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THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 26 SHA'ABAN - 1442 VOLUME 26 NUMBER 8586 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS

Amir chairs first meeting of Chairman of Sudanese Transitional Sovereignty Council meets Speaker of Shura Council Supreme Council for Economic QNA — DOHA Chairman of the Transitional Sover- Affairs and Investment eignty Council of the Republic of Sudan, H E Lt. Gen. Abdel Fattah Al QNA — DOHA Burhan, met yesterday at his resi- dence with Speaker of the Shura Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Chairman of the Council H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Supreme Council for Economic Affairs and Investment, chaired Zaid Al Mahmoud. yesterday morning the Council’s first meeting in 2021, which was They reviewed bilateral rela- held via video conference. tions and ways to support and Deputy Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani, the develop them in the parliamentary Deputy Chairman of the Council, participated in the meeting along and legislative field. The Chairman with Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid of the Sudanese Transitional Sover- bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Executive Member of the eignty Council expressed his coun- Council, and Their Excellencies members of the Council. try’s appreciation for the great role During the meeting, the Council reviewed the progress of that the State of Qatar has played for 2020’s decisions and recommendations, and approved mecha- peace, development and recon- nisms to follow up and monitor decisions and projects. The council struction in Darfur. was also briefed on developments related to the Investment Pro- The meeting was attended by motion Agency, the Free Zones Authority, as well as develop- Ambassador of Qatar to Sudan H E Speaker of the Shura Council H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud with Chairman of the ments in the energy and investment fields. Abdulrahman bin Ali Al Kubaisi, and Transitional Sovereignty Council of the Republic of Sudan, H E Lieutenant General Abdel Fattah The Council also discussed topics on the meeting’s agenda, Ambassador of Sudan to Qatar H E Abd Al Burhan, yesterday. and took the appropriate measures regarding them. Al Rahim Al Siddig Mohammed. Qatar scales up curbs to contain virus spread QNA — DOHA (tomorrow) until further notice. exception of the military, Reducing the number of Mosques to open for daily Following the meeting, Min- security and health sectors. The Cabinet which met yesterday employees present at the work- and Friday prayers, ister of Justice and Acting Min- -Reducing the number of with Prime Minister and Minister 50% place in government and private Tarawih prayers to be ister of State for Cabinet Affairs employees present at the work- of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin sectors to 50 percent of the total H E Dr. Issa bin Saad Al Jafali Al place in the private sector to 50 Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani in performed at home. Nuaimi said that at the outset of percent of the total number of the chair took many decision to number of employees. the meeting, the Cabinet listened employees in each agency, and scale up restrictions to curb the Not to allow restaurants and cafes Reducing the capacity of oper- to the explanation provided by the rest of the employees spread of second wave of HE Minister of Public Health on conduct their work remotely COVID-19 in the country. to serve food and drinks indoor or 20% ating metro and public the latest developments to limit from their homes, and the Min- The Cabinet ordered in open spaces and allow them to transport services by no more the spread of the coronavirus istry of Commerce and Industry, reducing the number of serve food and drinks via pickup than 20 percent, stopping (COVID-19), and affirmed the in coordination with the con- employees present at the work- orders or to deliver. operation of those services on continuation of implementing the cerned authorities, determines place in government agencies Fridays and Saturdays. precautionary measures in order the necessary activities that are and private sector offices to 50 to combat this pandemic, and excluded from this decision. percent of the total number of decided the following: -All meetings that are held for employees. The Cabinet also Closure of Winter camps Not to hold First: -Reducing the number employees and workers in the gov- ordered reducing the capacity of beauty and must allow in only weddings in of employees present at the ernment and private sectors operating metro services by no hair salons, family members closed or open workplace in government present at their place of work more than 20 percent, stopping theaters and who live in the spaces until agencies to 50 percent of the remotely shall be using modern operation of those services on cinemas. same house. further notice. total number of employees in technical means, and in case this Fridays and Saturdays. each entity, and the rest of the is not possible, and in cases of The Cabinet also ordered employees conduct their work necessity, the meeting shall be held closing theaters and cinemas, presence of a maximum of 5 COVID-19 vaccine. The Cabinet’s performed during the month of remotely from their homes or with a number of not more than nurseries, public museums and people in open spaces if they all decisions also include that Ramadan at home. The decisions upon request, according to the 5 persons, taking into account the libraries. It permitted the have completed doses of the Tarawih prayers will be will go into effect starting Friday circumstances, with the precautionary measures. `P2 Qatar administers one Qatar Airways inaugurates new Engine Facility millionth COVID-19 MOHAMMED OSMAN THE PENINSULA vaccine dose Minister of Transport and Communications, H E Jassim Saif THE PENINSULA — DOHA and highlights the rapid pace Ahmed Al Sulaiti, inaugurated of the National COVID-19 Vac- yesterday new Engine Facility. Qatar yesterday reached a cination Program which is now The state-of-the-art facility, significant milestone when it vaccinating more than 170,000 which has a capacity to house administered millionth people a week, the Ministry 80 engines and is spread over COVID-19 vaccine to a resident. said in a statement. an area of 9000 sq.ft. is located Baby Manalo, a 42-year-old On December 23, 2020, the in the Qatar Airways Technical Filipino resident of Qatar, first vaccine had been admin- Maintenance complex. visited Al Waab Health Center istered to 79-year-old Abdullah The new engine facility is and received the one millionth Al Kubaisi, former Qatar Uni- part of the vision to streamline COVID-19 vaccine dose admin- versity president. the cost of its Technical Main- istered since the start of the Since the start of the vacci- tenance operations by more National COVID-19 Vaccination nation program the strategy than $2.2m per year, and Program. Administering the has prioritized vaccinating support the airline’s growth. one millionth vaccine dose is a people most at risk of severe The opening event was hugely significant milestone COVID-19 symptoms and with attended by the President of the Minister of Transport and Communications H E Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti (centre), Qatar Airways Group the availability of more vac- Qatar Civil Aviation Authority Chief Executive, H E Akbar Al Baker, QCAA President H E Abdulla Nasser Turki Al Subaey and other officials cines and the opening of addi- (QCAA), H E Abdulla Nasser during the opening of Qatar Airways Technical Engine facility, yesterday. PIC: ABDUL BASIT/ THE PENINSULA Administering the one tional vaccination centers, the Turki Al Subaey, and Qatar millionth vaccine dose is a eligibility criteria has been Airways Group Chief Executive, senior officials and VIPs. The enable Qatar Airline to improve hours per month, or 23,400 hugely significant milestone expanded in line with the H E Akbar Al Baker and other aircraft engine facility is to its workflow by over 1,800 man man hours per year. `P3 and highlights the rapid phased roll-out of the National pace of the National COVID-19 Vaccination COVID-19 Vaccination Program. With 27 percent of eligible adults and 77 percent UK, S African variants major cause for increasing cases Program which is now of people over 60 years of age vaccinating more than having received at least one SIDI MOHAMED strain. “We have not reached the peak yet. He noted that most recent cases have 170,000 people a week. vaccine dose, a significant pro- THE PENINSULA Most of the cases in this wave spread during led to a significant increase in the number portion of the most at risk gatherings among citizens and residents of patients in intensive care due to the high members of Qatar’s population Dr. Abdullatif Al Khal, Chairman of the and their families,” Dr. Al Khal added. number of infections and the emergence are protected against the virus, National Pandemic Preparedness Speaking in a press conference held yesterday of new strains. “We are witnessing a the Ministry added. Committee, has said that despite strict quar- at Qatar TV to explain the current COVID-19 sit- remarkable increase in the number of cases “I am delighted to receive antine policy that is in place for all travelers, uation in Qatar, Dr. Al Khal explained, “Both these requiring admission to intensive care, as 266

CoronavirusCoCorororonavirusus my first vaccine dose today the South Africa and UK variants of the new strains cause more severe symptoms than cases were admitted last week. Also, during VACCINEVACCIVACCVACCICCINNE after a very challenging year coronavirus have been diagnosed in Qatar. the original strain. We believe the South Africa the past week, 1,468 new COVID-19 cases living under the threat of the He said that these new variants cause variant has had a significant impact on the rise were admitted to hospital due to severe lung virus," said Manalo. `P4 more severe symptoms than the original in cases in the past ten days.” inflammation,” he added. `P4 02 HOME THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021

Deputy PM meets Sudan Defence Minister

Chairman of Sudan Transitional Sovereignty Council, Qatar Deputy PM review defence ties Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs H E Dr. Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah Chairman of the Transitional Sovereignty Council of the Republic of Sudan H E Lt. Gen. Abdel Fattah met yesterday with Minister of Defence of the Republic of Sudan H E Lieutenant General Yassin Ibrahim Al Burhan met yesterday with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs H E Yassin. The meeting dealt with reviewing relations between the two brotherly countries in the military Dr. Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah. During the meeting, they reviewed relations between the State and defence fields, and ways to enhance them. The meeting was also attended by Ambassador of of Qatar and the Republic of Sudan in the military and defence fields, and ways to enhance them. the State of Qatar to the Republic of Sudan H E Abdulrahman bin Ali Al Kubaisi. The meeting was attended by Ambassador of Qatar to Sudan H E Abdulrahman bin Ali Al Kubaisi. Health Minister stresses importance of cooperating with QRCS in COVID-19 fight

QNA — DOHA sides will continue in light of the Minister praises QRCS rise of a second wave of the pan- Minister of Public Health H E Dr. demic. He said QRCS stands Hanan Mohammed Al Kuwari efforts, especially ready to aid all efforts made to met yesterday with a delegation deploying hundreds of contain the pandemic. from Qatar Red Crescent Society volunteers at quarantine Director-General of the (QRCS), chaired by QRCS Pres- and vaccination facilities. Medical Affairs Division at QRCS ident H E Sheikh Abdullah bin and head of the medical com- Thamer Al Thani. mittee Dr. Abdul Salam Al The meeting dealt with Qahtani said that QRCS is imple- reviewing means of enhancing Medical Corporation (HMC) to menting a number of medical bilateral cooperation in fighting fight the COVID-19 pandemic. projects that include operating the coronavirus pandemic She praised continued efforts by four healthcare centres dedi- (COVID-19), and discussed joint QRCS in that regard, with hun- cated to workers, as well as other cooperation in the activities dreds of volunteers present in programmes related to donating carried out by QRCS in the quarantine and vaccination organs and dialysis. healthcare field domestically and facilities. He added that those pro- abroad. Sheikh Abdullah bin Thamer grammes were in addition to The Minister expressed her Al Thani expressed his appreci- efforts related to combatting the thanks to QRCS, its leadership ation of MoPH’s great efforts in COVID-19 pandemic by partic- and members, for their cooper- the face of the COVID-19 pan- ipating in the management of the Minister of Public Health H E Dr. Hanan Mohammed Al Kuwari meeting with a QRCS delegation ation with the Ministry of Public demic, stressing that the fruitful quarantine facilities, especially headed by its President H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Thamer Al Thani, yesterday. Health (MoPH) and the Hamad cooperation between the two in Mekaines. Minister: Qatar provides Qatar scales up curbs to contain virus spread FROM PAGE 1 high-quality healthcare some lines and stopping operating (30 percent), and not allowing in all public and private univer- -Continue working with the on Fridays and Saturdays, taking children under (16) years old to sities, schools and kindergartens, to entire population decision obliging all citizens and into account the closure of places enter, and closing these markets and the continuation of the residents to wear masks when designated for smoking, and not on Fridays and Saturdays every current travel and return policy THE PENINSULA — DOHA leaving the house for any reason, allowing food and drink to be week. to the State of Qatar. unless the person is present by consumed in the aforementioned -Continuing the functioning The Council calls on all The Ministry of Public Health and its partners celebrated himself while driving the vehicle. transport. of wholesale markets at a capacity members of society, citizens and the World Health Day, observed every year on April 7th, -Continue working with the -Driving schools continue to not exceeding (30 percent), and residents, to assume responsibility under the theme “building a fairer, healthier world”. decision obliging all citizens and be closed. children under (16) years are not by adhering to precautionary Minister of Public Health H E Dr. Hanan Mohammed residents to activate EHTERAZ -Closing theaters and cinemas. allowed to enter. measures and procedures and to Al Kuwari said, “Qatar provides high-quality health application on smartphones when -Allowing private educational -Closure of the beauty and avoid crowded places to maintain services to the entire population in the right place at the leaving the house for any reason. and training centers to provide hair salons. their safety, and to limit the right time, ensuring improved health of Qatari society -Continuing the opening of their services through remote -Continuing the closure of spread of this pandemic so that and providing a long healthy life for the current and future mosques to perform the daily communication programs only. amusement parks and all enter- none of them will be subject to generations, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030 and duties and Friday prayers, pro- -Closing nurseries. tainment centers. the penalties stipulated in Decree- our health strategies.” vided that Tarawih prayers are -Closing public museums and -Continuing closing health Law No. (17) of 1990 regarding the Dr. Al Kuwari stressed the importance of celebrating performed during the month of libraries. clubs and physical training clubs, prevention of infectious diseases, World Health Day this year, explaining that Qatar is keen Ramadan at home, and children -Continuing to allow indi- stopping massage services, as amended by Law No. (9) of to support international cooperation and provide aids to under 12 years old are not allowed vidual educational sessions to be saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzi 2020, by imprisonment for a many countries and organizations in support of the inter- to enter, while adhering to the held in centers designated for services, and Moroccan and period not exceeding three years national health efforts and to contribute to the precautionary measures set by the people with special needs, while Turkish baths. and a fine not exceeding QR achievement of the relevant sustainable development Ministry of Public Health and the adhering to special requirements -Continuing closing all 200,000, two hundred thousand goals. “The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic highlighted Ministry of Endowments and set by the Ministry of Public swimming pools and water parks. riyals, or one of these two the importance of intensifying international cooperation Islamic Affairs, while toilets and Health. -Continuing to stop providing penalties. and concerted efforts to protect the health of the society, ablution facilities remain closed. -Continuing not to allow the the medical services in private After that, the Cabinet con- as the pandemic affected all countries and highlighted -Preventing social gatherings training of sports teams, whether health facilities, except for emer- sidered the topics on the agenda the urgent need for everyone to enjoy their right to good and visits in closed places in in closed or open spaces, with the gency cases, and allow any of as follows: health care,” Dr. Al Kuwari added. homes and Majlis, and permitting exception of preparatory training these private health facilities to First: Approval of a draft law Qatar’s healthcare sector has witnessed significant the presence of a maximum of 5 for local and international tour- provide some of their medical to issue a law on mediation in set- developments in view of the huge investments in the new people in open spaces if they all naments approved by the Ministry services if possible through tling civil and commercial dis- health facilities, services and technologies to ensure that have completed doses of the of Public Health. modern means of putes, and to refer it to the Shura health needs are met, and high-quality preventive and COVID-19 vaccine. -Obtaining prior approval communication. Council. therapeutic health services are provided to the entire -Winter camps must allow in from the Ministry of Public Health -Not to allow the services pro- Second: Approval of the Min- population. only family members who live in to organize local and international vided by cleaning and hospitality ister of Education and Higher The strength and flexibility of Qatar’s health system the same house. sporting events. companies during the working Education’s draft decision has contributed to responding to COVID-19 pandemic -Not to hold weddings in -Continuing postponing all the hours of the establishments con- amending some provisions of according to different scenarios, contributing to the pro- closed or open spaces until further exhibitions, conferences and tracted with them, and allowing Resolution No. 13 of 2020 tection of the society and providing health care to patients, notice. various events. the provision of their services with regarding the annual calendar of as well as launching the largest vaccination program ever -Preventing gatherings or -Continuing reducing the a full capacity outside the working schools for the 2020/2021 aca- implemented in Qatar to vaccinate the population against sitting in public parks, beaches capacity of commercial com- hours of those facilities, and demic year. COVID-19. and the corniche, and permitting plexes to 30 percent, not allowing allowing the provision of their Under the project provisions, Marking the World Health Day, the WHO has launched individual sports such as walking, children under 16 years old to services at houses by one person the dates for the second round a campaign aimed at building a world with greater justice running and cycling, while con- enter, and closing all prayer areas only while adhering to the special exams for all grades (first to and health and called on leaders to ensure that everyone tinuing to close playgrounds and in these complexes, while con- requirements set by the Ministry twelfth - day and adult education) enjoys living and working conditions that are conducive sports equipment in those places. tinuing to close all food courts of Public Health in coordination for the academic year 2020/2021, to good health. The WHO also urged leaders to monitor -Continuing the work of inside the commercial complexes with the Ministry of Commerce starting from 8/18/2021, until health inequalities and ensure that all people are able to obliging all citizens and residents and allowing these restaurants to and Industry. 8/26/2021. access quality health services when and wherever they when leaving and moving for any make home deliveries and pickup Second: the conditions and The start of employees’ need them. reason that no more than four orders. precautionary measures set by the attendance in schools for the aca- people are in the vehicle, -Not to allow restaurants and Ministry of Public Health must be demic year 2021-2022, starting including the vehicle’s driver, with cafes to serve food and drinks taken into consideration. from 8/16/2021. MoPH: 940 new virus cases the exception of family members indoor or in open spaces and Third: the Ministry of Interior, Students start school for the residing in the same house when allow them to serve food and the Ministry of Public Health, the academic year 2021-2022, THE PENINSULA — DOHA leaving and moving in vehicles. drinks via pickup orders or to Ministry of Commerce and starting from 8/29/2021. -Continuing work with the deliver them inside the restaurant Industry, and other governmental Third: Approval of the The Ministry of Public Health yesterday announced the decision reducing the number of or cafe. bodies are in charge of taking the renewing the term for appointing registration of 940 new confirmed cases of COVID-19. people transported by buses to the -Continuing suspension of the necessary measures to ensure two judges for the Qatar Interna- Among them, 122 were from travellers returning from half of the bus capacity, while rental services of boats, tourist adherence to the precautionary tional Court to the Qatar Financial abroad. taking precautions measures. yachts and pleasure boats, with measures, all within their powers Centre. Also 527 people have recovered from the virus -Reducing the capacity of the exception of rental services and jurisdiction. Fourth: Approval of the bringing the total number of cases recovered in Qatar to operating metro services by no for family members residing in the Fourth: the decisions will go second executive program draft 167,480 . In addition, the Ministry announced eight new more than 20 percent, stopping same house, or the presence of a into effect starting Friday April. agreement for educational and deaths, aged 39, 44, 45, 52, 53, 73, 82 and 86 years of age, operation of those services on maximum of (5) persons who are 9,2021, until further notice. cultural cooperation between the five of which had a history of chronic disease. All were Fridays and Saturdays. Reducing not family members, provided The Cabinet noted the government of the State of Qatar receiving the necessary medical care. the capacity for operating public that they have completed doses measures that have been taken and the government of the Peo- The Ministry said that 987,673 COVID-19 vaccine transport services by no more of the (COVID-19) vaccine. regarding the adoption of the dis- ple’s Republic of China for the doses have been administered since the start of the than 20 percent, with stopping the -Continuing reducing the tance education system and the academic years (2021/2022 - programme. operation of those services in capacity of traditional markets to suspension of student attendance 2022/2023 - 2023/2024). THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 HOME 03 New measures at QNCC to improve vaccination process, cut wait time

THE PENINSULA — DOHA separate waiting areas for especially with the expansion men and women to ensure of the groups eligible for vac- The Ministry of Public Health privacy and comfort. cination, and is designed to has announced a set of new Additionally, in order to protect the general public, the measures that have been avoid exposure to the high medical and administrative taken to improve the entry outdoor temperatures and staff, and the organisers and waiting process for provide a safe waiting area for working at the vaccination patients wanting to get vacci- all, the centre’s main parking centre. nated against COVID-19 at spots are now being utilised The Ministry stated that Qatar National Convention as a point of arrival at the vac- authorities taking part in the Centre (QNCC). cination centre. development and implemen- Several new measures In addition to providing tation of the new measures have been taken to improve full security and safety include Hamad Medical Cor- the entry and waiting process requirements by assigning poration, Primary Health Care for patients wanting to get paramedics, identifying emer- Corporation, Ministry of vaccinated against COVID-19 gency exits and ensuring the Interior, Al Fazaa, Ministry of at the National Vaccination effectiveness of air condi- Administrative Development, Speaker of the Shura Council H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud meeting with Ambassador Center, which is located at tioning and ventilation Labour and Social Affairs, of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the State of Qatar, H E Rashad Ismayilov, yesterday. QNCC, the ministry said in a systems, a cafeteria service is QNCC and Qatar Red Crescent. tweet. now available to the public The new mechanism is A working team was while they wait to receive designed to make it easier to Shura Council Speaker meets Tunisia, formed, with participation their vaccination. receive the vaccine without from several authorities, to The plans are flexible and breaching any safety Azerbaijan and Kosovo ambassadors study and evaluate the arrival open to further modification protocols. and waiting mechanism with according to the needs of, and Patients will receive an QNA — DOHA Sami Al Saidi, Ambassador of cooperation and relations the objective of providing any changes in the centre’s SMS showing the time and the Republic of Azerbaijan H E between Qatar and the Republic greater levels of safety and work. date of their appointment and Speaker of the Shura Council H Rashad Ismayilov, and Ambas- of Tunisia, the Republic of comfort for everyone at the It further added that this must present their valid QID E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid sador of the Republic of Kosovo Azerbaijan and the Republic of centre. development is part of con- card when they attend. Al Mahmoud met separately to Qatar H E Amir Bairos Kosovo, and ways to support It was agreed to open the tinuous efforts to ensure the The vaccination centre’s yesterday with Ambassador of Ahmadi. and develop them, especially corridors of the ground floor safety and security of those operating hours are 7am to the Republic of Tunisia H E They reviewed the in the parliamentary field. for the public’s entry, with wishing to receive the vaccine, 10pm, seven days a week. Chairman of Sudan Sovereignty Council meets FM COVID-19 test price at private

QNA — DOHA facilities capped at QR300

Chairman of the Transitional QNA — DOHA healthcare staff at the health Sovereignty Council of the facilities and help them focus Republic of Sudan H E Lt. The Ministry of Public Health on providing services for General Abdel Fattah Al (MOPH) has decided to set a flat COVID-19 infected, suspected, Burhan, met at his residence rate for (COVID-19) swab test or those receiving the vaccine. yesterday Deputy Prime in private health facilities at Al Mulla affirmed that the Minister and Minister of QR300. This decision will be MoPH is monitoring the com- Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh effective from today (April 8). pliance of private health care Mohammed bin Abdulrahman The Director of Health facilities with the COVID-19 Al Thani. Facilities Licensing and Accred- swab pricing decision. She also During the meeting, they itation Department Noura commended the huge collab- reviewed the bilateral rela- Abdullah Al Mulla, pointed out oration of the private tions, especially in the field of that new pricing decision healthcare facilities and the investment, in addition to the comes to reduce the burden on important role they play in sup- latest developments in the individuals, especially after the porting the public sector in region. temporary suspension of combating COVID-19 pan- Both sides also empha- COVID-19 testing for indi- demic being a key partner of sized that the two countries viduals wanting to travel the public health sector. The would continue coordinating abroad. MoPH has announced a list of positions to serve their This decision came to 44 health facilities approved to interests. reduce the pressure on the carry out the COVID-19 tests. Minister of Qatar Airways inaugurates Culture and new Engine Facility Sports attends FROM PAGE 1 future to keep pace with all GCC meeting This became possible developments in aviation through centralising mainte- industry.” QNA — DOHA nance services for engines Akbar Al Baker said: “The and engine parts storage and continuous improvement and Minister of Culture and Sports increasing the number of its expansion of our Technical H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali engine production lines from Maintenance facilities is a key participated yesterday in the four to eight. element in supporting the 34th meeting of Their High- The facility which covers airline’s ongoing efforts to nesses and Their Excellencies a variety of aircraft engine rebuild our global network GCC Ministers of Youth and types has capacity of housing to more than 140 destinations Sports. a total of 80 engines of by the summer peak season.” The meeting dealt with a varying sizes in a temper- “With the new Engine number of joint GCC topics ature and humidity con- Facility, we have not only related to youth, led by imple- trolled environment, with created one of the most tech- menting the resolutions of Al two specialist ‘Dust Control’ nologically-advanced engine Ula summit in the youth field, rooms to limit the presence assembly and disassembly particularly related to empow- of dust and harmful particles, facilities available within the ering youth for the future and as well as a dedicated Supply commercial aviation industry documenting the efforts of Chain area to minimise to date, but also doubled our GCC culture and sport minis- waiting times for the ordering engine production capabil- tries in responding the and transportation of spare ities,” he said. COVID-19 pandemic. parts. “The facility’s extensive The meeting also dealt Minister Al Sulaiti, spoke dedicated Supply Chain area with the ministers strategic to media during the opening also means that we have plan, joint GCC projects, the ceremony pointing out, “This instant access to a ready projects that will be imple- achievement will boost the supply of engine parts and mented by youth and sports ongoing growth of the avi- equipment, reducing our ministries this year, and ation industry in Qatar and reliance on external suppliers enhancing international part- contribute to localising that and further supporting the nerships with regional and major industry. This event reliability and technical international organisations in also keeps pace with the capability of Qatar Airways’ the youth field. remarkable development in fleet of next-generation air- transportation sector in the craft,” he added. country in light of the For his part the Director Shura Council upsurge in development of Engine Facility at Qatar under the country’s wise Airways, Jassim Al Maadadi participates in leadership.” told The Peninsula that the This the first facility that work on the project started IPU meetings will serve all types of aircraft in January 2020 and finished and it is an advanced facility in January 2021 and with its QNA — DOHA said the Minister, further inauguration all maintenance saying, “As you know HIA is services and the process of The Shura Council is partici- 5-Star airport, and today we replacing aircraft engines will pating in a series of parlia- see the 5-star service facility be in one place instead of mentary meetings on Gender- here. The reserve of engines three or four different places Responsive Recovery Post- here is for fast replacement as before and this will save COVID-19, held by the Inter- in case of a malfunction of an time and efforts. Parliamentary Union (IPU) in aircraft’s engines. I am so “Currently we have nine partnership with UN Women. happy and proud to see many types of engines which are the The meetings will continue Qatari engineers are working most important for Qatar until April 21, via video con- here including the manager Airways,” Al Maadid pointed ference. The Shura Council is of the facility, and this is out, noting that the facility represented by H E Ali bin outcome of our investment provides services to aircraft in Abdullatif Al Misnad Al in human capital.” Qatar and airline companies Mohannadi, H E Mohammed He added, “The facility operating in the country. bin Ali Al Henzab, H E Dr. Hind will serve all airline com- “In future the facility may Bint Abdul Rahman Al Muftah, panies operating in Qatar. witness expansion to provide and H E Reem Bint Mohammed The State of Qatar will con- more services and include Al Mansoori, members of the tinue the course of carrying more type of engines,” Al Shura Council. out several projects in the Maadadi added. 04 HOME THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021

UK, S African variants major Kahramaa, Marubeni sign MoU cause for increasing cases FROM PAGE 1 to strengthen energy efficiency will be difficult for society, but Dr. Al Khal said that 30% of we have to curb the spread of those with symptoms test pos- the virus as we did before. THE PENINSULA — DOHA itive, and 11% of people test However, in the event of laxity positive after mingling with and an increase in cases, we Qatar General Electricity & others. Dr. Al Khal said, “The will impose more Water Corporation millionth dose of the restrictions. (Kahramaa) has signed a (COVID-19) vaccine has been “If everyone takes the Memorandum of Under- reached since the start of the responsibility and applies the standing (MoU) with the national program for vacci- precautionary measures during Japanese Company ‘Marubeni’ nation against coronavirus the next two weeks, then we to evolve an energy efficiency (COVID-19) in the State of will reduce the number of platform to strengthen the Qatar, and this is a significant cases.” efforts of the National achievement, as 26% of adults Saleh bin Majid Al Khulaifi, Program for Conservation and and 77% of people over the age Acting Undersecretary for Energy Efficiency ‘Tarsheed’ of 60 have received at least one Trade Affairs at the Ministry of through its new sustainability dose.” Commerce and Industry, said initiative and preserving the Responding to a question that the Ministry is keen to State’s energy resources. about the restrictions and their draw up a policy based on The MoU has been signed relaxing date, Dr. Al Khal said, commercial benefit and com- by Eng. Essa bin Hilal Al “I know with certainty that munity health, taking into Kuwari, Kahramaa President implementing these measures account previous policies that and Satoru Harada, Marubeni before the month of Ramadan were implemented in 2020. Chief Operating Officer. Kahramaa President, Eng Essa bin Hilal Al Kuwari Marubeni Chief Operating Officer, Satoru Harada The initiative will rely on the electronic control panels house, and other updates. This initiative comes as a National Program for Conser- One millionth vaccine dose administered and interactive measurement Moreover, the initiative will continuation of efforts provided vation and Energy Efficiency FROM PAGE 1 mechanism to measure the launch an effective app which by Kahramaa, represented by ‘Tarsheed’. customer’s consumptions and will enable the customer to Conservation and Energy Effi- The platform is one of its Manalo added: “I am thankful for the action taken by the Min- associated behavioral changes have a smart plan according ciency Department, to achieve latest initiatives that will con- istry of Public Health and the government to protect the citizens while using energy at house. to the actual home con- sustainability development tribute in achieving the and people in Qatar. I can feel calm that I got my vaccination and The customer will be sumption pattern to achieve according to Qatar Vision 2030 desired reduction and the can look forward to performing my duties with less concern.” required to fill in a question- the targeted reduction for and the objectives of sus- results will be announced in The National COVID-19 Vaccination Program is being delivered naire to determine the con- every customer. This initiative tainable development goals for the first half of 2020. at more than 35 vaccination centers across Qatar, with the majority sumption pattern plan for each will contribute to reduce elec- the community awareness to Kahramaa had signed a of doses administered through Primary Health Care Corpora- residential category according tricity and water consumption ensure the efficiency of elec- similar memorandum in April tion’s 27 primary health centers, the vaccination centre at Qatar to the type of housing, the in the residential sector by 5%, tricity and water in Qatar 2019 with the leading Jap- National Convention Centre and two drive-through vaccination number of residents in the and will last for a year. through the initiatives of the anese company. centres, in Lusail and Al Wakra. MME and MoTC sign MoU to develop Qatar’s air surveys

THE PENINSULA — DOHA Jabor bin Hamad bin Mohammed survey and update of digital maps this memorandum, the center Al Thani, and Director of the of the State of Qatar. will purchase the aircraft The Ministry of Municipality and Center for Geographic Infor- For his part, the Director of the according to the work systems Environment (MME), represented mation Systems Engineer Manaf Center for Geographic Information followed in the country, and by the Center for Geographic Ahmed Al Sada. Systems Engineer Manaf Ahmed select and purchase all the Information Systems(CGIS), and Sheikh Jabor bin Hamad bin Al Sada stated that the CGIS began equipment that will be installed the Ministry of Transportation and Mohammed Al-Thani affirmed working on owning and operating in it related to aerial survey Communications (MoTC), repre- that in order to achieve the public the aviation system specialized in work, including cameras, sented by the Qatar Aeronautical good and fruitful cooperation the work of air surveys for the State remote sensors, and computers Academy, have signed a memo- between the CGIS and the Qatar of Qatar, which has now reached for air surveys, in addition to randum of understanding for the Aeronautical Academy, the its final stages, in its capacity as the providing specialized operators operation, maintenance and Academy will employ all its national authority responsible for for the aforementioned devices, storage of the aerial survey system expertise in the field of operating, all the work of updating the digital the Academy will be respon- aircraft for the work of the coun- maintaining and storing these air- maps of the State of Qatar and sible for overseeing the stages Director General of Qatar Aeronautical Academy H E Sheikh Jabor try’s air surveys. craft and work to establish joint responsible for managing the and procedures for the delivery bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Thani, and Director of the Center The agreement was signed by and effective cooperation between state’s aerial survey system, in of the aircraft, providing the for Geographic Information Systems Eng. Manaf Ahmed Al Sada Director General of Qatar Aero- the two parties in the framework addition to many other tasks. pilot, and the periodic operation signing the agreement. nautical Academy H E Sheikh of implementing the work of aerial He said that according to and maintenance work. THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 HOME 05 HBKU’s CIS stresses digital role of Islamic finance in sustainable development

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With a focus on sustainable economic development after the pandemic, the Center for Islamic Economics and Finance (CIEF) at the College of Islamic Studies (CIS), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), held the fourth Interna- tional Conference on Islamic Finance (ICIF) from April 4-6, with the support of the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) Authority. Ambassador of Qatar to France H E Sheikh Ali bin Jassim Al Thani with the delegation of the French- The three-day conference Qatari Friendship Group. provided a platform for dialogue Yousuf Mohamed Al Jaida, Chief Executive Officer, QFC Authority and discussions to evaluate the Qatar’s Ambassador to France meets delegation opportunities and barriers for sus- distress; industry perspectives on valuable support of the Qatar tainable economic development sustainability and the 4IR; FinTech Financial Centre, and its role in under the “new normal”, which and sustainability scopes for highlighting new digital frontiers of French-Qatari Friendship Group has deepened the digital economy success; socioeconomic responses to promote economic and Fourth Industrial Revolution within IFE; and Islamic social resilience.” QNA – PARIS the Head of the French-Qatari highest standards of safety and (4IR). In the context of Islamic FinTech. Yousuf Mohamed Al Jaida, Friendship Group to dispel con- security for the participants in the finance and economy (IFE), aca- Dr. Syed Nazim Ali, Director Chief Executive Officer, QFC Ambassador of the State of Qatar cerns about the misinformation tournament. demic papers and policy-driven of the Research Division and Authority said: “We are honored to the French Republic H E reported in the British newspaper The meeting coincided with analyses highlighted the urgent CIEF, CIS, said: “The digital to have once again been part of Sheikh Ali bin Jassim Al Thani The Guardian about the condi- the signing of a joint statement need for a sustainable financing economy, though disruptive, HBKU’s International Con- met with the delegation of the tions of migrant workers in the by Pascal Brando and a number infrastructure that is agile, presents an opportunity to nav- ference on Islamic Finance, and French-Qatari Friendship Group State of Qatar. of French MPs in which they adaptable, and transformable after igate current industry disruptions contribute to understanding the in the French National Assembly, The message affirms the stressed that the FIFA World Cup the unprecedented economic and transition to a new, more profound sustainable impact headed by HE Pascal Brando, HE State of Qatar’s keenness to Qatar 2022 is a landmark downturn and global supply chain sustainable normal. Harnessing the Fourth Industrial Revo- Carole Bureau-Bonnard and a provide the best health and living moment in the history of the disruption caused by the converging technologies for an lution can have for our eco- number of parliamentarians. conditions to all residents of region, as it will be the first World COVID-19 pandemic. inclusive and human-centered nomic diversification strategy Bilateral cooperation rela- various nationalities. Cup ever to be held in the Arab Leading academics, future is an important part of if harnessed appropriately. The tions were reviewed during the For their part, members of world and in a Muslim country. researchers, postgraduate stu- that. The conference paved the conference achieved its aim of meeting, which was held within the French-Qatari Friendship They also praised the efforts dents, industry leaders, practi- way to initiate collaborations showing that the digital the framework of the existing Group in the French National made by those in charge of tioners, and policymakers tackled within and across various disci- economy can and must have an strategic dialogue between the Assembly hailed the country’s organizing this global sporting the moral nexus of sustainability plines for the advancement of integral role in amplifying the State of Qatar and the friendly ongoing preparations to host the event, and the achievements and IFE in the 4IR era. Presenta- this topic, with the common goal role of Islamic finance and French Republic. FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, and made by the State of Qatar in the tions deliberated the impact of IFE of contributing to Qatar’s devel- economy amid the challenges Sheikh Ali bin Jassim Al- the efforts made by the Qatari field of developing labor in the post-pandemic world; IFE opment as a knowledge-based of our post-pandemic economic Thani handed over a message to government to provide the legislation. resilience against economic economy. We acknowledge the recovery.” MES Indian School to introduce STEAM Robotics and AI education THE PENINSULA – DOHA taxonomy and varies with regular annual programme, a revolutionary world. experience is a vital aspect of art, and printing. This initiative syllabus and age group. which provides lessons for the The comprehensive work- any curriculum. Our educa- would enable students to A curriculum programme on “Our STEAM Robotics Edu- students from Kindergarten to shops would enable students of tional robotics kits are a self- become confident to be life- STEAM Robotics and Artificial cation laboratories are new and grade 9, which is integrated different learning methods to paced experiential learning long learners, promote an iter- Intelligence is planned to launch designed to create an inspira- with School ACP,” School Prin- develop their unique potential. package that helps students ative process of trial and error, in MES Indian School. This tional atmosphere for students cipal Hameeda Kadar said. Every educational product learn STEAM concepts in a prac- and use socially interactive, Science, Technology, Engi- to be change-makers by placing Applied Learning Program offered is meant to provide a tical approach. The package will open-ended learning to build neering, Arts and Mathematics the right tools in their hands, is designed to develop hard holistic approach to STEAM. include the KIT, Projects/ Activ- social, emotional, and creative (STEAM) Robotics Programme tinkering with our robotic kits skills and competencies in stu- “Our skilled facilitators are ities guide, and programming skills. Make coding, robotics, incorporates more hands-on, and STEAM Learning Models, dents concerning robotics, highly experienced with pos- software license,” Chief Coor- and STEAM concepts exciting play-way learning experiences foster collaboration, enhance coding, design, and computa- itive feedback given by teachers dinator Manmmadhan Mam- and fun through active and focuses on students’ learning and engender their tional thinking. This programme and students. Our facilitators bally said. engagement. STEAM is a signif- learning through Al technology creativity, curiosity. Our struc- ensures that students can build aim to build students’ skills and The school will also icant key to future success for and innovation. The pedagogy tured STEAM Robotics cur- the required skills and competencies and believe that introduce new technologies like students and the future of the is tailor-made based on Bloom’s riculum is designed for the knowledge to prepare them for having a hands-on learning drones, humanoids, CNC and 3D entire nation and region. 06 HOME THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 Significant number of people not familiar with labour changes: SESRI survey

THE PENINSULA – DOHA event revolves around migrant than half of the Qatari The majority of Qatari about this positive impact of workers, a topic that is of great respondents (57%) are at least nationals, higher-income, and labour law changes than Qatari The Social and Economic importance to society and has slightly familiar with the lower-income expatriates, think nationals (51%). Survey Research Institute appeared in strategies concerning changes. that the labour law changes About the future impact of (SESRI), a social scientific the population and the workforce The majority of Qatari have a positive impact on the labour law changes on the survey research initiative of over the past decades. Several nationals (70%) and higher- Qatar’s economy and the working conditions of foreign Qatar University, announced workshops and seminars have income expatriates (74%) think working and living conditions workers, resident expatriates the results of a study on ‘Qatar’s been organized locally and that the new legislative changes of expatriate residents. were more likely to strongly Labour Law Changes and regionally to discuss the issue of will make foreign workers less All respondents were also agree that these changes will Worker’s Welfare’ in a seminar construction workers in Qatar to dependent on their employers. asked about the potential impact make their lives much better recently. develop this profession and This percentage is significantly of the labor law changes on (50% for lower-income expa- From September 22, 2020, improve their working and living smaller among lower-income Qatar’s economy and expatriate triates & 52% for higher-income to January 19, 2021, SESRI sur- conditions and framed by laws expatriates (54%). Lower- workers’ living and working con- expatriates) as compared to veyed 2,760 individuals, that deal with their well-being income expatriates (42%) are ditions. Nearly two-thirds of Qatari nationals (38%). including Qatari nationals, during work and their presence also most likely out of the three Qataris (64%) and more than Almost two-thirds of higher-income and lower- in the community. The country population subgroups to think three-quarters of resident expa- respondents reported that their income expatriates, about has come a long way in this area. that the changes will make triates reported that these labour business or workplace was Prof. Abdoulaye Diop, Manager Qatar’s recent labour law Qatar has implemented various foreign workers more law changes made Qatar’s subject to the Ministry of of SESRI’s Research Department changes. The survey is based on laws that protect migrant worker dependent on their employers economy somewhat or much Administrative Development, a nationally representative rights, including recent improve- (compared to 28% of Qataris better. Expatriate residents were Labor and Social Affairs sample interviewed by tele- ments to labour laws.” migrant workers on the latest and 24% of higher-income more likely to give higher pos- (MADLSA) inspection. phone in nine different lan- “This study is funded by changes to Qatar’s labour laws.” expatriate respondents). itive impact ratings to the Based on the results, guages. The survey shows that Qatar Foundation through the The majority of Qatari More than three-quarters of economy as compared to Qataris. respondents who reported that both Qataris and resident expa- National Priorities Research nationals, higher-income, and higher-income expatriates Concerning the impact of the their business or workplace triates have a mostly positive Program (NPRP) 11th cycle. The lower-income expatriates, are (78%) and lower-income expa- labour law changes on the had received a MADLSA perception of the recent labour grant was won by Prof. not very familiar with Qatar’s triates (77%) said they think that working conditions of foreign inspection were more likely to law changes and their impact Abdoulaye Diop, Manager of labour law changes. Overall, the minimum wage should be workers, Qatari nationals (51%), abide by Qatar’s Wage Pro- on Qatar’s economy and expa- SESRI’s Research Department, few Qatari nationals, higher- increased from QR1000. higher-income expatriates tection System (WPS). Namely, triates’ working and living con- who, due to COVID-19, con- income and lower-income Overall, Qataris are least likely (60%), and lower-income expa- a higher proportion of these ditions. However, the findings ducted the interviews for the expatriates report being very to think that the minimum wage triates (60%) strongly agreed that respondents reported paying also indicate that public survey via telephone. The pres- familiar with the recent labour should be further increased. changing the labour laws will their employees through direct awareness surrounding the new entation will discuss the main law changes. Considering those More than half of Qatari improve the working conditions bank transfer (92%) than those legislative reforms remains low. findings of the study, which is who said they were only nationals (58%) think that the of foreign workers. Overall, res- who stated that their business Director of SESRI, Dr. to showcase the positions and somewhat familiar along with minimum wage should be kept ident expatriates (60%) were or workplace did not receive Kaltham Ali Al Ghanim said, “The perceptions of Qataris and the very familiar, slightly more or maintained at QR1000. more likely to strongly agree a MADLSA inspection (80%). Ferns N Petals expands operations in Qatar Lulu Hypermarket extends financial support to QSRSN

THE PENINSULA - DOHA technology and online business delivered to them at the services, providing person- doorstep.” Qatar’s e-commerce sales are alized gifting solutions online, “Ferns N Petals Qatar expected to reach over $3.2bn available to be delivered at the platform includes flowers, by 2022; Ferns N Petals sees doorstep of the recipients in cakes, plants, and the range of this as a rewarding market to India, UAE, Singapore and now personalized gifts from our cater to online gift solutions. also in Qatar.” brand. We will also bring the Qatar witnesses a robust “The pandemic situation other SME’s operating in Qatar rise in activity from the con- has forced people globally, in the gifting vertical to list their sumers using online shopping including those in Qatar, to products at our portal and get platforms to furnish their life- reinvent ways to celebrate international reach through our style needs since the outbreak websites in Qatar, UAE and of the COVID-19 pandemic in India. 2020, and this healthy "So, whether you are a local momentum continues. Qatari brand owned by a local As per the Qatar Financial or a company making products Center (QFC)-Refinitiv’s report, and operating in Doha as an many more companies and expat, our platform allows you consumers are shifting towards to expand your reach,” he e-commerce platforms, with small and big occasions and added. e-commerce sales estimated to enjoy festivals while being “Ferns N Petals Qatar has reach more than $3.2bn around away from family, friends and already associated with brands Dr. Mohamed Althaf, Director of Lulu Group, handing over the cheque to Taleb Abdullah Afifa, Board 2022. loved ones. With our delivery like Kaafe Chocolatier, Fnteer Member of Qatar Society for Rehabilitation of Special Needs. There is a rise in Qatar’s services now extending to and Zaffran Café (all Made in residents’ activities leveraging Qatar, Ferns N Petals digital Qatar products) with their THE PENINSULA — DOHA their devices to select and pur- gifting solutions aims to bridge products now live on our Qatar held at Lulu Hypermarket’s Rehabilitation of Special Needs chase a variety of products the gap created by the website and more in our regional headquarters located commenced its activities as a through e-commerce portals, COVID-19 outbreak on people’s pipeline. The leading retailer Lulu Hyper- on the D-Ring Road. The event charity society nearly two from daily essentials, groceries, lives. “For any Made in Qatar market has offered financial was attended by officials from decades back under the and electronics to even gifting "We ensure people express brands that would like to get support to the Qatar Society for Qatar Society for Rehabilitation Department of Social Affairs at solutions. their love on all kinds of occa- connected with us and market Rehabilitation of Special Needs of Special Needs and Lulu the Ministry of Labour and Amir Faizi, Business Head sions through customized their products through us can for purchase of medical Hypermarket. Social Affairs. The Society at Ferns N Petals – Qatar said: arrangements of flowers, cakes, reach us via our website or equipment as part of its This initiative is considered endeavours to facilitate social, “Since the post-COVID era, we chocolates, personalized gifts mobile number 00974- Corporate Social Responsibility as a contribution from Lulu mental, academic and healthy are investing heavily in and hampers, being directly 33396020,” said Faizi. (CSR) initiatives and its ongoing hypermarket in achieving Qatar rehabilitation for the people of endeavors towards humani- Society for Rehabilitation of special needs in the society tarian causes. Special Needs’ vision to shed commensurate with the Islamic A cheque for QR100,000 light to the lives of people with principles, traditions, customs was handed over by Dr. special needs by extending and peculiarities of the Qatari Mohamed Althaf, Director of solace to their insecurities, society, considering the inno- Lulu Group to Taleb Abdullah bringing them to the main- vation of services and programs Afifa, Board Member of Qatar stream and making them eli- to pace with the urban and Society for Rehabilitation of gible for their entitlements. humanitarian developments Special Needs in a ceremony The Qatar Society for taking place in the society. QU Health IPEC holds mental health activity

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Qatar University (QU) Health Interprofes- sional Education Committee (IPEC) in Qatar, which consists of representatives from all healthcare schools in Qatar, organized its second activity titled ‘Interprofessional Education (IPE) Activity on Mental Health.’ Over 150 students and 13 facilitators attended the event. Professions and colleges involved are Biomedical Sciences, Human Nutrition, and Public Health from College of Health Sciences (CHS), College of Med- icine (CMED), and College of Pharmacy (CPH). This IPE activity aimed to introduce the concept of interprofessional education by promoting collaboration between different healthcare professions. The session started with an introductory video by QU-CHS Associate Professor of Public Health and lead facilitator Dr. Lily O’Hara. Discovery interviews were conducted to learn about other health professional dis- ciplines within the group. A case study was introduced to students on mental health about a 23-year-old female. They looked at her vital signs, nutrition intake, and physical assessment and addressed the mental health and services available for her. Dr. Lily O’Hara said, “Bringing students from different health disciplines together to learn about, with, and from each other is an incredibly valuable experience for them. In this event, we had a case study of a young woman whose mental, physical, and social factors impact her social health and well- being. This case study was highly relevant to young people today, as they are dealing with many similar issues.” THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 MIDDLE EAST 07 Iran says its ship Saviz was attacked in Red Sea

REUTERS — DUBAI Gantz declined. But he added, “The explosion occurred according to the Maariv news Iran’s Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday morning near website: “We have offensive yesterday an Iranian ship, the the Djibouti coast and systems operating 24/7, 365 Saviz, had been attacked in the caused minor damage days a year and they are ready Red Sea, a day after media with no casualties. The to go into action in any arena reports that the vessel had been and over any distance.” hit with limpet mines. vessel was a civilian ship Iran has refused to rec- “The explosion occurred on stationed there to secure ognise Israel since its Islamic Tuesday morning near the Dji- the region against Revolution in 1979 that toppled bouti coast and caused minor pirates. The issue is the US-backed Shah. Israel sees damage with no casualties. The under investigation,” the Iran’s nuclear programme as a vessel was a civilian ship sta- threat to its existence. tioned there to secure the foreign ministry The shipping incidents have region against pirates,” ministry spokesman Saeed occurred since US President spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh Khatibzadeh said. “ Joe Biden took office in said. “The issue is under January, pledging to rejoin investigation”. Iran’s 2015 nuclear con- It is the latest in a series of Israeli officials declined to tainment deal with six world reported attacks on Israeli- or comment on Tuesday’s powers — abandoned by his Iranian-owned ships since late reported attack on the Iranian predecessor Donald Trump in Uighurs in Turkey protest against China February, for which the two ship. When asked by reporters a move welcomed by Israel — sides have each accused the for comment on the attack, if Tehran returns to full com- Ethnic Uighur demonstrators waving East Turkestan flags during a protest against China near the other of being responsible. Israeli Defence Minister Benny pliance with the accord. Chinese Consulate in Istanbul, Turkey, yesterday.

Palestinian US boosts aid to Palestinians as some in Congress cry foul President ‘in AP — WASHINGTON Monday. “As an essential part assistance for infrastructure, questioning whether all of the of which passed with strong of this effort, US government health and civil society groups millions of people it serves are bipartisan support. good health’ The Biden administration is assistance seeks to build pro- the administration told Con- actually refugees. The resumption of moving again to increase US fessional and accountable gress about on March 28 and Just a week before leaving assistance comes days after the AP — OCCUPIED JERUSALEM assistance to the Palestinians security and criminal justice $15m in coronavirus assistance office, Pompeo accused nonpartisan Government as it fires up a new Mideast institutions that maintain it announced a day earlier. UNRWA of being “riddled with Accountability Office issued a The Palestinian president has policy that is directly opposite security and stability in the The administration is also waste, fraud (and) concerns of report that found the US gov- received a clean bill of health of the one pursued by its pred- West Bank, uphold the rule of expected as early as this week support to terrorism” and said ernment had not properly ahead of the anticipated Pales- ecessor. law, contribute directly to to announce a resumption in there are fewer than 200,000 vetted all of its Palestinian tinian elections next month, For the third time in two regional security, and protect funding to the UN agency that legitimate Palestinian refugees funding recipients for US anti- his office said yesterday. weeks, the administration has the population.” deals with Palestinian refugees, still alive. terrorism criteria as required The 85-year-old Mahmoud either publicly announced or The Biden administration the United Nations Relief and Pro-Israel lawmakers are by law between 2015 and 2019, Abbas flew to Germany earlier quietly notified Congress of its has made no secret of its belief Works Agency. signaling opposition to the when Trump severed most of this week for medical exami- intent to provide the Pales- that former President Donald The Trump administration renewed funding, noting in par- the aid. nations and will return to the tinians with tens of millions of Trump’s approach to the had slashed funding to the Pal- ticular that federal laws prohibit While it said the US Agency West Bank today, according to dollars in aid. On Monday, the Mideast, which alienated the estinians to almost nothing and direct assistance to the Pales- for International Development the official Palestinian news administration informed law- Palestinians, was flawed and ended support for the UN tinian Authority or the provision had followed the law with agency Wafa. Abbas’s office makers that it would give the made prospects for peace less agency as it adopted a staunchly of aid that benefits the PA as respect to people and groups it said he was “in good health.” Palestinians $40m for law likely. pro-Israel approach in its han- long as it continues to pay sti- funded directly, it had not done The longtime Palestinian enforcement and security costs The new assistance appears dling of the Middle East. pends to people convicted of the same with entities, known leader is a heavy smoker with in the West Bank and Gaza. aimed at encouraging the Pal- Former Secretary of State anti-US or anti-Israel attacks as sub-grantees, to which those a history of heart problems “Supporting an enduring estinians to return to negotia- Mike Pompeo and former US and their families. groups then distributed tax- and has not selected a suc- solution to the Israeli-Pales- tions with Israel, though there Ambassador to the United Already, a handful of payer dollars. cessor. Abbas took over as tinian conflict is a core US is no indication it will have that Nations Nikki Haley had cham- Republicans are preparing to “If funding resumes, we rec- caretaker president following national security objective,” the effect and Israel has yet to pioned the removal of funding challenge the aid, maintaining ommend measures to improve the death of the iconic Pales- State Department said in the weigh in publicly. for the relief agency, suggesting that it violates the so-called compliance,” said the GAO tinian leader Yasser Arafat in notification, which was dated The newly allocated $40m it was responsible for perpetu- Taylor Force and the Anti-Ter- report, which was released last 2004. Abbas was elected to a April 2 but transmitted only on comes on top of $75m in ating Palestinian poverty and rorism Clarification acts, both week. four-year term as president in 2005, but has remained in office ever since. Turkey sentences The Palestinians have not Iran, Iraq set new records in virus infections held elections since 2006, dozens to life when the Islamic group Hamas AP — TEHRAN AZN.L COVID-19 vaccine and World Health Organization. said authorities had “lost won a landslide victory in par- terms over 2016 50,000 doses of Sinopharm COVAX, an international collab- control” over what he called liamentary elections. Abbas Iran shattered its daily record vaccines last month. The health oration to deliver the vaccine “the rebellious COVID-19 has called for parliamentary failed coup for new infections for the ministry said yesterday that equitably across the world, dragon.” Wednesday’s infection elections on May 22 and a second consecutive day 118,670 people have been vac- delivered its first shipment to Iran count easily surpassed the pre- presidential election on July 31, ANKARA AP — yesterday as cases soared to cinated so far. on Monday from the Netherlands vious record set Tuesday of but it remains unclear whether A Turkish court sentenced 20,954, a worrisome trend after Iran’s severe surge triggered containing 700,000 Oxford- 17,430 infections, marking the the votes will take place. dozens of people, including more than a year of the country new movement restrictions in AstraZeneca vaccine doses. worst pandemic days since former soldiers attached to the battling the worst outbreak in major cities yesterday following Health Minister Saeed peaks reached over four Iran claims arrest presidential guard regiment, the Middle East. a two-week public holiday for Namaki ordered all parks, res- months ago. to life imprisonment yesterday Iraq also registered its Nowruz, the Persian New Year, taurants, bakeries, beauty Yesterday’s case count of ‘Israeli spy’ over their involvement in the biggest daily increase in coro- which drove millions to travel to salons, malls and bookstores brought the total number of BLOOMBERG — TEHRAN 2016 failed coup attempt navirus infections yesterday the Caspian coast and other closed on Wednesday in infected in the outbreak to over against President Recep with 8,331 cases, taking its total popular vacation spots, pack Tehran, the capital, and the 1.9 million, according to official Iran said an Israeli agent is Tayyip Erdogan’s government, so far to 859,622 including markets to shop for new clothes other 250 cities and towns figures. The health ministry among several people arrested the state-run Anadolu Agency 14,572 deaths, Reuters reported and toys and congregate in declared to be so-called “red reported 193 new virus deaths in the country’s northwest on reported. quoting the health ministry. homes for parties in defiance of zones,” which have the most over the last 24 hours, raising the suspicion of spying for foreign A total of 497 defendants In February, the Iraqi gov- government health guidelines. severe restrictions in place and country’s death toll to 63,699 - the countries, the Tasnim news had been on trial since 2017 ernment imposed a nationwide There appears to be no the highest virus positivity rate. highest toll in the region. Earlier agency reported, citing a local for attempting to seize the night-time curfew on weekdays respite in sight, as the country’s Over 85% of the country now this year, the country kicked off intelligence official. military headquarters in and 24 hours at weekends, fol- vaccine rollout lags, with only has the “red” or “orange” its coronavirus inoculation cam- The report didn’t name or Ankara, occupying the head- lowing a sharp rise in COVID-19 some 200,000 vaccine doses infection status, authorities said. paign, administering a limited specify the number of people quarters of the state broad- infections. Iraq received administered in the country of Earlier this week, Namaki number of Russian Sputnik V vac- arrested or give details of the caster TRT, and of forcing a 336,000 doses of AstraZeneca’s 84 million, according to the warned of a further surge and cines to medical workers. allegations against them. television broadcaster to read out a statement on behalf of the coup-plotters. The massive trial was one Lebanon’s vaccination of refugees, migrants lags: Rights group of hundreds of trials against suspected members of a AP — BEIRUT platform, Majzoub said. network led by US-based Nearly 200,000 Palestinian cleric Fethullah Gulen, whom Lebanon’s vaccination refugees living in Lebanon face Ankara accuses of orches- campaign has been slow and widespread discrimination and trating the failed attempt. risks leaving behind some of the are barred from government Gulen, a former Erdogan ally, country’s most vulnerable services, including health care. denies the accusation. people, including Palestinian Many who spoke to HRW said The court in the outskirts and Syrian refugees, as well as they have little trust in the reg- of Ankara sentenced 32 migrant workers, a leading istration process and fear they defendants to life, including rights group said. would still be asked to pay a fee six who received aggravated Human Rights Watch said for the free vaccine. life terms without the possi- only 18% of Palestinian refugees Similarly, migrant workers, bility of parole, Anadolu and 17% of Syrian refugees eli- who work under a restrictive reported. gible for vaccines have gotten sponsorship system, said they Among those sentenced to their shots, many citing either have little information on the the aggravated life term is a lack of information about vaccine vaccine. former lieutenant colonel who access or fear of security The government’s vacci- forced the anchorwoman to measures as a reason for not reg- nation campaign was widely read the statement, a former istering to get the vaccine. criticized when lawmakers colonel accused of giving the By comparison, 24% of reg- jumped the line, receiving vac- order for the takeover of the istered Lebanese have been cines in secret before desig- TRT building and a former vaccinated amid vaccines People walk at Burj Al Barajneh refugee camp in Beirut, Lebanon. nated priority groups. To speed major who led a team that shortages. “The entire vacci- up delays, the government has attempted to take over the nation campaign is slow and population now living under the caused many to be hesitant. of the Pfizer vaccine, funded by allowed the private sector to military headquarters, the opaque, but refugees, migrant poverty line. According to the New York- the World Bank and 33,600 secure 1 million doses of the agency said. workers are lagging behind Lebanon has so far regis- based group, only 20% of an doses of the AstraZeneca Russian vaccine Sputnik. The court also sen- even more,” said Aya Majzoub, tered over 480,000 coronavirus estimated 1.5 million Syrian ref- vaccine through the UN-led Private companies and civil tenced one person to 61 a Human Rights Watch cases and more than 6,000 ugees in Lebanon have the legal COVAX program that provides groups can also apply to pur- years in prison while 106 researcher for Lebanon. deaths - including 239 Syrian right to live here, leaving many for lower-income countries. chase vaccines and politicians defendants received terms The small country of about refugees. A surge in infections afraid of arbitrary detention or HRW urged the Lebanese are buying vaccines for their ranging from six to 16 years. 6 million is facing its worst eco- prompted authorities to keep a arrest if they register for vac- government to make it clear to constituents. “This also means Other defendants were nomic and financial crisis to nationwide lockdown for cines through a government- refugee groups that refugees that refugees and migrant either acquitted or were not date, with tens of thousands out weeks. Security fears among managed platform. “will not be arrested or workers,” with no one to pay given prison terms, Anadolu of work, basic food prices refugees over Lebanon’s So far, Lebanon has deported if they register” for for their shots will again “be left said. soaring, and more than half the restrictive residency policies received almost 297,180 doses vaccines on a government behind,” Majzoub said. 08 VIEWS THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 Olympics boycott risks becoming Established in 1996 CHAIRMAN the next big US-China battle DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI

BLOOMBERG EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI Over the past month, [email protected] diplomats in Beijing have been talking more about the pros and cons of boycotting ACTING MANAGING EDITOR the 2022 Winter Olympics in MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED Beijing — particularly as [email protected] leading global brands came under attack for statements on human rights abuses in the DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR far west region of Xinjiang. MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI While most doubted there [email protected] would be an outright boycott, they noted that a lot can change before the opening ceremony 10 months from now. The dip- lomats, who asked not to be EDITORIAL named, also raised the possi- bility that top dignitaries would stay away from Beijing even Confronting surge in virus cases while athletes compete and sponsors take part. THERE has been a steady rise in COVID-19 cases Either way, the diplomats over the past few weeks. Yesterday alone, the country agreed on one thing: No Staff members sitting near a board with signs of the 2022 Olympic Winter Games, at the National reported 940 new cases and eight deaths. Qatar had country wants to be the first Aquatics Center, known colloquially as the “Ice Cube”, in Beijing, recently. done exceedingly well during the first wave of the to call for a boycott. COVID-19 infection, but the emergence of COVID-19 This week the debate not accept that,” Zhao told Olympic boycott. to tarnish China’s image, but variants, especially the UK variant, has caused the erupted on the global stage reporters in Beijing. “We have “If that happens, it will be a the chances of an actual alarming surge recently. after State Department confidence that we will work small group of white boycott are low,” she said. To control the spread of the infection, the gov- spokesman Ned Price on with all parties to ensure a supremacist nations pitted But US-China tensions are ernment has announced a couple of new measures, Tuesday said a boycott was successful and extraordinary against the Olympic family, a much higher now than in including limiting attendance at public and private work- “on the agenda” and “some- Olympic grand event.” display of their self-isolation,” 2008, and President Joe Biden places to 50 percent; and shutting hair dressers, indoor thing that we certainly wish to While the Beijing Hu Xijin, editor of the state- has come under increasing dining at restaurants, and public transport on weekends. discuss” with allies. Although Olympics aren’t until next linked Global Times, wrote on pressure from some human The Ministry of Public Health has said that the new a senior State Department year, every government and Twitter. rights groups and lawmakers variant is much more contagious and spreads more official later said the US hasn’t foreign company that does Despite insistence from to boycott the games over easily than the existing strain. Due to this the number discussed any joint boycott business in China must now International Olympic Com- what his own administration of COVID-19 patients requiring hospitalisation has also with other countries, China take a position on partici- mittee officials that sports and has called the genocide of risen significantly. More than 2,100 patients remain in immediately went on offense. pation in the Games. As last politics are separate, the mostly Muslim ethnic hospital, 431 of them in the intensive care units. Foreign Ministry spokesman month’s government-backed Olympics have frequently Uyghurs. John Katko, a The country has rolled out a massive COVID-19 vac- Zhao Lijian said yesterday that boycott of retailers like been enmeshed in compli- Republican congressman cination campaign, with around 26,000 people being any US attempts to criticize Hennes & Mauritz showed, cated developments in world from New York, on Tuesday vaccinated daily. Over a million doses of Moderna and China over alleged forced the decision for companies affairs and controversies for said Biden should push for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines have already been adminis- labour in Xinjiang were will ultimately impact their decades, from the 1936 games Games to be moved from tered in the country. Vaccination notwithstanding, the “doomed to be a flop” and ability to access China’s in Nazi Germany to the 2008 China “to a country that public must follow all the preventive measures at homes, would be met with “firm market of 1.4 billion people. games in Beijing. The US led a embodies democracy and the workplaces, and markets. These preventive measures, rejection and strong response” “There would likely be boycott of the 1980 Olympics spirit of the Olympic charter.” health officials have said, are the best bet against the from the Chinese people. A bans imposed on select in Moscow in response to the US Senator Mitt Romney, infection, until all eligible adults are vaccinated. boycott, he said, would harm imports of products from Soviet Union’s invasion of who played a key role in sal- Due to increased hospitalisation, the Ministry has the interests of athletes and countries that signal a will- Afghanistan, while the Soviets vaging Salt Lake City’s hosting expanded the capacity at hospitals and in intensive “runs counter to the spirit of the ingness to shun the games boycotted the Los Angeles of the 2002 Winter Olympics, care units. Seven facilities have been dedicated to Olympic charter.” and boycotts of companies games four years later. has argued that the US should care for COVID-19 patients. Al Wakra Hospital, one “The US Olympic Com- from those countries,” said Still, it’s not clear how send its athletes to the Beijing of the largest hospitals in the country, has been con- mittee and the rest of the Bonnie Glaser, a senior much international support games. But, he wrote in a New verted into an exclusive COVID-19 facility. international community will adviser for Asia at the Wash- there would be for a boycott. York Times column last Minister of Public Health H E Dr. Hanan Mohammed ington-based Center for Stra- Previous boycotts during the month, American spectators Al Kuwari also visited Al Wakra Hospital on Tuesday While past boycotts tegic and International Cold War had little lasting and politicians should stay where she reviewed the arrangements in place to deal have occasionally Studies. “If the US is seen as impact on political issues of home. US corporations, he with the caseload. The Minister also met senior members leading the boycott, it is likely the day and the International added, shouldn’t send delega- of Hamad Medical Corporation’s Tactical Command helped reduce global that US-China relations would Olympic Committee has been tions of executives and clients Group and Al Wakra Hospitals leadership team. support for countries significantly deteriorate.” largely focused on getting this to the quadrennial event “We have taken a proactive approach to our capacity China’s reaction to calls year’s delayed Summer either, he added. expansion strategy throughout the pandemic, ensuring such as South Africa for a boycott followed the Olympics in Japan on track. While past boycotts have that we always have sufficient bed capacity to meet any under apartheid, China same pattern as other crit- In 2008, US President occasionally helped reduce future increases in demand for hospital admission. By icism aimed at the Com- George W. Bush attended the global support for countries adding Al Wakra Hospital to our COVID-19 hospital is a different story, munist Party: Hit back hard opening ceremony of the such as South Africa under network we now have an extra 400 hospital beds and according to Jules via state-run media while Olympics in Beijing despite apartheid, China is a different 150 intensive care beds available for COVID-19 patients, Boykoff, a professor deploying censorship among calls to boycott, according to story, according to Jules should the demand require them,” the Minister said. the masses. Authorities Zhou Qi, director of the Boykoff, a professor at Pacific Designating seven facilities for COVID-19 patients at Pacific University in banned searches for “boy- Institute of Global Gov- University in Oregon who has has also enabled the health authorities to continue pro- Oregon. cotting Winter Olympics” on ernance and Development at written several books about viding regular healthcare services at other facilities. Chinese social-media Tongji University in Shanghai. the politics of the Olympics. Additionally, patients attending non-COVID-19 facil- platform Weibo, while an “The US is likely to make a “South Africa was in a ities for regular medical services can do so safely, editor of a leading newspaper lot of noise over boycotting the much weaker geostrategic without the risk of infection. said Washington shouldn’t Beijing Winter Olympics, as it position than China finds dare threaten China with an will not give up an opportunity itself in today,” he said. UN warns over 27 million Congolese suffer from acute hunger D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR EMAIL: [email protected] EDITH M LEDERER consumption gaps, resulting in the central African nation by FAO’s Congo representative, AP very high levels of acute mal- 2002. Sporadic violence has Aristide Ongone Obame, said EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 FAX: +974 4455 7758 nutrition and excess deaths. continued to plague the vast in a statement. “The main Two UN agencies warned WFP’s representative in nation’s mineral-rich eastern agricultural season is around MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 Tuesday that over 27 million Congo, Peter Musoko, said: border region where local the corner and there is no people in Congo are suffering “For the first time ever we militias regularly clash with time to waste.” DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 from acute hunger, a record were able to analyze the vast one another, as well as with Expressing great concern high representing almost one- majority of the population, Congolese army forces and at the recurring conflicts in LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 third of the conflict-wracked and this has helped us to come perpetrators of the 1994 eastern Congo, he said, “social BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 African nation’s estimated closer to the true picture of the Rwandan genocide. and political stability is population of 87 million. staggering scale of food inse- The FAO and WFP said essential to strengthen food SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 The Food and Agriculture curity in the DRC.” Those are “conflict remains a key cause of security and boost the resil- Organization and the World the initials of the country’s hunger with large swathes of ience of vulnerable ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 Food Program said those official name, the Democratic the conflict-affected eastern populations.” email: [email protected] facing acute hunger include Republic of Congo. provinces of Ituri, North and WFP said it is is providing PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 nearly 7 million people at the According to FAO and South Kivu and Tanganyika, as food to 8.7 million people in email: [email protected] emergency level on the stand- WFP, the Congolese most well as the central region of the Congo and FAO said it aims to ardized IPC scale which ana- affected are the displaced, Kasais, the scene of recent con- assist 1.1 million people in MARKETING: TEL: 4455 7657 lyzes the nature of a food refugees, returnees, host fam- flict, the worst hit.” Other key areas of high acute food inse- email: [email protected] security crisis. ilies, those affected by floods, factors include the slump in curity with assistance to farm The estimated 27.3 million landslides, fires and other Congo’s economy and the and raise livestock. ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 857 Congolese need urgent action natural disasters and the socio-economic impact of the WFP’s Musoko said Congo FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] to save lives, reduce gaps in poorest people in landlocked COVID-19 pandemic, they said. should be able to feed its CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 food availability, and protect and urban and nearby areas. “We need to urgently people. “We cannot have email: [email protected] livelihoods, the agencies said. The UN Security Council focus on growing food where children going to bed hungry At the IPC emergency level, at imposed sanctions on Congo it is needed most, and on and families skipping meals SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 least 20 percent of households after the end of back-to-back keeping people’s sustenance- for an entire day,” he said in a FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected] face extreme food wars that destroyed much of giving animals alive,” the statement.

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar The EU and China should respect each other and eliminate interference. China is willing to work /Peninsula_Qatar with the global community to promote fair and reasonable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines and /ThePeninsulaNewspaper opposes vaccine nationalism. +974 6698 6188 Xi Jinping, President of China THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 AFRICA 09 Egypt warns Ethiopia amid dam deadlock

AP & BLOOMBERG — CAIRO/ADDIS ABABA Egypt, which relies on the Nile River for more than 90% of its Ethiopia’s foreign ministry said in a protect its water and its people.” water supplies, fears a devastating impact if the dam is operated statement on Twitter. “The positions Options at Egypt’s disposal include Egypt’s president warned Ethiopia contesting the filling of the dam ahead turning to international bodies such as yesterday that his government will not without taking its needs into account. Ethiopia says the $5bn dam of the conclusion of an agreement has the United Nations Security Council, tolerate any moves by Addis Ababa that is essential, arguing that the vast majority of its population lacks no basis in law and contravenes Ethi- he said in other comments carried by would reduce Egypt’s share of water opia’s inherent right to utilize its Egyptian channel Extra News. from the Nile River. electricity. Addis Ababa, meanwhile, plans to proceed with the natural resource.” Military intervention is one of the The warning — the second one in second phase of filling a giant dam on the main tributary of the Several days of talks hosted by the least likely routes Egypt will follow to just over a week — came after the latest African Union ended on Tuesday with end the impasse, according to Riccardo round of talks between Egypt, Ethiopia Nile River, as it dismissed calls to bring in more international no progress on ending the impasse Fabiani, North Africa project director and Sudan over sharing the water mediators to resolve a dispute over the reservoir. between Ethiopia and the downstream at the International Crisis Group. failed to make progress. The three nations of Egypt and Sudan. “Egypt’s threats are best under- nations are deadlocked in a yearslong Ethiopia is developing a stood as a way of grabbing the inter- dispute over a giant dam Addis Ababa Sudan’s Irrigation Minister Yasser and share data on the dam’s operation 6,000-megawatt power plant at the national community’s attention and is building on the Nile River’s main Abbas echoed Al Sissi’s remarks, telling to avoid flooding and protect its own GERD and is expected to begin a putting pressure on the US, EU and tributary. reporters in Khartoum that Sudan and power-generating dams on the Blue Nile, second filling of the reservoir when the other external players to step in,” he Egypt and Sudan argue that Ethi- Egypt may take the dispute to the UN the main tributary of the Nile River. The next rainy season begins in July. Egypt, said. “Cairo knows very well that even opia’s plan to add 13.5 billion cubic Security Council and urging the global Blue Nile meets with the White Nile in which depends on the Nile for most of a successful military attack would not meters of water in 2021 to the dam’s community to step in before it’s “too late.” Khartoum. From there, the Nile winds its fresh-water needs, is opposed to any solve this problem, because Ethiopia reservoir on the Blue Nile is a threat to There are concerns the dispute, northward through Egypt and flows into development it says will impact the would start again working on the dam, them. which centers on how quickly Ethiopia the Mediterranean Sea. downstream flow of the river, a and would isolate Egypt interna- Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al may be allowed to fill and replenish Abbas, the Sudanese minister, said position that’s echoed by mutual tionally, making a deal on this issue Sisi said in televised comments that the reservoir and how much water it Ethiopia’s dam threatens at least 20 neighbor Sudan. impossible in the future.” “all options are open” should Egypt’s would release downstream if a multi- million Sudanese, roughly half the Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah Sudan had proposed at the latest share be “touched.” He urged Addis year drought occurs, could escalate country’s population. “That’s not an Al Sisi last week warned that any talks that the US and European Union Ababa to cooperate with Cairo and into a military conflict. exaggeration,” he said. Ethiopia, mean- attempt to take “a drop of Egypt’s be added as mediators, a position that Khartoum to avert sliding into conflict. Egypt, which relies on the Nile while, plans to proceed with the water” would have a destabilizing Ethiopia rejected. “To build with each other is much River for more than 90% of its water second phase of filling a giant dam on effect on the whole region. It was one “The two countries followed an better than conflict,” he said. supplies, fears a devastating impact if the main tributary of the Nile River, as of his strongest statements yet in the approach that seeks to undermine the Last week, Al Sisi warned of the dam is operated without taking its it dismissed calls to bring in more inter- years-long dispute over the GERD. African Union-led process and to take regional “instability that no one can needs into account. Ethiopia says the national mediators to resolve a dispute On Tuesday, Egyptian Foreign Min- the matter out of the African platform,” imagine” without a legally binding $5bn dam is essential, arguing that the over the reservoir. ister Sameh Shoukry told pan-Arab TV the Ethiopian foreign ministry said. agreement on operating the dam, vast majority of its population lacks “The second-year filling of the channel Al Arabiya that his country More talks under the auspices of the based on international law and norms electricity. Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam will “and its institutions have different sce- continental body are expected in the governing cross-border rivers. Sudan wants Ethiopia to coordinate be carried out as scheduled,” narios to deal with this situation to third week of April, it said. Mozambique seeks targeted foreign support to help tackle insurgency

REUTERS — JOHANNESBURG isn’t clear from the beginning what can be done by the Mozambique has told the inter- country itself and what can be national community what done by allies,” he added. support it needs to deal with an Islamic State-linked insur- Islamic State-linked insur- gents have been increasingly gency, but for reasons of sover- active since 2017 in the eignty it will tackle some northern Cabo Delgado aspects of the problem unas- province where Palma is sisted, its president said located, although it is unclear yesterday. whether they have a unified Filipe Nyusi (pictured), was aim. Nyusi said those who had speaking two weeks after an escaped the violence carried attack by insurgents on the “traumas that will forever mark coastal town of Palma, near its Afungi site outside Palma their lives”. natural gas projects worth tens when the militants appeared The country’s main oppo- of billions of dollars that are to be approaching, but the sition party, Renamo, this week meant to transform the army has since said the town urged the government to seek southern African country’s is secure. overseas help to fight the Ramadan preparation economy. “We know in which areas militants. Southern African bloc SADC we need support and which Former colonial power Por- Workers spray disinfectant in Al Hussein mosque as it is being prepared for prayers during the holy is holding a two-day meeting areas are up to us, Mozam- tugal has said it is ready to send month of Ramadan, following the outbreak of the coronavirus, in Cairo, Egypt, yesterday. started yesterday to consider a bicans, to solve,” Nyusi said 60 soldiers to Cabo Delgado regional response to the insur- in an address broadcast on help train Mozambican forces gency, while the United States state TV station TVM that did but that a bilateral agreement Morocco will keep night curfew during Ramadan already has a small Army not specify what issues he on the mission was still being Special Forces team in Mozam- would seek international finalised. REUTERS — RABAT resolve to counter new variants begin on April 13 and run through bique on a training mission. help for. Portuguese opposition law- of the coronavirus. May 12. Moroccan law prohibts The government has said “Those who arrive from makers want their government Morocco will keep its nightly The decision to keep the 8 public eating by day during the dozens died in the latest abroad will not replace us, to persuade Mozambique to curfew in place during the pm -6 am curfew will hurt res- fasting period. Morocco will also assault, and aid groups believe they will support us. This is accept more international Muslim holy month of Ramadan taurants, shops and markets that maintain until June financial aid tens of thousands were dis- not about pride, it’s about assistance and have requested when people gather after make most of their money in the for workers in some of sectors placed. French energy major sovereignty.” a parliamentary hearing with breaking their fast at sunset, the evenings, especially during hardest hit by the COVID-19 Total withdrew all staff from No war could be won “if it the foreign minister. government said, underlining Ramadan, which this year will pandemic including tourism. Sudan group: Death toll in Darfur tribal violence now at 87 Police probe soccer coach AP — CAIRO conflict often falls along ethnic have declared a state of emer- workers heading to U.N. ware- Violence in Darfur often lines. gency in West Darfur and houses in Genena. No causal- falls along religious and ethnic firing gun at The death toll from tribal The latest bout of fighting deployed more troops in efforts ities were reported from that lines, with tribes claiming Arab violence that erupted over the grew out of a shooting on Sat- to contain the violence. shooting, it said. heritage, like the Rizeigat, Zambian game weekend in Sudan’s Darfur urday that killed two people from The Sudanese doctors’ com- Several health facilities fighting with those of African region climbed to 87 yesterday the non-Arab Masalit tribe in a mittee in West Darfur, said it were also attacked, and medical descent, such as the Masalit. AP — LUSAKA, ZAMBIA as a local medical group also camp for displaced people in counted at least 37 more fatal- workers still faced difficulties Sudan is on a fragile path to reported attacks on healthcare Genena, the capital of West ities yesterday, bringing the in transporting the wounded to democracy after a popular Police in Zambia are investi- workers in the area. Darfur province, according to the death toll since Saturday to 87. hospitals, the group added. uprising led the military to gating an incident where a The deadly violence poses UN humanitarian affairs agency. At least 191 people were The clashes forced the U.N. overthrow longtime autocratic soccer coach fired eight a challenge to efforts by Sudan’s Fighting ensued between wounded. to suspend all humanitarian President Omar Al Bashir in gunshots into the air at the transitional government to end the Arab Rizeigat and the The group said armed men activities in Genena, which April 2019. A military-civilian end of a game after his team decades-long rebellions in Masalit tribes, with both mobi- opened fire Wednesday on serves as a hub for aid delivery government now rules the lost. areas like Darfur, where lizing armed men. Authorities vehicles carrying healthcare to the conflict-wrecked region. country. Zesco Chipata FC’s Esau Chalo Zulu fired three shots while standing on the field at the end of the match, and Nigeria to limit first then five more near his team’s vehicle, which was parked at the edge of the doses of AstraZeneca field. The incidents occurred due to supply concerns after his third-tier team’s 1-0 loss to local rivals Prison REUTERS — LAGOS cases yesterday, a 13-fold Leopards Chipata FC in Zam- increase in just over two months. bia’s Eastern Province on Nigeria has directed its 36 “We thought that it was Saturday. states and federal capital proper for us under the circum- Police say Zulu admitted territory to stop giving first stances to ensure that those firing the shots but he said it doses of AstraZeneca COVID-19 who were vaccinated were was in self-defense. vaccines once they use half fully vaccinated,” Ehanire said He said he fired the shots their current stock in order to in a televised briefing on in the air in an attempt to safeguard supply for the second Tuesday evening. disperse opposition sup- dose, its health minister said. Nigeria is Africa’s most porters who surrounded him Osagie Ehanire said the populous nation, and inocu- after the game and then directive came amid concerns lating its 200 million citizens is threatened to stone his over when Nigeria would get seen as key to stemming the team’s vehicle, according to another shipment of the shots global spread of the virus. police. after India put a temporary The country has used The Zambian soccer asso- hold on all major exports of the roughly a quarter of the 3.92 ciation said it is waiting for an Gunmen attack police station in Nigeria doses made by the Serum million doses of the Astra- official report of the incident Institute of India (SII). Zeneca vaccines, produced by from league officials before Burnt vehicles are seen outside the Nigeria police force Imo state command headquarters after India, the world’s second the SSI, that it received on taking any action. gunmen attacked and set properties ablaze in Imo State, Nigeria. More than 1,800 prisoners are on most populous country, is aiming March 2. It had administered Police have confiscated the the run in southeast Nigeria after escaping when heavily armed gunmen attacked their prison using to preserve supply to meet 964,387 first doses as of April gun, which they say had been explosives and rocket-propelled grenades, the authorities said. domestic demand. It reported a 6, but progress varied widely obtained legally and was record 115,736 new COVID-19 by state. licensed. 10 ASIA THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 Myanmar security forces kill 13 protesters; small blasts hit Yangon REUTERS coup that ended a brief period Yangon, Myanmar Now said. were no reports of casualties the working of hospitals, of civilian-led democracy. Security forces opened fire At least seven small explo- and no details on the extent of schools, roads, offices and Myanmar troops fired at anti- Nationwide protests and strikes on protesters in the sions were heard in Yangon, damage. factories. coup protesters yesterday, have persisted since then including at government China is viewed by some as “Although protests are killing at least 13 people and despite the military’s use of northwestern town of Kale buildings, a military hospital being supportive of the military staged in neighbouring coun- wounding several, media said, lethal force to quell the as they demanded the and a shopping mall, residents junta and last month arson tries and the international com- as a series of small blasts hit the opposition. restoration of Aung San said. There were no casualties attacks were made on 32 munity, they do not destroy commercial capital Yangon and Security forces opened fire Suu Kyi’s civilian and no claims of Chinese-invested factories in businesses,” he said. “CDM is an a Chinese-owned factory was yesterday on protesters in the government. 11 people responsibility. Yangon. Details of the blasts and activity to destroy the country.” set on fire. northwestern town of Kale as The US Embassy in Yangon the fire were difficult to obtain According to the Assistance The country’s military ruler they demanded the restoration were reportedly killed and said it had received reports of because of the junta’s curbs on Association for Political Pris- said the civil disobedience of Aung San Suu Kyi’s civilian several wounded. “handmade ‘sound bombs,’ or broadband Internet and mobile oners (AAPP) advocacy group, movement was “destroying” government, domestic media fireworks meant to create noise data services. 581 people, including dozens of Myanmar. said. and cause minimal damage”. Senior General Min Aung children, have been shot dead More than 580 people have A resident of the area and not independently verify the A fire broke out in the Hlaing, the head of the junta, by troops and police, and been killed, according to an the Myanmar Now news outlet toll. Chinese-owned JOC Garment said in a statement yesterday security forces have arrested activist group, in the turmoil in said 11 people were killed and Two protesters were killed Factory in Yangon yesterday, the civil disobedience close to 3,500 people, with Myanmar since a February 1 several wounded. Reuters could in the town of Bago near the Fire Department said. There movement, or CDM, had halted 2,750 still detained. Indonesia landslides death toll rises to 140, dozens missing AP — LEMBATA, INDONESIA down on more than a dozen vil- respect they deserve.” In all, lages, killing at least 32 and landslides and flooding have The death toll from mudslides leaving 35 unaccounted for, killed at least 140 across several in eastern Indonesia has risen according to the National Dis- islands in Indonesia as well as to 140 with dozens still missing, aster Mitigation Agency. 27 people in neighbouring East officials said yesterday, as rain Hundreds of police, soldiers Timor. Thousands of homes continued to pound the region and residents dug through the have been damaged and thou- and hamper the search. debris with their bare hands, sands of people displaced by East Flores district on shovels and hoes searching for the weather, which is expected Adonara island suffered the those buried. Relatives wailed to continue until at least Friday highest losses with 67 bodies Wednesday as they watched as the storm moves south recovered so far and six rescuers pull out a mud-caked toward Australia. missing. Mud tumbled down body, place it on a bamboo Rescue efforts were being from surrounding hills early on stretcher and take it away for hampered by the rains and the Sunday, catching people at burial. remoteness of the area, where sleep. Some were swept away “Please find my father and roads and bridges were by flash floods after overnight mother who are still buried... damaged in many places. rains caused rivers to burst whatever their condition,” Rescue personnel with their banks. Suzanna Tasoin cried to res- excavators and tons of food and On nearby Lembata island, cuers struggling to dig up tons medicine were being deployed US climate envoy meets Indian prime minister the downpour triggered by of volcanic materials and rocks from Makassar city on Sulawesi US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry meets with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Tropical Cyclone Seroja sent with farm tools at Waimatan island, but were hindered by Modi in New Delhi, India, yesterday. solidified lava from a volcanic village on Lembata island, “We bad weather and extremely eruption in November to crash want to bury them with the high waves. Five helicopters were helping to reach isolated areas Divers rescue Thai monk trapped in flooded cave of the islands, National Disaster Mitigation Agency chief Doni AP — BANGKOK thunderstorm raised water Phra Manas makes a pil- Monardo told reporters yes- levels inside the cave signifi- grimage every April from terday. He said evacuees were A Buddhist monk who was cantly, blocking the entrance another province to meditate in dire need of basic necessities trapped by floodwaters inside and stranding the monk on high in Tham Phra Sai Ngam cave, such as blankets, mats, tents, a cave in northern Thailand for ground inside, Therayuth said. Therayuth said. When the monk baby food and medical services. four days has been rescued by The incident and its suc- didn’t return after the rain, vil- The government provided divers, a provincial official said cessful resolution recalled the lagers alerted local authorities. tens of thousands of anti-coro- yesterday. 2018 ordeal of the members of Hundreds of rescue workers, navirus masks, and Monardo The 46-year-old monk, the “Wild Boars” soccer team, including divers, medics and said authorities would set up Phra Manas, entered Tham who were trapped for more other specialists gathered at the health posts at refugee camps Phra Sai Ngam cave in Phit- than two weeks inside a cave scene. to test people for the virus. sanulok province on Saturday in Chiang Rai province, also in Seven divers went into the He said six navy ships, to meditate, said Therayuth the north. Thai Navy Seals and cave yesterday morning after including a hospital ship, car- Chandithawong, chief of the an international team of cave the rain stopped and found the rying more goods were expected provincial Office of Disaster divers and hundreds of helpers monk, who put on a diving People walk through a pile of tree trunks after flash floods triggered to arrive on Friday to relieve Prevention and Mitigation. managed the extremely com- mask and was led to safety by tropical cyclone Seroja in East Flores, East Nusa Tenggara overwhelmed hospitals and While the monk was inside, plicated rescue of the 12 boys through a submerged distance province, Indonesia, yesterday. clinics in East Nusa Tenggara. heavy rain from a summer and their coach. of 12 metres. Some Indian states warn of vaccine shortage as COVID-19 cases peak Malaysian ex-PM Najib vows to REUTERS — NEW DELHI days after the daily injection of Maharashtra has for weeks the economy and left millions company Bharat Biotech, which over 450,000 doses. accounted for over half India’s penniless. India has recorded has struggled to boost output of fight bankruptcy India reported a record 115,736 India’s health minister said daily new cases, which on 12.8 million cases, the third its homegrown shot. new COVID-19 cases yesterday, the complaints, mostly from Monday passed 100,000 for the worst-hit country after the Both vaccines require two over tax bill a 13-fold increase in just over states not ruled by Prime Min- first time. The government United States and Brazil. Deaths doses. More than 75 million two months, raising pressure on ister Narendra Modi’s party, blames the resurgence mainly from COVID-19 rose by 630 — people in India have received AP — KUALA LUMPUR the government to expand its were attempts to cover up their on crowding and a reluctance the most in four days — to at least one dose. Only the vaccination campaign. failures and spread panic. to wear masks as shops and 166,177, according to new health United States and China have Malaysia’s former Prime Some states, including “Vaccine supplies are being offices reopen. ministry data. Daily infections administered more doses. Minister Najib Razak said he hardest-hit Maharashtra and monitored on a real-time basis, Maharashtra has urged the have also passed last Septem- With the contagion accel- has received a bankruptcy Odisha, have complained of a and state governments are government to expand vacci- ber’s peak. erating, India is racing to notice for failing to pay $411m scarcity of vaccines during a being apprised regularly about nations to younger people and Many states have criticised increase immunity. It has in taxes, slamming it as a second wave that has forced it,” Harsh Vardhan said in a to divert medical oxygen from the government as India, the delayed exports of large quan- political move to wreck his some centres to turn away statement. other regions, Tope said. world’s biggest vaccine maker, tities of vaccines, though 64.5 career. people. Only those aged over 45 “Allegations of vaccine Maharashtra, Delhi, Punjab has restricted its immunisation million doses have already been In a Facebook post, Najib are being immunised. shortage are utterly baseless. and Karnataka states have in drive to some 400 million of its shipped. “We are supposed to said the bankruptcy notice was “Vaccination centres have To requests from states to recent days imposed new curbs, 1.35 billion people. be the pharmacy of the world,” issued on Tuesday at the end to close early due to a shortage widen the immunisation drive including night curfews in some It has so far administered 86 said a government official who of the first day of an appeal to of supplies,” the western state’s to include more adults, he said: places. The federal government million doses, 90% of those the declined to be named. “What overturn his graft conviction health minister, Rajesh Tope, “So long as the supply of vac- has refused to impose any AstraZeneca shot made by the kind of pharmacy is this that and 12-year prison sentence. told reporters, adding that cines remains limited, there is national lockdown. The pre- Serum Institute of India. The cannot provide vaccines to even Najib, 67, faced multiple stocks would run out in three no option but to prioritise.” vious one last year devastated rest have come from Indian a small portion of its people?” corruption charges after he lost 2018 elections in a shocking defeat fuelled by public anger over a multi- Thailand confirms first local billion-dollar looting at the 1MDB investment fund that he founded. Najib, who denied all cases of coronavirus variant wrongdoings, was found guilty last July in the first of several AP — BANGKOK already caused major concern. trials linked to the scandal. Bangkok city officials on Monday Najib said he believed the Thailand has confirmed its first local ordered the closing for two weeks of bankruptcy notice was linked cases of the coronavirus variant first almost 200 bars and other nightspots in to his political party’s decision detected in the UK, raising the likelihood three areas linked to the new cases. not to work with Prime Min- that it is facing a new wave of the Many international schools in the city ister Muhyiddin Yassin’s gov- pandemic, a senior doctor said yesterday. cancelled classes for the week, in some ernment in the next general The variant was found in blood cases substituting remote learning. elections. samples from 24 people in a new cluster The new virus threat comes at a par- Najib said he has paid all of cases involving customers of nightlife ticularly vulnerable time for Thailand. taxes while in office, and the venues in the capital, Bangkok, said Dr. Next week Thais celebrate the tra- court order last year for him Yong Pooworavan, a virologist from the ditional Songkran New Year’s holiday, to settle 1.7 billion ringgit ($411 Faculty of Medicine at Bangkok’s Chu- which usually sees an exodus of people m), including penalties, People receive Sinovac’s COVID-19 vaccine, in Bangkok, Thailand, yesterday. lalongkorn University. from cities to visit relatives in other prov- involved an additional Speaking at a Health Ministry news inces and is generally celebrated for an assessment that he called conference, Yong described the variant entire week. The official holiday was Thailand also has been lagging in bringing Thailand’s total to 29,905 unreasonable. He said he will as 1.7 times more contagious than the postponed last year to slow the spread vaccinating its 69 million population. As including 95 deaths. lose his Parliament seat and original coronavirus, still more common of the disease, as it came as the country of Tuesday, according to the World Most of the new cases originated in will be unable to run if he is in Thailand. The variant was found in was experiencing its first major outbreak. Health Organization, just 274,354 people the Bangkok entertainment venue declared bankrupt. “I will fight Thailand for the first time in January in Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha has had received a first vaccine dose and cluster, with related cases showing up against every attempt to bully four members of a family arriving from so far brushed aside the idea of banning 49,635 a second dose. in the north, south and northeast of the and intimidate me by those in Britain who had been quarantined. inter-provincial travel for this year’s The government’s Center for country. Six of Prayuth’s Cabinet min- power,” Najib said, adding he The new cluster from nightspots, holiday. A state of emergency declared COVID-19 Situation Administration isters announced this week they are had asked his lawyers to seek along with another at a prison in the last year that is still in effect allows him announced yesterday that it had con- quarantining for 14 days after having a stay order on the bankuptcy southern province of Narathiwat, had to take such actions. firmed 334 new coronavirus cases, contact with infected people proceedings. THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 ASIA 11

China-EU ties Russia to boost Pakistan face challenges, ties, supply military gear Xi tells Merkel REUTERS — BEIJING/BERLIN AP — ISLAMABAD Pakistan’s Foreign Minister said President Xi Jinping told Russia’s foreign minister yesterday said Islamabad will also buy 5 million German Chancellor Angela Moscow and Islamabad will boost ties in doses of the Russian made COVID-19 Merkel yesterday that he saw the fight against terrorism, with Russia “various challenges” in rela- providing unspecified military equipment Sputnik V vaccine, and expressed a tions between China and the to Pakistan and the two holding joint exer- desire to eventually manufacture it in European Union and hoped cises at sea and in the mountains. Pakistan. the EU could “independently” Sergei Lavrov spoke on the second day make correct judgements, a of a two-day trip to Pakistan. It’s the first Chinese government visit by a Russian foreign minister in nine Lavrov arrived in Pakistan on Tuesday statement said. years, part of a warming of frosty relations. from neighbouring India, with whom The statement quoted Xi as It comes as Moscow seeks to increase its Moscow has had a long and solid rela- saying during a phone call that stature in the region, particularly in Afghan- tionship. The apparent reset in Pakistani- the EU and China should istan. There, it has sought to inject itself as Russian relations however is by contrast a respect each other and “elim- a key player in accelerated efforts to find a recent phenomena. inate interference”, adding peaceful end to decades of war. In the 1980s Pakistan was a staging that China is willing to work “We stand ready to strengthen the anti- arena for anti-communist Afghan rebels with the global community to terrorist potential of Pakistan, including by who were aided by the US to oust the former promote “fair and reasonable Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov meeting Pakistan’s army chief General supplying Pakistan with special military Soviet Union, which negotiated an end to a distribution” of COVID-19 vac- Qamar Javed Bajwa in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, yesterday. equipment,” Lavrov said, without going into 10-year occupation in 1989. cines and opposes vaccine detail about the equipment. Russia is also building a gas pipeline nationalism. Washington is reviewing an agreement between the southern port city of Karachi The visit underlines the waning ascent,” he said in an interview. He Last month, the EU it signed more than a year ago with the and eastern Lahore. Pakistan’s Foreign Min- influence of the United States in the also noted a new 25-year devel- imposed its sanctions against Taliban as it rethinks a May 1 withdrawal of ister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said Islamabad region, while Russian and Chinese opment agreement between Iran and Chinese officials over alleged its soldiers. Meanwhile, Moscow has stepped will also buy 5 million doses of the Russian clout grows, says Michael Kugelman, China. human rights abuses in China’s up its involvement in Afghanistan, emerging made COVID-19 Sputnik V vaccine, and Deputy Director of the Asia Program Pakistan also is a key player in Xinjiang region. Beijing, which as a significant player. Last month it hosted expressed a desire to eventually manu- at the US-based Wilson Center. China’s Belt and Road Initiative — a denies the allegations, hit back talks between the Taliban and senior gov- facture it in Pakistan. He said Pakistan also “There’s a good reason why this massive, cross-continental infra- by blacklisting some EU law- ernment officials, and Lavrov suggested wanted Russian expertise to modernise its is the first Russian foreign minister structure development project aimed makers and entities. another high-level meeting could again be antiquated railway system as well as its visit to Islamabad for nearly a decade: at expanding China’s commercial German government held in Moscow. energy sector. Russia-Pakistan relations are on the connections globally. spokeswoman Ulrike Demmer said Merkel and Xi had dis- cussed international efforts to produce and distribute S Korea suspends AstraZeneca shots for people under 60 COVID-19 vaccines, deepen economic cooperation and REUTERS — SEOUL Korea’s vaccination campaign, it had granted final approval for concerns over a potential fourth be inevitable, as well as dealing steps to protect the climate which kicked off in late Feb- Johnson & Johnson’s (J&J) wave of infections. a big blow to our economy,” and biodiversity. South Korea said yesterday it ruary with the goal of reaching vaccine after a panel of experts The Korea Disease Control Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun She said the leaders agreed will temporarily suspend herd immunity in November. ruled the single-dose shot was and Prevention Agency (KDCA) told a government meeting. to deepen bilateral ties in Sino- providing AstraZeneca’s AstraZeneca has said pre- safe and effective. J&J is the reported 668 new cases for Health officials called on the German government consul- COVID-19 vaccine to people viously its studies have found third COVID-19 vaccine maker Tuesday, the highest level since public to refrain from non- tations planned for late April. below 60 amid a European no higher risk of clots because to be authorised in South Korea, Jan. 8, with clusters developing essential gatherings and strictly “The Chancellor stressed the review, while approving a of its vaccine, millions of doses after AstraZeneca and Pfizer / in kindergartens, saunas, bars log visits to crowded venues to importance of dialogue on the Johnson & Johnson shot in a bid of which have been adminis- BioNTech, both of which and churches, mostly in the help with epidemiological work full range of ties, including to speed up its inoculation tered worldwide. The World require two doses. Authorities greater Seoul area. in case of any outbreak. issues on which there are dif- rollout. Health Organization and EMA are seeking to speed up a To date, total infections They also said they would ferent opinions,” Demmer Global controversy over the have both said the benefits out- national vaccination campaign stand at 106,898, with 1,756 announce new social distancing said, without giving details of efficacy and side-effects of weigh the risks. despite global supply shortages deaths. “If the fourth wave of rules on Friday after discussion the areas where Germany and some COVID-19 vaccines has South Korea’s food and drug while expanding preemptive infections becomes a reality, a with experts and local China differ. caused some delays in South safety ministry said yesterday testing and tracing efforts amid disruption to vaccination would governments. China reports 12 Philippines allows Philippine leader cancels address as virus spreads in staff new virus cases Sinovac’s vaccine REUTERS — MANILA Before the pandemic, Duterte, 76, main- REUTERS — BEIJING use for seniors tained a busy schedule, at times attending Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte multiple public events and delivering China reported 12 new REUTERS — MANILA cancelled a weekly televised address and several speeches each day, often past COVID-19 cases in the meeting with his coronavirus task force midnight. mainland for April 6, down Philippine health authorities yesterday, following dozens of COVID-19 His public activities have since been from 24 a day earlier, the yesterday allowed the use of cases among his staff and security detail, replaced by a weekly nighttime address. country’s national health Sinovac’s COVID-19 vaccine government officials said. Duterte’s known ailments include back authority said yesterday. for some senior citizens after The Philippines is battling one of the problems, migraines due to nerve damage The National Health Com- initially limiting coverage to worst coronavirus outbreaks in Asia, with and Barrett’s oesophagus, which affects his mission, in a statement, said people aged 18-59 years, as the hospitals in the capital overwhelmed amid throat. He also suffers from Buerger’s two of the new cases were country battles one of Asia’s record daily infections, while authorities disease which can cause blockages in the local infections. Both were worst coronavirus outbreaks. face delays in delivery of COVID-19 Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte holds blood vessels. reported in Ruili, a city in The Department of Health vaccines. a vial of Sinovac’s COVID-19 vaccine, at Duterte has yet to be vaccinated against southwestern Yunnan and the Food and Drug Admin- The country has seen new daily cases Villamor Air Base, Pasay City, Metro Manila, the coronavirus and is awaiting his doc- province that borders istration said they made the surge in recent weeks, surpassing 15,000 Philippines, on February 28, 2021. tor’s advice having expressed a preference Myanmar where a new cluster decision after receiving the on April 2, most of those in the congested for Sinopharm’s vaccine, which has yet to emerged last week. The recommendation of the capital, Manila. Duterte’s guard unit, most of which were be approved locally. number of new asymptomatic Department of Science and “The physical safety of the president personnel manning the gates of the presi- Christopher Go, a sitting senator and cases fell to eight from 17 a day Technology’s vaccine expert remains our utmost concern,” presidential dential palace, PSG chief Brigadier General Duterte’s closest aide, reassured the public earlier. The total number of panel. Senior citizens can now spokesman Harry Roque said in a Jesus Durante told state television. the president was in good health. confirmed COVID-19 cases in receive CoronaVac shots pro- statement. “We will minimise all possible expo- “Nothing to worry about,” Go said. “In mainland China now stands at vided there is stringent eval- There were 45 active COVID-19 cases sures that may jeopardise our president’s fact, we are together and he continues 90,341, while the death toll uation of the person’s health in the Presidential Security Group (PSG), safety,” he said. working.” remains unchanged at 4,636. status and exposure risk, they said in a statement. The Southeast Asian country has seen new daily S Korea exit polls show cases surge, mostly in the capital Manila, and its inocu- crushing defeat for ruling lation drive is being hampered by delays in vaccine deliveries. party in key election A total of 922,898 doses of Sinovac and AstraZeneca vac- REUTERS — SEOUL garnered 37.7%. Earlier surveys cines have been administered had predicted a landslide so far to healthcare workers, South Korean President Moon victory for Oh. senior citizens, and people Jae-in’s party suffered a In Busan, People Power’s with comorbidities, or just a crushing defeat in a special Park Hyung-jun also led with third of the total local stocks, election for key mayoral posts 64%, far ahead of Democratic health ministry data showed. amid a spate of political contender Kim Young-choon Last week, the chair of a scandals and policy blunders, at 33%, according to exit polls. World Health Organization exit polls showed yesterday. Oh expressed gratitude to panel said Sinovac and Tens of millions of South voters after the polls were another Chinese vaccine Koreans voted on Wednesday released, without elaborating, maker, Sinopharm, had pre- to elect chiefs of the country’s and Park thanked workers who sented data indicating levels two largest cities, the capital helped with her campaign, the of efficacy that would be com- Seoul and the port of Busan, Yonhap news agency said. patible with those required. among 21 local offices up for People Power chairman North Korean leader Kim Jong Un addresses a conference of cell secretaries of the ruling Workers’ The Philippine health grabs. Kim Chong-in said that popular Party in Pyongyang, in this undated photo released by Korean Central News Agency yesterday. authorities said that even The election was a key anger had “exploded,” though though efficacy data for senior barometer for potential exit polls harboured citizens from Phase III trials of political shifts by Moon’s pro- uncertainty. the Sinovac vaccine, known as North Korea tells WHO it’s still virus-free gressive Democratic party with Both mayoral offices were CoronaVac, was not yet suffi- less than a year left before the vacated when their liberal cient “the benefits of using the AP — SEOUL cross-border traffic and has pandemic to April 1 and that all next presidential election. incumbents were caught up in vaccine for this particular quarantined tens of thousands results were negative. Salvador Moon and his party have sex abuse scandals, including group outweigh its risks”. North Korea has continued to of people who have shown said the North said 732 people seen their approval ratings sink the longtime Seoul mayor who The Philippines has also claim a perfect record in symptoms. But it still says it has were tested between March 26 to record lows in recent months in July was found dead after negotiated vaccine supply keeping out the coronavirus in found no case of COVID-19, a and April 1. amid skyrocketing home being accused of sexually har- deals with other manufac- its latest report to the World widely doubted claim given its WHO officials say the North prices, deepening inequality, assing a former secretary. turers, aiming to inoculate up Health Organization. poor health infrastructure and is no longer providing the UN sex abuse scandals and souring With less than a year to go to 70 million people, or two At the beginning of the pan- a porous border with China, its agency with the number of relations with North Korea. until the March 9, 2022 presi- thirds of its population. demic more than a year ago, economic lifeline. people it quarantines with sus- In Seoul, main opposition dential election, polls suggest With more than 819,000 North Korea described its In an email to AP yesterday, pected symptoms. People Power contender Oh the housing scandal is boosting COVID-19 cases and over efforts to keep out the virus as Edwin Salvador, WHO’s repre- North Korea said Tuesday Se-hoon secured 59% among the conservative opposition, 14,000 deaths, the Philippines a “matter of national existence.” sentative to North Korea, said it would skip the Tokyo 8.4 million voters, exit polls by which has been in disarray has since last year been under It shut its borders, banned the North has reported it tested Olympics to protect athletes three major broadcasters since the impeachment in 2017 tight and lengthy tourists and jetted out dip- 23,121 people for the corona- from the “world public health showed, while Democratic can- of then-President Park restrictions. lomats. It still severely limits virus from the beginning of the crisis caused by COVID-19.” didate Park Young-sun Geun-hye. 12 EUROPE THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 Rare clots possibly linked to AstraZeneca vaccine

REUTERS — BRUSSELS EMA reported of 169 vaccine outweighed the risks for brain blood clots after the vast majority of people. She European and British medicine said those risks were more regulators said yesterday they 34 million doses of finely balanced for younger had found possible links AstraZeneca vaccine people — for whom the risks between AstraZeneca’s corona- from coronavirus infection are, virus vaccine and reports of and most cases of on average, lower. very rare cases of brain blood blood clots found in Wei Shen Lim, COVID-19 clots, in a setback for inocu- women under 60. Chair for Britain’s advisory Joint lation campaigns. Committee on Vaccines and A British government Immunisation, said it was pref- advisory group said the vaccine specific risk factors have not erable for adults under 30 with should not be given to the under been confirmed.” no underlying health conditions 30s where possible, though an The EMA received reports to be offered another vaccine. official said this was “really out of 169 cases of the rare brain The letter to the EU health of the utmost caution, rather blood clot by early April, after ministers was sent by the Por- than because we have any 34 million doses had been tuguese presidency of the EU serious safety concerns”. administered in the European on Tuesday to invite them to an More than a dozen countries Economic Area, according to extraordinary virtual meeting have suspended use of the Sabine Straus, chair of the yesterday, to be held immedi- vaccine, which has been given EMA’s safety committee. ately after the decision by the Prepared syringes with the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine are seen at a drive-in vaccination centre, to tens of millions of people in In comparison, four women EU drugs regulator. as the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues, in Schwelm, Germany, yesterday. Europe, after reports linking it out of 10,000 would get a blood The AstraZeneca vaccine is to blood clotting in a few dozen clot from taking oral sold at cost, for a few dollars a risks from possible COVID-19 the drugmaker and Oxford Uni- vaccine triggers an unusual recipients. contraception. dose, and is by far the cheapest infection, which can also cause versity published data from an antibody in some rare cases; In its statement, the “We know that we are and most high-volume similar clots, or from many earlier trial with two different other investigators are looking European Medicines Agency rolling out vaccines on a very launched so far, and has none other widely used drugs such efficacy readings as a result of into a possible link with birth (EMA) said it was “reminding large scale. We will see events of the extreme refrigeration as the birth control pill. a dosing error. control pills. healthcare professionals and occurring... Some of them by requirements of some other “The risk of mortality from AstraZeneca last month But many experts say there people receiving the vaccine to chance,” Straus said. COVID-19 vaccines. COVID is much greater than the published early results of its US is no definitive evidence, and remain aware of the possibility EU health ministers were After extensive use in risk of mortality from these rare late-stage clinical trial showing that it is not clear whether or of very rare cases of blood clots told in a letter from the EMA Britain and mainland Europe, side-effects,” EMA’s executive the shot was 79 percent why AstraZeneca’s vaccine combined with low levels of seen by Reuters that the it is set to be the mainstay of director Emer Cooke said effective, but then had to would cause a problem not blood platelets occurring within announcement on the safety of vaccination programmes in yesterday. scramble to release more data shared by other vaccines that 2 weeks of vaccination”. the vaccine would have imme- much of the developing world. AstraZeneca has said pre- after a rare rebuke from US target a similar part of the “So far, most of the cases diate implications for vacci- Experts say that, even if a viously its studies have found health officials, who said the coronavirus. reported have occurred in nation plans and require a coor- causal link between the vaccine no higher risk of blood clots in data was outdated. While many countries have women under 60 years of age dinated response. and blood clots is proved, the those vaccinated than in the Scientists are exploring resumed using the shot, some within 2 weeks of vaccination,” The chief executive of Brit- risks to the general population general population. several possibilities that might have imposed age restrictions, it added. “Based on the cur- ain’s health regulator, June of getting a serious clot are van- But the shot has faced ques- explain the rare brain blood with younger women perceived rently available evidence, Raine, said the benefits of the ishingly small compared to the tions since late last year, when clots. One theory suggests the to be more vulnerable. Russian military buildup is cover for domestic problems: Ukraine Regions in Spain tighten COVID-19 REUTERS — KIEV there are a defensive measure “These are internal factors, and will remain as long as it which, in our opinion, are key,” measures as Ukraine believes Russian Pres- sees fit. he said. “They invent them ident Vladimir Putin’s Kiev and Moscow have (enemies) for themselves and cases creep up government is massing troops traded blame for a recent spike for them the external enemy is and military hardware on the in violence in eastern Ukraine, an element of solving internal REUTERS — MADRID border to try to rally Russians where Ukrainian troops are problems.” against a foreign enemy and fighting Russian-backed forces President Putin’s ratings Authorities in several Spanish distract from domestic in a conflict that Kiev says has slipped last year to their lowest regions ratcheted up problems, Ukraine’s security killed 14,000 people since 2014. point in two decades, according COVID-19 restrictions chief said yesterday. Any further escalation to an independent Moscow- yesterday to rein in a rising Oleksiy Danilov, secretary would depend on actions taken based pollster, but they have infection rate and prevent it of the national security and by Putin, Danilov said during since recovered to around 64 from evolving into a fourth defence council, told Reuters the interview in his office. percent. wave of contagion. that Ukraine will not try to “The question of war The Kremlin said yesterday Though Spain is faring recapture occupied territory in depends only on Putin,” he said. that Russia would keep military better than neighbouring the eastern Donbass region by “Putin does not feel sorry forces near its border with France, where rampant infec- force but was ready to defend for people and this is a problem. Ukraine for as long as tions have pushed hospital itself against any further assault. For us, every loss that is now at necessary. admittance rates to near five- Ukraine, the United States the front is pain, for us it is a Service members of the Ukrainian armed forces use periscopes while A top security official said month highs, the daily and the Nato military alliance tragedy.” observing the area at fighting positions on the line of separation Russia had no plans to intervene caseload has been increasing have accused Russia of staging Russia is going into election near the rebel-controlled city of Donetsk, in Ukraine, yesterday. in Ukraine but was closely for three weeks. a provocative military build-up mode ahead of parliamentary monitoring the situation and Spain’s national infection near the Ukrainian border, polls in September and Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny focus on an external enemy, he ready to take measures if rate, as measured over the past though Moscow says its forces domestic irritants such as jailed make it easier for Moscow to said. needed. 14 days, rose to 165 cases per 100,000 people on Tuesday, up from 128 cases in mid-March, Activists break windows at Barclays HQ, 7 arrested Slovakia unable to recommend but still well below the 900- case peak seen in late January. use of Russian COVID-19 vaccine Wary that increased social REUTERS — LONDON direct action, causing damage specific targets and transparent contact over the recent Easter to property to prevent and draw reporting, on the way to BLOOMBERG — BRATISLAVA reviewed in a study published break might fuel further con- Police arrested seven people attention to greater damage”. achieving our ambition to be a in The Lancet, which showed tagion, authorities in north- outside the London head- It accused the bank of “con- net zero bank by 2050, and help Slovakia’s medicine regulator it to be highly effective against eastern Catalonia, which quarters of Barclays yesterday tinued investments in activities accelerate the transition to a is unable to recommend the use COVID-19. borders France, announced after climate change activists that are directly contributing to low-carbon economy.” of a Russian coronavirus The watchdog declined to they would reimpose a ban on broke windows to protest the the climate and ecological emer- Extinction Rebellion wants vaccine because it doesn’t have comment on peer-reviewed residents travelling outside role of the financial sector in gency”. “Extinction Rebellion are to trigger a wider revolt against enough information to evaluate study. their home county. climate change. entitled to their view on capi- the political, economic and it, a senior state official said, a Sputnik’s developer That restriction, effective The activists from the talism and climate change, but social structures of the modern week after a spat over the shots rejected DennikN’s report. from Friday, had been lifted in Extinction Rebellion group used we would ask that in expressing world to avert the worst sce- brought down the prime “Unfortunately, we also expect recent weeks to allow hammers to break the windows that view they stop short of narios of devastation outlined minister. additional fake news and prov- members of a household to and then pasted the message behaviour which involves by scientists studying climate “Because of our inability to ocations from enemies of move freely within Catalonia, “In Case of Climate Emergency criminal damage to our facilities change. obtain sufficient data from the Sputnik V in Slovakia who try which on Tuesday had an inci- Break Glass” on the front of the and puts people’s safety at risk,” “You may dislike our action producer of Sputnik V, there is to undermine the vaccine,” it dence of 203 cases per bank’s building. a spokesman for Barclays said. today but I ask you to compare no other choice but to again said on the vaccine’s official 100,000 people. The group said the action “We have made a com- a crack in a window to funding request reliable and verifiable Twitter account. Officials said the data likely was part of its “Money mitment to align our entire wildfires and flooded homes,” evidence that the vaccine is The Slovak regulator is still did not yet reflect the impact Rebellion” against the capitalist financing portfolio to the goals said Sophie Cowen, a 30-year- safe and effective,” Janka Bitto conducting tests, but it said that of the Easter break and warned system which used “nonviolent of the Paris Agreement, with old campaigner from London. Ciganikova, the head of parlia- it hasn’t been able to come to a that intensive care hospitalisa- ment’s health-care committee, conclusion about the risks and tions were on the rise. said in a statement. benefits of Sputnik V because Authorities in the Basque Slovak newspaper DennikN of the “lack of a large amount Country shut down all non- cited a report from the local of data from the producer, the essential travel in and out of drug regulator as saying that inconsistency of the drug forms Vitoria-Gasteiz and the province Sputnik vaccines delivered to and the inability to compare of Alava after the 14-day the country had different batches used in various studies infection rate ticked above 400 parameters than those and countries.” cases per 100,000 people. Germany’s Greens set to pick candidate for chancellor

AP — BERLIN nationally but sit in many of election is unpredictable, in German state governments. part because Merkel isn’t Germany’s environmentalist Recent surveys show them seeking a fifth term after 16 Greens will decide later this running second behind Chan- years in power. Her bloc has yet month which of their two cellor Angela Merkel’s centre- to choose its candidate - two co-leaders will make the party’s right Union bloc, which has state governors, Armin Laschet first run for the chancellery in given up gains made in the and Markus Soeder, are a national election in early phase of the coronavirus expected to decide which of September, a senior party pandemic amid discontent over them runs by late May. official said yesterday. a slow vaccination campaign The Greens’ general sec- Annalena Baerbock and and other things. They show retary, Michael Kellner, tweeted Robert Habeck have led the support of 22 to 23 percent, that his party has “a strong party since early 2018. A prag- more than twice the 8.9 percent leadership duo” in Baerbock, matic and harmonious duo, the party won in the 2017 40, and Habeck, 51. He said that they have presided over a rise election. the party will announce on Police officers detain activists from the Extinction Rebellion, a global environmental movement, in the Greens’ poll ratings. The The outcome of the Sep- April 19 which of them will be outside the Barclays offices in Canary Wharf, London, yesterday. Greens are in opposition tember 26 parliamentary its candidate for chancellor. THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 EUROPE 13 Anti-mining party wins Greenland elections REUTERS — COPENHAGEN The Inuit Ataqatigiit school in Paris, said of the outcome: “This will without Greenland’s left-wing Inuit party's comfortable doubt hamper mining devel- Ataqatigiit party pledged its victory casts doubt on opment in Greenland.” opposition to a large rare earth While most Greenlanders mining project yesterday after the mining complex see mining as an important path winning a parliamentary at Kvanefjeld in the towards independence, the election for only the second Kvanefjeld mine has been a time in more than four decades. south of the Arctic contention point for years, Its comfortable victory island and sends sowing deep divisions in the casts doubt on the mining a strong signal to government and population complex at Kvanefjeld in the over environmental concerns. south of the Arctic island and international mining “It’s not that Greenlanders sends a strong signal to inter- companies wanting don’t want mining, but they national mining companies don’t want dirty mining,” Mered wanting to exploit Greenland’s to exploit Greenland’s said, referring to uranium and vast untapped mineral vast untapped mineral rare earth projects. “Green- resources. landers are sending a strong Inuit Ataqatigiit (IA) won 37 resources. message that for them it’s not percent of votes in Tuesday’s worth sacrificing the envi- Electoral workers count ballots during Greenland’s general election in Nuuk, Greenland. snap election, compared to 26 campaigned to halt the Kvane- ronment to achieve inde- percent in the last election, fjeld project, which aside from pendence and economic government ally could be preparing the mine and has He declined to comment on overtaking the ruling social rare earths including neo- development.” Naleraq, an independence party proven processing technology the election outcome until a democratic Siumut party which dymium — which is used in The island of 56,000 people, that also opposes the Kvanefjeld through its Chinese partner new government had been secured 29 percent of votes, wind turbines, electric vehicles which former US President project. Shenghe Resources. formed. according to official results. and combat aircraft — also con- Donald Trump offered to buy Support from Prime Min- Greenland Minerals Chief “The challenge for IA will The pro-mining Siumut tains uranium. in 2019, is part of the Kingdom ister Kim Kielsen and his gov- Executive John Mair said the be to explain to the world that party has been in power most “The people have spoken,” of Denmark but has broad erning Siumut party helped public hearing has “lacked the Greenland is still open for of the time since Greenland IA leader Mute Egede, 34, told autonomy. license-holder Greenland Min- normal due process” due to the business and still an attractive gained home rule from broadcaster DR when asked Egede, who was minister for erals gain preliminary approval early election. mining jurisdiction,” said Denmark in 1979. about Kvanefjeld. “It won’t natural resources in a coalition for the project last year, paving “This unfortunately created Dwayne Menezes, head of Though not opposed out- happen.” government from 2016 to 2018, the way for a public hearing. a void that was filled with a London-based think-tank right to mining, IA has a strong Mikaa Mered, lecturer on will be first to try to form a new The Australian firm has wave of misinformation,” he Polar Research and Policy environmental focus. It has Arctic affairs at HEC business government. A potential already spent more than $100m told Reuters yesterday. Initiative. Norway to ease restrictions if Hungary lifts some curbs despite virus death spike AP — BUDAPEST fatalities last week. vaccination program would Hospital, told public media on wave” even as the current surge infections “Today, we reached an soon allow for a swift reopening Monday that the 2.5 million continues to peak, some business Hungary’s government lifted important milestone,” Orban of the economy. inoculations so far could owners welcomed the move. decline, says PM several lockdown restrictions said in a Facebook video Hungary has vaccinated “somewhat change the course “The closure was very bad yesterday, even as some doctors Tuesday. “The virus waged a more than a quarter of its nearly of the coronavirus pandemic,” and hopeless, but opening is REUTERS — OSLO and medical experts urged war against us, and the only 10 million population and has but that Hungary was far from really great. It was very sudden caution after a record-breaking weapon that promises victory the second-highest vaccination achieving herd immunity that and unexpected... but we were Norway hopes to gradually day of COVID-19 deaths. is the vaccine.” rate in the European Union, the could put an end to the spread. very glad,” said Andrea Roder, unwind many restrictions Businesses that had been In addition to the reopening, result of a procurement strategy “We have to give many, a hairdresser in downtown related to the COVID-19 closed since early March reo- shopping hours have been that sought jabs from China and many more vaccinations before Budapest, the capital. pandemic by the end of June, pened their doors, with limits extended from 7pm to 9.30pm Russia in addition to those we can relax,” Szlavik said. Bernadett Kovacs, who but must see a decline in on customer numbers, after and the overnight curfew in received through the EU. In a statement to The Asso- owns a flower shop in a suburb infection rates and hospitali- Prime Minister Viktor Orban place since November now But the rapid spread of the ciated Press, the board of of Budapest, told the AP that she sations before it does so, Prime announced the lifting of the starts two hours later, at 10pm. British variant of the corona- directors of the Hungarian had followed the progress of Minister Erna Solberg told lockdown measures late on Restaurants and bars will virus in recent weeks has given Chamber of Doctors said that vaccinations and was prepared parliament yesterday. Tuesday. remain limited to take-out and the country one of the worst it “continues to consider to stock new inventory when Norway has had some of The move came as Hungary delivery service, and hotels infection rates in Europe and improvement in pandemic data Orban made his sudden Europe’s lowest rates of infec- reached 2.5 million first-dose must remain closed. the third-highest death rate per and a reduction of the burden announcement Tuesday. tions and deaths since the start vaccinations — a benchmark Hungary’s government — one million inhabitants in the on the (healthcare) system to “It’s definitely a pleasure to of the pandemic early last the government set for when a which faces elections next year world, leading some doctors to be the conditions for the reo- open, and it feels good to finally year, but saw a rapid increase gradual reopening could move and is aiming to remedy a 5.1 urge restraint in what they see pening that everyone is waiting not have this uncertainty. We in hospitalisations in March led forward — but coincided with percent economic contraction as a premature restart. for.” can stop playing the role of a by more contagious variants a new high of 311 deaths yes- in 2020 — has for weeks com- Janos Szlavik, head doctor Despite fears that the reo- delivery service and finally sell of the coronavirus. terday and a record number of municated that its successful at the South Pest Central pening could lead to a “fourth with open doors,” Kovacs said. Solberg presented a four- step plan for easing Norway’s restrictions, and said the first Third health three steps could be completed Greece rolls out free self-testing kits for COVID-19 by the end of June, possibly minister fired in removing many curbs on travel AP — ATHENS ahead of the summer holidays, virus-battered unless new setbacks emerge. Kits for self-administered coro- She did not say how long the navirus tests began arriving in Czech Republic fourth phase, which will still Greek pharmacies yesterday, contain some restrictions, is with each resident entitled to AP — PRAGUE estimated to last. “Before we one free of charge per week as open up we need to see low and part of efforts to tackle a surge Czech Prime Minster Andrej stable infection rates. It is of coronavirus cases and hospi- Babis fired his health minister important that the number of talisations. yesterday, the third to have hospitalisations come down Priority for the home tests been ousted during the from today’s level,” Solberg said. is initially being given to pandemic in one of Europe’s The government’s best teachers and high school stu- hardest-hit countries. estimate is that everyone aged dents aged 16-18, as authorities Jan Blatny was replaced by 18 or older will have been contemplate reopening schools, Petr Arenberger, the director offered their first vaccine shot at least for certain grades. of Prague’s University Hospital by the end of July, Solberg said. Greece’s committee of medical Vinohrady, who was sworn in Solberg had originally experts handling coronavirus by President Milos Zeman. planned to present a plan for issues was meeting yesterday, The move opens the way reopening the country before and an announcement on for a possible use of Russian Easter, but instead introduced whether and under what con- and Chinese vaccines, which tougher national measures, ditions schools will reopen was have not been approved by the such as a ban on the public expected in the evening. European Union’s drug serving of alcohol and man- Alternate Health Minister regulator. datory quarantine at a desig- Vassilis Kontozamanis said dis- Petros Kassarjian holds a box with rapid antigen COVID-19 self-testing kits at his drugstore, as the Babis repeatedly criticized nated hotel after returning tribution of the tests to the pop- country starts free distribution, in Athens, Greece, yesterday. Blatny over his handling of the from holidays abroad. ulation would begin on Thursday. pandemic, including imposing Next week, the government The tests involve simple nasal future shipments would be in Authorities have been attend classes. strict conditions for the use of will consider removing some swabs and are easily carried out individual packaging. debating reopening schools, Anyone testing positive will experimental drugs to treat of the restrictions imposed in without the need for a healthcare Greece has been under particularly for the final grades have to declare it on a gov- COVID-19 patients. late March, depending on how professional, he noted. lockdown-type restrictions of high school, where students ernment website and will have Blatny was also under fire the pandemic unfolds. Addressing complaints since early November and are preparing for university to undergo a repeat PCR test. from Zeman, an ally of Babis Norwegians could again be reported by some pharmacists schools have been shut for most entrance exams. Health officials Despite restrictions on who is known for his pro- allowed to receive up to five that the tests had arrived in of the time since then, although have said students who don’t movement and gatherings and Russian and pro-Chinese guests in private homes and packages of 25 instead of as they briefly reopened for a few carry out the self-test and have the closures of bars, restaurants views. restaurants could be allowed individual kits, forcing pharma- weeks earlier this year. Only a declaration signed by their and retail stores for months, Zeman asked the prime to serve alcohol under certain cists to repackage them for dis- special education schools have parents confirming a negative coronavirus cases have been minister last month to replace conditions. tribution, Kontozamanis said remained open throughout. result won’t be allowed to surging in Greece. Blatny over his refusal to allow the use of Russia’s Sputnik V vaccine because it has not been approved by the Polish coalition may collapse over EU plan, warns Kaczynski European Medicines Agency, or EMA. BLOOMBERG — WARSAW the deal — which requires the With the coalition com- according to Warsaw University to make them aware of how Zeman said he approached ratification of all member states manding only a slim majority political scientist Renata much they could lose.” his Russian, Chinese and Poland’s ruling coalition won’t to enter into force — the dispute in parliament, Kaczynski needs Mienkowska-Norkiene. With the Each EU country must Israeli counterparts with a finish its full term in power has underscored divisions in the votes from Ziobro or opposition nation of 38 million mired in a prepare a plan to use the EU request for help with the vac- unless its three factions all agree ruling alliance that have been parties that are demanding local resurgence of the virus and the funds, which in Poland’s case cines and received a positive to approve the European intensifying since it won re- governments get more control economic damage it has wrought, amount to 58.1 billion euros, by response from all of them. Union’s stimulus plan, the head election in 2019. over spending to pass the opinion polls show a united oppo- the end of this month. Poland’s Israel donated 5,000 Moderna of the government-leading Junior coalition member package. In an interview pub- sition could win a majority if elec- parliament meets on April 14. vaccines to the Czech Republic party said. United Poland opposes the EU lished in the Gazeta Polska daily tions were held now. Mienkowska-Norkiene said in February. Jaroslaw Kaczynski’s Law & package because its leader, yesterday, Kaczynski called for “Kaczynski is afraid of an that even a United Poland vote “Unfortunately, your pred- Justice Party is at odds with one Zbigniew Ziobro, says it allows his pro-EU rivals to help early vote, and he’ll do anything against the EU plan won’t end ecessor has blocked the of its partners over the EU’s the bloc to issue its own debt approve the stimulus. to avoid it,” Mienkowska- the coalition, while there should process,” Zeman told Aren- ¤750bn ($890bn) pandemic and it’s not in Poland’s interest Early elections are also Norkiene said by phone yes- be enough members of the berger at a ceremony, blaming relief package. While the chances to co-sign liabilities for coun- unlikely because there’s too much terday. “He’s just sending opposition parties to support Blatny for those who have are slim that Poland won’t pass tries with weaker economies. at stake for coalition parties, warning signals to his partners the stimulus. died. 14 AMERICAS THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 Brazil detects first case of South African variant as virus deaths soar

REUTERS — RIO DE JANEIRO researcher, said the South Scientists fear a African variant most likely Brazil has recorded its first showdown between arrived in Brazil after traveling confirmed case of the highly the South African through Europe toward the end contagious coronavirus variant of 2020. discovered in South Africa, a variant and the The first local diagnosis, a fresh danger sign for a country already rampant woman in her 30s in the city of already ravaged by the world’s Sorocaba, had not travelled highest daily death toll fueled Brazilian variant, abroad or come into contact by a widespread local variant. both of which are with someone who did, indi- Last week, scientists at the cating local community trans- Butantan biomedical institute more contagious and mission, researchers said. said the case, identified in a possibly more deadly A possible surge of the South woman in Sao Paulo state, African variant could further might be a new local variant. than the original complicate Brazil’s slow vaccine Nurses hold balloons during a protest asking for COVID-19 vaccines and in favour of SUS (Unique Further analysis confirmed it as version and have led rollout. Health System) during World Health Day in Brasilia, Brazil, yesterday. the first known local case of the to accelerated COVID- Brazil’s COVID-19 immuni- variant widely circulating in zation program is built around In studies, the South African that health experts see as rules, businesses could only do South Africa and elsewhere. 19 surges. the vaccines from AstraZeneca variant appears to lower the essential for curbing virus that once the country has fully Scientists fear a showdown Plc and China’s Sinovac Biotech level of protection offered by transmission. vaccinated risk groups outlined between the South African The South African variant Ltd, which have proven the AstraZeneca shot and other Under pressure from in a national immunization variant and the already rampant in studies appears to lessen pro- effective against the Brazilian available vaccines. business leaders desperate to plan. Brazilian variant, known as P.1, tection from current vaccines. variant in preliminary studies, Immunizations have been vaccinate their workforces and Proposed amendments to both of which are more conta- Brazil is in the midst of a according to officials. slow to ramp up in Brazil after reopen operations, the lower new legislation are still pending gious and possibly more deadly brutal COVID-19 wave, setting Research released on the government dragged its feet house of Congress has taken up in the lower house before the than the original version of the records for deaths on a weekly Wednesday showed the Sinovac last year in acquiring vaccines a controversial bill to allow bill goes to the Senate. coronavirus and have led to basis. On Tuesday, the Health shot was 50 percent effective while other countries raced to private-sector vaccine Bolsonaro was set to meet accelerated COVID-19 surges. Ministry reported a single-day at preventing symptomatic secure supplies. purchases. with a group of business leaders “It could be a huge duel,” record of 4,195 deaths. COVID-19 in a study of nearly President Jair Bolsonaro has A version of the bill, first including BTG Pactual founder said Maria Carolina Sabbaga, The outbreak in South 68,000 health workers in shifted his tone on vaccines, passed on Tuesday, would allow Andre Esteves and Banco Bra- one of Butantan’s coordinators America’s largest country may Manaus, where the P.1 strain touting shots he had until businesses to acquire vaccines desco Chairman Luiz Carlos for studying new variants. “I overtake the United States to first emerged as the predom- recently disdained. But the far- to inoculate their employees as Trabuco Cappi later yesterday, think P.1 has already taken over. become the world’s deadliest, inant variant. The results right former army captain con- long as they donate the same local media reported, with the I’m not sure if the South African some medical experts predict. support preliminary findings of tinues to oppose social dis- number of shots to the public private vaccine dose plan will overtake P.1, let’s see.” José Patané, a Butantan separate research last month. tancing and mask requirements health system. Under current among the items on the agenda. Justice Minister replaces Brazil El Salvador’s major parties in crisis after drubbing AP — SAN SALVADOR election, the FMLN can even other things to build a new town leadership.” Political analyst ended. The FMLN was to be the federal police survive. market. Eduardo Escobar of Citizen continuation of the guerrillas’ Saúl Meléndez, a former fighter The country’s other long- His is one of the 152 city Action, a nongovernmental fight for the Salvadoran people, chiefs during El Salvador’s civil war, dominant party suffered a halls that will be in the hands of organization in San Salvador, especially the poor. was for years a loyal member similar blow. The conservative New Ideas May 1 out of a total said its not clear if the old Arena was founded in 1981 REUTERS — BRASILIA of the leftist political party National Republican Alliance, 262 in the country. New Ideas parties can even survive. by former army Major Roberto formed by his fellow ex-guer- better known as Arena, lost will also hold 56 of the 84 seats “We don’t know if the D’Aubuisson, who was accused Brazil’s new justice minister rillas after the war. more than half its congressional in the national congress. brands of Arena and the FMLN of organizing death squads on Tuesday replaced the heads But Meléndez has now won seats, dropping to 14 from 37. “I’m proud of having can still rebuild themselves, responsible for atrocities. A of the federal police and his first elected office - not with The two parties governed El belonged to the structures of the breathe fresh air and still be United Nations Truth Com- federal highway police with them, but as a member of Pres- Salvador — often as mortal historic FMLN since my youth, valid,” he said. mission concluded that candidates backed by Pres- ident Nayib Bukele’s New Ideas enemies — for the past three with the hope of change for our Salvadorans “ran out of D’Aubuisson had given the ident Jair Bolsonaro, amid party. decades until Bukele swept country, for our people,” patience” with those parties order to assassinate Archbishop concerns the right-wing leader The Farabundo Martí them aside in 2019 due to wide- Meléndez said. But he began to after giving them three decades Oscar Arnulfo Romero in 1980. seeks more direct influence National Liberation Front — the spread voter disgust at the old see the party leadership as in power and not seeing an Both parties have since been over law enforcement. party Meléndez left in 2015 and order. corrupt and stifling of his own improvement in their lives, shaken by corruption scandals. Named last week as part that expelled Bukele in 2017 - Meléndez was elected political aspirations. Escobar said. The last two Arena presi- of Bolsonaro’s largest Cabinet suffered a drubbing in Febru- mayor of Mejicanos, a populous Meléndez estimates that the The FMLN had been an dents were charged with shakeup to date, Justice Min- ary’s national elections. Some suburb on the capital’s north FMLN has lost 60 percent of its umbrella group for the leftist embezzling public funds. Fran- ister Anderson Torres said on question whether with its four side, prying it loose from his old members in Mejicanos to New forces during the civil war and cisco Flores died under house Twitter that Paulo Maiurino remaining federal legislators, party with an intensely local Ideas “because we lost the hope was converted into a political arrest in 2016 before standing would replace federal police down from 23 before the campaign that promised among that we deposited with our party in 1992, the year the war trial. chief Rolando de Souza. Torres additionally named Silvinei Vasques to take the position of Eduardo Aggio, the head of Ontario plans new curbs Brazil’s federal highway police. Torres, himself a federal as variant cases rise police officer, is close to the Bolsonaro family. Critics fear BLOOMBERG — TORONTO climb, with the province his appointment will allow the reporting 3,215 new cases and president to have undue Ontario will impose a province- 17 more deaths yesterday. The control over federal police wide stay-at-home order for up main variant spreading in probes into his family and to four weeks, Canadian media Ontario — first detected in supporters. reported, citing unidentified Britain and known as B.1.1.7 — Critics also warn he could people. is 50 percent more lethal than help Bolsonaro increase his The decision would return previous strains, officials have support among state police Canada’s most populous said. forces, which some view as an province to lockdown orders Efforts to quell the most unpredictable element in next last put in place in January, fol- recent surge need to target large year’s fraught presidential lowing the Christmas break. employers and residents in vote. Non-essential retail stores will virus hot spots, according to A government official, who close except for curbside Ford. Last month, Peel region spoke on condition of ano- pickup, CBC News reported. ordered Amazon.com Inc to nymity ahead of the official Ontario schools will stay open, close a warehouse for two announcements, said the the Globe and Mail reported, weeks because the infection changes are part of a normal though health officials opted to rate was increasing process when a new minister halt in-person classes in some significantly. takes office and seeks to regions. Local health authorities appoint his allies to key roles. The tighter restrictions were have increasingly preempted The source said Bolsonaro expected as a deadlier strain of Ford’s efforts to contain the A movie theatre owned by Famous Players, a subsidiary of Cineplex Entertainment, remains closed gave Torres freedom to pick coronavirus surges through the virus, particularly around edu- due to coronavirus disease restrictions in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, on Tuesday. his own names, but said the province. Ontario Premier Doug cation. On Tuesday, Toronto president would review and Ford warned on Tuesday that Public Health followed the Peel measures across Ontario last percent capacity, and other health conditions and commu- approve his choices. further restrictions were and Wellington-Dufferin- week, though he stopped short retailers were told to reduce to nities disproportionately “Changes are natural,” coming to curb the spread of the Guelph regions in closing of a stay-at-home order. Restau- 25 percent capacity. impacted by the virus. Bolsonaro said at a swearing- virus in Toronto and suburban schools to in-person learning rants, which had been allowed The province is moving into In neighbouring Quebec, the in ceremony for Torres on regions of Peel and York, which until April 18. Ford has resisted to reopen for outdoor dining only a second phase of its vacci- government also tightened Tuesday. “We know that all the represent about 60 percent of shifting students back to remote a week earlier, were restricted to nation campaign, which restrictions that had recently changes you will make in your new infections. learning, saying they are safer takeout and delivery orders. includes inoculating essential been eased, at schools and gyms ministry are to better arrange Ontario’s COVID-19 cases in schools. Supermarkets and pharmacies workers who cannot work from in Montreal and a few other it for its objective." and death count continues to Ford imposed tighter were ordered to operate at 50 home, people with high-risk regions. Alleged mastermind of Honduran activist’s murder on trial AP — TEGUCIGALPA The judge complained resume yesterday with the pres- But Cáceres’ family believes there is international pressure Lenca people as well as being a Tuesday afternoon that the trial entation of evidence. Castillo Mejía is only an initial for her client’s conviction. “We critical source of water. The The trial of an alleged was starting hours after it had In December 2019, seven step toward seeking justice hope the judicial authority dam project remains frozen. mastermind of the killing of been scheduled. Castillo Mejía men were sentenced to prison against those who ordered the decides with justice,” Antúnez Cáceres won the prestigious Honduran environmental and was not even brought to the for Cáceres’ murder. At the time, killing. said. She said Castillo Mejía and Goldman Prize for her environ- Indigenous rights activist Berta courthouse until after midday. prosecutors said that the killers “For us the importance of Cáceres were friends. mental activism in 2015. She Cáceres began on Tuesday, five The defense team argued acted on behalf of the company, the case against Roberto David Cáceres was a co-founder was slain at her home in La years after the prize-winning that the trial should be delayed known as Desa, that was Castillo Mejía is that it smooths of the National Council of Esperanza on March 3, 2016. A activist was shot to death. because they had filed still out- building the dam. Castillo Mejía the path to the true master- Popular and Indigenous Organ- Mexican activist who was there Prosecutors say David standing challenges and con- was arrested in 2018. minds,” said Víctor Fernández, izations of Honduras. She with her also was shot, but Roberto Castillo Mejía, pres- tinued awaiting the results of Castillo Mejía allegedly paid who will represent Cáceres’ helped organize opposition to survived. ident of a company building a some forensic analyses. The the hitmen, gave logistical family during the trial alongside the Agua Zarca dam project, The trial is scheduled to dam that Cáceres had been court recessed, but returned support and provided resources government prosecutors. which was to be built on the continue until April 30, after fighting, coordinated her 2016 later and rejected their petition. to those already convicted, Ritza Antúnez, Castillo Galcarque River. The river holds which a date will be set for a killing. The trial was scheduled to according to prosecutors. Mejía’s defense attorney, said spiritual importance for the decision. THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 AMERICAS 15 Biden to ramp up pressure for 'American jobs plan'

BLOOMBERG — WASHINGTON In addition to The infrastructure package boosts annual fixed investment President Joe Biden is ramping emphasizing the need in the economy by about six up pressure on Republicans to for urgency, with the percent. This is a game support his $2.25 trillion infra- enhancer, not a game changer structure plan, appealing pandemic exposing — a non-negligible amount that directly to GOP voters while weaknesses that left may be sufficient to move the lawmakers are in their home needle (slightly) on longer term districts during the current millions of families potential growth, particularly congressional recess. struggling, Biden to the extent that the plan Biden will deliver his was to argue that addresses hurdles to produc- second major sales pitch in a tivity growth that the private week for the “American jobs infrastructure needs sector was incapable of plan” with a White House go far beyond just addressing. speech yesterday, as he and his Meantime, Biden is already team reach out to governors, roads and bridges, a having to deal with dissension mayors and the broader public White House official among Senate Democrats. Pro- through phone calls, briefings gressives want the plan to be US First Lady Jill Biden greeting attendees during a video conference with US Military families at the and local TV appearances to said. bigger, while moderates such White House in Washington DC, US, yesterday. make their case. as Senator Joe Manchin of West In addition to emphasizing Virginia oppose raising the cor- the need for urgency, with the also prepared to use a budget porate tax rate to 28 percent Jill Biden announces next steps pandemic exposing weaknesses measure called reconciliation from 21 percent, as Biden has that left millions of families that would allow Democrats — outlined. He would prefer a struggling, Biden in his remarks as long as they stay unified in corporate rate of 25 percent, he for military family program was to argue that infrastructure the 50-50 Senate — to pass a said. needs go far beyond just roads bill without any Republican “If I don’t vote to get on it, it and bridges, a White House support. is not going anywhere,” Manchin AP — WASHINGTON first lady said during an event grit and resilience than our official said. Republican lawmakers told a local news outlet on at the White House. military families, but you can’t Biden would also reiterate have blasted Biden’s plan, Monday. “It’s more than just me. Jill Biden is bringing a new “How can we hope to keep do this alone,” she says. “We that his proposed investments, calling it too large after his $1.9 There are six or seven other focus to an old cause: our military strong if we don’t have to help you carry this spanning broadband to an trillion pandemic-relief bill and Democrats that feel strongly supporting America’s military give our families, survivors weight, by improving access to upgrade of the electrical grid, saying it would damage the about this. We have to be com- families. and caregivers what they need mental health resources, are key to successfully compete economy with the proposed petitive and we are not going The first lady yesterday was to thrive? If we don’t act on ensuring everyone can put with China, the official said. corporate-tax hikes to help throw caution to the wind.” announcing the next chapter for our sacred obligation?” she food on the table and sup- White House aides have fund it. The White House is Transportation Secretary a military family support asked. porting care giving families said they want Congress to hoping to make an end-run Pete Buttigieg said yesterday on program she and then-first lady Biden said her relaunch of and our survivors.” make significant progress on an around that criticism through MSNBC that he’s put a call in to Michelle Obama led during the the Joining Forces initiative will The first lady will be infrastructure bill by Memorial public appeals. Manchin to “understand how Obama administration. focus on employment and joined virtually at Wednes- Day. House Transportation and “We hope that Republicans he thinks the best way to pay Biden says that military entrepreneurship opportunities day’s event by US military Infrastructure Committee Chair can join their constituents for this would stack up.” families are as important as a for military families, education families, advocates and Peter DeFazio said Tuesday his across the country in sup- Biden was to invite law- rudder is to a ship and that sup- for the more than two million others from around the world. panel aims to complete its part porting this effort,” Energy Sec- makers from both sides of the porting their physical, social children with enlisted parents, Afterward, she will head “probably” in the third week of retary Jennifer Granholm said aisle to pitch ways to improve and emotional health is a and the overall health and well- across the Potomac River to May. Sunday on CNN’s State of the on the plan he’s laid out — but national security imperative. being of these families. Arlington, Virginia, to tour the White House Press Sec- Union. “Ultimately, if that will challenge critics to explain “We have an all-volunteer She noted that just one Military OneSource call retary Jen Psaki said Biden will doesn’t happen, he is elected to why it’s acceptable that 91 of force, and it continues only percent percent of the country center, a Defense Department host lawmakers in the Oval do the job, to win the future for the biggest corporations paid because generations of Amer- serves in the all-volunteer resource that provides 24/7 Office to exchange views on the America, to invest in our no federal taxes in 2019, the icans see the honor, dignity and military. support to service members, plan. But the White House is people.” White House official said. patriotism of this calling,” the “No one has more strength, their families and survivors. Chauvin never took knee off Floyd’s neck: Expert Over a half million gain AP — MINNEAPOLIS officers put Floyd on the ground of his neck. Stiger did not give panicky-sounding Floyd health insurance coverage until paramedics arrived. much ground, saying the struggled and claimed to be Officer Derek Chauvin had his “That particular force did officer’s knee in some of the claustrophobic as police tried AP — WASHINGTON Medicare and Medicaid knee on George Floyd’s neck — not change during the entire contested photos still seemed to put him in a squad car, and Services show that 528,005 and was bearing down with restraint period?” prosecutor to be near Floyd’s neck. they pinned him down on the More than a half million Amer- people newly signed up for most of his weight — the entire Steve Schleicher asked as he The defense attorney also pavement. icans have taken advantage of government-sponsored private 9 1/2 minutes the Black man lay showed the jury a composite asked Stiger whether video Bystander video of Floyd the Biden administration’s plans from February 15 to Mar. facedown with his hands cuffed image of five photos taken showed Floyd picked up his crying that he couldn’t breathe special health insurance 31. behind his back, a use-of-force from the various videos of the head and moved it at times. as onlookers yelled at Chauvin sign-up window keyed to the But those figures are expert testified yesterday at arrest. “Slightly, yes. He attempted to get off him sparked protests COVID-19 pandemic, the incomplete because they cover Chauvin’s murder trial. “Correct,” Stiger replied. to,” Stiger replied. and scattered violence around government announced only the 36 states served by the Jody Stiger, a Los Angeles As he did on Tuesday, Chauvin, 45, is charged with the US and triggered a reck- Wednesday in anticipation that federal HealthCare.gov Police Department sergeant Chauvin attorney Eric Nelson murder and manslaughter in oning over racism and police even more consumers will gain insurance market. National serving as a prosecution sought to point out moments in Floyd’s death May 25. Floyd, 46, brutality. coverage in the coming months. enrollment will be higher when witness, said that based on his the video footage when, he said, was arrested outside a neigh- Nelson has argued that the The reason officials expect totals are factored in later on review of video evidence, Chauvin’s knee did not appear borhood market after being now-fired white officer “did sign-ups to keep growing is that from states such as California Chauvin knelt on Floyd’s neck to be on Floyd’s neck but on his accused of trying to pass a exactly what he had been millions of people became eli- and New York that run their or neck area from the time shoulder blade area or the base counterfeit $20 bill. A trained to do over his 19-year gible effective April 1 for own insurance websites. career,” and he has suggested pumped-up subsidies toward The new report also that the illegal drugs in Floyd’s their premiums under Pres- showed that more than system and his underlying ident Joe Biden’s coronavirus 870,000 people who went to health conditions are what relief legislation. The special the HealthCare.gov website or killed him, not Chauvin’s knee. sign-up opportunity for reached out to the call center Nelson seized on the drug Affordable Care Act plans will were found to be eligible for angle in cross-examining Stiger, be available until August 15. Medicaid, the federal-state playing a snippet of then- Biden campaigned on a health program for low-income Officer J. Kueng’s body-camera strategy of building on the people. video and asking whether Stiger Obama-era health law to push Although President Donald could hear Floyd say, “I ate too the United States toward cov- Trump spared no effort to many drugs.” erage for all. As president, he’s overturn the Obama-era law, Stiger replied that he could wasted no time. First he reo- more than 20 million people not make out those words in the pened the law’s heath remained covered under it at footage. Prosecutors did not insurance markets during the the end of Trump’s term. bring up the issue when they pandemic. Then, the virus aid That number combines questioned Stiger again. package essentially delivered those with HealthCare.gov Nelson has also contended a health insurance price cut by plans as well as low-income that the officers on the scene per- making taxpayer subsidies adults covered through ceived the onlookers as an more generous, while also expanded Medicaid. But with increasingly hostile crowd and allowing more people to qualify the economy shedding jobs were distracted by them. On for financial assistance. Those because of coronavirus shut- Tuesday, the defense attorney got sweeteners are available the downs, the number of unin- some police witnesses to rest of this year and through the sured Americans has been on Rodney and Philonise Floyd raise their fists outside the Hennepin County Government Center on the acknowledge that jeering end of 2022. the rise. Biden sought to stop eighth day in the trial of Derek Chauvin, who is facing murder charges in the death of George Floyd, bystanders can make it more dif- The numbers released the erosion, and hopes to ulti- in Minneapolis, Minnesota, US, yesterday. ficult for officers to do their duty. Wednesday by the Centers for mately reverse it. Pence lines up allies, nodding US scours files for more Trump-era migrant separations at possible 2024 campaign REUTERS — WASHINGTON additional separations on top parents with federal immi- Wednesday, requesting ano- of thousands that have already gration offenses and sent them nymity to discuss the matter. BLOOMBERG — WASHINGTON stand idly by as the radical The Biden administration said been reported, the official said. to jails, while children were The task force aims to build Left and the new adminis- yesterday it is examining 5,600 The whereabouts and status labeled “unaccompanied” and a comprehensive database of Former Vice-President Mike tration attempt to threaten previously unreviewed cases of of the 5,600 migrant children placed in shelters. families that were separated Pence yesterday launched an America’s standing as the migrant children to see whether whose cases are being reviewed Jeff Sessions, who spear- under Trump’s zero-tolerance advocacy group to promote his greatest Nation in the world they were separated from remains unclear. DHS did not headed the effort as Trump’s policy and related measures agenda and defend the Trump with their destructive pol- parents at the US-Mexico immediately respond to a attorney general, defended the during the four years he was in administration’s record, a icies,” he said. border under former President request for comment. prosecutions in an interview office, the DHS official said. signal that he’s moving toward The group will give Pence Donald Trump. President Joe Biden, a Dem- with Reuters in March, saying The Biden administration is a 2024 presidential bid. a platform to outline his policy A US Department of ocrat who took over from the a person traveling with a child scouring government records The group, Advancing agenda and solidify support Homeland Security (DHS) Republican Trump on Jan. 20, “shouldn’t be given immunity.” to search for additional sepa- American Freedom, will “build among key Republicans official told reporters the review issued an executive order in Sessions expressed regret, rations and information that on the success of the last four without officially stepping into seeks to find any separated February to create a task force however, that the Trump might help unify families, years by promoting traditional the presidential race. Former children beyond those already to reunite children and parents administration could not according to the official. Conservative values and pro- President Donald Trump has identified through litigation. still separated by Trump’s “zero quickly reunite the parents and “There is also a lot of mis- moting the successful policies not ruled out another bid for The official said the aim is ulti- tolerance” border strategy. children afterward. information in the files - wrong of the Trump Administration,” the White House, making it dif- mately to reunite any families Thousands of children were A Biden administration task dates, confusion in names, Pence said in a statement ficult for potential rivals like who remain apart. separated from their parents at force has yet to reunite any of doubled up cases,” the official announcing the launch. Pence to organize without The effort is expected to the southwestern US border the still separated families, the said. “Those are just a few of the “Conservatives will not alienating him. uncover a small number of under the policy, which charged DHS official told reporters on issues we are discovering.” THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 16

QNTC launches immersive You Ask, Visit Qatar mobile app officials answer PRAYER TIMINGS Designed as a user-centric digital travel PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMING companion, the app allows users to discover Qatar’s cultural heritage sites, FAJR 04.00 am extensive outdoor sports activities, SUNRISE 05.19 am diverse culinary scene and unique DHUHR 11.36 am attractions. ASR 03.05 pm As part of the efforts aimed at MADLSA to introduce the new MAGHRIB 05.55 pm protecting the interests of law and raise awareness employers and employees among the employees and ISHA 07.25 pm THE PENINSULA — DOHA alike, the Ministry of Admin- employers alike to ensure Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC) has announced istrative Development, Labour proper implementation of the the launch of its immersive Visit Qatar mobile app. and Social Affairs (MADLSA) law. Part of QNTC’s wider digital transformation strategy, issued on August 30, 2020 the the first-of-its-kind app uses innovative cloud-based Law No. 17 of 2020 on the What is the new Adobe Experience Manager capabilities which harness Non-discriminatory Minimum minimum wage? data to deliver tailored experiences to users. Wage and Removing the When the new Designed as a user-centric digital travel companion, No-Objection Certificate. The minimum wage comes into the app allows users to discover Qatar’s cultural heritage law published in Qatar’s force, your employer will be sites, extensive outdoor sports activities, diverse culinary Official Gazette on 9 legally required to pay you a WEATHER scene and unique attractions. September and took effect in basic wage of no less than QAR TODAY The app offers 360 degree and panoramic views of March 2021. 1,000 a month and provide you iconic sites and landmarks, along with a feature that allows According to, Law No. 17 with decent accommodation users to swipe right on a selection of top locations. They of 2020 on Setting the and food. can use the map assistant to plot and plan their stay, and Minimum Wage for Workers There are three different enjoy personalised recommendations based on their and Domestic Workers sets rates for the minimum wage. preferences. the minimum wage for all If your employer provides you o o Chief Operating Officer of QNTC, Berthold Trenkel private sector workers, with decent food and accom- 23 C 34 C said: “Qatar is a country of hidden gems and one that is including domestic workers, modation, you are entitled to Minimum Maximum on a mission to become a leading destination for both at QR1,000 per month as a a basic wage of at least Hazy to misty at first becomes local and international travellers. The launch of the Visit basic wage, as well as QR500 QR1,000. moderate temperature to relatively Qatar mobile app is a core part of our strategy to mod- per month allocated by the If your employer provides hot daytime. ernise our digital marketing and deliver a superior visitor employer for accommodation you with decent accommo- experience. expenses and QR300 per dation, but does not provide W ALRUWAIS : 21o → 25o “With Adobe Experience Manager as a Cloud Service, month for food, unless the you with food, you are W ALKHOR : 19o → 30o we’re now able to provide more targeted, timely, and per- employer already provides entitled to a food allowance W DUKHAN : 21o → 28o sonalised experiences to travellers. In phase two of the adequate food or accommo- of no less than QR300 on top W WAKRAH : 17o → 35o development, the mobile app will offer even more 360 dation for the employee or of a basic wage of at least experiences and include a festival & events calendar.” domestic worker. QR1,000. W MESAIEED : 17o → 35o Utilizing the latest technology available, QNTC con- The new law removes the In this case, you should W ABUSAMRA : 18o → 29o tinues to work with stakeholders to improve the requirement to obtain a ‘No- receive at least QR1,300 per tourism experience in Qatar, and make it a must-visit Objection Certificate’ (NOC) month. If your employer does destination. The use of Adobe Experience Manager which had been a component not provide you with accom- HIGH TIDE 2:30– 15:33 helps fuel its digital transformation as it is a pioneer of the sponsorship system can- modation or food, you are in Qatar in adopting the cloud-based ecosystem. celled in 2015, and the law No entitled to allowances of no LOW TIDE 10:12 – 20:49 The app is available for free for iOS via the App Store 17/2020 is a major step forward less than QR300 for food and and for Android via Google Play. While currently opera- in the process of labour reform QR500 for accommodation on tional in English, an Arabic version will be available soon. programme Qatar working on top of a basic wage of at least To find out more information on the Visit Qatar Mobile for years. QR1,000. In this case, you App visit www.visitqatar.qa or download the app via the The following are question should receive at least QAR Model train rings App Store. and answers developed by the 1,800 per month. out the tunes in record-setting Ashghal releases Recycling Manual, pandemic project first of its kind in region REUTERS — BERLIN THE PENINSULA — DOHA providing the requirements for produce bitumen modified with At Hamburg’s Miniatur dealing with recycled materials crumb rubber (CRMB), which Wunderland museum, shut As part of initiatives of the in terms of sorting and storing helps in enhancing stability and during Germany’s coronavirus Public Works Authority to ensure quality, setting con- durability of asphalt mixtures, lockdown, a model train chugs (Ashghal) to use recycled mate- trols for producing recycled increasing flexibility, reducing along a track lined with thou- rials in projects, Ashghal materials to ensure stability level cracks, reducing noise on the sands of water-filled glasses, Research and Development of quality, encouraging investors roads, reducing financial cost of tapping out a medley of clas- Center run by the Quality and in this field and providing a ref- pavement work and reducing sical music hits as it passes. Safety Department has erence in the field of recycling environmental pollution of land- With the museum forced to prepared the Ashghal Recycling to ensure continuous devel- fills. It is noteworthy that close, founder and model train Manual, the first of its kind in opment as per increasing expe- during previous year 2020, enthusiast Frederik Braun and Qatar and the region. riences in the field. Qatar has produced 877 tonnes his team had time on their This manual is the result of The manual contains speci- of bitumen modified with hands, and spent weeks setting three years of research, fications for materials produced rubber crumb. up the musical project. expertise, field tests and pilot from recycling reclaimed As part of construction The effort was worth it, as projects implemented using asphalt, crumb rubber produced works of projects, Ashghal the museum earned a recycled materials. from tires, demolition and exca- recycles concrete and materials Guinness World Record for the The manual is considered a vation waste, wadi aggregate extracted in excavation works, longest melody played by a technical reference for engi- and steel slag. The manual also aggregates, and reclaimed model train. neers, consultants and con- includes methods of manufac- asphalt for using in new road “It’s not all perfect, but just tractors working in Ashghal turing recycled materials, sorting pavements. try to play Verdi on wine projects, as well as for manu- guidelines, quality control Thus, 100 percent of the glasses. Or worse, the Bolero, facturers and investors in the systems, methods of testing drilling materials of the when you only have two field of recycling. It also pro- these materials, and permissible Mesaimeer outfall and tunnel octaves at your disposal,” vides technical support for use rates to maintain quality and for surface water and rainwater Braun said. projects in achieving Ashghal’s durability of projects. project were recycled. Setting up the course, recycling strategy. Ashghal began to recycle It is worth noting that construction and pavement projects, reducing costs and which passes intricate mini- The importance of Ashghal rubber tyres of vehicles and use Ashghal adopts latest practices works, with the aim of preserving environment using ature landscapes and tiny col- Recycling Manual lies in them as enrichment material to in the field of road achieving sustainability of recycled materials in projects. ourful versions of cities like Hamburg and Las Vegas, posed significant challenges. By the time the nearly Ooredoo Doha Virtual Marathon attracts 5,900 runners 3,000 glasses were filled to the right level, the water had THE PENINSULA — DOHA Tourism Council, Diet Delights, More than 5,900 already started to evaporate, Aspire, Aspetar, Elan, Tarteeb, making them off-key. Ooredoo has announced it has and INTA FM; and Silver runners – the biggest “We tried it with plastic concluded its virtual running sponsors QIC and Chac’Late - participation for a wrap, to cover the surface, and event, the Ooredoo Doha Virtual without which it said the event we found out that a light oil... Marathon 2021. The event was up in the main categories. Ilyass El Ouali and Houssine could not have taken place. virtual running event creates a layer on top that pre- considered a resounding Elarbi Khattabi took the top Lahdou, and the top three ladies To encourage everyone to in the Middle East serves it, and then there is success. spot in the men’s full marathon were Dina Ali Shekkh, Zineb participate, Ooredoo had pre- region — signed up barely any evaporation,” More than 5,900 runners – with a time of 2:32:20, with Karam, and Ana Milena Mesa. viously announced it waived all Braun explained. the biggest participation for a Nasreddine Mansour and Abdullah Khan, Dnyaneshwar registration fees for the event. to take part from 108 The team also had to make virtual running event in the Cameron Nail second and third. Mutkule, and Akshith Sara- Director PR at Ooredoo countries worldwide. sure that the mallets attached Middle East region — signed up In the women’s main event, vanan led the men’s 5k, with Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari said, to the model train did not to take part from 108 countries Andrea Stadler won in 3:23:33 Rosmaini Binti Ngah, Beatrice “We were excited to host a Runners were able shatter any of the 2,840 glasses, worldwide. Runners were able while Ghalya Alharami and Njogu, and Sara Talia heading virtual alternative to the hugely to participate in set up to play 20 different clas- to participate in the event, Angelita Maano took second the ladies event. popular Ooredoo Doha Mar- sical tunes including Johann running individually with their and third place. Valid Ferdosian, Mahmoud athon, so our many keen the event, running Strauss’s Radetzky March and run times registered on the lea- The half-marathon also saw Elkhaznadar, and Omar Elk- runners didn’t miss out and individually with their Ludwig van Beethoven’s Für derboard via the Suffix.Tracker some impressive results; Rachid haznadar registered the top were delighted to see so many Elise. app. Boudalla, Ahmed Elhissouf, and three times in the 1km male participants signing up. Pro- run times registered “This world record is a Several categories ensured Mohamed Omar finished top race, while Afrah F Nijas, moting a healthy, active lifestyle on the leaderboard via mega-record. It won’t be runners of all ages and abilities three in the men’s category, Bassma Lakhloufi and Annabel is a key priority for Ooredoo as the Suffix.Tracker app. beaten anytime soon, I’m could take part, starting from a while Daisy Baker, Marjan Axford led the female event. part of our corporate social certain of that,” Braun said. 1k run to half-marathons and Kohansal, and Eimear Dynes Ooredoo thanked its many responsibility strategy. We’re It also boasts the world’s the full 42km marathon for both topped the leaderboard in the generous sponsors for their pleased we managed to con- congratulations to all the largest model train set, with a men and women. A host of ladies category. support — Platinum sponsors tinue our commitment to this winners, runners up and par- total track length of 15,715 smart devices was offered as The top three men in the Qatari Diar; Gold sponsors goal even as the pandemic ticipants, and our thanks to you metres. prizes for winners and runners- 10km run were Mohamed Nasir, Qatar Airways, Qatar National restrictions continue. Many all for joining in!”