says the pressure of work- their families, who are often at arrangements for doctors – part woodland setting with moss stuck to his red sweater, while ghy was found with 15 people ters. Seeker and Protector were ing within the NHS is fuelling an the height of their own emotional of our commitment to improve in a third he sports a blue jumper with a picture of a dog on on board including men, women redeployed from the Mediterra- “alarming mental health crisis”. distress, can take its toll. We strive working conditions to make the the front. All were taken this month by Kate at the family’s and children, who said they were nean after Home Secretary Sajid Its president, professor Dinesh to do our best for our patients, NHS an employer fi t for the 21st home in Norfolk, eastern England, Kensington Palace said. Iraqi. Several were said to be un- Javid declared a major incident in Bhugra, said: “While there is no whether that’s in training, in prac- century.” conscious. December. Gulf Times 16 Wednesday, April 24, 2019 EUROPE 1mn species risk extinction, says

Thunberg gives a speech at the House of Commons as a guest of Green Party MP Caroline Lucas, in draft UN report London. By Marlowe Hood, AFP regulating services that we get “If we’re going to have a sus- Other fi ndings in the report Paris from nature,” he said, adding that tainable planet that provides include: Teen activist accuses the UK only “transformative change” services to communities around „ Three-quarters of land sur- can stem the damage. the world, we need to change this faces, 40% of the marine en- p to 1mn species face ex- Deforestation and agriculture, trajectory in the next ten years, vironment, and 50% of inland tinction due to human including livestock production, just as we need to do that with waterways across the globe have of ‘irresponsible behaviour’ Uinfl uence, according to a account for about a quarter of climate,” noted WWF chief sci- been “severely altered”. draft UN report obtained by AFP greenhouse gas emissions, and entist Rebecca Shaw, formerly „ Many of the areas where that painstakingly catalogues have wreaked havoc on natural a member of the UN scientifi c nature’s contribution to human AFP/Reuters ways which was very good and Westminster leaders had seen an how humanity has undermined ecosystems as well. bodies for both climate and bio- well-being will be most severely London that needs to happen.” agreement reached “on some im- the natural resources upon which The Intergovernmental Sci- diversity. compromised are home to indig- After watching her deliver her portant fi rst steps they can take its very survival depends. ence-Policy Platform on Biodi- The direct causes of species enous peoples and the world’s separate speech to the audience together to tackle the climate The accelerating loss of clean versity and Ecosystem Services loss, in order of importance, are poorest communities vulnerable een climate activist Greta of lawmakers, Britain’s Environ- crisis”. air, drinkable water, CO2-ab- (IPBES) report warns of “an im- shrinking habitat and land-use to climate change. Thunberg met a cross- ment Secretary Michael Gove “We need to keep pressure sorbing forests, pollinating minent rapid acceleration in the change, hunting for food or il- „ More than 2bn people rely Tparty group of British MPs told Thunberg: “Your voice – still up to ensure actions, not just insects, protein-rich fi sh and global rate of species extinction”. licit trade in body parts, climate on wood fuel for energy, 4bn rely yesterday, including opposition calm and clear – is like the voice words,” it said on Twitter. storm-blocking mangroves – to The pace of loss “is already change, pollution, and alien spe- on natural medicines, and more leader Jeremy Corbyn, as envi- of our conscience, and as I listen Thunberg has inspired tens of name but a few of the dwindling tens to hundreds of times higher cies such as rats, mosquitoes and than 75% of global food crops re- ronmental protesters staged a to you, I felt both admiration but thousands of children worldwide services rendered by nature – than it has been, on average, over snakes that hitch rides on ships quire animal pollination. ninth day of demonstrations in also a sense of responsibility and to boycott classes to draw at- poses no less of a threat than cli- the last 10mn years”, it notes. or planes, the report fi nds. „ Nearly half of land and ma- London. guilt, because I recognise that I tention to climate change after mate change, says the report, set “Half-a-million to a million spe- “There are also two big indi- rine ecosystems have been pro- The Swedish activist, who ad- am of your parents’ generation.” starting a solitary solo protest to be unveiled May 6. cies are projected to be threat- rect drivers of biodiversity loss foundly compromised by human dressed the protests in Westmin- There is broad political con- last year. Indeed, biodiversity loss ened with extinction, many and climate change – the number interference in the last 50 years. ster later in the day, met Corbyn sensus in Britain that action is Meanwhile, she has been vis- and global warming are closely within decades.” of people in the world and their „ Subsidies to fi sheries, in- along with Liberal Democrat urgently needed to tackle climate iting European capitals pressing linked, according to the 44- Many experts think a so-called growing ability to consume,” said dustrial agriculture, livestock leader Vince Cable, Green Party change, but Thunberg said in her for politicians to take the issue page Summary for Policy Makers, “mass extinction event” – only Watson. raising, forestry, mining and the MP Caroline Lucas, and others in speech that the country’s indus- more seriously. which distils a 1,800-page UN the sixth in the last 500mn years Once seen as primarily a future production of biofuel or fos- parliament. trial policies failed to answer the Thunberg travelled to Brit- assessment of scientifi c litera- – is already under way. threat to animal and plant life, sil fuel energy encourage waste, “We just want people to lis- urgent need to cut the green- ain over the weekend to support ture on the state of nature. The most recent saw the end the disruptive impact of global ineffi ciency and over-consump- ten to the science,” the 16-year- house gas emissions blamed for fellow activists who have been Delegates from 130 nations of the Cretaceous period some warming has accelerated. tion. old told those assembled for a global warming. causing gridlock in parts of cen- meeting in Paris from April 29 66mn years ago, when a 10km- Shifts in the distribution of The draft report cautioned roundtable discussion on climate “The UK’s active, current sup- tral London since last Monday will vet the executive summary wide asteroid strike wiped out species, for example, will likely against climate change solutions change. port of new exploitation of fossil with sit-in protests. line-by-line. most lifeforms. double if average temperature go that may inadvertently harm na- Organisers of the meeting fuels – for example, the UK shale Addressing the ongoing dem- Wording may change, but fi g- Scientists estimate that Earth up a notch from 1.5° Celsius (2.7° ture. pointedly left a place empty for gas fracking industry, the expan- onstrations organised by the Ex- ures lifted from the underlying is today home to some 8mn dis- Fahrenheit) to 2°C. The use, for example, of biofu- Prime Minister Theresa May, sion of its North Sea oil and gas tinction Rebellion group on Sun- report cannot be altered. tinct species, mostly insects. So far, the global thermom- els combined with “carbon cap- who was reportedly invited but fi elds, the expansion of airports day, she declared: “The struggle “We need to recognise that cli- A quarter of catalogued animal eter has risen 1°C compared with ture and storage” – the seques- chairing a cabinet meeting in as well as the planning permis- has barely begun. It’s only the mate change and loss of nature and plant species are already be- mid-19th century levels. tration of CO2 released when Downing Street at the time. sion for a brand new coal mine – beginning.” are equally important, not just ing crowded, eaten, or poisoned The 2015 Paris Agreement en- biofuels are burned – is widely They said there was no re- is beyond absurd,” she said. Thunberg called on more peo- for the environment, but as de- out of existence. joins nations to cap the rise to seen as key in the transition to sponse to their invitation. “This ongoing irresponsible ple to take action. velopment and economic issues The drop in sheer numbers is “well below” 2°C. green energy on a global scale. May’s offi cial spokesman said behaviour will no doubt be re- “As long as it’s non-violent as well,” Robert Watson, chair even more dramatic, with wild But a landmark UN climate re- However, the land needed to that he was “not aware” of the membered in history as one of I think that it could defi nitely of the UN-mandated body that mammal biomass – their collec- port in October said that would grow all those biofuel crops may request. the greatest failures of human- make a diff erence, it could make compiled the report, told AFP, tive weight – down by 82%. still be enough to boost the in- wind up cutting into food pro- At the meeting with Thunberg, kind,” she said. people become more aware of the without divulging its fi ndings. Humans and livestock account tensity and frequency of deadly duction, the expansion of pro- Corbyn told her: “Well done with The UK Student Climate situation, that we actually show “The way we produce our food for more than 95% of mammal heatwaves, droughts, fl oods and tected areas or reforestation ef- what you have done. You have Network, an environmentalist that this is an emergency,” she and energy is undermining the biomass. storms. forts. changed the debate in a lot of group, said the meeting with the told BBC television.

Turkish election body rejects ruling party challenge on sacked voters Race is on to cover Notre-Dame as rainclouds gather Turkey’s Supreme Electoral Council has rejected a challenge by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s ruling party for votes cast by sacked public sector workers in last month’s local elections to be AFP will put it up, are ready,” he said. Images of the ancient cathe- declared invalid. Paris Christophe Villemain, a spe- dral going up in fl ames sparked However, the electoral council, known by its Turkish initials YSK, cialist in restoring historic build- shock and dismay across the did accept an “extraordinary” appeal by the ruling Justice and ings, told the channel that the globe and in France, where it is Development Party (AKP) for more than 41,000 voters and election limbers were brought in rain could potentially cause more considered one of the nation’s off icials in Istanbul to be investigated, State news agency Anadolu yesterday to unfurl tar- damage, threatening the vaulted most beloved landmarks. reported. Cpaulins over the Notre- ceiling with collapse. Since then, fi refi ghters and Erdogan loyalist and former prime minister Binali Yildirim failed to Dame Cathedral to protect it from “The rain risks falling on the engineering experts have been clinch the Istanbul mayor’s post at the March 31 local elections. expected rain after the iconic ca- vaulted ceiling and fi lling up working to erect scaff olding and After a failed 2016 coup against Erdogan, more than 140,000 thedral was left badly damaged what we call its haunches, or hol- other supports to stop any of the individuals were sacked or suspended from the public sector, and open to the elements after a low sections, and that would put structure’s stonework collapsing. including teachers, over alleged links to coup-plotters. massive fi re last week. the arches at risk of collapse,” he Notre-Dame has fi gured as However, the challenge to the validity of sacked public workers’ The devastating blaze erupt- explained. a central character through the votes was rejected, Anadolu reported. ed on April 15, felling the spire The covering would only be ups and downs of French history The AKP’s wider appeal, for a repeat of the entire Istanbul vote, still and destroying two-thirds of its temporary, with plans to replace since construction began in the awaits a ruling by the YSK. wooden roof while leaving the it with a more sturdy protective mid-12th century. 850-year-old Gothic cathedral as “umbrella” that would remain During the French Revolution a whole in very fragile condition. Workers install temporary tarpaulins to protect the Notre-Dame in place throughout the work to in the 18th century, it was van- Stolen in France, Impressionist work “The work to put up the tar- Cathedral from rain damage, a week after a massive fire devastated restore Notre-Dame, which took dalised and plundered but went paulins has started,” cathedral large parts of the gothic structure in Paris. 200 years to build. on to feature as a central char- valued at €1.5mn is found in Ukraine spokesman Andre Finot told AFP. However, it will be take weeks acter in a Victor Hugo’s novel “We will start with the choir and vaulted ceilings of the architec- tect the cathedral from the com- for such a structure to be erected. The Hunchback of Notre-Dame Ukrainian authorities said yesterday that they had found an oil then the nave.” tural masterpiece could suff er ing rain,” the cathedral’s chief President Emmanuel Macron (1831), which is credited with painting by the French Impressionist Paul Signac, valued at €1.5mn With intense eff orts under- further damage, sparking a race architect Philippe Villeneuve told wants it rebuilt within fi ve years. helping save it. ($1.68mn), which was stolen last year from a museum in France. way to shore up sections still at to erect a temporary protective France’s BFMTV, saying that he Before the umbrella can be set It survived the devastation of Police chief Sergiy Knyazev said the painting was discovered at risk from collapse, experts faced cover. wanted to “speed up” eff orts to up however, scaff olding that was two global confl icts in the 20th the home of a Kyiv man who was also wanted on suspicion of a new challenge as the national Forecasters expect the rain to get the tarpaulin in place before erected to do renovation work century and famously rang its murdering a jeweller. weather service forecast several begin in the night, with condi- the heavens opened. before the fi re must fi rst be re- bells on August 24, 1944, the day He added that the suspects in the theft had been arrested. days of rain. tions taking a turn for the worse “The beams are in place, the moved, in an operation which is of the Liberation of Paris from The painting would shortly be returned to the Museum of Fine Arts The risk is that the surviving tomorrow. tarpaulins have arrived. The likely to take up to a month, Vil- German occupation at the end of in Nancy in northeast France. part of the roof and the famed “The biggest priority is to pro- climbers and the scaff olders, who lemain said. the World War II.

President-designate Zelenskiy faces battles with Ukraine’s hostile parliament

By Matthias Williams and representation in parliament. parties he would be prepared to This could lead to delays in (the president) has infl uence – Pavel Polityuk, Reuters Zelenskiy is expected to take work with. IMF tranche disbursements un- he appoints the chairman of the Kyiv offi ce next month. Adding to the hostility is his der the $3.9bn assistance pro- NEURC.” His ability to work with parlia- election promise for a bill to strip gramme. Tymoshenko, another op- ment, known as the Rada, will be lawmakers, and himself, of im- The next one is due in May. position leader who ran in the efore Ukraine’s new presi- crucial to meeting the expecta- munity from prosecution. “This could be enough to burst election against Zelenskiy, has dent Volodymyr Zelenskiy tions of his voters and passing re- Volodymyr Ariev, a lawmaker the pre-election Zelenskiy mar- previously also called for the Bwas even elected, an oppo- forms to keep foreign aid fl owing. from Poroshenko’s faction, told ket bubble,” he said. president’s powers to be curbed. sition leader was plotting to curb Lawmakers from Samopomich Reuters that it is unlikely that Yields have fallen as inves- “It may be necessary to ... more his powers and make it easier for and other parties feel the presi- parliament would back that move tors became more comfortable clearly defi ne what the president him to be impeached. dent has too many powers. because lawmakers fret about with Zelenskiy and also because can and cannot do,” Oleksiy Ria- Andriy Sadovyi, head of the “Let him have responsibil- being prosecuted in political another presidential candidate bchyn, a lawmaker in Tymosh- Samopomich party, the second ity like other political players, vendettas. Yulia Tymoshenko – who was enko’s party told Reuters. largest opposition group in par- he cannot stand above the law,” Zelenskiy also needs lawmak- hostile to some major reforms – The government is led by liament, announced two days be- Oksana Syroyid, a Samopomich ers to pass legislation that mat- was knocked out of the running. Prime Minister Volodymyr fore the vote that he was garner- lawmaker and deputy speaker in ters to the International Mon- Samopomich’s Syroyid said Groysman, who was appointed ing support for a parliamentary parliament told Reuters. Zelenskiy: will need to court the lawmakers. etary Fund (IMF), Ukraine’s most her party wants to strip the pres- by Poroshenko. bill to weaken the presidency. Zelenskiy’s powers will include important foreign backer, such as ident of some powers, including He is expected to stay in power The opening salvo is a meas- appointing the head of the state confi rm each appointment, and jority, opinion polls show. a bill to criminalise illegal enrich- the right to appoint the chair- until the October election. ure of the hostility that may be in security service, the head of the although Zelenskiy beat the in- This means he would need to ment by offi cials. man of the National Energy and If Zelenskiy wins enough seats store for Zelenskiy, a 41-year-old military, the general prosecutor, cumbent in the presidential vote ally with at least one other party Stuart Culverhouse, head of Utilities Regulatory Commission in parliament, he is expected to comedian who beat incumbent the central bank governor, and and his party could win the larg- if he is to get his election pledges Sovereign and Fixed Income Re- (NEURC), who sets energy tariff s form a new government. president, Petro Poroshenko, in the foreign and defence minis- est number of seats in parlia- enacted and his appointments search at Tellimer, said that law- with the government. This means that until those Sunday’s election despite having ters. mentary elections in October, it approved. makers might not back that bill “What do the tariff s have to elections, he may struggle to no prior political experience or However, parliament must is unlikely to win an outright ma- He has not indicated which until after October. do with the president? Today he make any signifi cant changes. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 24, 2019 17 INDIA Third phase of election witnesses 66% voter turnout

IANS fi gures come from states. While voting in some polling “will go a long way in strength- (United Democratic Front) will say dhi is contesting, the turnout was Kozhikode, state BJP president P New Delhi “The overall polling percent- booths got delayed, the fi nal fi gure ening democracy”. this is a response to the arrival of an impressive 79% so far against S Sreedharan Pillai claimed that age in third phase was 66%. It is expected to touch 77%, up from While voting formally ended (Congress chief) Rahul Gandhi to 73.23% in 2014. But it was Kan- a few surprises would spring up was 69.03% in 2014,” he said. 73.89% in 2014, offi cials said. at 6pm, election authorities had contest from Wayanad, the CPI-M nur where the highest turnout when the results are announced. he third phase of Lok The third phase of election Based on reports, election of- said all those who enter the poll- (Communist Party of India-Marx- (80%) was recorded. The BJP is placing high hopes in Sabha polls saw a voter took place in 117 constituencies fi cials have sought a report from ing station compound before that ist) might say this is a thumbs-up Most top leaders and fi lm stars Thiruvananthapuram, Pathan- Tturnout of 66% compared spread across 13 states and two district authorities on the death time will be allowed to cast their to the three year good governance cast their votes in the morning amthitta, Thrissur and Palakkad. to 69.03% in 2014, offi cials said union territories. of 10 voters, most of whom col- votes and at several places, vot- of Vijayan, and the BJP (Bharatiya session. Governor P Sathasivam Superstar Mammootty, who yesterday. “With the third phase, election lapsed either at polling booths or ing continued even after the of- Janata Party) might attribute it to and his wife cast their votes in cast his vote in Kochi, encour- Some states such as Odisha has been concluded in 22 states while travelling to vote, while an- fi cial close of time. the Sabarimala (temple) issue and Thiruvananthapuram. aged the people to use their right and Goa recorded lower turnouts and union territories,” he said. other person collapsed soon after Roy Mathew, a senior analyst, of (Prime Minister Narendra) Mo- Vijayan, who was seen waiting to vote. while a few others like Bihar wit- The polling percentage was returning from casting his vote. said that the increased turnout di’s governance. The best thing is in a queue with his family outside Former chief minister Oommen nessed a higher participation. quite low at 12.86% in six assem- This increased turnout, cut- shows that there is “some sort of to wait till votes are counted, when a booth in Kannur, said the fi ght Chandy cast his vote at his home- Addressing a press confer- bly constituencies of Anantnag ting across constituencies, a wave”. it will be very clear,” he said. this time was between the Left town Puthupally in Kottayam. ence here, Senior Deputy Elec- in Jammu and Kashmir that went brought a lot of cheer to all three “But one thing which is beyond Congress leader Ramesh and the Congress-led UDF, and “The UDF will do very well as this tion Commissioner Umesh Sinha to the polls yesterday. political fronts with Chief Minis- predicting at this moment is which Chennithala said that the signs the BJP “will not fi nish second, time it’s going to be a ‘vote against said the polling percentage is ex- Kerala, however, witnessed ter Pinarayi Vijayan of the ruling of the three fronts is going to ben- are favourable for them. but third in all constituencies”. Modi in the Centre and against Vi- pected to improve once the fi nal over 75% of voter turnout. Left Democratic Front, saying it efi t. While the Congress-led UDF In Wayanad, from where Gan- After casting his vote in jayan in the state’,” he said. ‘Hurt’ BJP MP targets party over denial of nomination

IANS “When these agencies endorse New Delhi my performance and capability, then why was ticket denied to me? What are the criteria?” he he Bharatiya Janata Party’s asked. sitting Lok Sabha mem- Meanwhile, Hans Raj will con- Tber Udit Raj yesterday at- test against Congress’ Rajesh tacked the party after he was not Lilothia and Aam Aadmi Party’s given a ticket to contest the elec- Gugan Singh. tion, saying candidates are be- Raj tweeted: “I will be hon- ing chosen on the basis of “some est and do my best to honour inscrutable internal standards” my services to the people of the while ignoring the hard work of nation under the guidance of aspirants. Narendra Modi and Amit Shah.” The Dalit leader, who had The BJP on Sunday re-nomi- merged his Indian Justice Party nated four of its seven MPs from with the BJP in 2014, expressed Delhi and on Monday named his “hurt” after he was dropped candidates in two other seats. as a candidate for the May 12 On Sunday, federal minister polls and was replaced by Pun- Harsh Vardhan was re-nomi- jabi singer Hans Raj Hans for nated from Chandni Chowk and Prime Minister Narendra Modi gestures as he holds the granddaughter of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah after he arrived to cast his vote at a polling station in the North West Delhi Lok Sabha Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari Ahmedabad yesterday. seat. from North East Delhi. “The entire India thinks that Parvesh Verma, son of former BJP off ers tickets based on hard Delhi chief minister Sahib Singh work, honesty and capability. Verma, has got a ticket from West It appears this is not the truth. Delhi while Ramesh Bidhuri has The decision to off er the ticket been chosen for South Delhi. or deny it is based on some in- On Monday, the BJP re-nomi- scrutable internal standards,” the nated MP Meenakshi Lekhi from 58-year-old said in a statement. New Delhi. Voter ID more powerful A former Indian Revenue The party dropped sitting MP Service offi cer, Raj resigned from Maheish Girri and fi elded crick- service and formed the Indian eter Gautam Gambhir from the Justice Party in 2003. He con- East Delhi Lok Sabha seat. tested the 2014 election on a BJP Meanwhile, Congress leader ticket and won. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will em- He said he felt “deeply hurt” bark on the second leg of her than an IED, says Modi that he was not even given a campaign from today with a chance to defend himself. three-day tour of Fatehpur, Ma- Reuters In Gujarat, Modi met his cies will have voted by the end of election offi cer, Sanjay Bose, He said India’s security had “The entire experience of the hoba, Hamirpur, Jhansi, Orai, New Delhi mother early in the morning the third phase. said. been enhanced after his govern- ticket denial was not graceful. Jalaun and Barabanki constitu- and then rode in an open jeep The ruling Bharatiya Janata A Congress spokesman said ment came to power in 2014. I was not taken into confi dence encies. past hundreds of onlookers Party (BJP) has aggressively the worker had been killed in “Friends, remember what In- and that left me feeling like an “This will be her second visit illions of people voted to cast his vote shortly after pushed Modi’s national security a clash with supporters of the dia’s situation was before 2014,” orphan today,” Raj said. to Fatehpur within 10 days. It in the third and larg- 8am. record as it seeks to defl ect oppo- state’s ruling Trinamool Con- Modi said. He said he realised that many shows the constituency is look- Mest phase of a staggered “IED is a weapon of terrorism, sition accusations of economic gress party, which denied that “Weren’t there bombs going smaller regional parties have ing up,” said a party insider in- general election yesterday, in- and voter ID is a weapon of de- mismanagement, inadequate job assertion. off in diff erent corners of the benefi ted more by remaining in- volved in the campaign. cluding Prime Minister Narendra mocracy,” he told reporters after creation and widespread farm The Election Commission said country every other day?” dependent. Today, Vadra will address one Modi who cast his ballot in his voting, referring to improvised distress. it was investigating. Verma said Modi’s references The MP said a number of public meeting each in Khaga home state of Gujarat and again explosive devices and voter iden- “I think job creation, sustaina- In Kerala, leaders of three po- to the Sri Lankan attacks were a things came to his mind about and Gazipur areas of Fatehpur for underlined his focus on combat- tifi cation cards. ble development, and communal litical parties complained about sign that the BJP would double “why I have been denied a BJP party nominee Rakesh Sachan, ing terrorism. “I believe the voter ID is much harmony should be the top pri- Electronic Voting Machine down on the security issue for ticket”. and later take part in roadshows In all, 188mn Indians were eli- more powerful than an IED.” orities for the upcoming govern- (EVM) malfunctions, but an the remainder of the campaign, He said he wondered if it was and rallies in Mahoba and Rath gible to vote in 117 constituencies The general election, which ment,” said Ubaidullah Mohyi- Election Commission offi cial said which the prime minister began his fault that he is a senior Dalit areas of Hamirpur for Pritam Lo- yesterday, across 15 states and has seven phases, began on April deen, 26, voting in Kerala state’s glitches were not widespread and as a front-runner amid escalated leader. “Doesn’t the BJP want a dhi. union territories. 11 and will end on May 19. Wayanad district, one of the two there were enough replacement tension with Pakistan. leader who has been chosen by Tomorrow, the Congress lead- Voting in 303 Lok Sabha seats Votes will be counted on May seats that opposition Congress machines. “I feel the BJP is hell-bent on Dalits themselves?” er will lead a roadshow in Jhansi out of a total of 545 have been 23. Party chief Rahul Gandhi is con- On Monday, Modi addressed running this campaign on na- “All BJP workers know that for party candidate Shiv Saran completed so far. “This is, sort of, an infl ection testing. a rally in Maharashtra and men- tional security,” Verma said. the party hired four agencies Kushwaha and follow it up with About 66% of those eligible had point,” said Rahul Verma, a fellow Violence fl ared in West Ben- tioned the attacks on Sri Lankan “Basically, if they bring up any for a performance survey of meetings in Ghursarai, Orai and voted by the end of the day’s vot- at the Centre for Policy Research, gal and one Congress worker was hotels and churches on Easter other thing, they would be on MPs. I topped in all surveys,” Raj Jalaun, where the party has fi eld- ing, according to the interim fi gures a New Delhi-based think-tank. killed and at least three people Sunday that killed at least 321 diffi cult terrain, like on economic claimed. ed Dalit leader Brij Lal Khabri. from the Election Commission. More than half of constituen- were injured, a state deputy chief people and wounded about 500. issues or on their performance.” BJP only opened bank accounts, Polling booth in jungle we’ll deposit cash in them: Rahul has only one voter

IANS be deposited in every Indian’s Congress governments took over, Reuters sanctuary, home to some 600 of Jabalpur/Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh bank accounts, Gandhi said that the loans were waived. New Delhi the last remaining Asiatic lions. nobody had seen any of this “In the same way, the amount India has more than 900mn money. “But when the Congress of Rs6,000 will be credited into eligible voters who can cast their ongress president Rahul comes to power, 25 crore people the accounts of the poor,” he ffi cials travelled nearly ballots at 1mn polling stations. Gandhi said that grave in- of the country will benefi t. Five said. 70km through lion-in- Offi cials often have to travel to Cjustice was done to India’s crore families will have Rs72,000 “The BJP and Prime Min- Ofested jungle this week remote regions over days to get to poor for the last fi ve years, but deposited in their accounts every ister Modi have asked where to ensure a 69-year-old temple voters. his party’s government would do year,” he said. the money for this scheme will priest got his change to take part But an arduous trip for just one “Nyay” (justice), referring to the “Congress has promised eve- come from, but we want to say in the world’s biggest democratic voter is not so common. party’s minimum income scheme ry poor family will get Rs6,000 that there is actually no short- exercise. “The fact that the government promise. in their bank account every age of money in the country. The A four-member team of elec- is taking so much eff ort to ensure “Prime Minister Narendra month, amounting to Rs72,000 present government has waived tion offi cials, accompanied by a the casting of one vote speaks to Modi’s government had in the per year. These accounts will off Rs550,000 crore loans of top policeman, set up a special poll- the importance of each and every last fi ve years done a lot of in- be in the names of the families’ businessmen. The Congress will ing station deep in the Gir wildlife vote,” Darshandas said. justice with the poor, tribals women members since they not follow suit but it will give sanctuary in Gujarat so a sole voter “Just the way voting is 100% and Dalits but the Congress has know the importance of money. the due amount to the poor,” the - Bharatdas Darshandas - could in Banej, there should be 100% prepared a programme of justice In this way, each family will get Congress chief added. vote in the general election. voting everywhere,” Darshandas for them. The Modi government Rs360,000 in fi ve years.” Meanwhile, Gandhi sparked A priest who has lived at his said, referring to the place he opened bank accounts for peo- On the apprehensions aired by a political controversy by refer- remote forest temple for two lives. ple, but the Congress will deposit various other parties to the Con- ring to his Bharatiya Janata Party decades, Darshandas has not Sourabh Pardhi, an elec- cash in them,” Gandhi said at ral- gress’ proposed scheme, Gandhi (BJP) chief Amit Shah as a “mur- missed an election since 2002, tion offi cial from the area, said lies in Madhya Pradesh’s Shahdol said: “In the recent assembly der accused” at an election rally and cast his vote yesterday by the Election Commission had and Jabalpur Lok Sabha constit- elections to Madhya Pradesh, in Jabalpur. walking nearly a kilometre to the worked hard to ensure everyone uencies. Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, the The Congress president also special polling station. got a chance to vote. Taking a dig at Modi’s 2014 Congress had promised to waive took a dig at Shah’s son Jay Shah Former prime minister Manmohan Singh shows his ink-marked finger Darshandas looks after the “We want to make sure that no poll promise that Rs15 lakh would off farmers’ loans. As soon as the by calling him a “magician.” after casting his vote at a polling station in Guwahati, Assam, yesterday. temple in the 350sq km wildlife voter is left behind,” he said. Gulf Times 18 Wednesday, April 24, 2019 INDIA

INVESTIGATION JUDICIARY AVIATION EXHIBITION TERRORISM Kashmiri student held HC dismisses Deepa Talwar’s Pawar to meet PM on Nizams’ family visits Don’t link us with Lankan over terror links plea on ED questioning Jet Airways crisis royal jewel show group, says TN outfit

A Kashmiri PhD student was arrested in a joint The Delhi High Court yesterday dismissed Political heavyweight and Maharashtra Royal jewels from the Hyderabad Nizams’ family A senior leader of the Tamil Nadu Thowheed Jamath operation of the Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab the plea of Deepa Talwar, wife of corporate strongman Sharad Pawar has promised Jet collection, worn by seven generations of the Asaf (TNTJ) yesterday dubbed as “media terrorism” a police from the Central University in Bathinda lobbyist Deepak Talwar, seeking directions to Airways employees to take up their cause with Jahi dynasty, are on exhibition at the National report linking it with a similar Sri Lankan group yesterday for alleged terror links, police said. the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to question Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the elections Museum in New Delhi. The extensive show of which has been blamed for the suicide bombings Hilal Ahmed, 28, was taken to Kashmir for further her at home and not at the agency’s off ice. in the state. Kiran Pawaskar, Nationalist Congress jewels was visited by Nawab Najaf Ali Khan, the that killed 310 people in the island nation. “Just investigation. The arrest was made following a raid Justice A K Chawla asked Deepa to file a petition Party (NCP) leader and president of the All India grandson of the last ruling Nizam, yesterday. because we have the word Thowheed in our name, conducted on the university campus, Bathinda in the trial court first as the matter is pending Jet Airways Off icers and Staff Association met “Jewels of India: The Nizam’s Jewellery a media report linked our organisation with the police off icer Nanak Singh told IANS. Police sources there. Deepa then withdraw her plea. She said Pawar yesterday and raised the issues faced by Collection”, is open for public viewing till May 5. outfit suspected to have carried out the Easter said Ahmed was linked to terror activities and was in the plea that she has not been named as an the employees of the grounded airline. Speaking Displayed in Delhi for a third time, it showcases Sunday carnage,” said Tamil Nadu Thowheed involved in terror funding in Jammu and Kashmir. accused in the complaint lodged by the ED. She to IANS, Pawaskar said that most of the foreign 173 dazzling pieces of jewellery, including one Jamath vice president B Abdul Rahman. Ours is Over the past one year, the police in both states also told the court that under the law, a woman airlines such as British Airways and Singapore of the world’s biggest diamonds – the Jacob a social welfare organisation with about 10 lakh have raided institutions in various parts of Punjab cannot be called to the off ice of an investigating Airlines were benefiting at the cost of Jet Diamond. Nawab Najaf Ali Khan, who visited the disciplined members,” Rahman told IANS. “Over and arrested students with terror links in Kashmir. agency. The ED has asked her to appear before Airways. “The foreign airlines have raised fares exhibition with his daughters Noorah and Fazlika 30,000 of our members helped people of all faiths The Punjab police have said that terror outfits in the agency and join the investigation. Deepa told on all the routes from where Jet had pulled out. Fatima, is the grandson of Nizam Mir Osman Ali during the Chennai floods in 2015. Similarly, during the Kashmir Valley have been making attempts the court that she has replied to the summons These airlines are helping their economies. We Khan, who continued to rule Hyderabad till he the floods in Kerala, our members went there and to export terror to neighbouring Punjab but so far issued by the ED through her lawyer and that have raised all these issues in our meeting with signed the Instrument of Accession in 1948 and helped people there. We hold the largest number of such attempts have been thwarted. she will co-operate with the investigation. Pawar,” the NCP legislator said. merged it with the union of India. blood donation camps,” Rahman added. Supreme Court issues contempt notice to Rahul over ‘chor’ jibe

IANS While hearing the petition, a notice... You are pointing out New Delhi three-member bench, headed that we have forgotten to issue by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, notice... We will issue notice,” had taken strong exception to he said. he Supreme Court yes- Gandhi’s comment, saying he Singhvi said that Rahul state- terday issued a notice had “incorrectly attributed” the ments accusing Modi of cor- Tof criminal contempt to remarks to the top court. ruption in the Rafale deal were Congress president Rahul Gan- It had sought an explanation a political diatribe after the BJP dhi and rejected his appeal for from Gandhi, which he did on claimed the court had cleared In this photo taken on April 21, a supporter of the Congress gestures in an auto-rickshaw decorated with party flags during the final day of closing the matter related to Monday. the government of any wrong- election campaigning in Pathanamthitta in Kerala. his “chowkidar chor hai” (the Senior lawyer Mukul Rohatgi, doing. watchman is a thief) remarks appearing for Lekhi, said Gan- “’Chowkidar chor hai’ is being incorrectly attributed to the dhi’s affi davit was just lip service used, has been and will continue court. and that he did not off er an apol- to be used as a political cam- The court asked Gandhi to ogy. paign,” Singhvi, a senior Con- explain by next Tuesday why He said the Congress chief had gress leader told reporters out- Temple town goes to polls as contempt proceedings should exhibited a reckless attitude in side the court. not be launched against him for making such statements. On April 10, the court had suggesting that the court had “He has said that he did not ruled that classifi ed documents endorsed his political attack on read the order and that he said it accessed by the media can be Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a euphoric manner,” Rohatgi used as evidence to consider debate on women ban rages amid the ongoing general elec- said. requests to review its clean chit tions. “His statement from Am- to the Rafale deal. Hours later, The top court, however, ex- ethi to Wayanad is Supreme Gandhi cheered the order with AFP Days of pitched battles fi elded Anto Antony, who won agree. There is only one is- empted the Congress chief from Court said ‘chowkidar chor hai’ the “chowkidar” slogan that has Pathanamthitta, Kerala erupted between traditionalists the last two elections and has sue in this election - our faith. personal appearance. and (Prime Minister) Narendra become central in the Congress and activists. backed the traditionalists. And the court shouldn’t have It will hear the matter on April Modi is the ‘chowkidar’ (watch- attack on Modi. The anger has not died down The Bharatiya Janata Party intervened,” Lakshmi, who 30 along with review petitions man). Is this how a leader of na- Meanwhile, the District and oters in a fl ashpoint and core issues such as unem- has brandished its pro-Hindu works at a local hospital, told related to the Rafale fi ghter deal. tional party treats the Supreme Sessions court yesterday sent a constituency in Kerala ployment, health and education credentials as it seeks to make AFP. The notice was issued a day Court?” he asked. private complaint fi led against Vwent to the polls yes- have been pushed aside during an impact in a state where it has “I feel hurt as a Hindu when after Gandhi expressed regret to Senior lawyer Abhishek Manu Gandhi for making an objection- terday after a campaign domi- the campaign. always struggled. I see things going against our the Supreme Court for his com- Singhvi, appearing for Gandhi, able speech against Modi to an- nated by the fallout from the The whole country is expect- The BJP has fi elded K Suren- culture and tradition,” added ments over which Bharatiya Ja- requested the court to close the other judge designated for deal- controversial decision to allow ed to follow the result when it is dran, who became the symbol Bindhu, a housewife. nata Party MP Meenakshi Lekhi case. ing with cases against MPs and women to enter the Sabarimala announced on May 23 after In- of the massive temple protests “The temple has always been had fi led a contempt petition. He said the contempt plea by MLAs. temple. dia’s marathon election. across Kerala. a place where women could not The Congress president had Lekhi was an act of political fl og- Advocate Joginder Tuli, in The district of Pathan- Two of the three main can- He now faces more than 200 go. It is not acceptable to see made the controversial com- ging in the middle of the ongoing his complaint, said that Gan- amthitta includes the Sabar- didates in the election are men police cases related to violence people coming and fi ghting to ment after the top court on April elections. dhi, while addressing a public imala temple, where two wom- who support the ban, while the during last year’s Sabarimala enter now,” she added. 10 agreed to hear review peti- He said the “chowkidar chor meeting at Jantar Mantar on en fi nally defi ed a longstanding third is a woman who has tried protests. Tens of thousands of people, tions in the Rafale case, and re- hai” slogan was against the October 6, 2016, made a state- ban on women last year. to dodge the topic. “The Communists have an including many women, took jected the government’s conten- prime minister and his party and ment against Modi, accusing the Traditionalists were outraged Veena George, who is stand- issue with our prayers and re- part in street marches and pro- tion that classifi ed documents that Gandhi had been humble prime minister of hiding behind and many women remain di- ing for the ruling Left Demo- ligion but they can’t crush be- tests in support of the ban. accessed by media cannot be and honest to admit his mistake the blood of soldiers and doing vided over the move, which has cratic Front cited an Election lievers’ rights,” Prime Minister However, uncertainty re- considered as evidence. and express regret. “dalali” (cashing in on) on their overshadowed the campaign Commission advisory to avoid Narendra Modi told a rally in mains over how many women Gandhi had claimed that the Singhvi, while countering sacrifi ces. with candidates staging elec- using the temple to get votes. Kerala last week. will vote for their right to enter Supreme Court had acknowl- the contempt petition, said no “The words used in the tion parades on the issue. “We need a revival of job op- “We won’t tolerate any at- Sabarimala. edged that “chowkidar chor hai”, formal notice was issued by the speech by Rahul Gandhi Kanaka Durga and Bindu Am- portunities, agriculture and in- tack on a tradition that has last- “Women should be free to a slogan he uses to target Modi in court. amount to shame to a demo- mini made history in December frastructure. Educated women ed thousands of years,” Modi choose whether to enter or not. the context of the Rafale deal. “Should we issue (the notice) cratic country like India and when police guided them into need jobs,” she told AFP on the added to wild cheers. To me, women’s safety, here The BJP took objection to this then,” Gogoi asked. if democracy has to survive, the hilltop shrine, after the Su- last day of campaigning before Many women have backed and all over India, is the only and Lekhi fi led a contempt of “When you said no formal there should be some restric- preme Court ruled that the ban yesterday’s vote. the traditionalist cause. issue that is important,” said court petition in the Supreme notice was issued to Rahul Gan- tions on people talking against was unconstitutional. The Congress Party has “Local men and women Ansa S, a medical student. Court. dhi, we can cure that by issuing the country,” he said.

Actor Sunny Deol joins BJP, ED summons ex-ICICI to stand from Gurdaspur bank chief, husband IANS New Delhi IANS “The way my father joined had earlier fi led her papers on New Delhi politics and this family during Monday, claiming that it was an the time of Atalji, today I am here auspicious moment. he Enforcement Directo- to join (Narendra) Modiji,” Deol Thakur arrived at the Dis- rate (ED) has issued sum- he Bharatiya Janata Party said at a press conference. trict Nomination Offi ce fl anked Tmons to former ICICI yesterday announced that “He (Modi) has done so much by Madhya Pradesh BJP chief Bank CEO Chanda Kochchar TBollywood actor Sunny for the country. I want that he Rakesh Singh and other party (pictured), her husband Deepak Deol would be its its election should remain the prime minis- leaders in a road show after of- Kochchar and brother-in-law candidate from Gurdaspur Lok ter for the next fi ve years because fering prayers at a temple. Rajiv Kochchar for questioning Sabha constituency in Punjab. we want to develop (as a coun- Sitting BJP MP Alok Sanjar in a money-laundering case. The party retained its sitting try). Our youth needs people like also fi led his nomination from The agency has summoned its investigations and also ques- MP and actress Kirron Kher from Modi. I will do whatever I can Bhopal later in the day and told Deepak and Rajiv Kochchar on tioned Chanda and Deepak Ko- Chandigarh. with all my heart for this family reporters that he had done so on April 30 while the former ICICI chhar along with Videocon Group The Gurdaspur seat was long (BJP),” the actor said. the party’s orders. Bank chief has been summoned promoter Venugopal Dhoot. held by late actor-turned-politi- The 62-year-old actor was Sanjar’s candidature is be- on May 5, sources said. Allegedly, Dhoot had in- cian and minister Vinod Khanna. welcomed into the party by fed- ing seen as a precautionary The case is related to the al- vested in the Deepak Kochhar’s Earlier in the day, Deol, son eral ministers Piyush Goyal and measure by the BJP if Thakur is leged irregularities and cor- NuPower through his fi rm Su- of veteran actor and former BJP Nirmala Sitharaman, days after prevented from contesting the rupt practices in the sanction of preme Energy as quid-pro-quo MP Dharmendra, joined the BJP, Deol met BJP president Amit elections. a Rs1,875 crore loan disbursed for loans cleared by the ICICI showering praise on Prime Min- Shah. The 49-year-old is an ac- by ICICI Bank to the Videocon Bank under Chanda Kochhar. ister Narendra Modi. Later in a tweet, he thanked cused in the Malegaon blasts Group during 2009 and 2011. Out of the Rs40,000 crore The third from the family to the BJP leaders for the warm case in which six people died The ED got clues about an illegal loan to the Videocon group, join politics and the BJP, after welcome. and around 100 were injured in transaction running into crores Rs3,250 crore was given by ICICI Dharmendra and his wife Hema In other election-related 2006. of rupees routed to NuPower Re- Bank and a large portion of that Malini, Deol is best known his news, Sadhvi Pragya Singh She is out on bail and her can- newables Ltd. loan was unpaid at the end of roles in action and patriotic fi lms Thakur yesterday fi led another didature has been challenged in Actor Sunny Deol joins the BJP in the presence of Nirmala In March, ED had conducted 2017. The bank proceeded to de- including Gadar: Ek Prem Katha set of nomination papers as a court by the father of one of the Sitharaman at the party’s headquarters in New Delhi a series of searches at the homes clare the Rs2,810 crore of unpaid and Border. BJP candidate from Bhopal. She men killed in the blast. yesterday. and offi ces of Kochhars as part of loan as non-performing asset. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 24, 2019 19

LATIN AMERICA

Saburido, face of drink-driving awareness campaigns, dies

Tribune News Service ploughed into the car carrying Austin, Texas Saburido and her friends. The crash killed the driver, Natalia Chyptchak Bennett, and Laura acqueline Saburido Garcia, Guerrero, a 20-year-old Uni- who became the face of cam- versity of Texas student from Jpaigns in Texas and beyond Colombia. Two other passengers against drunken driving after she were pulled from the wrecked car was severely burned in a wreck as it burst into fl ames. near Lake Travis 20 years ago, Saburido, trapped in the front died Saturday of cancer in Gua- passenger seat, burned for near- temala, according to her family. ly a minute before paramedics She was 40. could put out the fi re. Saburido’s cousin, Jose Sabu- Horrifi c burns covered nearly rido, said she had moved from her entire body, except for the her native Caracas, Venezuela, to bottom of her legs and feet. She Guatemala City several years ago spent months at a Galveston to gain better access to medical burn unit, undergoing skin grafts treatment and medicines. and emergency surgeries. One Jose Saburido said Jacqui also by one her lips, ears and nose fell had been undergoing facial re- off . Her eyes were sewn shut so construction surgery in Miami, they wouldn’t dry out. The dead receiving skin grafts to form new bones of her fi ngers were ampu- eyelids, lips and a nose. More tated. recently, though, she had been Her father, Amadeo, became devoting her energies to fi ghting her caregiver, shuttling his only cancer. child to countless doctor ap- In her role as a motivational pointments, massaging her speaker and anti-drunken driv- scars, brushing her teeth and ap- ing spokeswoman, Saburido in- plying eyedrops in the middle of Children pose for a photograph on a disused tank displayed at Los Proceres boulevard in Caracas, Venezuela. spired hope among a legion of the night. She eventually under- followers across the globe. Her went more than 120 surgeries. story of recovery from a fi ery In June 2001, a jury found wreck on RM 2222 in 1999 was Stephey guilty of two counts of featured on Oprah Winfrey’s tel- intoxication manslaughter and evision show and in an Ameri- sentenced him to seven years in can-Statesman special section prison. During the trial, Sabu- called “Chasing Hope.” rido asked to meet with Stephey; As news of her death spread on she told Stephey she forgave social media, people from across him. He served every year of his Venezuelans seek Texas and the world paid their sentence before being released respects. A high school teacher in June 2008. Throughout his in Wichita Falls said she contin- prison stint, he collaborated ues to teach Saburido’s story to with Saburido on the drunken- her students. A Galveston wom- driving campaign, fi lming pub- an said Saburido had inspired her lic service announcements and to become a burn nurse. Twitter speaking to high schools. messages in Italian, French and The story of Saburido’s in- joy amid the chaos Portuguese lamented her death. juries, and her valiant eff orts to “She was an example to fol- overcome them and tell her story, Reuters piness Report prepared by the en to the nearby seaside state of multiple pharmacies and hos- handful of their relatives watch. low,” Jose Saburido said from seized the public imagination. Caracas United Nations, down from Vargas to spend weekends with pitals in search of the medicines The wire fence that once sur- Caracas. In May 2002, “Chasing Hope,” 102nd place in 2018. family and friends on the shores they need, and more recently rounded the fi eld was long ago He said arrangements are be- a 16,000-word special section, In the western hemisphere, of the Caribbean. have grown accustomed to col- stolen. ing made to fl y his cousin’s body detailed Saburido’s story. night at a pub is inter- only Haiti was below the oil-rich “You put your mind in anoth- lecting water from streams. The lights, which once al- back to Venezuela. “Her fi nal The section was reproduced rupted by a power outage, nation, ranking 147th out of 156 er place,” said Leonel Martinez, But that has not stopped lowed the group to play at night, wish was to be buried next to more than 200,000 times and was Agoing to a baseball game countries studied by the UN. a 26-year-old soldier while re- Joaquin Nino, a cash-strapped were also pilfered. her mother,” he said. Saburido’s distributed to high school stu- is prohibitively expensive, and a The happiness report — which laxing on the sand with his girl- 35-year-old father-of-two, from “I always come because my mother, Rosalia Garcia, died in dents throughout the state. Her trip to a nearby beach requires in its fi rst edition in 2012 placed friend while her nephews played taking his kids to an amusement husband plays,” said Delia Jimen- 2006 after battling cancer. story became the subject of an months of savings. But many Venezuela in the 19th position nearby. “It’s a way to think about park in southern Caracas. ez, a 62-year-old industrial de- Saburido was a beautiful, anti-drunken driving campaign Venezuelans have not given up — is based on indicators such as something besides what is hap- “We have to work miracles just signer who jumps up from the 20-year-old woman from a by the Texas department of trans- on fi nding ways to smile. gross domestic product per cap- pening in the country.” to have some fun,” Nino said. stands whenever her husband wealthy family, studying English portation, featuring videos, post- Despite an economic crisis ita, generosity, life expectancy, But in a country where At a parade in eastern Cara- comes up to bat. “We have fun in Austin and taking a break from ers and a dramatic public service that has led to shortages of food social freedom and absence of the monthly minimum wage cas, revellers dressed in straw and we shake off our stress.” engineering classes at a univer- announcement showing Saburido and medicine and has prompted corruption. amounts to just $6 per month, hats topped with fl owers sang, A few blocks away, groups of sity in Caracas, when tragedy slowly lowering a photograph of more than 3mn to emigrate, Venezuela was plunged into the $15-$20 a day trip to the banged drums and blew trum- young people come together to struck on the night of September her pretty, unburned face to reveal Venezuelans are seeking ways darkness with two massive beach can require months of pets to tropical beats. break-dance, which they say is 19, 1999. After a party on Lake her disfi gured countenance. to have fun and spend time with blackouts in March, generating savings and advance planning. With the sun beating down, a way to disconnect. But some Travis, she and three friends “I thought she was the bravest, family in the hope of easing their water shortages and prompting Martinez, who said he used to one marcher who gave his name admitted that they had not been caught a ride with a young Rus- most courageous person I have discomfort. the government to suspend work take the 40km trip to the beach as Carlos remembers how in past eating enough recently to be able sian student back into Austin ever met,” said Janet Lea, former Still, the increased frequen- and school. frequently, said it was the fi rst years onlookers would douse to spend as much time dancing around 4am. senior vice president of the cy of blackouts and a political Earlier this month, the gov- time he had gone in a year. those marching with water to as they used to. At the same time, Reggie Sherry Matthews Group, which showdown between the socialist ernment launched a power ra- “It’s not something you can cool them down. “When we’re out here danc- Stephey, an 18-year-old student organised the campaign for Tx- government and the opposition tioning plan, and electricity do every day, because of the “Now, because of the prob- ing, we don’t think about the at Lake Travis High School, was DOT. “With all of her injuries, has cast a cloud of uncertainty, remains intermittent in many situation in the country,” said lems with the water, that prob- state of the country,” said Yeafer- driving home from another party she was still wickedly funny and leaving many Venezuelans be- parts of the country. Martinez. ably will not happen,” he said. sonth Manrique, a 24-year-old in Austin. He had been drinking. also willing to speak to anybody reft of simple pleasures. In search of distraction, Ven- For Venezuelans, queuing for In central Caracas, a group drenched in sweat after a long On a curve along RM 2222, who would listen to her about the Venezuela fell to the 108th ezuelans from the country’s food is a daily ordeal. of men of all ages meet every practice. “In this world there is Stephey’s 1996 GMC Yukon SUV dangers of drinking and driving.” place in the 2019 World Hap- capital of Caracas have long tak- They also are used to trying Sunday to play softball while a no crisis.”

Detained Petrobras re-examines Lopez Obrador to boost handling of graft claims security in Veracruz AFP ter of 2019, with 8,493 murders Mexico City from January to March — a 9.6% Reuters trols but rather carrying out a ian prosecutors blew the lid off increase on the same period from Rio de Janeiro thorough internal probe relating another kickback scheme, this 2018. to the December oil trading in- time in the oil trading division exico President An- There were 33,500 murders dictments, with some 27 profes- of Petrobras, which also impli- dres Manuel Lopez last year, the highest number razil’s Petroleo Brasileiro sionals looking into the matter. cated commodities trading gi- MObrador said he would since records began in 1997. SA is re-examining its The fi rm said it could not go ants Glencore PLC, Vitol SA and reinforce army and navy troops Friday’s shooting was carried Btreatment of whistleblower into detail regarding the internal Trafi gura AG. in Veracruz state, three days out by one of the mafi as vying complaints after the indictment probe, citing the need to protect In March, Reuters report- after a child was among 13 for control of the drug traffi ck- of six of the state-run oil fi rm’s employees and the integrity of ed that Petrobras offi cials had people killed in a mass shoot- ing routes in Veracruz — involved traders in December indicated the investigation. known of problems in its oil ing there. also in fuel theft, extortion and that eff orts to root out corruption The enquiry underlines how trading operations for years, al- A group of gunmen opened kidnappings. had faltered, according to three Petrobras is still working to im- though the company failed to fi re on a birthday party in the people familiar with the matter. prove compliance and root out quickly identify suspects and violence-wracked eastern state “We’re going to In recent weeks, offi cials at the graft at the centre of Brazil’s sideline them from operations. on Friday, killing seven men, fi ve reinforce with greater Petrobras, as the fi rm is known, fi ve-year “Car Wash” investiga- Of the six people indicted in women and a child. elements from the navy have summoned a number of tion, considered by US law en- December, one pled guilty to “All I want to say is that we’re and army in Veracruz, current and former employees forcement to be the largest cor- conspiracy to commit money going to guarantee peace in Ver- we’re going to do it in who had fl agged instances of porate corruption case ever. laundering and is co-operating acruz, that’s my commitment,” the whole country” corruption at the company, par- The scandal has spread across with US authorities in a paral- said Lopez Obrador, often known ticularly in relation to its trading Latin America, toppling govern- lel investigation of the scheme, by his initials AMLO. At a navy event on Sunday, operations, the sources said. ments, destroying business em- Reuters reported in February. “We’re going to reinforce with Lopez Obrador defended his Company offi cials questioned pires and leading Peru’s former Those indictments were fo- greater elements from the navy creation of a National Guard in the employees on how their president Alan Garcia to kill him- cused on the company’s Houston and army in Veracruz, we’re go- his strategy to fi ght the violence complaints had been handled, self last week to avoid arrest in a trading desk. ing to do it in the whole coun- that has engulfed Mexico since said the people, who requested related investigation. Some of the employees inter- try,” added Lopez Obrador in his the government declared war on anonymity to discuss internal Petrobras has said that a ro- viewed by Petrobras in recent morning press conference. the country’s powerful drug car- matters. bust compliance department and weeks had previously com- The leftist leader, who as- tels in 2006. Some of the employees said beefed up internal investigations plained of irregularities at the sumed offi ce in December, Since then, Mexico has re- they were unsatisfi ed with the team have helped it to correct Singapore desk, the sources said, has come under fi re for having corded almost 250,00 murders as company’s response and believed course since the Car Wash probes raising the possibility that the claimed that murders had not well as 40,000 disappearances, the wrongdoing was not ad- came to light in 2014 with revela- probe could expand geographi- A central American migrant is detained by immigration increased during his presidency. although there are no statistics dressed, sources said. tions about political bribes paid cally. off icers during a raid on his journey towards the US, in Offi cial fi gures released last to say how many of those num- In a statement, Petrobras said by contracting fi rms. Petrobras did not comment on Pijijiapan, Mexico, yesterday. weekend showed violence had bers are directly linked to drug it was not investigating its con- However, in December, Brazil- those allegations. hit record levels in the fi rst quar- cartels. Gulf Times 20 Wednesday, April 24, 2019 PAKISTAN

Louboutin takes the chappal Increase in MPs’ international to Pakistani glee

By David Stout, AFP Peshawar

amed for luxury red-soled stilettos, French shoe de- discretionary Fsigner Christian Louboutin has taken inspiration for a new sandal from Pakistan’s tribal frontier, sparking claims of cul- tural appropriation along with grins from grizzled Pakistani cobblers. A post on Louboutin’s Insta- fund proposed gram last month announcing the release of the shoe sparked Internews For the development and se- to the tune of just Rs675bn for to include more new schemes in a social media frenzy in Paki- Islamabad curity enhancement of the Fata, PSDP allocation in the upcom- the PSDP list. stan, with fans praising the lat- the government had allocated ing budget 2019-20. The Planning Commission est homage to the country’s rich Rs90bn. The allocation of Rs675bn had already slapped the condi- artisan traditions – and critics In this picture taken on April 1, a shoemaker makes a pair of sandals mid the possibility of Now the proposal is under was kept unchanged compared tion that no unapproved projects rolling their eyes. at his shop in Peshawar. entering into an arrange- consideration to slash it to Rs- to the allocated amount for the would be made part of the PSDP The “Imran” – a fl amboy- Ament with the Interna- 10bn to Rs20bn in the coming outgoing fi scal year for PSDP for the next fi nancial year. ant sandal complete with metal The chappal is no stranger to to chappal makers in Peshawar, tional Monetary Fund (IMF) budget 2019-20. programme. In the second scenario, the studs along with splashes of or- controversy. as the country’s youth adopted and reduction in overall alloca- However, the government is Now the ministry of planning PSDP allocation is proposed at ange and silver – is inspired by In 2014, British designer Paul more modern footwear tastes. tion for development budget, considering allocating Rs24bn has written to the Finance Divi- Rs700bn, and in third scenario, the country’s traditional Pesha- Smith released a sandal that The trend was only reversed the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf for the controversial discretion- sion to increase the allocation the allocation of Rs765bn is pro- wari chappal, according to the looked strikingly similar to the with the political ascent of (PTI)-led federal government ary programme for parliamen- from Rs675bn to Rs765bn for posed, as sought by planning fashion house. chappal with no initial mention former World Cup cricket- is considering slashing the al- tarians, under the title of SDGs the upcoming PSDP in the next ministry from the Finance Divi- The chappal has long been a of the Pakistani shoe, sparking ing captain Imran Khan and his locations for the development (sustainable development goals) fi nancial year. sion. staple for ethnic Pashtuns – from fi ery protests online and in the fondness for the shoe, spot- and security enhancement of programme in the next fi nancial It is not yet known whether The Finance Division had ordinary labourers to the coun- press in Pakistan. lighted as he led mass protests in the former Federally Adminis- year. the Centre might provide fi nan- not responded to the planning try’s political elite – in Pakistan’s Pakistani fashion designer 2014. tered Tribal Areas (Fata), and The government had ear- cial resources to Fata from its ministry, and it is expected that northwest. Kamiar Rokni praised Loubou- Khan’s adoption of the chappal the Prime Minister’s Youth Pro- marked same amount of Rs- own share of National Finance Prime Minister Imran Khan The sandal is distinguished by tin’s latest creation, saying that was part and parcel of a makeover grammes, by over 50% through 24bn for this controversial Commission (NFC) award, as would take fi nal decision ahead its overlapping leather strips that claims of cultural appropriation the former cricketer and playboy development outlay in the up- programme to please par- the request for slashing share of of upcoming budget. cover the foot and has a small were misplaced in this instance. has embraced since retiring from coming budget 2019-20. liamentarians, but so far no the provinces has already been Then the summary would be heel with a hardy rubber sole. “When you visit diff erent the sport, taking on a pious im- The government has proposed amount could be utilised. rejected by the representatives prepared for the Annual Plan Louboutin’s version was parts of the world, you do get in- age in Pakistan to accompany his an allocation of just Rs42bn in On the other hand, the minis- of federating units. Co-ordination Committee named after famed Pakistani spired ... and that seeps into your crusading populist agenda. the upcoming budget for these tries/divisions and departments Offi cial sources at Finance (APCC), which is expected to contemporary artist and friend design,” said Rokni. “There’s The ploy has largely suc- special programmes undertaken had sought Public Sector De- Division have stated that the be held between May 10 and 15, of the designer, Imran Qureshi. nothing wrong with somebody ceeded, with Khan elected prime by the Finance Division in the velopment Programme (PSDP) development budget is under because the National Economic While most celebrated the being inspired by the Peshawari minister last year on promises to next budget 2019-20, compared allocation of Rs1,500bn during preparation with three diff erent Council (NEC) would have to be shoe’s debut, others jeered at the chappal.” reign in corruption and cut back with the allocated amount of the priorities committee delib- scenarios: fi rst, if the govern- convened around May 20 if the thought of paying designer pric- Far from the shoe boutiques of on excessive spending, while Rs100bn in the outgoing fi nan- eration, against the indicative ment allocates Rs675bn, which PTI wants to present its next es – Louboutins often retail for Paris, chappal makers and wear- chappal sales have boomed as the cial year 2018-19. ceiling of the Finance Division means it would be really hard budget on May 24. upwards of $500 – for the ubiq- ers in Peshawar, the northwest- youth seek to imitate the coun- uitous sandals, which can cost as ern Pakistani city near the Af- try’s new, stylish leader. little as $5.50 in Pakistan. ghan border, greeted the arrival “I made chappals for Imran Some social media users also of the “Imran” with bemuse- Khan when he was holding the suggested that the European ment, pride, and some confused protests in Islamabad ... that’s brand was the latest perpetrator shrugs. why it has become famous and Polio vaccine rumours and video clips of cultural appropriation. “I’m totally amazed,” said people overwhelmingly like “Highly recommend asking Ghazan Khan – a self-pro- them,” explains Chacha Noor Din your friend to rename it though, claimed chappal fanatic who has – the owner of a string of shoe so that it doesn’t become anoth- bought more than 20 pairs of the stores in Peshawar – who counts spread panic in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa er culturally appropriated thing,” sandals in recent years alone. the premier as a loyal customer wrote Instagram user Mehree- “People are getting addicted to and named a version of the shoe nfkhan under a post by Qureshi this kind of chappal, so it’s good,” after him. AFP/Internews about the shoe. he added, while suggesting that And while the chappal’s pop- Peshawar Louboutin later removed the local designers deserved a cut of ularity continues to thrive in Instagram announcement, say- the profi ts from the “Imran”. Peshawar and throughout the ing that the sandal was just the “[The chappal] is long-lasting country’s northwest, fans of the ore than 25,000 chil- latest creation expressing his and comfortable,” said resident traditional sandal are less con- dren were rushed to “love for embellishments from Abdul Rehman, adding that the vinced by Louboutin’s new take. Mhospitals in northwest diff erent cultures” and was sorry sandal’s ventilation helped keep “I will not wear this shoe be- Pakistan after rumours spread some people felt “off ended”. the foot cool in the area’s stifl ing cause it’s a ladies shoe,” said that some had suff ered reac- “My designs often pay tributes heat. Riaz-u-Din after looking at tions to a polio vaccine, offi cials to artisanship, craftsmanship, “I have been wearing chappals a picture of the “Imran” on a said yesterday. traditions or various cultures,” all of my life, and never used any phone as he shopped for a pair of The panic came as health Louboutin said in a statement. other shoe,” he added. chappals. workers were carrying out a “The world and its diversity has The shoe’s popularity had been He insisted: “No one will wear three-day vaccination cam- always been the core of my work.” in decline for years, according it here in Peshawar.” paign in northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where many residents are already sus- picious of the polio vaccine. Authorities said the fears Exotic snakeskin were unfounded, but declared an emergency at major hospitals in three provincial districts as the panic spread. chappal for Imran An AFP reporter in Pesha- war visited two hospitals where In this picture taken on Monday, a man rushes his daughter to a hospital in Peshawar after she had he saw thousands of panicked received a polio vaccination. More than 25,000 children were rushed to hospitals in northwest Pakistan Internews They added that the footwear parents arriving in cars, motor- after rumours spread that some had suff ered reactions to a polio vaccine, off icials said yesterday. Islamabad is the footwear choice of many cycles, and other vehicles with after it became popular thanks their children. The panic was further com- authorities that the anti-polio updates. Not a single culprit to Khan using it; it even gained Most of the parents later told pounded by anti-vaccination vaccine was completely safe, will be spared,” Babar Atta, fo- ven though the Peshawari the moniker ‘Kaptaan Chap- AFP that their children exhib- video clips which quickly began enraged residents broke down cal person to the prime minister chappal, a sandal origi- pal’ (Captain’s sandal), an ode to ited no signs of problems after circulating on social media. the main gate and set fi re at the on polio eradication, said in a Enating from the Khyber the prime minister’s time as the being vaccinated, but that they In the videos, a man can be Mashokhel Hospital in Pesha- tweet. Pakhtunkhwa, has been around captain of the national cricket had rushed them to hospital an- seen instructing young boys, war. Speaking to Geo News earlier, for years, it got a new lease of team which won the 1992 cricket yway after hearing the rumours. who are in madrassa uniform, to “Despite all our assurances, Expanded Programme on Im- life after it was popularised as world cup, sealing his name as a Qazi Jamil, police chief in the lie on hospital beds and pretend parents were worried,” Inam- munisation (EPI) co-ordinator the footwear of choice for Prime national legend. provincial capital Peshawar, to be unconscious, and the chil- ullah told reporters yesterday, Kamran Afridi said: “There can Minister Imran Khan. Since then, various versions of Prime Minister Khan: helped told reporters that the rumours dren can be seen following his adding that just two children be no reaction to the anti-polio Now, the premier may be the famous sandal have emerged. popularise the chappal. began when dozens of children orders. were still in hospital but expect- vaccine. The vaccine was not about to get his hands on an ex- These chappals have gained complained of vomiting after In another video, the same ed to be released soon. expired and the condition of all clusive and exotic pair of the san- a huge following particularly days to create the special sandal. they were vaccinated at a private man is spreading lies regarding Police are investigating the the children is normal.” dals being specially prepared by a amongst Khan’s supporters and “We will gift it to him in the school in a village outside the the news of deaths of children incident, and authorities said He further said: “Doctors Peshawar native. members of his Pakistan Te- Prime Minister’s House,” he city on Monday. due to the anti-polio vaccina- the vaccination campaign would also said the children did not Baba Nooruddin, who used hreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, who beamed. After hearing of the com- tion. continue until today. get a reaction from the vaccine. to make the sandals in the Na- are frequently seen wearing them Ali Nawaz Aawan, the special plaints, local mosques began The Lady Reading Hospital, Police have arrested the man There are parents in Mashokhel mak Mandi area of Peshawar for especially at party meetings. adviser to the prime minister on using their loudspeakers to warn Khyber Teaching Hospital and spreading lies in the videos who do not want to administer a host of clients including Khan, Nooruddin and Islam dis- the aff airs of the Capital Devel- people against the vaccine. the Hayatabad Medical Com- above, and have registered a case the drops to their children, and has been given a display centre at closed that they are currently opment Authority (CDA), said “The announcements ignited plex were soon fl ooded with against a total of 12 suspects ac- they could have fallen sick ow- the National Heritage Museum working on a special pair for the that the Kaptaan chappal has a panic and villagers came out of anxious parents bringing in cused of vandalising property ing to other reasons.” Lok Virsa. prime minister, importing the popularised the footwear around their homes,” Jamil said, adding their children. and sabotaging the anti-polio Polio is endemic in only three Nooruddin and his son Islam snakeskin from Africa to make the world. that a group of some 500 people Hisham Inamullah, provincial campaign. countries in the world – Paki- Khan, who make the chappals the sandals. He said that apart from locals, later set a local health centre on health minister, said “around “Raids being conducted to stan, Afghanistan and Nigeria – at the display centre, explained Islam said that the skin itself it is also well-liked by foreigners, fi re in anger. 25,000 kids were taken to hos- get all of them arrested. I am although a relatively rare strain that Khan is their leader, and that had cost them around Rs40,000. and that the display centre at Lok No one is believed to have pital”. in touch with Peshawar Police was also detected in Papua New they are honoured to make foot- The craftsmen will now work Virsa will allow residents of Is- been injured in the incident. Despite assurances from the Chief and following up on all Guinea at the end of last year. wear for him. on the material for the next 10 lamabad to easily purchase them.

Top army appointments, transfers

The Pakistan army has announced a number of appointments and Bilawal mocks PM for saying Germany, Japan share a border transfers in its ranks. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lieutenant General Faiz Hameed has been appointed Adjutant General of the Internews border. How embarrassing, this cally become stronger … Ger- both geography and history for taken out of context. Pakistan Army at the General Headquarters (GHQ). Islamabad is what happens when Oxford many and Japan killed millions of all of us.” “It was a slip of the tongue. Lieutenant General Azhar Abbas has been named Joint Staff University let people in just be- their civilians until after the Sec- She continued: “The honoura- The prime minister wanted to director general, while Lieutenant General Nauman Mahmood has cause they can play cricket,” Bi- ond World War when they both ble prime minister went at length say Germany and France, and not been appointed Communications and IT inspector general. akistan Peoples Party (PPP) lawal tweeted. decided to have joint industries to explain how Germany and Ja- Germany and Japan,” she said. Lieutenant General Sahir Shamshad Mirza will continue as General chairman Bilawal Bhut- The premier, while giving an on their border regions,” Khan pan are neighbours and how post “The next part of his sentence Staff vice-chief. Pto Zardari has called out example of how two countries set had said. World War II they shared a bor- was that those who killed people Lieutenant General Adnan has been appointed Bahawalpur Corps Prime Minister Imran Khan for up joint industries at the border PPP leader and former foreign der. Japan is located in East Asia in Ormara came from Iran,” she commander. his alleged “slip of the tongue” region to improve economic ties minister Hina Rabbani Khar also while Germany is located in Eu- said. “The entire sentence should On April 12, the ISPR announced that Major General Sahir Shamshad during a meeting with a delega- after the war, mentioned Germa- criticised Khan. rope.” be heard. If we want to eliminate Mirza, Major General Nauman Mahmood, Major General Azhar tion in Tehran on the premier’s ny and Japan instead of Germany Addressing a session of the In reply, Minister for Human terrorism we need to fi rst tackle Abbas, and Major General Faiz Hameed have been promoted to the two-day offi cial tour to Iran. and possibly France. National Assembly, Khar said: Rights Shireen Mazari said that the banned organisations on both rank of lieutenant general. “Our prime minister thinks “The more trade you have with “This was not a slip of the tongue. only half of the prime minister’s sides of the border. Both Iran and Earlier, 40 brigadiers of the Pakistan army were promoted to the that Germany and Japan share a each other, your ties automati- The prime minister has distorted sentence was being repeated, and Pakistan need to tackle them.” rank of major general. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 24, 2019 21 PHILIPPINES

Rebel ambush kills six troops

AFP Manila

ommunist guerillas killed six Philippine soldiers Cand wounded six others yesterday, the military said, in one of the deadliest recent at- tacks in the country’s 50-year- old Maoist insurgency. Members of the New Peo- ple’s Army (NPA) detonated bombs in a pre-dawn ambush of soldiers marching through a mountainous area of cen- tral Samar island, triggering a four-hour firefight. “Our troops had received a report that NPA forces were ex- torting money from residents and so they went there to take Motorists manoeuvre over cracks along a road after an 6.4 magnitude temblor struck the central Philippine town of San Julian in Eastern Samar province yesterday. Right: People gather near debris which action,” said regional military collapsed and blocked a road after a quake hit Pampanga province. spokesman Captain Reynaldo Aragones. Rebel casualties had not been determined, but Colonel Ramon Zagala confirmed the soldiers’ deaths to AFP. The 4,000-strong NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, has Second earthquake strikes as waged a guerrilla campaign that has killed up to 40,000 people since 1969. It marked the 50th anniver- sary of its founding in March with an assault on a police sta- tion that killed three rebels and rescuers hunt for survivors wounded two police officers. NPA units rarely engage AFP of Pampanga, national disaster part left from the old church,” large military units in big fire- Porac offi cials said. More than 100 he said. “The historical value is fights, preferring to target others were injured by falling now gone, but we are hopeful poorly equipped provincial po- rubble on Monday, including in that it will rise again.” lice forces or isolated military hilippine rescuers raced Manila, according to police. High-rise buildings in the or paramilitary detachments. yesterday to reach some However, initial reports indi- capital swayed after the tremor Yesterday’s attack was Ptwo dozen people still cated relatively minor destruc- struck Monday evening, leaving among the deadliest launched feared buried under a building tion in Samar given the strength some with large cracks in their by the NPA since mid-2017, near Manila that collapsed a day of yesterday’s quake, which walls. Thousands of travellers when President Rodrigo Du- earlier in a deadly earthquake, could be down to diff erences in were stranded after aviation terte called off peace talks with as a powerful second tremor hit ground composition. authorities shut down the sec- the now 50-year-old insur- the nation. “The damage is more pro- ondary Clark Airport, which is gency. The US Geological Survey nounced if the houses and build- located on the site of the former That decision followed a se- put the second quake — on the ings are built on a foundation of US military installation that lies ries of NPA attacks that killed central island of Samar — at 6.4 soft soil,” seismologist Myla Ad- about an hour’s drive north of six police officers and wounded magnitude, stronger than the vincula said, referring to Pam- the capital. five of the president’s military one that wrought signifi cant panga’s soft sediment. “It en- It was still closed yesterday bodyguards. damage Monday near the capi- hances the shaking eff ect.” as offi cials assessed the heavy Decades of peace efforts tal in the north. “We’re thankful we avoided damage to the terminal build- have come to naught, despite The latest quake sent terrifi ed serious damage compared to ing and some cracking on the air a burst of optimism when Du- locals fl eeing into the streets, Pampanga,” regional civil de- traffi c control tower. terte was elected. with the authorities report- fence chief Henry Torres said, Residents wait for news of their loved ones as rescuers continue to search for survivors from the Monday’s quake was cen- Talks with his govern- ing 10 injuries — mostly from adding damage in Samar was collapsed supermarket building, destroyed at the height of 6.1 magnitude temblor that struck the tred on the town of Castillejos, ment seemed to initially make falling objects and one person limited to road and building town of Porac, Pampanga province, north of Manila, yesterday. about 100 kilometres north- progress, but then fell apart who panicked and injured a leg cracks, a collapsed church wall, west of Manila, local geolo- amid name-calling and threats jumping off a building. and a brief power outage. Cris Palcis, a volunteer rescue Rogelio Pacelo was shopping The quake also damaged gists said. from both sides. “No one started crying, but of Scores of rescuers in the dog handler. “Time is short for with his wife and child when several centuries-old churches Seismologists put the tremor Various attempts to revive course some panicked because northern town of Porac spent the people under the rubble so the market building collapsed which were crowded with wor- at 6.3 initially, but subsequently the peace process have contin- it was really strong,” said Rey yesterday using cranes and we have to be quick.” around them, but incredibly shippers in recent days as the downgraded it to a 6.1 magni- ued despite Duterte declaring Estrobo, a supervisor at a hotel jackhammers to peel back the Pampanga Governor Lilia they made it out, almost with- majority-Catholic Philippines tude. the effort finished in 2017. in Borongan town, near the epi- pancaked concrete structure Pineda told journalists that out a scratch. marked the Easter holiday. The Philippines is in the Pa- Duterte branded the talks centre. of a four-storey market build- rescuers could still hear at least “I thought this only hap- Porac-based Father Roland cifi c “Ring of Fire”, an arc of dead yet again last month, say- At the same time, the toll ing where the Red Cross said 24 one person trapped beneath pens in movies. I thought that Moraleja said the 18th-century intense seismic activity that ing the communists “can may- in Monday’s quake rose to 16, people were unaccounted for. the rubble, and were digging was the end of the world, it’s belfry of the Saint Catherine stretches from quake-prone Ja- be talk to the next president of with most of the fatalities in the “Every minute, every second delicately to avoid accidentally our end,” he told journalists. “I of Alexandria church collapsed pan through Southeast Asia and this republic one day”. worst-hit northern province is critical in this rescue,” said crushing the survivor. looked for a way out.” in the quake. “It was the only across the Pacifi c basin.

Duterte in war of words over Ejercito seeks inspection Arroyo urges citizens to Canada garbage row Philippine President Rodrigo of buildings in Luzon Duterte yesterday demanded Canada take back tonnes of trash it had illegally shipped to Manila By Bernadette E Tamayo (DPWH) and other concerned welcome Chinese investors or risk “war”, in the latest incident Manila Times government agencies must in- to strain bilateral ties. The Philip- spect transport infrastructure pines has urged Canada to take to ensure the safety of passen- By Glee Jalea “All I know is that this (fo- back scores of garbage contain- enator Joseph Victor gers. Manila Times rum) will help bring invest- ers shipped to the country in “JV” Ejercito yesterday “Furthermore, (the DPWH ments and bring technology, 2013 and 2014, alleging they Surged concerned agen- must) adopt appropriate because that’s all the Filipinos contain toxic waste. But Ottawa cies to inspect all buildings and measures to prepare our peo- he Philippines should want from China, capital and has said it had no authority to vital infrastructure in Luzon, ple for the ‘big one.’ It is bet- welcome business plans technology,” she told reporters compel a private shipper to following the 6.1 earthquake ter to be prepared,” he said in a Tof interested Chinese in a chance interview. return the shipment to Canada. that hit the region on Monday. text message. investors without restrictions, In a recent nationwide sur- Speaking to off icials during a visit Sen. Cynthia Villar also of- House Speaker Gloria Macapa- vey conducted from March 28 north of Manila, an area ravaged “Let us work to strengthen fered her deepest condolences gal Arroyo said yesterday. to 31 by pollster Social Weather by an earthquake on Monday, disaster preparedness to the families who lost their Speaking as a Board member Stations, Filipinos continued to Duterte said he did not care if his and resilience of loved ones. of the Boao Forum for Asia Ma- have a “neutral” trust rating for stance on the issue turned the our communities” “This is indeed a tragic time nila Conference in Taguig City, China. two countries into enemies. for our country, and I express Arroyo added that China was Critics had been calling out “I want a boat prepared. I’ll give The re-electionist senator my heartfelt gratitude to the a development partner of the the Duterte administration for a warning to Canada maybe also appealed to the govern- men and women who are tak- Philippines, not a competitor. its soft stance on Beijing and next week that they better pull ment to provide support to ing part in the eff ort to accel- “Bilateral ties between the for preferring to cultivate eco- that thing out, or I will set sail for those aff ected by the earth- erate rescue operations and to Philippines and China have nomic ties with a country that Canada and dump their garbage quake that killed at least 16 alleviate the suff ering of our reached new heights in recent he considers “a good friend,” back there,” he said. “Let’s fight people. people in the most aff ected ar- years, and this is evident in the despite an ongoing dispute be- Canada. I will declare war against “Let us pray for the rescue of eas,” Villar said. Philippines and in China be- House Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. tween Manila and Beijing over them,” added the president, who those trapped in the collapsed Sen. Ana Theresia “Risa” coming the Philippines’ No 1 the South China Sea (West frequently uses coarse language building in Pampanga and Hontiveros lauded the emer- partner in trade,” she said in her investment groups from Chi- presented their business plans Philippine Sea). and hyperbole in public speech- hope that no more casualties gency personnel and rescue speech. na,” Arroyo said. to our secretary of DICT, Sec- Labour Secretary Silvestre es about opponents. The garbage will be reported,” Ejercito said. workers who worked hard to The speaker noted that the The two-day conference retary Rio, intently and enthu- Bello 3rd previously said au- is among several festering issues “Let us work to strengthen assess the damage and look for economic and trade co-oper- brought together approximate- siastically answered and at the thorities were already deployed that have soured ties between the disaster preparedness and re- survivors. ation between the two coun- ly 300 participants, including end of each question, we real- to Boracay in Aklan to check the two governments. Canadian Prime silience of our communities. Sen. Maria Lourdes Nancy tries “is as good as it has ever business leaders from China ised that all their business plans compliance status of at least Minister Justin Trudeau has been Let us empower our local gov- Binay yesterday pressed for a been” in the wake of a state and the Philippines and some did not have any restrictions on 47 Chinese-owned establish- among the most vocal critics of ernments so they can respond review of the compliance of visit of President Xi Jinping to executives from Chinese enter- foreign investments,” she said. ments that had been set up the domestic drug war waged by eff ectively to disasters.” the Building Code by owners the Philippines last November prises in the country. “And we hope that is the way since the island reopened last Duterte, who was elected in 2016. Senate President Pro Tem- or administrators of public and to establish a relationship of a According to Arroyo, Eli- your business plans will also October after its six-month re- Philippine police say they have pore Ralph Recto raised the private establishments. “comprehensive strategic co- seo Rio, secretary of the De- end up. Welcome without re- habilitation. killed nearly 5,000 alleged drug need to improve the country’s She said under the law, operation” with President Ro- partment of Information and strictions,” Arroyo added. Government offi cials had users and pushers who fought building standards, so that buildings and infrastructure drigo Duterte. Communications Technology Despite the low trust of Fili- also raised concerns over an in- against arrest in the crackdown, public and private establish- must withstand 8 to 9 magni- “The Philippines has to ex- (DICT) previously co-ordinat- pinos in China amid controver- fl ux of Chinese workers and nu- while rights groups say the true ments can withstand strong tude earthquakes. ert maximum eff ort to remove ed with the Chinese fi rms in sies at present, Arroyo noted merous China-funded projects toll is at least triple that and earthquakes. “Our airports and other in- on-the-ground bottlenecks their business proposals. that the forum would bring competing with local labour may amount to crimes against Recto said the Department frastructure should be able to that impede implementation of “There were three who had huge investments to the coun- and employment opportunities humanity. of Public Works and Highways endure disasters,” Binay said. projects that involve trade and specifi c questions and they try. in many areas of Metro Manila. Gulf Times 22 Wednesday, April 24, 2019 COMMENT

CHAIRMAN Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Attiyah EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka Amir’s visit enhances Deputy Managing Editor K T Chacko P.O.Box 2888, Doha, Qatar [email protected] Qatari-African ties 44350478 (News), 44466404 (Sport), QNA 44466636 (Home delivery) Doha 44350474 facebook.com/gulftimes is Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani twitter.com/gulftimes_Qatar paid a state visit to Nigeria Hyesterday on the second leg of his tour of the African continent which included a visit to Rwanda. The Amir held talks with Nigerian GULF TIMES President Muhammadu Buhari and senior offi cials on the bilateral relations and ways of enhancing them in various fi elds, in addition to a number of issues of common concern. Jet Airways woes: The Amir’s tour of the African continent enhances the leadership’s directions to build stronger relations India aviation boom and partnerships with the various countries and people of the continent and to gain exposure to its economic, agricultural and mineral potentials and fl ies into air pockets areas of co-operation and investment, as well as means of political co- ordination between the two sides on Jet Airways, once ranked India’s biggest airline by market international and regional issues of value, is stuck in air pockets. common concern. The carrier has grounded its fl eet, staff salaries are The Qatari-Nigerian relations are developing on the basis of strong delayed, it’s missed payments to banks and leasing ties between the two countries for companies, and a bailout plan proposed by its lenders is in years, which have resulted in rapid limbo. development in many political, Jet Airways is the second local carrier to ground its entire economic, commercial, cultural and investment fi elds. Over the past fl eet in the past decade. A severe cash crunch had pushed years, these relations have grown with Vijay Mallya’s indebted Kingfi sher Airlines to ground its common desire and keenness to expand planes in 2012. and develop them in various fi elds. Kingfi sher never fl ew again and Mallya is still fi ghting his The two countries adopt common positions on various Arab, African, extradition to India from London. international and humanitarian issues. The crisis at Jet Airways that risks 23,000 jobs has come They also belong to human communities, at an exceptionally sensitive time for Prime Minister geographical areas that are co-operative Narendra Modi who’s seeking re-election in the ongoing and convergent politically, socially, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani being received by Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja yesterday. historically and culturally. national elections, amid concerns on rising unemployment. The two countries also have there are many Qatari institutions and imports eight percent of its oil imports, service sectors. According to economic The Modi administration has in the past few years memberships in many international companies operating in the Nigerian which account for half of Nigeria’s oil reports, the country’s real GDP rose to cracked down hard on India’s delinquent borrowers to organisations and are characterised market. production. 6.54% in the fi rst quarter of 2014. In the repair the books of banks that currently have the world’s by their production of energy, oil and Qatari businessmen are looking Although Nigeria is the fi rst economy future, it is expected to continue growing natural gas. It is therefore important to to know about the good investment in Africa, it has not yet eliminated its at rates ranging from 6% to 7%, making it worst soured loan ratio. co-ordinate positions and strengthen opportunities available in Nigeria to full dependence on oil. It is one of the one of the fastest growing economies on Jet, which broke the monopoly of state-run Air India in ties between Doha and Abuja in order build stronger and deeper economic most important African countries that the African continent. the early 1990s, has been in decline since budget airlines to serve their common aspirations and relations between the two countries, produce oil, and ranks eighth in the list There are many non-independent started off ering ultra-low fares that hurt profi ts and led it interests in all fi elds. and increase the volume of economic of the most important oil exporters in resources in Nigeria, as it has great In the framework of the exchange co-operation between them. Nigeria’s the world. It has oil reserves between 27 agricultural potential thanks to the to pile up more than $1bn in debt. It also has unpaid dues to of visits between the two countries, air transport market is among the and 31.5bn barrels, while the reserves vastness of its lands, its geographical aircraft-leasing fi rms and employees including pilots, who President Muhammadu Buhari paid an largest travel markets in sub-Saharan of natural gas reach to 4.5 trillion cubic nature and the nature of its climate. It have been agitating over non-payment of salaries. offi cial visit to Qatar in February 2016. Africa. In this regard, co-operation feet. In addition to oil, Nigeria exports also has a fi sh wealth, along with non- Jet’s founder Naresh During the visit, the Amir and President between the two countries will enhance 7.83bn cubic feet per day of natural gas independent mineral wealth, such as Buhari held a session of offi cial talks Qatar Airways’ fl ights to Nigeria. Qatar to the world in the form of liquefi ed gas. tin, iron, lead and zinc Highest jet-fuel Goyal resigned as on bilateral relations and ways of Airways has been ranked among the Nigeria also exports cocoa, bauxite, The tourism sector in Nigeria chairman of the ailing supporting and developing them, in top 10 companies active in the Nigerian aluminium, tobacco, rubber, bananas provides many promising investment taxes and a price airline last month, caving addition to regional and international travel market by transferring more than and peanuts, while imports cereals opportunities, especially as it is in to pressure from issues of common concern, especially 170,000 passengers from Nigeria in such as wheat and rice, automobiles, characterised by a wide variety of war have hurt the latest developments in the region. 2017. petroleum products and machinery. tourist attractions such as wide creditors. Goyal, who The Amir and the Nigerian president Nigeria is located at a crossroads Nigeria is betting on wide beaches along the Atlantic Ocean Indian carriers started in aviation as a also witnessed the signing of an in the western part of the African partnerships with its surroundings and rivers suitable for swimming and ticketing agent, rose to be agreement between the governments continent. It has borders with Benin in and around the world in order to sports. It is famous for the richness among the nation’s elite after Jet became India’s premier of the two countries on the avoidance the west, Chad and Cameroon in the overcome the economic diffi culties. of the wildlife, where there are vast of double taxation, the prevention of east, Niger in the north and the Gulf It has established the Economic areas of pristine nature that range full service carrier. fi scal evasion with respect to taxes on of Guinea in the south. Lagos was the Community of West African States from tropical forests to magnificent Indian carriers, including Jet, have seen their profi ts income and an agreement in the fi eld of capital of Nigeria until 1991 when the (ECOWAS) alliance and its capital waterfalls. hurt by the world’s highest jet-fuel taxes and a price war air transport. capital was moved to Abuja. Nigeria is Abuja is the headquarters of the Nigeria is the continent’s largest worsened by the entry of low-cost, no-frills airlines such Qatar Chamber of Commerce and the largest country in Africa in terms of economic organisation concerned with foreign investment destination. Industry also met during the visit with population of up to 193 million people, developing the economy in the West Advancement of the economy to as IndiGo and SpiceJet that off ered dirt-cheap fares with a trade delegation from Nigeria headed with an area of more than 923,000 sq African region. a broader perspective is the most lower overheads. by President Buhari, and discussed the km. The Nigerian economy has been important aspiration of President Foreign carriers from Malaysia’s low-cost AirAsia development of economic relations It is the United States’ largest trading growing rapidly since 2010 thanks to Buhari, who won a new term in Group to Singapore Airlines and Jet’s minority between the two countries, especially as partner in sub-Saharan Africa, where it continued expansion in the industrial and February. shareholder Etihad, have all learnt how hard it is to make money in Indian skies. Air India, the state carrier, has been propped up on bailouts from the exchequer for years. AirAsia, which entered in 2014 with a vow to break even in four months, is still nowhere close to its goal. Vistara, Singapore Air’s joint venture with the Tata Group that started in 2015, has yet to make any money. SpiceJet had almost collapsed in 2014. 24 - 04 -2019 The only exception in the sector is Indigo, which has reported annual profi ts since 2011 and whose stock has soared 33% this year. Spicejet, which has been on the mend, has also advanced as it leases more aircraft and starts more fl ights on the New Delhi-Mumbai route. Make no mistake, India’s aviation sector is an investment riddle. It’s the world’s fastest-growing aviation market that has seen 54 consecutive months of double-digit percentage passenger growth. But it’s notoriously diffi cult to make money in. The clock, for sure, is ticking for one of India’s most visible companies. As Jet Airways’ lenders race to fi nd an investor for the debt-ravaged airline, suitors will weigh the sector’s prospects against India’s high jet-fuel prices and a crushing fare war.

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© 2019 Gulf Times. All rights reserved Gulf Times Wednesday, April 24, 2019 23 COMMENT The closing of the Chinese mind

By Minxin Pei particularly scandalous – unless, of use public funds to support equity Washington, DC course, China’s leaders are merely prices when markets plunged. That pretending to back off the policy policy failed to stabilise prices, until trade tensions ease. wasted trillions of renminbi, and ou Jiwei may not be a house- But the implications of Lou’s weakened the credibility of China’s hold name in the West, but dismissal extend beyond Made in new leaders. the former Chinese finance China 2025. Lou is a hard-charging Another major policy mistake was Lminister is well known and reformer with an illustrious China’s construction of artificial highly respected among financiers record of accomplishments. islands in the South China Sea and and economic policymakers. Yet, ear- His dismissal underscores the subsequent installation of military lier this month, China’s government extent to which, under President facilities on them. This might have announced Lou’s dismissal from his Xi Jinping’s leadership, China’s seemed like a smart strategic move post as chairman of the country’s government has become intolerant to some in Xi’s government. But, by national social security fund. of even the slightest internal policy giving the impression that China The move reflects a change in disagreements, even on the subject of is intent on dominating East Asia the Chinese leadership’s approach economics, which used to be debated through coercion, it was a major to governance that is likely to have quite openly among the leadership. It factor contributing to the rapid profound implications for the is an approach that could well prove deterioration of China’s relations country’s future. disastrous. with the United States. The removal of Lou from his post Since Xi came to power in 2012, Similarly, beyond being represents a break from precedent: decision-making processes at the economically dubious, Xi’s his three predecessors served 4.5 top level of the Communist Party massive Belt and Road Initiative years, on average, and all retired of China (CPC) have been changed – featuring more than $1tn in after reaching 69. The 68-year-old beyond recognition. Previously, planned infrastructure investment Lou served for only a little over two collective leadership allowed in Eurasia and beyond – stoked years. China’s leaders did not provide dissenting views to be aired, and Western suspicions about China’s a reason for sacking him, but a likely decisions were reached largely by geopolitical agenda. This mistake has explanation stands out. Lou has consensus – a slow process that ended up hurting relations not just recently emerged as an outspoken sometimes resulted in missed with the US, but also with key allies, critic of China’s ambitious industrial opportunities. But it was also which view China’s involvement in policy agenda, Made in China 2025, an important risk-management developing countries – and, thus, calling it a waste of public money. mechanism. Openness to a variety their own relations with China – Made in China 2025 had already of perspectives helped ensure that with deepening unease. aroused suspicion among China’s impractical or dangerous ideas were If the CPC continues to adhere to Western trading partners. They rejected, and the CPC made no centralised decision-making, more view the programme as an effort by catastrophic policy mistakes under – and more calamitous – mistakes China to use unfair means – namely, Xi’s two predecessors, Jiang Zemin are likely. China’s leaders could, for government support for strategic and Hu Jintao. example, decide to attack Taiwan, sectors – to displace the West as Xi, however, has replaced risking a catastrophic war with the the world’s leader in advanced collective decision-making with US. In such a situation, one can technologies. The scheme was one centralised leadership. The space for only hope that, somewhere in the of the factors that precipitated US legitimate differences of opinion has government, there is still a bold President Donald Trump’s trade war been crowded out by the expectation figure like Lou willing to stand up to with China. of political loyalty and conformity. express dissent. – Project Syndicate Since the trade war erupted, In fact, the CPC has effectively China’s leaders have deliberately criminalised voicing opinions that Lou Jiwei, former Chinese finance minister, was dismissed from his post as chairman of the country’s national social security fund. z Minxin Pei, a professor of toned down the hype surrounding are at odds with the top leadership’s government at Claremont McKenna Made in China 2025, suggesting stance. That offence – called wangyi wrongdoing in Xi’s crackdown on risky or inadequately considered several major policy mistakes, owing College and the author of China’s that they recognise the high cost of zhongyang, or “recklessly speaking official corruption in recent years. ideas can become national policies to inadequate internal debate. Crony Capitalism, is the inaugural moving forward with the programme. about the party centre” – probably The resulting lack of constructive in Xi’s China. And so they have: in One such mistake was the hasty Library of Congress Chair in US- In this context, Lou’s criticism is not played a larger role than actual opposition means that excessively the last five years, China has made decision in the summer of 2015 to China Relations.

Bomb attacks threaten Sri Lanka’s tourism Three-day forecast TODAY Maximum Temperature : 290c Minimum Temperature : 220c Reuters sit down and negotiate something After falling 16 % against the US growth to a 17-year low. Hong Kong/Singapore more feasible,” said Alex Holmes, Asia dollar last year to record lows, the Having emerged from a 51-day THURSDAY economist at Capital Economics. rupee had gained 4.6% this year as of political crisis in which President Maximum Temperature : 290c The Sri Lankan stock index dived last week. Maithripala Sirisena sacked and Minimum Temperature : 210c ri Lanka faces a likely collapse 2.6% yesterday in its fi rst day of Sri Lankan bonds have been among replaced him with pro-China former FRIDAY in tourism following Easter trading after the attacks that killed the best performing globally, only president Mahinda Rajapakse — a Maximum Temperature : 310c Sunday bomb attacks on more than 300 people, while the bettered by Argentina and Chile. decision which was later reversed — Minimum Temperature : 220c churches and hotels, which heavily-managed rupee held steady. But the main stock index has lost Wickremesinghe set an ambitious S Fisherman's forecast would deal a severe blow to the island’s Tourism is Sri Lanka’s third- about 10%. fi scal defi cit goal of 4.4% of GDP, economy and fi nancial markets, and largest and fastest growing source of Sri Lanka’s external position was compared with 5.3% in 2018. already precarious. But he also boosted spending on WARNING potentially force it to seek further IMF foreign currency, after remittances Inshore : Strong wind expected assistance. and garment exports, accounting To help fund a record $5.9bn in state employees, pensioners and the over most areas The International Monetary Fund for almost $4.4bn or 4.9% of gross foreign loans this year, the country armed forces and promised more Offshore : Strong wind and high extended last month a $1.5bn loan for domestic product (GDP) in 2018. successfully sold $2.4bn in fi ve-year funds for rural infrastructure, leading sea an extra year into 2020, a key step in A fall in tourism receipts is bound to and 10-year US dollar bonds last economists to doubt the targets. WEATHER keeping foreign investors involved in weaken the rupee over time. month, but that was right after the A presidential vote is expected later Inshore : Mild daytime with what so far this year has been a top- The central bank, whose coff ers IMF extension and amid bets of looser this year followed by a general election blowing dust to dusty at times at some places performing frontier debt market. are too light to defend the currency monetary policy. in 2020. Offshore : Fine But with growth, and therefore through interventions, is likely to have In January, Sri Lanka used its “Given the fact they have state revenues, now likely to slow to raise interest rates. reserves to repay debt worth $1bn. repayments coming up for sovereign WIND Inshore : Northwesterly 15-25/35 signifi cantly, the budget targets agreed This, in turn, would choke lending, It had about $5bn left in February, bonds, it could lead to more pressure KT with the IMF may have to be reviewed, hurting consumers and the investment the least since April 2017, and only on foreign currency reserves. So, it’s Offshrore : Northwesterly 20- and the government is expected to plans of local businesses, while enough to cover two months of a near term negative for the tourism 30/40 KT resist pressure for any spending cuts also making it more costly for the imports and about two-thirds of its sector and also market sentiment as Visibility : 4 -8/2 KM before elections expected later this government to seek funding from short-term external debt, according to well,” said Ruchir Desai, fund manager Offshore : 7 -10/14 FT year. foreign investors via bond markets. BBH calculations. at Asia Frontier Capital, who co- There is even a possibility that more “The central bank may be forced Colombo also needs to fi nance a manages the $16mn AFC Asia Frontier Fund. IMF money may be needed if foreign to hike rates again this year,” said current account defi cit of about 3% Around the region investment falls, adding to the hard Win Thin, global head of currency of GDP. “Valuations are cheap, no doubt... Weather currency gap left by plunging tourism strategy at Brown Brothers Harriman Prime Minister Ranil but until they get some kind of Weather tomorrow Max/min receipts. (BBH). Wickremesinghe is already facing political unity which can result in today Max/min Sunny 28/13 “If growth slows a lot more and “With foreign reserves very low heavy criticism domestically for stable policymaking, we will probably Baghdad Sunny 26/13 Sunny 30/19 the budget defi cit assumptions need right now, the central bank cannot higher taxes, and tight monetary remain underweight (equities) until Kuwait CityCloudy 28/18 Cloudy 28/22 to be reassessed, then they’ll have to actively support the rupee.” and fi scal policies that have crimped the elections.” Manama Cloudy 27/22 Muscat Sunny 29/25 Sunny 28/24 Tehran M Sunny 14/06 P Cloudy 14/07 Live issues Updated BP guidelines catch more kids at risk for heart disease

By Linda Carroll Public Health and Tropical Medicine. from the Bogalusa Heart Study, a this guideline change was at helping Reuters Health “Those kids were more likely to have long-term series of studies that began identify the kids who were truly at risk,” metabolic syndrome, enlarged hearts in 1973. Between 1973 and 2016, there said Dr Tammy Brady, an associate and hypertension as adults.” were nine cross-sectional surveys of professor of paediatrics and medical Around the world aediatric blood pressure The children who would have been children between three and 18 years old director of the Pediatric Hypertension Weather Weather guideline changes issued in added to the ranks of those with and 11 surveys of adults who had been Program at Johns Hopkins University. today Max/min tomorrow Max/min 2017 increase the number of hypertension might also be at a higher previously examined as children. “It’s fascinating. It showed that when Athens Cloudy 22/13 M Cloudy 23/14 Pchildren diagnosed with high risk of having heart attacks, but it The 3,940 people in the new study kids were reclassifi ed as hypertensive Beirut P Cloudy 22/17 Sunny 22/17 blood pressure, a new study fi nds. will be years before that data can be were examined as children and were according to the new guidelines they did Bangkok M Sunny 38/29 P Cloudy 38/30 That means more kids will be collected since most of the people in followed for 36 years. When the in fact seem to have more cardiovascular Berlin P Cloudy 24/13 P Cloudy 26/14 identifi ed as having a higher risk of those in the study are now in their mid- researchers compared how the old and risk factors. So it does seem to do a Cairo P Cloudy 30/17 M Sunny 33/17 developing heart disease in adulthood, 30s to mid-50s, Bazzano said. new guidelines would have played out better job of identifying those who Cape Town Sunny 22/14 Sunny 22/16 researchers point out. Unlike adults for whom there are in this population, they found that the are at risk of developing long term Colombo M Sunny 32/26 S T Storms 32/26 After analysing data on nearly 4,000 specifi c blood pressure thresholds for newer ones would have caught a much complications.” Dhaka Sunny 36/26 M Sunny 37/26 adults who had their blood pressure a diagnosis of hypertension, cutoff s for larger number of children who would By having a lower threshold for Hong Kong P Cloudy 26/23 S T Storms 26/23 recorded in childhood, researchers high blood pressure in children depend eventually develop left ventricular hypertension in children, the new Istanbul S Showers 19/09 M Sunny 19/08 concluded that the new guidelines on their age, sex and height, Bazzano hypertrophy. “That condition develops guidelines may give paediatricians Jakarta S T Storms 31/26 T Storm 33/26 would have done a better job at explained. when the left ventricle enlarges because more ammunition when they try to Karachi M Sunny 31/26 Sunny 33/26 identifying the kids who would later, as The old guidelines were drawn it is fi ghting against a higher pressure convince parents to get their kids to London P Cloudy 19/10 S Showers 14/08 adults, have hypertension, an enlarged up based on data from all children, than it should be,” Bazzano said. “Just make lifestyle changes that would Manila Sunny 37/27 Sunny 37/26 heart and metabolic syndrome, including those who were overweight as weight lifter’s muscles get bigger, result in lower blood pressure, Brady Moscow M Sunny 22/08 M Sunny 22/09 according to a report in Hypertension. and obese, which led to a higher the heart gets bigger and that makes it said. Sometimes parents are resistant New Delhi Sunny 42/27 M Sunny 42/27 “When you compare the old versus cut-point than the new charts which more vulnerable to not getting enough when the physician says, “we need New York Sunny 20/09 P Cloudy 17/12 the new guidelines in this population, exclude information on overweight oxygen.” to minimise weight gain,” she added. Paris M Cloudy 18/12 Showers 15/08 8% of the kids would get up-classifi ed and obese children. Although it’s only The changes also identifi ed would “They’ll sometimes respond: ‘He looks Sao Paulo P Cloudy 27/19 P Cloudy 27/19 as having hypertension,” said study co- a degree or two diff erence, 8% more have identifi ed more children who fi ne to me. He looks like me.’” Seoul Showers 26/13 Rain 18/08 author Dr Lydia Bazzano, an associate kids would end up with a diagnosis of would eventually develop metabolic But with an actual diagnosis of Singapore T Storm 31/27 S T Storms 32/27 professor and director of the Centre hypertension under the new guidelines, syndrome and hypertension in hypertension, “an alarm bell can go Sydney P Cloudy 23/15 Sunny 24/16 for Lifespan Epidemiology Research Bazzano said. adulthood. off ,” Brady said. “And I can say we Tokyo Cloudy 22/16 Cloudy 25/16 at the Tulane University School of The data for the new report came The new study is assessing “how good really, really need to work on this.” Gulf Times 24 Wednesday, April 24, 2019 QATAR

A number of artistes performed at a concert yesterday as part of the Katara Oud Festival. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam An oud recital at the concert yesterday. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam Oud festival kicks off at Katara From Page 1

“Al-Kindi sought to establish this kind of music and here we are now, at Katara, trying to open more doors to it through this fes- tival as we have gathered some of the most famous oud musicians and manufacturers from 13 dif- ferent countries. “This is part of our commit- ment to preserve and enhance this authentic cultural heritage.” Mohamed al-Marzougi, the festival director, said Katara will present a variety of concerts eve- ry day during the festival, with 12 An artiste in action. musicians performing diff erent kinds of oud melodies daily. made a wide range of contributions from Iraq, Ibrahim Sukkar from “As the main character of our to the fi eld of exploring new musi- Syria, Bars and Farouk from Tur- festival this year was born in Iraq, cal talents among the youth. key and Yahia Abulfazel from Iran. the festival’s theme is inspired by The oud manufacturers’ and The performers yesterday in- the rich Iraqi culture and herit- craftsmen’s exhibition, which cluded twins Eiz and Fahad (Iraq), age,” he added. includes a number of pavilions Mohamed al-Sulaiti (Qatar), Dr The opening ceremony also displaying diff erent types of oud, Dalia Hussain (Jordan), Aseel Dignitaries and guests on the opening night of the Katara Oud Festival yesterday. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam featured the screening of a docu- has also opened with the partici- Hamim (Iraq), Mustafa Zair - mentary fi lm about al-Kindi, who, pation of several prominent oud Sumerion Music Group (Iraq) and besides his important contribu- makers. The event runs until April Ali al-Khulusy (Qatar). Also, the tions to mathematics, chemistry 26, with concerts beginning at artistes together performed a pa- and physics, played a big role in 8pm every day. The performances triotic song dedicated to Qatar. A enriching traditional music. take place in Building 16. workshop will also be held on oud The opening ceremony was pre- Participants include oud play- manufacturing in Building 19. sented by Dr Rima al-Shaar, aca- ers from Qatar, Iraq, Kuwait, Jor- Katara’s fi rst Oud Festival in demic specialist and professor at dan, Turkey, Lebanon, Tunisia, March 2017 was dedicated to the Higher Institute of Musical Arts Oman, Greece, Yemen, Syria and Ziryab, a legendary musician in Kuwait. She will also present the Iran, while renowned oud manu- from the Arab and Islamic world, upcoming musical evenings dur- facturers are also taking part in while the second one was held ing the festival. In addition to her the festival, such as Yacoub Jas- under the theme ‘Al-Farabi, the academic career, Dr al-Shaar has sim from Kuwait, Yasser Saleh Second Master’.

A singer performing yesterday. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam

One of the performances that mesmerised the audience last night. Musicians from various countries are participating in the festival. From the oud exhibition. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam Tunisian musical night captivates audiences at Katara

opular songs by a re- The event, presented by Ka- Tunisian ambassador Salah al- Dr al-Sulaiti said that Katara cal music is mixed with Andalu- large turnout by visitors not bines diff erent cultures such as nowned Tunisian tradi- tara – the Cultural Village in Salhi, along with several other is always keen on presenting the sian style. “Katara had organised only by Tunisians but from other ancient Andalusian.” The band Ptional music band high- co-ordination with the Tunisian dignitaries and diplomats, in diff erent cultures from all around several Tunisian cultural events community groups as well”, he also sang a number of songs from lighted the ‘Malouf Al Khadraa’ embassy in Doha, was attended addition to a big turnout of Tu- the world and this concert opens which aim to introduce the Tu- added. Al-Salhi said this event old Andalusian music, which is Tunisian music night on Sunday by Katara general manager Dr nisian community members in a window on the rich authentic nisian culture to other commu- “takes audience from Doha to still well preserved in Tunisia, at the Katara Drama Theatre. Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti and Doha. Tunisian heritage where classi- nities and they always witness Tunisia where real heritage com- enthralling Katara visitors.

Katara general manager Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti and Tunisian ambassador Salah al-Salhi at the event. The Tunisian band performing on stage with a number of songs from the old Andalusian music.