Ahlibank Al Sadd keen honours to end Qatar long-serving SC's winning employees streak

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MONDAY 28 DECEMBER 2020 13 JUMADA I - 1442 VOLUME 25 NUMBER 8485 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS Build your own plan! Terms & Conditions Apply

Qatar attends Nationwide vaccination drive continues preparatory THE PENINSULA — DOHA Thani for making Qatar one of Ministers of State H E Sheikh Hamad the first countries in the world bin Suhaim Al Thani and H E Abdul meeting for 41st As a growing number of citizens to provide a safe, effective and Rahman bin Hamad Al Attiyah take and residents get the COVID-19 approved COVID-19 vaccine session of GCC vaccine as part of the ongoing totally free for its population, the shot, thanking the leadership for inoculation drive in the country, according to a message shared making Qatar one of the first coun- Supreme Council tries to start mass COVID-19 two Ministers of State received by Hamad Medical Corporation QNA — DOHA the shots yesterday. (HMC) on social media vaccinations. Ministers of State, H E yesterday. Sheikh Hamad bin Suhaim Al H E Sheikh Suhaim bin Effective measures taken by the The State of Qatar partici- Thani and H E Abdul Rahman Hamad also appreciated the government from the start to tackle pated yesterday via video bin Hamad Al Attiyah received Minister of Public Health H E Dr. the pandemic lauded. conference in the 146th the first dose of COVID-19 Hanan Mohammed Al Kuwari preparatory ministerial vaccine. and all healthcare workers who People urged to take the vaccine. council meeting for the 41st On the occasion, H E Sheikh have been serving the com- session of the Supreme Hamad bin Suhaim Al Thani munity since the beginning of Council of the Cooperation praised the leadership of the the pandemic. Council for the Arab States country for the efforts taken to He also called upon all eli- of the Gulf (GCC). tackle the COVID-19 pandemic gible members of the com- providing the COVID-19 vaccine country to keep its people Qatar has authorised the Minister of State for from the beginning and for pro- munity to get vaccinated against free for all in the country. “This healthy and safe,” he said. emergency use for Pfizer- Foreign Affairs H E Sultan viding a safe vaccine to all cit- COVID-19. vaccination campaign repre- H E Al Attiyah also empha- BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. bin Saad Al Muraikhi rep- izens and residents. H E Abdul Rahman bin sents importance given to the sised that the COVID-19 vaccine The vaccination drive was resented the State of Qatar He thanked Amir H H Hamad Al Attiyah also thanked people in this country. It also available in Qatar is safe and launched at seven health in the meeting. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al the leadership of the country for affirms the commitment of the effective. centres on December 23. `P2 Qatar Visa Center in Dhaka to Indian minister thanks Qatar for reopen from December 30 supporting community, hails ties SIDI MOHAMED — THE PENINSULA SANAULLAH ATAULLAH arrangement of chartered flights, Vande The Ministry of Interior (MoI) will THE PENINSULA Bharat Mission and many more. reopen its Qatar Visa Center in “I would like to recognise the Dhaka, Bangladesh from December The Minister of External Affairs of India, services that you have rendered 30, 2020. H E Dr. S Jaishankar, has lauded Qatar through your organisations and posi- “As part of reopening of Qatar for taking care of Indian expatriate tions in Qatar like doctors, nurses Visa Centre Abroad, Dhaka Centre in community during the COVID-19 responding to the pandemic,” said the the People’s Republic of Bangladesh pandemic. Minister. He said India also responded will be working starting on 30 “The primary reason I came here to the pandemic in a generous and full- December 2020,” the Ministry said (is) to thank the government of Qatar, hearted way to the global nature of the in a tweet yesterday. starting from H H the Amir for the The primary reason I came here is pandemic, sending medicines to 150 The Ministry said that the support and care they have been taking to thank the government of Qatar, countries worldwide and medical teams appointment bookings are now open Qatar Visa Centers of Indian community members during starting from H H the Amir for the in many cases. for the Dhaka center through QVC have already reopened the very difficult time of COVID-19 pan- support and care they have been Giving first hand information about website. in Pakistan, Nepal, and demic,” said Jaishankar. taking of Indian community the pandemic situation in India, he said The QVCs abroad project is being the Philippines. The Minister was speaking to the the pandemic was very tough in India implemented in cooperation between Indian community in Qatar virtually members during the very difficult like the rest of the world. He said the time of COVID-19 pandemic. the Ministry of the Interior, the Min- Visa centers facilitate yesterday. The virtual event was government’s preparations helped istry of Administrative Development, attended by Ambassador of India to H E Dr. S Jaishankar control the situation and reduced the Labour and Social Affairs, the Min- and simplify the Qatar, H E Dr. Deepak Mittal, com- new cases drastically. “We created istry of Public Health, and the Min- foreign workers' munity leaders, educationists, bankers Minister of External Affairs health infrastructure to respond to coro- istry of Foreign Affairs. recruitment process and prominent businessmen. of India navirus and established 15,000 dedi- The Qatar Visa Centers abroad and ensure workers' The Minister of External Affairs also cated centres to deal with COVID-19.” are aimed at facilitating and simpli- rights. appreciated contribution of Indian After the speech by the Minister, the fying the procedures of recruitment community, especially their leaders in contacts and exchanges that we should community leaders raised their con- in general and protecting the rights addressing COVID-19 challenge suc- have,” said the Minister. cerns seeking support of the Minister of expatriates and ensure their safety inaugurated in Colombo, Sri Lanka, cessfully, and urged their participation “I began my visit here with a and Indian Embassy for building better and facilitate all procedures for their in October 2018. in the development of new India. business roundtable meeting. The facilities for sports and culture to entry into the country, as well as ver- The project targets employment Speaking about Qatar-India ties, the reason I did so was to underline the improve the services which their organ- ifying and documenting the process through 20 service centres in eight Minister said: “The relationship with message that we consider economic isations offered to the community. of their employment and accelerate countries: Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Qatar is strong. I am here to urge them cooperation is the foundation of the An educationist made a proposal to their work under simplified, smooth Nepal, Tunisia, Pakistan, India, Bang- to look at more opportunities, taking contemporary relationship.” help create more educational oppor- and effective procedures. ladesh, and the Philippines. the relationship to higher level.” “I am pleased to see enthusiasm tunities to Indian students in term of This decision will help companies One of the significant benefits of He said India had historical and among Qatari partners for working with the provisions of more school seats and to bring workers at a time when local QVCs is that they allow workers to contemporary relations with Qatar and India,” said the Minister, giving credit higher educational institutes. market needs workers. Recently, the get detailed information about their the bilateral ties are being further to Indian expatriates for making good The Minister assured the com- Ministry also reopened a number of work contracts including salaries, strengthened. name of the country in Qatar. munity leaders to address their con- Visa Centers abroad in Nepal, vacations, incentives, and allowances “My visit in a way is a precursor to The Minister thanked Indian com- cerns with authorities concerned in Pakistan, and the Philippines. The — in their own languages — before what we hope to be a normal year in munity leaders for taking care of their Qatar and India as soon as possible. first overseas Qatar Visa Center was they leave their countries for Doha. 2021 and resumption of a kind of close fellow citizens during pandemic like `P2 Among the stars: QNL is Qatar’s newest astronomy research hub THE PENINSULA — DOHA is part of the Library’s Science philosophers. We also want to with LCO telescopes, called In October, the same instru- the guidance of Dr. A. Smith at Book Forum. This special pro- use the excitement that outer “Exoplanet Transit.” The Library ments spotted a rare blast of light Newton British Academy in Qatar National Library will give gramme encourages the next space generates to increase ran four sessions teaching stu- from a star being ripped apart Qatar, said: “As physics students, Qatar’s astronomers and scien- generation to enrol in science public understanding of science dents how to prepare the robotic by a supermassive black hole. we naturally gravitated towards tists access to world-leading and engineering studies in Qatar and scientific methods, and to telescope for observation, The phenomenon, known as a this research programme pre- robotic telescopes from the Las and the MENA region by pro- show inquisitive minds that submit an observation to a Tidal Disruption Event, is the sented by the Library, driven by Cumbres Observatory (LCO) in moting science books and topics. science is a pathway to discovery research lab and analyse the closest such flare recorded to our curiosity about the world the US. The agreement makes It is chaired by Dr. Essam Heggy, and knowledge." data. Research papers from the date, at just over 215 million around us and even the world the Library one of LCO’s Global a research scientist in earth and The Science Book Forum classes will be posted at regular light-years from Earth. beyond what we normally view Sky Partners, supported by the planetary sciences and a recently ran its first Astronomy intervals on the Library’s Ahmed Saad, the Library’s or study. Simons Foundation, a flagship member of several space exper- Club educational programme website. Outreach Program Coordinator, “During the programme, we programme recently recognised iments that seek answers to key said: “The Science Book Forum were able to confirm the by the HundrED Foundation as questions about Earth and plan- seeks to give all students access existence of exoplanet WASP one of the 100 most innovative etary evolution. Through partnership with Las to high-quality STEM education. 98b. In addition to this, we also educational projects in the world Manager of the Children’s Cumbres Observatory from the US, I’m amazed by the tenacity of the managed to calculate the period, for 2021. and Young Adults’ Library at the the library is providing Qatar’s Astronomy Club participants in density and volume of the exo- Through the programme, an Library, Hind Al Khulaifi said, astronomers and scientists access the “Exoplanet Transit” pro- planet itself. “We are extremely unlimited number of students “This partnership represents a gramme, which persevered proud of our work and the effort will have access to 50 hours of huge milestone for our role in to world-leading robotic through this year’s challenges of each team member during viewing through LCO’s robotic spreading enthusiasm for telescopes. and continued to learn and this process. We must thank the telescopes. Teachers will guide science in the community and conduct their research during an Library for this great learning students in special lectures at the makes us a hub in Qatar for unprecedented global experience, which has helped us Library as they look at planets, astronomy research projects. We pandemic.” advance and develop not only asteroids and comets using the want people to ask questions In a joint statement, students our scientific investigative skills, powerful technology. about the universe and to help Adham Ramy El Araby, Yousef but also the understanding of This new initiative, as well empower the next generation of Mohammed, Muneeb Abdel- planets beyond our own solar as the popular Astronomy Club, scientists, researchers and rahman and Aryan Irfan, under system.” `P3 02 HOME MONDAY 28 DECEMBER 2020

Qatar attends preparatory meeting for HIA dismisses QF and partners bring art and 41st session of GCC Supreme Council rumours about sustainability to public spaces

temporary THE PENINSULA — DOHA of Unesco’s Learning City’s Network, with the city serving closure The World Innovation Summit as the canvas for the photog- for Education has (WISE) raphy workshops led by Photo THE PENINSULA — DOHA unveiled a photography series Art Qatar. – Using the Used: A Reflection PA.Qatar, which delivered Hamad International Airport Of The Future Of Our City – at workshops and activities for (HIA) yesterday rebutted the Msheireb Metro Station in students between the ages of rumours circulating about the Doha, giving commuters the 15-25, brought in experts such airport being temporarily unique opportunity to learn as Reem Al-Sahlawi, Qatari closed. about sustainability through the environmental ethics “We confirm that we will lens of youth in Qatar. researcher and advocate, and continue to operate as Created through a collabo- Abdulla Alqatami, environ- normal for all travellers,” HIA ration between the World Inno- mental enthusiast and founder tweeted. vation Summit for Education of Greener and Tadweer, lev- It also clarified: “The pol- (WISE) – an initiative of Qatar eraging various efforts being icies and procedures for entry Foundation (QF) – Qatar Rail, done locally around the cross- into Qatar continue to be care- Photo Art Qatar (PA.Qatar), and over of art, sustainability, and fully managed by the Ministry QF partner university Virginia public space. of Public Health and it is con- Commonwealth University “When developing this stantly updated on the MoPH School of the Arts in Qatar project, we decided it was website.” (VCUarts Qatar), the project aims essential to provide students Hamad International to encourage young people to with as much knowledge as The State of Qatar participated yesterday via videoconferencing in the 146th preparatory ministerial Airport has advised people to explore sustainability using cre- possible and how creatives are council meeting for the 41st session of the Supreme Council of the Cooperation Council for the take accurate information ative mediums, specifically pho- tackling such issues in their Arab States of the Gulf (GCC). Minister of State for Foreign Affairs H E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi from official sources only and tography, that can translate into own projects,” said Ammar represented the State of Qatar in the meeting. disregard rumors coming from public spaces as forums of civic Alqamash, co-founder and unidentified sources. participation. exhibition curator, PA.Qatar. Learning Ecoystems Policy The exhibition also features Associate at WISE, Farah Abel outputs from a workshop jointly said, “It is important for us to conducted by VCUarts Qatar, People urged to get information about tap into the collective intelli- WISE, and Qatar Academy Al gence of our community and Wakra (QAW) part of QF’s Pre- invite them to actively partic- University Education. The ipate in reimagining public session saw nine fashion design COVID-19 vaccine from reliable sources space as an opportunity for senior students from VCUarts learning and creativity. Qatar mentor groups of school FAZEENA SALEEM “Now we have an approved, safe and people over 16 years of age with “The photography exhi- students from QAW to repurpose THE PENINSULA severe chronic diseases. bition at Msheireb Metro material found in their homes effective COVID-19 vaccine which is our Eligible group of the popu- Station is an example of how and create new objects, such as People have been urged to get lation receive the COVID-19 we, at WISE, are striving to masks and face-shields, sta- information about COVID-19 best hope to end this pandemic and take vaccine at seven designated create young champions of tionary holders, a miniature dark vaccine from reliable sources life back to normal. If we acknowledge our health centers for free. thought-leadership who can room, notebooks, shoe-box as there is a lot of misleading “The deployment of the creatively engage in social homes for pets and toys, indoor and incorrect details circulating responsibility to get vaccinated, we will COVID-19 vaccine marks a new topics in public forums.” green houses, and a miniature on the Internet and social get closer to normal life,” Medical Director chapter in our fight against The photography series is foosball table. media. COVID 19. It will play important part of WISE’s Doha Learning Qatar Rail, as a strategic Medical Director of Hamad of Hamad General Hospital, Dr. Yousef Al role in saving lives and pro- Days (DLD), a week-long initi- partner, played an important General Hospital, Dr. Yousef Al tecting the community. The ative that takes place annually role in supporting the objective Maslamani, has emphasised the Maslamani, said. whole purpose of this vaccine and aims to encourage the youth of leveraging public spaces to importance of deciding whether is to protect the community and to become active members of promote civic engagement the information about help getting life back to their communities through around art and social topics, COVID-19 vaccine is trust- approve the emergency use social distance, masks, the virus normal,” said Executive meaningful activities co-curated especially sustainability. The worthy further recommending authorisation for Pfizer-BioN- is still present,” said Dr. Al Director of Operations at in collaboration with relevant Doha Metro was designed with to follow the Ministry of Public Tech’s COVID-19 vaccine. Maslamani. Primary Health Care Corpo- local and global learning eco- sustainability at the forefront Health (MoPH) website and its Dr. Al Maslamani has said “Now we have an approved, ration, Dr. Samya Ahmad Al systems stakeholders. of decision making – from official social media accounts. that vaccine is the best hope to safe and effective COVID-19 Abdulla. This year’s program society, to the economy, to the “Look at who is giving infor- end the pandemic. vaccine which is our best hope She said that all necessary focused on the municipality of environment – and strives to mation, if the person is an “Due to comprehensive to end this pandemic and take arrangements have been put in Al Wakra, who are constituents support national objectives. expert in the field or an official measures and restrictions put life back to normal. If we place to deliver a smooth and then it is trustworthy. In Qatar by the Qatar government the acknowledge our responsibility efficient service to the public for trusted information about COVID-19 was controlled. to get vaccinated, we will get during the COVID-19 vacci- COVID-19 vaccine, visit the Despite that many lives were closer to normal life,” he added. nation campaign. “Your safety Ministry of Public Health affected. The elderly com- Qatar started administering is our priority,” said Dr. Al website or its social media munity more isolated, children’s the vaccine from December 23 Abdulla. accounts,” he said while education was effected there and in the first phase of vacci- People who have been speaking in a video message are many public activities post- nation until January 31, pref- selected are being contacted by posted on COVID-19 vaccine poned. Many of our expatriate erence will be given to people phone/SMS to advise them of microsite. community were not able to over 70 years old, adults in their selection for the vaccine MoPH has launched the visit their family and friends. chronic care and home care and invited to attend an COVID-19 vaccine microsite, Despite taking preventive facilities, healthcare personnel appointment at one of the seven Photography exhibition unveiled at Msheireb Metro Station. following its decision to measures like hand washing most at risk of infection and designated health centers.

138 people referred to Public SC highlights achievements of Generation Amazing in 2020 Prosecution for THE PENINSULA — DOHA appreciation for teamwork. This decision to take its football for also included an array of weekly Legacy programmes and rep- initiative with Eupen marks one development programming GA Star Chats featuring SC resentatives from their strategic not wearing masks In 2020, the Supreme of several organised since GA online. This year brought a chal- global ambassadors and partners. Committee for Delivery & signed a strategic partnership lenging set of circumstances, regional ambassadors. Later in October, GA hosted QNA — DOHA Legacy’s (SC) social and human with the Belgian side in Sep- and it was important to set up The programme’s online a high-level webinar about the legacy programme, Generation tember 2019. a plan to ensure continued out- presence has opened new doors soft power of sports diplomacy. The designated authorities Amazing (GA), celebrated its In February, the reach to youth. GA was com- for how football for development Titled ‘Introduction to Sports yesterday referred 138 people 10th anniversary with several announcement of former Aus- mitted to taking the programme can positively impact youth. Diplomacy: From Concept to to the Public Prosecution for major milestones, including tralian international Tim Cahill online to raise the spirits of its There are plans to continue to Practice’, the virtual event was not wearing masks in places reaching over 160 000 people as a new global ambassador of followers and empower the leverage this opportunity to raise organised with JI, in collabo- where they are mandatory. worldwide with its online the SC and Qatar 2022 was cel- learning journey of youth awareness and connect with our ration with the UNESCO Office The measure is in line with programme streamed weekly ebrated through an engagement around the world. target audience in Qatar and for the Gulf States and Yemen, the Cabinet decision, decree via Instagram Live. with GA, which took place at In efforts to continue to worldwide. to provide a platform for law No. 17 of 1990 on infec- In January, GA teamed up Aspire Academy, engaging GA inspire youth and audiences in In July 2020, GA teamed up sharing a global perspective on tious diseases, and the precau- with partner club and Belgian school programme children, Qatar and globally, GA streamed with Josoor Institute (JI) and the using the power of sport to tionary measures in force in First Division side KAS Eupen who were all excited to meet the football for development drills, University Campus of Football advance national goals. the country to contain the to host a football-for-devel- former English Premier League for example, in the form of GA Business (UCFB) to deliver a GA is wrapping up the year spread of coronavirus. opment session for local school player. master-led home workouts series of webinars about the with two prestigious Golden The designated authorities children during the team’s With the spread of designed to get those confined role of sport and learning in Bridge Awards for the GA Live called on the public to adhere winter training camp in Doha. COVID-19, on-pitch sessions, at home active and learning supporting youth during the online campaign to inspire to the precautionary measures Eupen players trained with par- including the school and worker about programme-taught skills COVID-19 pandemic. This was youth to stay active and healthy in place to ensure their safety ticipating children at Aspire programme sessions, came to like teamwork, communication, the first in a series of monthly at home during the ongoing and the safety of others. Academy to instill a greater a halt in March - leading to GA’s and organisation. The streams discussions involving the SC pandemic. 5 people arrested for violating Indian Minister hails strong ties home quarantine conditions FROM PAGE 1 QNA — DOHA Obaidan Fakhroo, Mohammed Ambassador of India to Qatar, H Abdulhamid Mohammed Said E Dr. Deepak Mittal said he had The competent authorities arrested Nasrallah, Mohammed Abdullah taken complete note of the expec- yesterday five people who violated Taha Abdulsalam Mohammed tations that the community the requirements of the home and Faisal Ahmed Baharde. attached with the Embassy. “I quarantine they committed to The concerned authorities would like to assure in the following, which they are legally in the State called on citizens presence of the Minister that the accountable for, in accordance and residents who are subject Embassy remained committed to with the procedures of the health to quarantine to fully adhere to continue to work for the welfare authorities in the country. the requirements set by the Min- of the community,” he added. It is in implementation of the istry of Public Health to ensure precautionary measures in force their safety and the safety of Nationwide vaccination in the country, approved by others. They warned that anyone drive continues health authorities represented in who violates these conditions FROM PAGE 1 the Ministry of Public Health will be subject to the penalties Lulu Master Home Chef Contest winners (MOPH), to ensure the stipulated in accordance with the During the first phase of vacci- achievement of public safety and provisions of Article 253 of the Distribution of prizes and certificates to the winners of Lulu Master Home Chef Contest was held on nation, people aged over 70, to curb the spread of the coro- Penal Code No. 11 of 2004, and Saturday at the Regional Office of Lulu Hypermarket Qatar on the D-Ring Road. Regional Director healthcare staff and people with navirus. The arrested persons the provisions of Law No. 17 of Shaijan M O and Regional Manager Shanavas P M distributed the prizes and certificates to the chronic diseases are being vacci- being referred to the competent 1990 regarding the prevention winners. In the ‘adult category’, Roy Elipio Clemente, Bensha Bennet and Roubell Vasili Cotiangco nated. The first phase of vacci- prosecution are Khalid of infectious diseases, and Law won the first three prizes respectively, while in the ‘kids category’, Biya Mie Aleria, Hisana Aneesh nation will last until January 31. Mohammed Abdullah Al Aswad, No. 17 of 2002 on the protection and Sufyan Noufal Arakkaveettil won the first three prizes respectively. The vaccine consists of two Mohammed Ahmed Jassim Al of society. shots, given three weeks apart. MONDAY 28 DECEMBER 2020 HOME 03

Ooredoo transforms QSRSN Chairman: Create understanding, spread self-service app to awareness on issues of persons with disabilities boost efficiency THE PENINSULA — DOHA

QNA — DOHA Chairman of the Qatar Society for to integrate and facilitate it for Ooredoo Qatar has announced Rehabilitation of Special Needs the persons with disabilities and it has rebuilt the main screen of Qatar Society for Rehabilitation their families. its Ooredoo App to provide a of Special Needs (QSRSN) in (QSRSN), Sheikh Thani bin Abdullah In turn, Dr. Ibrahim Attia, better customer journey and cooperation with the Cultural stressed the importance of experience. Key changes include Committee of Al Arabi Sports Al Thani, called on all cultural and exploring the capabilities, skills, easier navigation through the Club, organised a panel sports institutions to continue to and energies of persons with App, allowing customers to discussion on invisible disabil- disabilities and leading them in reach the page they want ities and social and functional spread awareness on the issues the correct direction, calling on promptly and efficiently. rehabilitation for people with of persons with disabilities and media agencies and media pro- By innovating to create an disabilities, via visual commu- fessionals to double their roles enhanced user front-end, nication technology. rehabilitate them according to to highlight rehabilitation and Ooredoo will ease customers’ The panel, titled “Not all dis- their needs and the types of support efforts for people with access to view their remaining abilities are visible,” dealt with disabilities. data and minutes. three main axes: “An Analytical disabilities they suffer from, as this For her part, Dr. Jihan Other than online View of Invisible Disabilities,” is a solidarity responsibility for all Madani, stressed the impor- payment, online SIM purchase, “Social Rehabilitation for People tance of job rehabilitation for and Hala migration to Shahry, with Disabilities between members of society. people with disabilities, devel- a new section highlights eli- Reality and Expectations,” and oping their functional and pro- gible free content for each cus- “Functional Rehabilitation for QSRSN Chairman Sheikh Thani bin responsibility for fessional capabilities and qual- tomer based on their plan. Persons with Disabilities,”. The Abdullah Al Thani all members of ifying families and parents to This section of the App will panel witnessed distinguished society. During the build confidence in their direct customers to the free participation, interventions, and that this is one of the important panel discussions, children and encourage them content and benefits they can valuable inquiries from the roles of cultural and educational Dr. Tariq Al Essawi revealed the to make double efforts to activate, such as Netflix or beIN public, specialists, those inter- institutions such as concerned World Health Organization’s qualify their children for self- sports coverage, among ested in the field of disability, societies, sports clubs, youth estimates on disability, which reliance and deal with them as numerous other services. In a and parents. centers, special education confirm that 15 percent of the independent people who can practical and attractive change Chairman Sheikh Thani bin centers, and others. world’s population, or more give and play important roles of appearance, the App back- Abdullah Al Thani explained He called on all cultural and than one billion people, suffer in society. She demanded to ground will include a day/night that the QSRSN aimed, through sports institutions to continue from a disability and that about provide job rehabilitation mode that changes according the panel, to shed light on dis- to spread awareness on the 450 million of them suffer from centers for persons with disa- to the time of day while issuing abilities that are not apparent issues of persons with disabil- a mental or nervous state, bilities according to the types of greetings according to whether or invisible, and to create a ities and rehabilitate them pointing out that there are roles Dr. Tariq Al Essawi disabilities to qualify them for the customer is accessing the deeper understanding and according to their needs and the in the field of caring and pro- the labor market and compete App by day or at night. awareness of the visible and types of disabilities they suffer viding services for persons with the world, which requires in it and enable them to be pro- Director PR at Ooredoo invisible disabilities, affirming from, as this is a solidarity disabilities in most countries of uniting and coordinating efforts ductive and independent. Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari said: “It is with great pleasure that we advise Ooredoo users of these Among the Stars: Philippine envoy participates innovations and enhancements. QNL is Qatar's newest In keeping with the move to a in ‘Plant Million Tree’ initiative more ‘lightweight’ economy astronomy research hub driven by digital communica- FROM PAGE 1 THE PENINSULA — DOHA 7th Qatar International Agricul- tions, I would encourage cus- LCO is a non-profit science tural Exhibition in 2019, as the tomers old and new to use the institute based in California with As part of the ‘Plant Million Tree’ State of Qatar complies with inter- App and experience its utility the mission of advancing initiative, the Ministry of Munic- national pledges and the Paris and advantages over our science and education. Its global ipality and Environment repre- Agreement on reducing carbon physical shops.” telescope network was founded sented by the Public Parks emissions, given the importance Revitalising the App is in 2005 by technologist Wayne Department has planted saplings of trees in the ecosystem and its designed to benefit all current Rosing, with groups and organ- of different trees. effects on human health and customers, including prepaid, isations from around the world The event was organised in quality of life. postpaid, Mobile Broadband, competing to become a Global collaboration with the Philippine So far, the initiative suc- and Ooredoo ONE. It will also Sky Partner through an open Embassy in Qatar. Ambassador ceeded to plant thousands of allow quick and simple com- round of proposals. of the Republic of the Philippines trees with the participation of parisons between different Education director at LCO, H E Alan L. Timbayan and Fahad ministers, embassies, schools, data/call plans, allowing users Dr. Edward Gomez, said: “With Mohammed Al Kaabi, Head of community leaders, public and to organise changes in the Global Sky Partners, we have the the Parks Department at Al private companies during dif- services they purchase to opportunity to inspire commu- Daayen Municipality participated ferent events. pursue the best value deals. nities that would not normally in the event in addition to a In its statement, the Ministry “By increasing its user- have the opportunity to use our number of employees of the of Municipality and Environment friendly qualities, Ooredoo has robotic telescope network. We Philippine Embassy and officials has invited all entities, institu- revamped its key consumer are very pleased to be working and engineers of the Public Parks tions and community members App in such a way as to release with Qatar National Library to Department. to contribute to the initiative to customers’ time and effort so realise this potential for Qatar, The initiative to plant million plant one million trees, because that they can further enjoy the and look forward to introducing trees was launched at the opening of its importance in preserving opportunities inherent in a 5G Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines, H E Alan L Timbayan, a new audience to science of the first Qatar International the environment and on human digital world,” added Al planting a sapling. through robotic telescopes.” Environmental Exhibition and the health and quality of life. Kuwari. HBKU College of Science and Engineering study uses AI in pursuit of football success

THE PENINSULA — DOHA delighted to see our Qatari graduate students advancing Researchers at the College of their research aspirations and Science and Engineering (CSE) using the opportunities to work at Hamad Bin Khalifa University side by side with our talented (HBKU) have developed what faculty members. The study not is an innovative artificial intel- only highlights the potential of ligence (AI)-based model to this rapidly evolving field, but analyze and improve players’ also the role of our programs at Chief Executive Director of Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS), performance in professional CSE to meet the growing need Eng. Ibrahim Abdullah Al Maliki, and Chairman of Qatar Association football leagues. for professionals with the fun- of Certified Public Accountants (QCPA), Dr. Hashem Al Sayed, PhD student Jassim damental knowledge to apply Dr. Mounir Hamdi Jassim AlMulla exchanging documents. Mohammed AlMulla, a Qatari Dr. Tanvir Alam these technologies for real- national with a passion for world impact.” football, worked with his super- in a total of 864 QSL matches. identify players’ performance Ahmed Khellil Abbassi, QRCS signs cooperation visor, Dr. Tanvir Alam, an For each match, the collective metrics that could be considered Executive Director of Compe- assistant professor in CSE’s Infor- performance of the players in as contributing factors to titions and Football Devel- agreement with QCPA mation and Computing Tech- key playing positions (defender, determine match results. Several opment at Qatar Stars League, nology Division, to develop an midfield, forward) was ana- sophisticated mathematical said: “In Qatar, we believe in THE PENINSULA — DOHA experiences and knowledge, AI-based model to analyze and lyzed to understand their effec- models (based on AI) were then adaptive changes in the through which both QRCS and recommend key performance tiveness in winning games. developed to analyze the players’ improvement of our sports and Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) QCPA will be able to gain famil- metrics to win matches for the The researchers formulated performance in QSL matches, football. Such data-driven AI- signed an agreement with the iarity with many aspects, such as Qatar national team players. the study as a classification and the study revealed some key based research will allow us to Qatar Association of Certified accounting and international With less than two years to go framework under machine winning strategies for the teams. learn from the past and to Public Accountants (QCPA), to auditing standards and code of until Qatar hosts the first ever learning (ML), which is a major The research work has been pub- create a better plan for the exchange experiences and ethics and professional conduct. FIFA World Cup tournament held branch of AI, to distinguish the lished in the IEEE Access Journal. future, aligning Qatar as a enhance cooperation in scientific Eng. Al Maliki also said that in the Middle East, the winning team from the losing Dr. Alam said: “We believe the global pioneer in innovation and technical fields in issues this agreement represents an researchers are optimistic that team in a match. Different ML proposed machine learning and football technology.” related to accounting and auditing. extension of the strategic the study could boost the national models were considered for the model can support the players, Jassim AlMulla said: “This The agreement was signed approach followed by the QRCS team’s overall performance. classification task, and the coaching staff, and team man- study is one step towards using by Chief Executive Director of by strengthening partnerships Matches held in the coun- logistic regression-based model agement in Qatar to focus on spe- advanced machine learning QRCS Eng. Ibrahim Abdullah Al with various governmental and try’s top league, the Qatar Stars was considered the best per- cific performance metrics that technologies that help build an Maliki and Chairman of QCPA non-governmental institutions League (QSL), between 2012 forming model with more than can enhance the team’s understanding of local athletes’ Dr. Hashem Al Sayed. The as well as the private sector, in and 2019 were analyzed using 80% accuracy. The proposed performance.” performance as they participate agreement aims to achieve a way that serves the common AI-based models. The study methodology can be used by the Founding dean, CSE, Dr. in national and international knowledge integration between interests of the QRCS and its analyzed players’ performances football management team to Mounir Hamdi said, “We are competitions.” the two sides by exchanging partners, which is reflected in information and experiences, the performance of employees benefiting from join programs, and the institution as a whole, courses, and events, as well as and contributes to achieving MoPH reports 179 more recoveries from COVID-19 the library and scientific refer- the goals of Qatar National THE PENINSULA — DOHA ences available at QCPA. Vision 2030. recovered in Qatar to 140,866. daily cases and hospital admis- are declining, this does not In reference to this The Chairman of QCPA Dr. All new cases have been intro- sions is continuing to decline mean that the COVID-19 pan- agreement, Chief Executive Hashem Al Sayed expressed their The Ministry of Public Health duced to isolation and are each week. Qatar’s proactive and demic is finished in Qatar. Director of QRCS Eng. Ibrahim keenness for this joint cooper- (MoPH) yesterday announced the receiving necessary healthcare extensive testing of suspected “Unless we follow all precau- Abdullah Al Maliki said that it ation with the QRCS, as it is a sig- registration of 159 new confirmed according to their health status. cases has enabled us to identify tionary measures, we may is considered a significant mile- nificant Qatari voluntary human- cases of COVID-19 among them The measures to tackle a high number of positive cases experience a second wave of stone to support activities and itarian association, hoping to 47 from travellers returning from COVID-19 in Qatar have suc- in the community. the virus and see numbers projects that will likely provide reach compatibility and comple- abroad. Also 179 people have ceeded in flattening the curve The Ministry further said increasing – there are already the two sides with important mentarity between the two recovered from the virus bringing and limiting the spread of the that even though restrictions signs of this happening in other accumulations of skills, sides through this step. the total number of cases virus and the number of new are being lifted, and numbers countries around the world.” DOHA TODAY

04 MONDAY 28 DECEMBER 2020

Qatari artist breathes new life into lifeless walls RAYNALD C RIVERA walls of the city with mural art. commissions or through our Open Call Programs THE PENINSULA While Qatar’s art scene has an including Jedariart, our 6/5 Initiative and Student Com- established community of galleries, petition. While galleries and museums have been Spray paint is his brush, the blank museums and various art spaces, closed during the pandemic worldwide, public art often wall his canvas. Qatari artist Jedariart has brought art outside expands outdoors and has given the community a Mubarak Al Malik carefully fashions these four walls. Jedariart will add space to still interact with art,” added Al Ishaq. his subject with clear vision and colour to the streets in a way that intent on spreading the distinctive is relatable and reminiscent of beauty of his culture and the innate Qatar’s cultural landscape. By warmth of his people. allowing the chosen artists the Anyone who happens to visit freedom to implement their con- Al-Abraj Park these days is most cepts and designs onto various likely to feel delighted and wel- walls around the city, we hope to comed seeing Al Malik’s latest add value to Doha’s infrastructure mural depicting a woman in and activate spaces,” Al Ishaq told Batoola - a golden metallic-looking The Peninsula. face covering traditionally used by Qatar’s public art scene has older women in Qatar - carrying seen meteoric rise in recent years an incense burner. Using lively with massive number of artworks colours, Al Malik puts his personal that pop up all over the country, touch and a modern twist to the both by prominent local artists and traditional elements in his piece. globally renowned names. Ultra-modern operating “In Al-Abraj Park, I have pre- “In the past few years, there has sented the woman in Batoola with been a great interest in public art theaters the Mdkhan (incense burner) in her in Qatar, as Qatar has become full hand, where the Mdkhan expresses including sculpture and fine arts, and large spaces, so it is considered of artworks all over, and of course welcoming, authenticity and orig- but his appreciation of graffiti art a beautiful opportunity for them to we are grateful to Qatar Museums inality. I’ve also included red roses was born out of “my personal unleash their energies and for these efforts,” said Al Malik, as a greeting with love and desire to add aesthetic and artistic introduce people to their art,” he citing works by Richard Serra, kindness. I hope that people like it touches to some remote or old stressed. Louise Bourgeois, and Ali Hassan and enjoy my art,” Al Malik told The places, and I developed this Held in partnership with The as some of the notable pieces that Peninsula. applying my own patterns and lines Supreme Committee of Beautifi- attract attention of visitors to Qatar. He has also created another implementing them on murals in cation of Roads and Public Places, Travellers to Qatar can even stunning mural at the Fire Station many official places in Qatar.” QRail, Woqod, and the Fire Station: enjoy a great number of these using similar motif. Al Malik is one of the 17 Qatari Artist in Residence, Jedariart wit- public art pieces without leaving A versatile and well-travelled and expatriate artists actively nesses the participating artists Hamad International Airport as the artist who has represented Qatar involved in Jedariart, a fresh Qatar create their mark in various loca- airport is home to a vast collection in many events both locally and Museums initiative aimed to further tions such as Al-Abraj Park, Al- of works by celebrated artists, he State-of-the-art ambulance abroad, Al Malik has taken keen enhance public art in Qatar by Asmakh area, Doha Festival City noted. fleet interest in graffiti art seeing how allowing artists to create stunning Interchange, Al Khor Interchange, Public art has been an street artists in other parts of the murals in a number of locations Post Office Park, 5/6 Park, 5/6 important aspect of the country’s world bring an important part of across the country. Flyover, Qatar National Library art scene, and with the current their culture to a broader audience. “No doubt I feel very pleased Metro Station and the Woqod Petrol challenges posed by the COVID-19 “From my previous travels and honoured to be one of the Station in Fereej Kulaib. pandemic, it has become even abroad I used to see artworks and chosen artists for this important Acting Director of Public Art more relevant. murals by artists from all over the project especially because it’s cov- Department at Qatar Museums, “Public art has played a vital world as they implement their own ering places all over Qatar to give Abdulrahman Al Ishaq, is upbeat role in the country’s art landscape symbols of their countries, so I the city a glimpse of art,” he said, on how this large-scale project will by creating memorable landmarks decided to use the Batoola which while lauding how the initiative contribute to further enhancing the and food for thought," said Al Ishaq. is in most of my artworks. The helps a diverse group of artists. country’s already vibrant art land- "The current COVID-19 situ- Batoola is considered one of the “What makes this project scape especially when it comes to ation has been challenging, heritage and popular symbols in unique is that there are many public art. however, it has not hindered our Qatar,” he said. names and some of them are artists, “The Jedariart Initiative is the progress as a department in deliv- The artist is exceptionally fluent who for the first time are imple- first of its kind in Doha, allowing ering public art projects around the and adept in traditional art forms menting artistic works on murals artists the permission to activate city whether they are direct Highly-advanced patient information systems

Bangladesh Ambassador hails expat cricket team KRCC wins TWA THE PENINSULA - DOHA wickets. They, however, lost the final against Cricket League India. Ambassador of Bangladesh to Qatar H E Md. The Ambassador was present at the THE PENINSULA - DOHA Jashim Uddin congratulated the expatriate opening ceremony of the tournament at the Bangladeshi cricket team in Qatar for finishing Cricket Stadium in Asian City. President of KRCC team beat Doha Knight Riders as runners-up in the Qatar National Day Qatar Cricket Association Yusef Jehem Al to claim the Telangana Welfare Asso- Cricket Tournament. Kuwari, Bangladesh Team Manager Md. ciation Cricket League. The Qatar Cricket Association (QCA) Aminul Islam and Coach Bulbul Ahmed, and The event was hosted by TWA as organised a tournament among expatriates dignitaries were present at the opening part of its welfare activities for from Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Sri ceremony. The Ambassador also met the bluecollar workers with nominal entry Lanka to mark Qatar National Day. The expatriate Bangladeshi cricketers and thanked fees and subsidised fees to few teams. Cutting-edge treatments for expatriate Bangladeshi cricket team reached them for their contribution to sports despite Ten teams participated in the the final by defeating Sri Lanka by eight having regular jobs. competition. cancer Prizes were distributed to the man of the match, man of the series, best bowler, best batsman and best sup- At Hamad Medical Corporation we porter, runners-up and winners. are utilizing advanced technology and TWA President Khaja Nizamuddin congratulated KRCC for their victory. innovative systems to deliver the highest He praised the other participating quality care to Qatar’s population. teams for making the competition interesting and called for more activ- ities toward healthy lifestyle. The tournament was conducted to www.hamad.qa promote sports and develop the rela- tions within the Telugu Community in Qatar. Nizamuddin thanked the guests and the association’s sports secretary for making the competition a success. MONDAY 28 DECEMBER 2020 DOHA TODAY 05 AMUAAQ marks centenary milestone of AMU

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The Aligarh Muslim University Alumni Association Qatar (AMUAAQ), an Ambassador Mittal said that associate organization of ICBF under Sir Syed Ahmed Khan was the Embassy of India-Qatar, celebrated one of the world’s greatest the 100 years of AMU recently. To mark the milestone occasion, educationists and felt great AMUAAQ also launched a mobile app to be a part of this event. He and membership card. The Ambassador of India to Qatar, highlighted AMUAAQ’s H E Dr. Deepak Mittal, was the chief achievements in education, guest from Qatar, and Vice-Chancellor, community service, and AMU Aligarh Prof. Tariq Mansoor, was the chief guest from India. SRH Fahmi sports and congratulated (First Secretary Indian Embassy, Qatar), the alumni as the university Hasan Chougule (Entrepreneur), completes 100 years. Ahmed Kazi (CCT), Naseem Ahmad (Retd. IAS & Ex-VC AMU Aligarh), Prof. Zaheeruddin (PVC, AMU Aligarh), Prof. MM Sufyan Beg (Principal ZHCET and mentioned that education can be Chairman Alumni Affairs Committee AMUAAQ members celebrating 100 years of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). spread easily now by applying Aligarh), Prof Najmul Islam technology. (GS-AMUTA) and Prof. Rahat Abrar ( AMUAAQ General Secretary EX-PRO, AMU), Mahesh Gowda (Acting remarkable journey of 100 years, the inception in 1920. It is at present communal harmony. Farman Khan talked about the President. ICBF), attended the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tariq included amongst the top-ranked Ahmad congratulated all the association’s activities like the Zaiqa E programme. Omar Peerzada (PRO, Mansoor, congratulated the students, Indian universities due to its faculty’s Aligarians for being exemplary Aligarh, including women AMU Aligarh), the main guest speaker, teachers, non-teaching staff, alumni, concerted efforts and focused research ambassadors of their alma mater and empowerment and child abuse. Other spoke on the topic ‘100 Years of AMU and well-wishers. of its scholars,” he added. contributing meaningfully towards engagements include alumni meet, free Achievement and Future Expectation.’ “This day is not only an occasion Meanwhile, First Secretary Indian realizing Sir Syed’s dream. He enjoined medical camp, felicitation program, Avinash Gaikwad (GS-ICBF), to celebrate but also to express our Embassy, Qatar SRH Fahmi, requested them to work hard and raise the beach cleaning, supporting and Mohammed Sultan (CCT), Obaid Tahir, indebtedness and gratitude to the all AMU alumni to work towards the school’s standards to give Sir Syed standing with India and AMU, and Shahabuddin Ahmad, and Arshia illustrious community leaders who benefit of their alma mater and Ahmed Khan a complete tribute. supporting the community financially, attended the event as special guests. strove hard to get MAO College contribute more towards education. Hassan Chougle, in his address, said especially area affected by the In his address, Ambassador Mittal upgraded into Aligarh Muslim He congratulated all the alumni that all Aligarian in Qatar should come coronavirus (COVID-19) in India. said that Sir Syed Ahmed Khan was one University. We also remember all those worldwide. together to fulfill the AMUAAQ mission AMUAAQ also carried out many one- of the world’s greatest educationists who contributed to the all-round AMUAAQ President Jawed Ahmad, towards community and alma mater. on-one activities to build brotherhood and felt great to be a part of this event. development and growth of the in his address, gave a brief on Sir Syed He appreciated the AMUAAQ for their and a positive environment among all He highlighted AMUAAQ’s university and making it an Institution Ahmed Khan. He reiterated a long- tremendous efforts towards residing in Qatar. It helped those in achievements in education, community of national and international standing demand to the Indian community services. need to benefit from the Vande Bharat service, and sports and congratulated reputation,” Prof. Mansoor said. government to confer Sir Syed Ahmed In his speech, Ahmed Kazi praised Mission flights etc. the alumni for the university “It is a matter of pride and self- Khan with Bharat Ratna to recognize the association for its efforts it is Several games were held online completion of 100 years. containment that the university has his contributions to the nation’s making for the progress of the and winners were presented with their Upon completing AMU’s made steady progress since its development towards education and university and community. He also prizes. MSDCA celebrates completion of first term with cricket tourney

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The MS Dhoni Cricket Academy (MSDCA) branch in Doha recently completed its first term and celebrated the occasion with a National Day friendly tournament for their budding talents. After the end of three months of preparations, the junior (ages 7-9) and Organisers review Kalanjali 2019, senior (ages 10-15) cat- egory players were deemed ready to take postpone 2020 edition due to COVID-19 part in proper games and thus got the oppor- Students of the MS Dhoni Cricket Academy pose with their certificates after THE PENINSULA – DOHA Kalanjali 2019 & Ideal Indian Chairman of Kalanjali 2019 tunity to play at the completing the first term. School President Dr. Hassan and President DPS MES Hassan Asian Town Cricket Mediapen, in association with Ideal Kunhi M.P, the Chief Guest, AK Chougule, through a video Stadium, Qatar’s Indian School & Radio Malayalam offered his support for Kalanjali message, said events like premier cricketing venue, for the first time. Adv. Jafarkhan (ICC - Sports head) Safeeru- 98.6, recently conducted a review 2021. Speaking on the occasion Kalanjali are needed right now The matches were followed by a prize dis- rahman( ISC - Secretary football) Zeyaul Haque, programme themed ‘Reflections Ideal Indian School President Dr. to help the students develop their tribution ceremony to honour the best per- ,Nihad Ali (QIA Convener)and Riyaz Cheeroth- on Qatar Indian School Festival Hassan Kunhi said that pro- skills. formers. Prominent sports officials from the Ibn Ajayan projects sports convener (Kalanjali 2019).’ grammes like Kalanjali would Kalanjali 2019 General Con- Indian community were present at the event to The MSDCA’s Doha branch is a joint venture The programme was held to provide students and schools a vener & Principal of Ideal Indian show their support for the young cricketers. between Aarka Sports, the management firm review Kalanjali 2019 and platform to compete and send a School Syed Shoukath Ali, Indian Sports Centre vice-presidents Sharaf of MS Dhoni and Absolute Sports Academy, a announce the postponement of message of togetherness, rela- General Coordinator & General P Hameed and EP Abdurahiman were in leading multi-sports coaching institution in Kalanjali 2020 to 2021 due to the tionship and help the children to Manager Binu Kumar, all attendance at the prize distribution ceremony, Qatar. The branch started its operations earlier pandemic. stars of the future. attended the event. alongside Nisha Agarwal ISC - General Secretary this year.

THROUGH THE LENS MES student bags silver in online math event

THE PENINSULA – DOHA countries, including eight stu- dents from MES Indian School, Aaesha Fathima Basheer, a participated in the compe- 4th Grade student of MES tition. Vanshika Kapur of Indian School, bagged Silver Grade 4 and Haizam Nishab in Harangue (Declamation) in of Grade 7 was awarded first the Mathphi, International and second consolation prizes Online Math Event, which was in Jingle It Loud’ and Poster conducted recently for Making, respectively. students aged 8 to 16 years by All the participants were City Montessori School, awarded a participation Lucknow, India. e-certificate. Hameeda Kadar, A total of 216 students Principal M.E.S Indian School, from 58 schools in various congratulated the winners.

More than 170 companies, with a wide range of products from around the world including Qatar, Turkey, Syria, Morocco, Tunisia, China, Iran, Pakistan and India, are participating in the Doha Winter Trade Fair being held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). A variety of clothes, Abayas, accessories, perfumes, cosmetics, furniture, carpets and foodstuff are on display at the venue.PICS:ABDUL BASIT/THE PENINSULA An MES Indian School student giving her presentation during the competition. 06 MIDDLE EAST MONDAY 28 DECEMBER 2020 Oman launches vaccination campaign, to reopen borders QNA/AGENCIES — MUSCAT The total number of deaths Oman has received 15,000 due to COVID-19 reached 1,495, The Sultanate of Oman started at a rate of 1.17 percent, while the yesterday the COVID 19 national doses of Pfizer-BioNTech recoveries stood at 120,976, vaccination campaign under the vaccine and expects to bringing the recoveries rate to 94.2 slogan “Immunization is receive another 28,000 percent, the Ministry said in a Prevention.” doses in January. statement reported by Oman Omani Minister of Health Dr. News Agency. Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Saeedi, The number of patients who received the first dose of the but priority will be for those who have been isolated in hospitals due “Pfizer-BioNTech” anti-virus are in the front lines of defence in to infections in the past 24 hours vaccine, marking the start of the the health sector and other sectors, reached 17, bringing the total to campaign and confirming its as well as people whose COVID-19 87, while patients in the intensive safety. poses a threat to their lives espe- care units reached 35, the Ministry The Minister of Health cially the elderly and those who added. expected 28,000 doses to reach have chronic diseases, such as Oman is also reopening its the Sultanate in January, clarifying kidney failure and chronic airport and borders to travellers that a person will need two doses respiration. from December 29 after closing Oman Health Minister Dr. Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Saeedi reacts as he receives the first dose 21 days apart. He explained that He pointed out that the vacci- them amid concerns over a newly of the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, in Muscat yesterday. the 15,000 doses that arrived in nation will include all citizens and discovered strain of COVID-19. the Sultanate on Thursday will residents, and it has been dis- Travellers to Oman must show benefit 7,000 people, indicating tributed to all governorates of the a negative virus test conducted arrival. Countries across the Middle East shut- 1. Oman is hoping to quickly start receiving that a mechanism has been set up Sultanate and will be given within 72 hours before entering tered borders on December 21 because the tourists, especially from its wealthy neigh- for the vaccination process and according to priority. the country and must have health new strain is said to be faster-spreading. Saudi bouring countries, to boost its economy that priorities have been set for those The Omani Ministry of Health insurance, according to the coun- Arabia, Kuwait and Oman halted international has been hit hard by slumping oil prices and targeted for vaccination. announced yesterday that the total try’s supreme committee. All trav- flights and closed borders for a week. the pandemic. He stressed that the vacci- of number of coronavirus ellers must submit to a seven-day Saudi Arabia has yet to announce whether The International Monetary Fund has esti- nation will include all residents (COVID-19) cases in the Sultanate quarantine and take another test it will lift the suspension this week, while mated Oman's economy to contract by 10 and expatriates in the Sultanate, had reached 128,472. on the eighth day after their Kuwait has said it plans to re-open on January percent this year. Turkey warns Haftar, supporters against attacking its forces Iran reports lowest daily REUTERS — ANKARA Tripoli, which for years has Akar said Haftar had recently everywhere,” Akar said. “They the GNA and LNA. Both sides been fighting Haftar’s Libyan started making calls targeting should get this in their heads. If have stopped short of with- deaths from virus Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi National Army (LNA). Turkish forces in Libya and they do something like this, they drawing forces from the Akar warned yesterday that the In October, the GNA and calling for attacks on Turkish will have nowhere to run,” he frontline, as demanded by the in over 3 months forces of Khalifa Haftar and LNA signed a ceasefire troops, and also called on all said. “Everyone should con- truce. A panel of UN experts has their supporters based in agreement and the United parties to support political talks tribute to reaching a political cited the foreign supporters of REUTERS — TEHRAN eastern Libya would be viewed Nations has been pushing a instead. solution here. Any move other both sides as breaching an arms as “legitimate targets” if they political dialogue aimed at elec- “This war criminal, thug than this is wrong.” embargo on Libya. This month, Iran reported 119 deaths from attempted to attack Turkish tions next year as a solution. Haftar and his backers should Turkey has sent military the LNA also intercepted a the new coronavirus forces in the region. Russia on Wednesday called for know that in the event of any personnel and equipment to the Turkish ship, under a Jamaican yesterday, the lowest daily Turkey is the main foreign international efforts toward a attack attempt waged on GNA, helping to turn the tide of flag, heading to the port of fatalities in more than three backer of Libya’s internationally peace settlement in Libya to be Turkish forces, the killer the war in Libya, while engaging Misrata, prompting an angry months, the health ministry recognised Government of intensified. Speaking during a Haftar’s forces will be viewed in talks with Moscow for a rebuke from Ankara. The ship said. National Accord (GNA) based in visit to Turkish troops in Tripoli, as legitimate targets solution to the conflict between was later released. Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari told state TV that 5,502 people had been infected in the past 24 hours, Syrian refugee camp taking the total number of COVID-19 cases in the Middle East’s worst-affected country in northern Lebanon to 1,200,465. Sunday’s death toll was the lowest since September set ablaze after row 12 when it registered 116 deaths. AFP — BEIRUT and “Syrian workers”. Iran extended a night- Other youths from the Leb- time traffic curfew to 330 A Syrian refugee camp in anese family then “set fire to lower-risk cities and towns on northern Lebanon was set on some of the refugees’ tents”, the Sunday in an effort to sustain fire on Saturday night following NNA added. the recent decline in the a fight between members of the The Lebanese Civil Defence number of infections and camp and a local Lebanese worked to control the blaze deaths. family, state media reported. while the army and police were The curfew running from The United Nations refugee deployed to restore calm, 9 pm to 4 am — already in agency, UNHCR, confirmed a according to the report. place in 108 “orange” large fire had broken out in a A security source told AFP medium-risk, cities — is camp in the Miniyeh region and shots were heard, saying the extended to lower-risk said some injured had been fight in the Bhanine area was “yellow” areas. taken to hospital, but did not sparked when Syrian workers The curfew, under which provide an exact number. demanded a wage which their the use of private cars is “The fire has spread to all employers refused to pay. banned, resulted in nearly the tented shelters” — made of However, the same source 100,000 fines being issued in Syrian refugees salvage belongings from the wreckage of their shelters at a camp set on fire overnight plastic sheeting and wood — said later that initial inquiries one night in the past week. in the northern Lebanese town of Bhanine, yesterday. UNHCR spokesman Khaled found the dispute could have Iran said on Thursday it Kabbara told AFP. been sparked by the har- had received approval from The camp housed around 75 assment of a Syrian woman. said. Lebanon says it hosts some refugees to return to Syria even northern Lebanese town of US authorities to buy coro- families, he said. “Some families have fled the 1.5 million Syrians, including though rights groups warn that Bsharre after a Syrian national navirus vaccines from the The National News Agency area out of fear because there around one million registered the war-torn country is not yet was accused of shooting dead World Health Organization- reported that the fire followed were also sounds of explosions as refugees with the United safe. a Lebanese resident, sparking led COVAX alliance. It did not an “altercation” between a caused by household gas can- Nations. In November, around 270 widespread tension and say which vaccines it was member of a Lebanese family isters blowing up,” Kabbara Authorities have called on Syrian refugee families fled the hostility. buying. Magnitude 5.3 Israeli forces arrest 9 Palestinians in West Bank Ministry: Iraq at risk of quake strikes QNA — OCCUPIED JERUSALEM occupation forces arrested Palestinian News Agency three young men from Tulkarm, (WAFA) reported. eastern Turkey The Israeli occupation forces one of them while working in The occupation forces also power shortages after arrested yesterday nine Pales- the lands of 1948 and the other arrested three Palestinians from REUTERS — ANKARA tinians from different parts of two after raiding and searching Hebron while three others were the West Bank. The Israeli their relatives’ homes, the arrested from Ramallah. Iran slashes gas supply An earthquake of magnitude 5.3 struck eastern Turkey REUTERS — BAGHDAD country generates around yesterday, the country’s 11,000 megawatts, replying on Disaster and Emergency Iraq’s capital Baghdad and imports to fill the gap, he said. Management Authority (AFAD) other cities are at risk of serious Iran’s Energy Minister Reza said, while the interior power shortages after Iran Ardakanian is scheduled to visit minister said there were no slashed gas exports, the elec- Baghdad on Tuesday to discuss immediate reports of casu- tricity ministry said yesterday, the unpaid bills with his Iraqi alties or significant damage. potentially placing further counterpart, Moussa said. The earthquake occurred pressure on the government of “We strongly encourage at a depth of 15.95 km (9.91 Prime Minister Mustafa Al Iraq’s finance ministry to miles), AFAD said, adding that Kadhimi. resolve the unpaid bills with the epicentre of the quake was Iran has reduced gas Iran to avoid critical the Elazig province. exports to Iraq to five million shortages of power supplies “There is nothing negative cubic metres from 50 million in Baghdad and other cities,” so far. All our teams continue cubic metres two weeks ago Moussa said. their examinations on the citing unpaid bills, a ministry Washington has repeatedly ground,” Interior Minister spokesman said. extended by 90 or 120 days a Suleyman Soylu said on It also officially informed sanctions exemption to allow Twitter.