Britain 'Like a launches Championship':hip': pared-back Doha primedd job protection as to stage blockbusterkbuster COVID-19 surges season finalee

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FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2020 8 SAFAR - 1442 VOLUME 25 NUMBER 8391 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS Enjoy Ooredoo’s fast 5G network FM: Qatar backs efforts to protect civilians in countries facing conflict

QNA — DOHA The responsibility to protect becomes the first line of defence for civilians, particularly as the prin- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H E ciple became entrenched in international law. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul- rahman Al Thani stressed that The world needs the principle of the responsibility the responsibility to protect is to protect more than any time before, due to the the first line of defence for civilians, adding that Qatar increasing number of crises. supports all international efforts to protect civilians in Establishing collective security for mankind is a countries facing armed conflict, shared responsibility of all member states. Qatar, Cote d'Ivoire review bilateral relations in line with the State of Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al policies and its commitment to Security Council has a special responsibility to Thani met yesterday with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cote d'Ivoire H E Ally Coulibaly, international law. who is visiting the country. They reviewed the bilateral cooperation relations, in addition to issues This came during His Excel- prevent atrocity crimes and refrain from using the of common interest. lency’s statement at the high- veto power in cases involving egregious crimes. level meeting of the Group of Friends of the Responsibility to Protect, which was organised crimes and impunity, and hold increasing number of crises, by the group’s joint presidency those responsible for these their nature, the number of Qatar provided $88m to over 80 nations (the State of Qatar, Denmark, crimes accountable. civilian casualties, and the and Costa Rica) via videocon- He noted that the world is responsibility the international to support COVID-19 response ference. UN Secretary-General, facing unprecedented chal- community has towards pro- Antonio Guterres participated lenges as a result of the corona- tecting them. QNA — DOHA H E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi in all areas of common interest, in the event along with a virus (COVID-19) pandemic that H E Sheikh Mohammed bin via video-conference, before in line with Qatar National number of ranking officials. threatens everyone, and partic- Abdulrahman Al Thani Minister of State for Foreign the Ministerial Meeting of Vision 2030. The Foreign Minister said ularly the most vulnerable social expressed his great appreciation Affairs, H E Sultan bin Saad Al Foreign Ministers of the CICA The meeting is taking place that the State of Qatar was classes. The Minister added that for the efforts of the Group of Muraikhi said yesterday that Member States. today and the world is wit- pleased to participate at the as a result, facing these chal- Friends of the Responsibility Qatar has strengthened the H E the Minister added that nessing rapid changes and high-level meeting, which coin- lenges and burdens must be to Protect and the Global rapid response to face the Qatar has reaffirmed its great transformations that call for cides with the international shared. He also stressed on full Centre for the Responsibility dangerous repercussions of the interest in the work of the Con- intensifying cooperation at the community’s commemoration compliance with international to Protect. He also said that crisis, as it has provided $88m ference on Interaction and bilateral and multilateral levels, of the UN’s 75th anniversary law and the UN Charter. Qatar was satisfied with the to support the COVID-19 Confidence-Building Measures in addition, the COVID-19 pan- and the 15th anniversary of the The Deputy Prime Minister inclusion of the topic in the response to more than 80 in Asia (CICA), since its demic represents an unprece- international community’s said that, in this context, the agenda of the General countries worldwide. His Excel- accession to the conference at dented challenge and threat to commitment to the principle of responsibility to protect Assembly, noting the assem- lency added that Qatar is also the 2014 Shanghai Summit, humanity, assuring of the the responsibility to protect in becomes the first line of bly’s active role in protecting working with the United indicating its participation in importance of collective action the 2005 high-level UN World defence for civilians, particu- civilians. Despite the successes Nations Development many of its activities, including and coordination to move Summit meeting. The Deputy larly as the principle became in the field of the responsibility Programme, in the innovation the participation of Amir H H beyond this crisis, H E the Min- Prime Minister and Foreign entrenched in international law to protect legally, it was still lab, which includes more than Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al ister said. Minister stressed that partici- and in line with the UN Charter. unable to fully prevent atrocity 47 countries, to devise solutions Thani in the 5th Summit in H E the Minister underlined pating in this event sends a He highlighted that the world crimes. The rate of atrocity to address the negative conse- Dushanbe, which demonstrate the State of Qatar’s continued clear message that the interna- needs the principle of the crimes is increasing in terms of quences of the pandemic. its interest in strengthening support for international insti- tional community is committed responsibility to protect more the number and geographic This came in the speech of and developing cooperation tutions to develop health, pros- to protect civilians, end atrocity than any time before, due to the scope. `P2 the State of Qatar, delivered by with friendly Asian countries perity, and stability. `P2 Japan, S Korea account for Nasser Al Khelaifi’s defence team demands one third of Qatar’s exports complete acquittal in Switzerland court case SACHIN KUMAR percent,” said the report. THE PENINSULA The share of European THE PENINSULA — DOHA defence tore apart this com- countries in Qatari imports Not one single piece of pletely flawed argument with Japan and South Korea was 17 percent, other Latin The court case concerning evidence from the precision and detail. Firstly, accounted for over one third of American countries had 13 Nasser Al Khelaifi (pictured) – the media rights bought by Qatar’s exports while the United percent share and other Asian President of PSG and beIN prosecution shows any beIN for the 2026 & 2030 FIFA States of America and China countries share was 12 percent. Media Group – concluded incitement or World Cups were at an out- accounted for about a third of Giving details about major yesterday evening in Swit- encouragement of standing price, not an under- Qatar’s total imports last year. destinations of Qatari exports, zerland after Al Khelaifi’s Swiss Valcke by Al Khelaifi to value ($480m in total, far Japan’s share in total exports the report said, “Japan and South legal team presented to the not report something – exceeding FIFA’s ambitious from Qatar was 19 percent, while Korea were the dominant export court for over six hours and target of $435m). Secondly, the the share of United States of destinations in 2019, accounting demanded the full acquittal of which is the only charge fact there was no tender for America in Qatar’s total import for 35 percent of Qatar’s total their client. against Al Khelaifi: beIN’s contract is completely was 19 percent in 2019, exports, followed by India and The case principally con- Defence team. at FIFA’s choice, completely in according to a report by the China with 24 percent, then Sin- cerns charges against former FIFA’s favour, completely legal, Planning and Statistics Authority. gapore with eight percent, and FIFA General Secretary, Jerome and happens across all sports “The United States of the group of European Union Valcke, and a Greek busi- “incitement to misman- Khelaifi – Marc Bonnant, Gre- for all kinds of contracts. Third, America is the largest trading countries with 10 percent." nessman Konstantinos Nteris agement”. In February this year goire Mangeat and Fanny Mar- Al Khelaifi never owned the partner of the State of Qatar in The remainder of 23 percent (better known as Dinos Deris), FIFA completely dropped all gairaz – took it in turns to pick villa in question. Finally, not one terms of being the source of share in Qatar’s export was dis- in relation to the award of FIFA charges of alleged bribery apart the prosecution’s case. single piece of evidence from Qatari imports with 19 percent tributed among Qatar’s tradi- World Cup media rights in Italy, against Al Khelaifi after a three- The fundamentals of the the prosecution shows any of the total, followed by China tional and nearby trading Greece and MENA. Valcke and year investigation proved no allegation against Al Khelaifi are incitement or encouragement with 12 percent, then Germany, partners, including the Gulf Coop- Deris are charged with cor- wrongdoing. that he bought a villa for Jerome of Valcke by Al Khelaifi to not Britain, India, Turkey, and eration Council countries and ruption and bribery, whereas At the court in Bellinzona Valcke in return for Valcke pro- report something – which is Oman with a total of 27 other Arab countries. `P2 the only charge against Al yesterday, starting at 8am, the viding cheap media rights to the only charge against Al Khelaifi is a technical charge of three Swiss attorneys for Al beIN without a tender. The Khelaifi. `P2 Countries share in Qatar’s export in 2019 19% 16% Impact of COVID-19 on vulnerable groups priority for Qatar Japan’s share in S Korea’s share Qatari export in Qatari exports QNA — DOHA pandemic on the most and Protecting Future Genera- is not only a global health crisis vulnerable countries, including tions “ with the Friends of Sol- but also a humanitarian, human Minister of Public Health, H E Dr. the Least Developed Countries idarity for Global Health development and economic Hanan Mohammed Al Kuwari (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Security group, which took crisis. Robust global cooper- said yesterday that Qatar Countries (LLDCs) and Small place on the sidelines of the ation is essential,” Her Excel- attaches great importance to the Island Developing States (SIDS), 75th session of the UN General lency said. impact of the COVID-19 noting the severe disruption Assembly in partnership with The Minister further epidemic on the most caused by the pandemic on Canada, the Kingdom of explained that the crisis is exac- 24% 10% vulnerable, including women educational systems. Denmark, the Republic of Korea erbating pre-existing education Share of India and European Union countries and children. Speaking at a high- Qatar yesterday organised and the Republic of Sierra disparities by reducing the profile meeting, H E the Minister a virtual high-profile side event Leone. opportunities for many children China in Qatari exports share in exports expressed deep concern with the on “Protraction of the COVID-19 The Minister Al Kuwari said and youth to continue their impact of the COVID-19 Crisis: Mitigating the Impacts that “The COVID-19 pandemic learning. `P2 02 HOME FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2020

FM meets Secretary-General of OFFICIAL NEWS Fatah’s Central Committee Amir congratulates President of Guinea-Bissau DOHA : Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Deputy Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani sent yesterday cables of congratulations PRAYER to President of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, H E Umaro Sissoco Embalo, TIMINGS on the anniversary of his country’s Independence Day. — QNA PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMINNGG

FAJR 04.06 am Qatar provided $88m to over 80 SUNRISE 05.23 am nations to support COVID-19 response DHUHR 11.26 am FROM PAGE 1 ASR 02.51 pm have many available fields and The State of Qatar calls for commonalities to make the MAGHRIB 05.30 pm the adoption of dialogue as a most of the capabilities ISHA 07.00 pm basic method for resolving all available to them, adding that disputes between countries and the Asian continent countries encourages dialogue between are distinguished with their religions, civilizations, and cul- geographical and environ- tures through organizing mental diversity as well as rich several regional and interna- and varied historical civiliza- tional conferences, H E Al tions and cultures. Muraikhi said. H E Sultan bin Saad Al Also, the Minister affirmed Muraikhi thanked H E Minister the State of Qatar’s condem- of Foreign Affairs of the WEATHER nation of terrorism, extremism, Republic of Kazakhstan TODAY and violence in all its forms and Mukhtar Tleuberdi for the suc- manifestations, regardless of its cessful organisation of the motives and source, reaf- meeting and presidency of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al firming the State of Qatar’s conference for the current Thani, met yesterday with Secretary-General of the Palestinian Fatah’s Central Committee (FCC) H E support for all regional and session. Major General Jibril Rajoub, who is currently visiting the country. During the meeting, they reviewed international efforts concerned He also thanked the the bilateral cooperation and relations between the two countries, in addition to issues of common with combating terrorism and Republic of Tajikistan for the o o concern. H E the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs affirmed, during the meeting, drying up its sources. previous presidency that wit- 30 C 39 C Qatar’s full support to achieve national reconciliation, and renewed the position of the State of Qatar Minimum Maximum He added that the State of nessed the successful organi- calling for a just settlement of the Palestinian issue based on international legitimacy decisions, the Qatar believes that the coun- zation of the 5th CICA Summit Hazy to misty at places at first Arab Peace Initiative and a two-state solution to achieve security and stability in the region. tries of the Asian continent in June 2019. becomes hot daytime with some clouds, relatively humid by night. W ALRUWAIS : 31o → 36o Japan, S Korea W ALKHOR : 26o → 38o Impact of COVID-19 on vulnerable groups priority for Qatar W DUKHAN : 27o → 38o FROM PAGE 1 account for one → W WAKRAH : 28o 40o H E the Minister of Public Health noted third of Qatar’s W MESAIEED : 28o → 40o that as we celebrate the 75th anniversary W ABUSAMRA : 26o → 37o of the United Nations, COVID-19 pushes exports us towards effective multilateral cooper- FROM PAGE 1 ation, stressing that only through solidarity HIGH TIDE and strengthening international cooper- The data for the first half 12:23 – 23:58 ation, can we overcome this threat to us of 2020 showed the same pro- LOW TIDE 04:33 – 20:45 all be, enable the most vulnerable to portional distribution, as respond, recover, and build back better. Japan, China, India, South The Minister added: “The vision of Korea, and Singapore Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al accounted for two-thirds of Thani, in global solidarity has been trans- the total exports. Fahes to extend lated in Qatar’s growing support to inter- Foreign merchandise trade national action on several fronts. Qatar is represented by the export working hours of contributed $20m to the World Vaccine and imports of goods, and Alliance (Gavi), to accelerate the devel- plays a pivotal role in the eco- seven stations opment, and production of a vaccine for nomic and social development the virus. Qatar has also allocated $10m of Qatar. “Export of goods rep- THE PENINSULA — DOHA for WHO, to support equipment, diag- resents, on average, 40 nostics, therapeutics for COVID-19 and percent of GDP and provide Fahes in coordination with equitable distribution of vaccines to eve- 81.3 percent of the State’s total General Directorate of Traffic ryone who needs them worldwide, in revenues,” said the report. Department of the Ministry of order to save lives and leaving no one Minister of Public Health H E Dr. Hanan Mohammed Al Kuwari taking part in the event. “The value of imported goods Interior has decided to extend behind in time of crisis. Qatar has also in 2019 amounted to about the working hours at seven provided urgent medical assistance to where the LDCs Programme of Action for and the side event addressed ministers QR106bn,” added the report. stations in Qatar. dozens of countries.” the next 10 years will be adopted. H E Dr. and representatives of the countries co- Hydrocarbon products rep- With effect from October She also explained that based on Hanan Mohammed Al Kuwari reiterated chairing the group; Canada, the Kingdom resent the most important 1, seven Fahes stations will Qatar’s deep commitment to SIDS, least Qatar’s support for the United Nations in of Denmark, the Republic of Korea and export of Qatar while work from 6am to 6pm every developed countries and landlocked building a future of peace and prosperity the Republic of Sierra Leone, as well as machines and equipment, day except weekends (all developing countries, Qatar looks forward for all. Sheikha Alia Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, manufactured goods and food Fahes Stations are closed on to hosting the upcoming 5th United Qatar co-chairs the Friends of Soli- Permanent Representative of Qatar to the commodities are among the Fridays and Saturdays), Nations Conference on LDCs in Doha, darity group for global health security, United Nations. major imports. tweeted Woqod on its social media account. The stations that will be open for longer hours are Maz- FM: Qatar backs efforts Qatar’s swift response limited spread rooah, Wukair, Mesaimeer, Shahaniya, Wadi Al Banat, Al Egda and Wakra. The entrance to protect civilians in of COVID-19: Dr. Abdullatif Al Khal gates will be shut 15 minutes before the closure time. countries facing conflict THE PENINSULA — DOHA Foundation (Katara) entitled system and the number of FROM PAGE 1 “Health... How Qatar Handled beds, and the redistribution of cooperation with partners at Dr. Abdullatif Al Khal, Chair COVID-19”, he added that the employees. MoPH: 250 new His Excellency warned that the regional and international of the National Strategic focus on mass testing com- The lecture came within this dangerous pattern could levels to implement the Group on COVID-19 and Head bined with early, proactive the framework of the activ- COVID-19 cases, continue if the international responsibility to protect, of the Infectious Diseases treatment also limited the ities that Katara holds during community doesn’t take believing that this is conducive Division at Hamad Medical number of people who its presidency of the public 257 recoveries stronger measures to satisfy its to strengthening regional and Corporation, has said Qatar’s required hospitalisation. international diplomatic responsibility of protecting international peace and healthcare system is well- Dr Abdullatif Al Khal spoke network, and after Qatar's THE PENINSULA — DOHA civilians. security. prepared, and was provided about government measures successful handling of the Sheikh Mohammed bin H E the Minister of Foreign with strong resources to deal to confront coronavirus, pandemic. The Ministry of Public Health Abdulrahman Al Thani stated Affairs pointed out that, given with the healthcare needs of explaining Qatar’s strategy in Qatar has also won inter- (MoPH) yesterday announced that, given that the issue of the important role of devel- COVID-19 cases. dealing with the pandemic national recognition for its the registration of 250 new establishing collective security opment aid and its positive Speaking in an online through rapid response, measures taken during the confirmed cases of COVID-19 for mankind is a shared impact in helping countries lecture at the Cultural Village expansion of the healthcare coronavirus crisis. in the country. Among them responsibility of all member fulfill their responsibilities for six were travellers returning states, however, the Security protection, the State of Qatar from abroad. Council, by virtue of its has provided development Another 257 people have mandate under the Charter, has support to many countries, to Al Khelaifi’s defence team demands recovered from the virus, a special responsibility to help them strengthen their bringing the total number of prevent atrocity crimes and national institutions and create complete acquittal in Switzerland court case recovered cases in Qatar to refrain from using the veto an internal environment that FROM PAGE 1 121,263. All new cases have power in cases involving egre- promotes equality and social Al-Khelaifi’s defence has the prosecution had any com- been introduced to isolation gious crimes, renewing Qatar’s justice in society and advances During the day, it was also finally been heard. Each and ments or rebuttals to the and are receiving necessary support for the code of conduct the development process. He noted in court that given the every flaw and contradiction defence — to which, healthcare according to their on the actions taken by the added that the state of Qatar broadcasting landscape at the in the prosecution’s case was remarkably, the prosecution health status. Security Council against gen- has also worked to reach moment – both worldwide presented. The 2026 / 2030 said no. The Ministry further said ocide, crimes against humanity, political solutions to the crises and particularly in MENA – media rights deal was out- As a backdrop to this case, that measures to tackle and war crimes, as well as the based on the rule of law and beIN’s deal with FIFA is even standing for FIFA, far from the Swiss Prosecution service COVID-19 in Qatar have suc- initiative to restrict the use of human rights, and has spared more fantastic for FIFA, given being an undervalue. The villa itself has been embroiled in a ceeded in flattening the curve the veto in the face of mass no effort to achieve the goals broadcast rights values are was never owned by Al major and unprecedented and limiting the spread of the atrocities. sought by the international plummeting in light of COVID, Khelaifi, far from being an scandal that has led to the res- virus. The number of daily Based on the policy of community. piracy, no competition in undue influence. Most funda- ignation of Attorney General new cases and hospital admis- Qatar and its commitment to H E the Minister explained many markets, and Saudi mentally – the only charge Michael Lauber earlier this year, sions has gradually declined international law, it has sup- that, in the context of raising Arabia banning legitimate against Al Khelaifi is who originally oversaw Al over the past few weeks. ported all international efforts awareness of the importance broadcasters illegally. It was “incitement” of Valcke to not Khelaifi’s file and who was sanc- The Ministry has also said to protect civilians in countries of the responsibility to protect, also noted that only last week, report matters; not a single tioned and resigned for mis- that Qatar has one of the lowest facing armed conflicts and put Doha hosted in 2017 a meeting FIFA President Gianni element of incitement has conduct and lying. Various other COVID-19 death rates in the an end to serious violations of on the responsibility to protect Infantino publicly defended been proven. The complete prosecutors on Al Khelaifi’s file world, as a result of, Qatar’s international humanitarian to discuss accountability as a beIN’s great deal for FIFA at acquittal of Al Khelaifi has have also been dismissed over young population, proactive law and international human tool to prevent atrocities, and FIFA’s 70th FIFA Congress. been demanded today, and the course of proceedings – testing to identify cases early, rights law, H E the Foreign the role of the responsibility to Commenting on yester- emphatically so. We are con- calling into question the inde- expanding hospital capacity, Minister said. He added that protect in combating violent day’s proceedings, Marc fident this will be the case and pendence, impartiality and especially intensive care, to Qatar has also provided all extremism, and in the same Bonnant, Swiss counsel rep- that justice will be served.” credibility of the entire Swiss ensure all patients receive the forms of support and relief to year it hosted the Seventh resenting Nasser Al Khelaifi, Following Al Khelaifi’s prosecution team. The court medical care they need, pro- alleviate the suffering of Annual Meeting of the Global said: “For the first time since defence, the judge then turned closed proceedings at 4pm in tecting the elderly and those civilians and protect them, in Network of Responsibility to this investigation began nearly to the prosecution team and Bellinzona and a judgment is with chronic diseases. addition to its hard work and Protect Focal Points. 4 years ago, Nasser asked whether expected on October 30. FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2020 HOME 03

Qatar attends GCC commercial, industrial IAEA praises Qatar’s progress in promoting cooperation committee meetings peaceful use of nuclear energy

QNA — DOHA nuclear technologies to enhance food security and the medical field in the State of Qatar. The Ministry of Municipality and Environment, repre- The IAEA has praised the progress made by the sented by the Radiation and Chemicals Protection State of Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Munic- Department, held a meeting via videoconferencing ipality and Environment, in promoting the peaceful with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), uses of nuclear energy in the agricultural, industrial, on the sidelines of the IAEA’s annual general medical, and research fields, as the national super- conference. visory authority to regulate these uses. The Agency During the meeting, they discussed the file of the officials and liaison officers in the State of Qatar State of Qatar with the IAEA, on all issues of technical affirmed the continuation and strengthening of this cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, fruitful cooperation. as three main projects were designed to strengthen The meeting was attended by specialists in the the monitoring infrastructure of the Ministry of Radiation and Chemicals Protection Department at Municipality and Environment to regulate the radi- the Ministry of Municipality and Environment, the ological and nuclear regulatory work in the State of Ministry of Public Health, the agricultural affairs, and Qatar, and two additional projects for the use of research. Experts discuss impact of blockade on Qatar

THE PENINSULA — DOHA national economy. This was fellow moderator Dr. Natalia accompanied by an analysis of Abramova, Director of RANEPA’s The ongoing blockade of Qatar Qatari perceptions of the blockade School of Public Policy and Man- provided the context for a recent as well as how the country has agement. Additional questions and webinar organised by the College responded in policymaking terms. insights were provided by an of Public Policy (CPP) at Hamad Discussions were brought up online audience consisting of Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) and to date with an overview of how faculty members and graduate stu- the School of Public Policy and the blockade and COVID-19 pan- dents from both universities. Management at the Russian Pres- demic have affected Qatar’s prep- Speaking after the webinar, Dr. idential Academy of National arations for the FIFA World Cup Leslie Pal, CPP, said: “Our latest The State of Qatar participated yesterday in the 59th meeting of the Commercial Economy and Public Adminis- 2022. discussion further underscores Cooperation Committee and the 47th meeting of the Industrial Cooperation Committee tration (RANEPA). CPP hosted Fahad bin CPP’s commitment to supporting of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which were held via video-conferencing. Minister The webinar, titled ‘The Mohammed Al Attiyah, Ambas- and contributing to Qatar’s poli- of Commerce and Industry H E Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari represented the State of Qatar at Blockade of Qatar: Is this Conflict sador Extraordinary and Plenipo- cymaking capabilities. There can the two meetings. During the meetings, the ministers discussed several issues and topics Resolvable?’ traced the financial, tentiary of the State of Qatar to the be no denying that the blockade of common interest in the commercial and industrial fields and the recommendations political and social impact of the Russian Federation, to lead the has tested these as well as the submitted by the preparatory meetings of the representatives of the GCC ministries of blockade on Qatari life, particu- webinar, joined by Dr. Leslie Pal, country’s ability to remain resolute commerce and industry and took appropriate decisions in their regard. larly on the structure of the Founding Dean of the CPP, and in the face of crises. Music Affairs Center awards winners of inaugural Nagham contest today RAYNALD C RIVERA voting based on the 19 finalists’ instrument performance. other instruments category, the and supporting talents as well all talented people who have THE PENINSULA performances posted on the More than 150 aspiring winners were Abdulrahman Al as providing Qataris and resi- performed well in the contest center’s YouTube channel. singers and instrumentalists Suwaidi (jury) and George Samir dents a chance to share their even those who did not win. He The winners of the inaugural Music Affairs Center Director applied for the competition, he Dayoub (audience). talent. He said the center has said the competition discovered Nagham competition organised Khaled Al Salem said the center said, adding the organising com- Winners in the Arabic become an open and continuous talented musicians in Qatar and by the Music Affairs Center continues to discover and mittee will award eight prizes singing category included support forging strong rela- gave them platform to highlight under the Department of Culture support talented musicians in which include two winners each Hashim Al Yafie (jury) and tionship with new talents who their creativity and reach out to and Arts at the Ministry of Qatar. The event will be in Arabic singing and English Ahmed Yaqoub (audience) while represent hope for the future. a wider audience. Al Salem said Culture and Sports will be broadcast from the Music Affairs singing as well as two winners in the English singing category He emphasised that the art has an influential role in honoured at an event today, the Center’s headquarters on the each in piano and other instru- the winners were Arianne center attaches utmost impor- society, noting that digital plat- center has announced. center’s digital platforms. It will ments categories. Sayegh (jury) and Nidhikshana tance to new talents, praising all forms in this regard have The winners were chosen celebrate the eight winners of In the piano category, Mia Paul (audience). those who made it to the finals assumed an important role for from among Qatar’s most prom- the different categories of the Park Torchinsky won the jury’s Al Salem stressed that of the competition while under- their ability to reach people ising amateur musicians by a competition which focused nod while Nidhikshana Paul was Nagham is one of the center’s scoring that the center intends swiftly and transmit important jury as well as online public mainly on singing and solo declared audience winner. In the projects aimed at discovering to continue sponsoring message to the society.

Officials during the delivery of medical aid from Qatar Charity to a maternity hospital in Zagreb. Qatar Embassy delivers medical aid to Croatia

QNA — ZAGREB damage. The event to deliver Al Nuaimi; and a number of the medical aid was attended Croatian officials. The Embassy of the State of by Secretary of State at the The Croatian officials Qatar in the Republic of Croatia Ministry of Health of Croatia, expressed their thanks and delivered yesterday medical Dr. Zeljko Plazonic; Assistant appreciation for the Qatari aid from Qatar Charity to the Minister of Foreign and donation that will help maternity hospital in the European Affairs for Economic overcome the crisis that the Croatian capital, Zagreb, to Cooperation, Ivana Zivkovic; Croatian health sector is going help mitigate the effects of the Acting Charge d’Affairs at the through as a result of the earthquake that struck Zagreb Embassy of the State of Qatar earthquake and combat its in March, and caused severe in Croatia, Rumi bin Muhanna effects. Three arrested for violating home quarantine

QNA — DOHA Authorities have Hanash. The authorities con- called on the public cerned call on citizens and res- The competent authorities idents who are subject to quar- yesterday arrested three people who are subject antine to fully adhere to the who violated the requirements to quarantine to requirements set by the Min- of the home quarantine, they istry of Public Health, to ensure committed to following, which fully adhere to the their safety and the safety of they are legally accountable for, requirements set by others. in accordance with the proce- The concerned authorities dures of the health authorities the Ministry of Public warned that anyone who vio- in the country. Health. lates these conditions will It is in implementation of expose himself to the penalties the precautionary measures in stipulated in accordance with force in the country, approved The three people being the provisions of Article (253) by health authorities repre- referred to the competent pros- of the Penal Code No. (11) of sented in the Ministry of Public ecution are Muhammad Sayyah 2004, and the provisions of Law Health (MoPH) to ensure the Shihan Hamim Al Shammari; No. (17) of 1990 regarding the achievement of public safety Muhammad Al Sayed Ahmed prevention of infectious dis- and to curb the spread of the Mohamed Shaheen and Al eases, and Law No. (17) of 2002 coronavirus. Sayed Muhammad Al Sayed Al on the protection of society. 04 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2020 Fatah, Hamas reach deal on Palestinian elections AFP — RAMALLAH Polls will be that,” he added. The intra-Pal- estinian reconciliation attempts Gaza’s Islamist rulers Hamas scheduled within six took on greater urgency after and their rivals Fatah in the months under a deal the United Arab Emirates and occupied West Bank agreed Bahrain normalised relations yesterday to hold the first reached between with Israel, becoming only the Palestinian elections since Fatah leader Mahmud third and fourth Arab nations 2006, united by their oppo- Abbas and Hamas to do so. sition to Arab-Israeli normali- Egypt and Jordan respec- sation deals. political chief Ismail tively signed peace deals with Polls will be scheduled Haniyah, officials the Jewish state in 1979 and within six months under a deal 1994. The 2006 Palestinians reached between Fatah leader from both sides said. polls resulted in a brief unity Mahmud Abbas and Hamas government, but it soon col- political chief Ismail Haniyeh, landslide and the following year lapsed and in 2007 bloody officials from both sides said. the Islamists seized control of clashes erupted between the “We have agreed to first the Gaza Strip in a near-civil two sides in the Gaza Strip. hold legislative elections, then war between the two factions. Hamas has since ruled presidential elections of the Saleh Al Arouri, a top Gaza, while Fatah has run the Palestinian Authority, and Hamas official, said the deal Palestinian Authority based in Russia dismisses US threat on Iran cooperation finally the Central Council of was reached during meetings the West Bank city of Ramallah. the Palestine Liberation Organ- held in Turkey. “This time we Numerous attempts at recon- Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Iran’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and officials isation (PLO),” said Jibril Rajub, reached a real consensus,” he ciliation, including a prisoner attending a meeting in Moscow, Russia, yesterday. Moscow dismissed the threat of US sanctions and a senior Fatah official. said, speaking by phone from exchange agreement in 2012 attempts to isolate Iran, saying it intended to trade with Tehran once a UN arms embargo expires The last Palestinian parlia- Istanbul. “Divisions have and a short-lived coalition gov- mentary elections in 2006 saw damaged our national cause ernment two years later, have next month. The embargo on conventional arms shipments to Iran is set to expire on October 18 Hamas win an unexpected and we are working to end failed to close the rift. after the United States failed to win support for a new UN resolution.

Lebanon to In sign of frustration, US shortens sanctions waiver to Iraq compensate for AP — BAGHDAD summer, three Iraqi officials bases housing American troops, carrying weapons destined for Department said Baghdad has homes, businesses said. They spoke on condition wounding dozens of US troops. the US-led coalition.On “faced exceptional The United States has extended of anonymity in line with The Iraqi officials Wednesday, a roadside circumstances preventing it in Beirut blast a sanctions waiver that enables regulations. The State expressed surprise at the new, bombing targeted a convoy from significantly reducing its Iraq to continue importing gas Department confirmed the stricter waiver as it comes just belonging to an Iraqi company purchase of petroleum and AFP — BEIRUT from Iran but this time granting development. one month after Al Kadhimi’s ferrying materials for the U.S. petroleum products from Iran.” a significantly shorter waiver The earlier, longer period Washington visit, which was coalition. The day before, three “The Government of Iraq is Lebanon yesterday unveiled a period, Iraqi officials and the US had been granted when Mustafa hailed as a success. But the mortars hit the Green Zone, expected to continue compensation programme for State Department said Al Kadhimi, America’s choice shorter time-frame also causing no losses. negotiating contracts to install the thousands of homes and yesterday. candidate, was selected as signals US frustration with Al Kadhimi’s meeting with new power generation facilities, businesses devastated by the The development is a sign prime minister, but in line with Baghdad’s inability to reign in President Donald Trump in expand electricity delivery August 4 mega-blast at Beirut’s of unease in US-Iraq relations waivers in place before he took militia groups believed to be Washington coincided with key infrastructure, and increase port. amid near-daily attacks office. behind a recent uptick in agreements to boost investment Iraq’s domestic production of President Michel Aoun targeting American presence in Following his appointment, attacks targeting the US in by US companies in Iraq’s natural gas as feedstock for signed a decree allocating the Mideast country and US-Iraq relations were upbeat, Iraq. The US has made very energy sector, valued at $8bn. power generation,” it said. 100bn Lebanese pounds (more underscores the standing US after having reached new lows direct demands on the Iraqi The deals will enable Chevron Iraq relies on Iran for nearly than $66m at the official demand that Baghdad wean under his predecessor Adil government to clamp down on to explore and develop oil 30% of its electricity needs, exchange rate, or $13m on the itself off dependence on Iranian Abdul-Mahdi’s administration, the militias. production in Dhi Qar province, especially during the peak black market) to the pro- oil. following the US airstrike that Near-daily rocket and Honeywell to develop an summer months. Providing gramme, his office said. Washington informed Iraq’s killed Iranian Revolutionary mortars have struck the heavily important gas hub in southern evidence that Iraq is intent on It added that the army and leadership this week of its Guard Gen. Qassim Soleimani fortified Green Zone in Iraq, and General Electric to weaning itself off Iranian Beirut municipality would be decision to grant a 60-day outside the Baghdad airport in Baghdad, which is home to the boost the Mideast nation’s energy dependence is a key tasked with setting up a mech- sanctions waiver, instead of the January. Iran retaliated with a US Embassy, while roadside power supply. condition for Iraq to qualify for anism to distribute the funds. 120-day waiver issued over the ballistic missile strike on Iraqi bombs have targeted convoys In its statement, the State successive waivers. The compensation will go to owners of homes and busi- nesses damaged in the explosion that left more than Iran Guards open new naval Iran’s virus death toll rises above 25,000 190 dead and devastated swathes of the capital, a source base near Strait of Hormuz AGENCIES — DUBAI/KUWAIT reinstated in the worst-hit vast majority of workplaces, at the presidency said. provinces, Iranian media shutter markets and further According to an AFP — TEHRAN Iran’s death toll from the novel reported. limit prayers and assessment by the army, the coronavirus rose by 175 to Kuwait’s Ministry of Health demonstrations. blast caused by a consignment Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have unveiled a new naval base aiming 25,015 yesterday, the highest in reported yesterday 552 new "Over the past two days, of ammonium nitrate damaged to project “dominance” over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, state media the Middle East, with the total coronavirus (COVID-19) cases we've heard from experts that almost 61,000 homes and over reported, following months of tensions with arch-enemy the United number of identified cases in the past 24 hours, taking the if we don't take immediate and 19,000 businesses. States.The “Martyr Seyed Majid Rahbar” base lies in the southern spiking to 436,319 in the country’s tally to 101,851 cases. harsh measures, we'll reach an The explosion com- province of Hormozgan, near the entrance to the narrow Strait country, according to health In a statement, the minis- abyss," Prime Minister Ben- pounded Lebanon’s worst eco- of Hormuz through which a fifth of world oil output passes. ministry. try’s spokesman Dr. Abdullah jamin Netanyahu said late nomic crisis since the 1975- The vital shipping lane and nearby Gulf waters were the scene Health Ministry spokes- Al Sanad said that two persons Wednesday, at the start of a 1990 civil war. On August 9, of heightened US-Iranian tensions late last year when ships were woman Sima Sadat Lari told died of the virus during the past cabinet meeting to thrash out the international community mysteriously attacked, drones downed and oil tankers seized. state TV that 3,521 new cases 24 hours, bringing the death toll the new measures. pledged around $300m in “This base has been built with the purpose of total dominance were identified in the last 24 to 592. The ministry also The government's latest emergency aid at a conference over the entry and exit of extraterritorial aircraft and naval vessels” hours in Iran. Iran’s health announced that 620 people move comes as Israel is poised jointly organised by France at the entrance to the Gulf, Guards commander Major General officials have voiced alarm have recovered from corona- to enter the second week of a and the United Nations. Hossein Salami said. “This location is one of the country’s most over a surge in infections, virus in the past 24 hours to three-week lockdown imposed strategic defensive points,” he added, quoted by state TV’s website. urging the nation to respect raise the total to 92,961. last Friday, which included the Oman to resume health protocols to control the Meanwhile, Israel closure of schools and restric- spread of the toughened its coronavirus tions on work and leisure. international disease. Pres- measures yesterday as a second Under the new measures ident Hassan nationwide lockdown failed to set to be approved in par- flights on Oct 1 Rouhani said on bring down the world's highest liament, synagogues will only Thursday that infection rate a week after it be allowed to open on Yom REUTERS — DUBAI some restric- was imposed. Kippur, a Jewish holiday that tions might be The new rules will close the begins Sunday afternoon. Oman said yesterday it will resume scheduled interna- tional flights on October 1 with strict measures to protect the UN watchdog: ‘Staggering’ country and aviation staff from the coronavirus, the Gulf state’s aviation authority said $36m embezzled in S Sudan in a statement. Domestic flights between AP — JOHANNESBURG from Sudan in 2011 but erupted in civil the capital Muscat and the city war just two years later. Nearly of Salalah will also resume on The United Nations commission on 400,000 people died in five years of the same date, official media human rights in South Sudan says “a fighting. Now, two years after a peace reported. staggering $36m” has been misappro- deal, a unity government is slowly priated by government officials and implementing its arrangements meant Hadi urges senior politicians since 2016 as wide- to lead to elections. spread corruption continues to drain The UN commission and other Houthis to allow the world’s youngest nation. watchdogs have long warned that South “It is worth noting this is just what Sudanese officials are siphoning off mil- humanitarian aid we were able to trace and may not lions of dollars from the weak economy reflect the whole picture,” the com- that has largely relied on the country’s AP — RIYADH mission’s chair, Yasmin Sooka, told oil production. the UN Human Rights Council on “To give a flavor of what’s going on Yemen’s embattled and exiled Wednesday. - a recent report to parliament by South president yesterday urged his She noted “brazen embezzlement” Sudan’s National Revenue Authority government’s rival, the Iran- in the illicit flows from South Sudan’s indicates that approximately $300m backed Houthi rebels, to stop finance ministry and National Revenue have been ‘lost’ in the last three months impeding the flow of urgently Authority. alone,” Sooka said. needed humanitarian aid. “Shockingly, these South Sudanese The “financial corruption on an epic President Abdrabuh bodies have been aided and abetted in scale” means that South Sudanese are Mansour Hadi’s plea aired these crimes by a number of interna- suffering, and now the coronavirus more than a week after an tional corporations and multinational pandemic and its restrictions are cre- international watchdog organ- banks,” Sooka said, but not naming ating further pain, Sooka said. isation warned that all sides in names. “Some of this money has been “If restrictions on the importation Yemen’s conflict were inter- laundered through the purchase of of food continue, and food prices con- fering with the arrival of food, properties abroad. Indeed, those prop- tinue to shoot up, there is a possibility health care supplies, water and erties may well be in your countries.” of food-related riots or other forms of sanitation support. South Sudan’s government could social unrest,” she said. His remarks came in a pre- not immediately be reached for The UN has said more than 6 million recorded speech to the UN comment. people— over half South Sudan’s pop- General Assembly in New South Sudan won its independence ulation— regularly goes hungry. York, yesterday. FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2020 ISLAM 05 The peace and beauty of Islam DEANA NASSAR I also have placed emphasis on edu- cation, after all as Muslims we are the slam, a religion of peace, is the ambassadors of Islam and it would not fastest growing religion on earth do if we were to lack knowledge. Islam bearing the same message that in all its beauty advocates simplicity was given to Jesus and all the and ease. While enjoying the many Iother messengers (peace be blessings of God, the path of moder- upon them). Like all Divine reli- ation and simplicity must not be gions, Islam came to clarify three forsaken. points: that there is only one God As one of Islam’s pillars, almsgiving worthy of worship, that there is a Day is Islam’s solution to help those in need of Judgment, and that we are all equal in the most suitable manner away from no matter what colour, gender, or causing any sort of humiliation. We are creed we may have. taught that the best of alms is that The Quran illustrates this in the which the right hand gives, and the left beautiful verse: Say: We believe in Allah hand knows not of. It’s imperative we God Almighty and that which was instill in our children the habit of giving revealed to Abraham and Ishmael and to those less fortunate than Isaac and Jacob and the tribes and that ourselves. which was given to Moses and Jesus and We are told by the Prophet’s wife to the Prophets from their Lord; we make Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her), no distinction between any of them, and that after slaughtering a goat the to Him (God) we submit. (2:136) Prophet asked her how much meat was It is on this note that we must left after they had distributed part of acknowledge that Islam does not claim it, she responded: “Nothing but its to be a new religion brought by Prophet shoulder; for we have sent the rest to Muhammad (peace be upon him) into Reciting the Quran we are reminded of our purpose of life on earth, and our duties and the poor and neighbours.” the Arab world, but rather to be a re- obligations towards ourselves, our family, our community, our fellow human beings and She was then assured by her expression in its final form of the true husband that: “The whole goat religion of the Almighty God as it was our Creator. We are given basic guidelines about a purposeful life and are expected to remained except its shoulder” (Tir- originally revealed to Adam and sub- put these high ideals into practice. midhi, 2470); that is in terms of reward sequent Prophets. We have been taught and blessings by God. that Islam cannot be confined to any This among other kind actions is one people, place, or period of time. the Prophethood of Prophet louder than words’ and share the women as equally important in them- necessary to advocate the beauty of Within the central principle of Islam Muhammad (PBUH) and the concept message of Islam with people softly selves as the roles of men and women Islam, even without uttering a word its definition is to surrender to the will of life after death are the basic articles just as the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) are complementary to each other. In or preaching others to join our faith, of God and this is where the roots of of our faith. Everybody and anybody was advised in the Quran: reality, there are many instances we can promote the religion. The Islam’s universality lie. may approach the Quran directly and It is part of the mercy of Allah that where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) Prophet teaches us that Islam is easy, Once we come to the realisation translate its dictates into practice with you deal gently with them if you were took advice from females recorded simple and beautiful, and he advised that God is one and distinct from His the bonus of finding peace. According severe or hardhearted, they would in his biography as they were highly us to: “Let people rejoice in being creation, we become part of a beau- to a recent study by researcher David have broken away from you. (3:159) regarded in Islam. Islam recorded the Muslims and not run away from it’ tiful religion in body and spirit and are B Larson, those who enjoy spiritual Freedom of religion is in fact laid last sermon given by the Prophet and ‘Cheerfulness towards other then eligible for paradise, our final beliefs are psychologically and phys- down in the Quran itself and it is (PBUH) before his death which dis- people, even a smile is a charity to abode. Unfortunately today there are ically healthier since they behave in evident in the verse which reads: There cussed women’s status in Islam be rewarded by God.” (Tirmidhi, 1956) misconceptions which prevent non- accordance with the purpose of their is no compulsion or coercion in the where he advised men to treat In short, Islam is beautiful and easy Muslims from seeing the beauty of creation. The study cites that: “Philos- religion Islam. The right direction is dis- women well and be kind to them and the rules are there for us to follow, Islam, and it is our responsibility as ophies and systems which contradict tinctly clear from error. (2:256) describing them as their partners and not to oppress not to be cruel just Muslims to convey the true picture in human creation always lead to pain Now, many years later, I have committed helpers. simply to guide us through our life here an effort to spread knowledge, even if and unhappiness”. This is demon- acknowledged that our role as bearers on earth in the correct way. If we it’s just through our actions. strated in the verse which I personally of goodwill is significant, and we must Islam is Perfect follow these rules that God gave us as The message which was revealed to find much comfort in; it reads: Only in change misconceptions regarding It is here that I stress Islam is Muslims, we cannot go wrong. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is Islam in the remembrance of Allah can the Islam. Remember composure and perfect; Muslims are not. Contrary to Although we may stray occasionally, its comprehensive, complete, beautiful heart find peace. (13:28) mutual respect is the key here. Another the belief of the intolerant few we are human and God gave us prayers and final form. It provides definite guide- false impression dictates that Islam depicting Muslims as barbaric so that we may praise and love and ask lines for us all to follow in all walks of Some Misconceptions oppresses women; this could not be backward people is a misconception mercy of Him; after all God is all for- life covering the social, economic, Unfortunately with all its beauty, further than the truth. While some which we need to change. Islam places giving. As Muslims we should political, moral and spiritual aspects of some non-Muslims, when they think Muslim countries may have laws that emphasis on education describing the remember and remind others about it. Reciting the Quran we are reminded about Islam, picture religious fanatics oppress women, this should not be seeking of knowledge as an obligation the Prophet’s teachings. Indeed, the of our purpose of life on earth, and our on camels with a sword in one hand seen as coming from Islam particularly for both men and women alike. meanings found in the Quran, the duties and obligations towards our- and a Quran in the other. I remember as these countries do not rule by any Reading history and discussing the Hadith and many of the messenger’s selves, our family, our community, our this was how many acquaintance kind of Islamic law, introducing their framework of both Eastern and stories are astounding, touching upon fellow human beings and our Creator. thought my relatives oversees trav- own cultural standpoints on the issue Western ideas and the merging of new some of the most important rights God We are given basic guidelines about a elled, and I recall how much I, as a of gender equality. Remember Islam thought with old, we can see that it has over humanity, and humanity has purposeful life and are expected to put feisty youngster, wanted to show them is simple, culture is difficult. In fact no brought about great advances in med- over each other. Though Prophet these high ideals into practice. my fist but was reminded by my discrimination whatsoever is made on icine, mathematics physics, astronomy, Muhammad’s (PBUH) soul has left this In all its beauty we are taught that parents how inadequate that would the basis of sex. geography, architecture, art, literature, world, his words are still living in our Islam is a simple, rational and prac- be, stressing it would be more suitable Islam in all its beauty recognises and history. hearts and for this we should be tical religion where the unity of God, to take on the adage ‘actions speak the responsibilities of men and Much to the chagrin of my children, grateful. onislam.net archives Verses about water in Holy Quran KULSANOFER SYED THAJUDEEN freshwater and salt water no control over rain and warns the mercy that the Creator has (55:19), (27:61), (25:53). In other that He is able to remove it always shown us despite the hen I was in the verses there is recurrent theme (23:18), (15:22). He challenges if ungratefulness of man. midst of looking in the verses. The different anyone besides Him can deliver for a topic for my themes are illustrated for a water and chastises man for his Water as an analogy PhD dissertation, better understanding of the ungratefulness, for He could Allah SWT makes analogies WI came across a verse in the verses and to portray the have made the rain bitter. using water. He likens the life Quran that really made me importance the Creator gave Reading these verses on the on this world to a life cycle of a shudder. It was the last verse of the towards water. The attributes mercy Allah SWT has for plant. Rain falls on a dead barren Al Mulk (Kingdom), where Allah of Allah SWT are also portrayed mankind, makes one wonder earth, bringing to life vegetation, SWT implores us to think “if all in these themes as well. how many of the His blessings which later dries, and there is no your water were to sink deep into that we take for granted. The trace of its existence (10:24) the earth who could give you A building block of living detailed descriptions of the (18:45). Likewise, we were flowing water in its place?” things winds, rain, mountain springs, created from dust and we would Those in hell whom He calls the been trying to create Heaven My mind was reeling with Allah SWT describes how gardens, green pastures, the return to dust. All the splendors companions of fire would call on earth for centuries. the question why would Allah water is the building block of fruits and grains for food are to and wealth of this world is of a upon the companions of par- SWT ask that question? Can the all living things (24:45), (21:30), help us understand that He has fleeting existence that would dis- adise for water for they would Water for Purification earth be drained of water? As my (22:5). It is not surprising that provided them for us to cele- appear without a trace. He likens be deprived of it. If on earth, Purification is an important curiosity was piqued, I began to the adult man is made up 60 % brate and enjoy life and to those who worship others besides water is not given a second aspect of Islam, and Allah SWT read and the more I read, the of water and man can survive thank Him for them. Him to a man who stretches his glance, but when in hell, it talks about external as well as more alarmed I became. without water for only three to hand towards water, calling it to becomes the most prized item. internal purification. He Although 70% of earth’s four days. It is an essential Water as a Sign fall into his mouth, an act in vain In the story of the Prophet instructed man to purify himself surface is covered by water liquid for our very existence. Allah SWT always implores (13:4).. He describes the deeds of Noah (AS), the great flood was before prayers through ablution. only less that 1% can be con- Further describing about cre- man to reflect and to see in the the disbelievers are like a mirage, the calamity that was sent to The emphasis on purification is sumed by all humans, animals ation, He implores man to creation, the Majesty of the one who is thirsty would run to his tribe. No one is able to deeply embedded in Islam as we and plants. More seriously, remember his humble Creator. He describes how the it only to be disappointed of the escape except those whom He are thought to cleanse after easing potable water (water that can beginning from a liquid dis- rain from the sky, gives life to falsehood and now has to face wills (11:43) (11:44), (54:12). In the ourselves and after sexual be consumed) in the form of dained (semen) (32:8), (77:20), a dead earth and that is a sign His wrath (24:39). He compares story of the owners of the two intimacy. Even if there is lack of rivers, is drying up in many (86:6). A reminder for mankind for man to contemplate (2:164), the truth from falsehood with the gardens, the conceited owner water, purification still has to be parts of the world exacerbated who tends to forget and they (16:65), (30:24),(31:10), (35:27), analogy of foam on water, the loses everything (18:41). These performed using pure sand by prolonged drought. become conceited. (39:21), (41:39), (43:11). The foam vanishes like falsehood, stories illustrate the utter help- (tayammum) (4:43), (5:6). The Day Zero, the day water parched earth in the African only water, which benefits man, lessness of man but despite that Prophet (PBUH) taught by stops flowing from taps, nearly Rain as a provision Savannah during the dry spell remains, as the truth would stand he remains arrogant. example on how to perform these happened in Cape Town, South This is the main theme that smells of death but brims of life the test of time (13:17). cleansing rituals. The act of prayer Africa last year. I realised then, Allah SWT often repeats, that when the rain falls, vegetation Water as a reward is when the servant comes the threat is real and God has rain is a mercy and a provision appears, and the wild animals Water as a Punishment Water is also given as a forward to meet the Creator, and warned us, it would be foolish to mankind. Allah SWT empha- gather around the watering Just as water as a provision reward, as Allah SWT promises Creator would like to see His not to take heed. Thus, I chose sizes that it is He who makes hole to quench their thirst. Do is a blessing and mercy, it also heaven filled with gardens and servant in a purified state. In the water as my topic. In this article the rainfall and makes the we think about the Creator has a destructive side. Allah springs (54:12),(55:50), (55:66), verse 8:11, Allah sends down rain I would like to share about the barren land fertile that brings when we witness this phe- SWT uses water as a form of (56:18). Just as Hell was as calmness, as an internal purifi- verses in the Quran on water. forth food (2:22), (6:99),(20:53). nomenon? He further questions punishment in Hell. The har- described in detail, likewise cation to remove the negative “Water is mentioned (22:63),(27:60), (28:23). It is His if man does not wonder why rowing scenes of Hell are Allah SWT gives an illustration effect of Shaitan on their hearts.” numerous times in the Quran mercy that the rain falls to crops, grapevines, palm trees described in great detail, to of the beauty of Paradise and www.islamciy.com (occurs 63 times as noun). Allah provide water to drink and watered by the same rain in the make man fear the end that the rivers of water, milk, wine Dr. Kulsanofer Syed Thajudeen SWT categorises water into its beautiful green pastures for the same vicinity produces fruits awaits him for his disbelieve. and honey that flows within. has a Ph.D. in Islamic Finance, with different properties. He differ- cattle (16:10). He further of different quality? (13:4), Scalding water poured over the Water is an important feature more than 12 years of experience as entiates the rain that falls from describes rain as purified water (2:164), (24:43). He asks us to heads, boiling purulent water in Heaven just as in Hell. The an engineer working in an electrical util- the sky as purified water, water and the winds that bring the ponder, if all the water seeps like murky oil is given as a grand Roman villas, the Ver- ity company. She also had a stint at the from the spring as sweet, sea- rain-filled clouds as bearing into the earth, who would drink, both flames and boiling sailles and other palaces have Central Bank of Malaysia and the Islamic water as salty and bitter (35:12) good tidings (25:48). He sent provide us with flowing water? water consumes the inhabitants vast beautiful manicured Finance Services Board (IFSB). She holds and mentions of water that sweet water from the moun- (67:30). If we reflect over these of hell (6:70), (18:29), (22:19), gardens with exquisite water the Chartered Islamic Finance Profes- flows from rocks (2:74). He tains for man to enjoy (77:27). questions, we would realise the (37:67), (40:72), (44:46), (44:48), features like fountains, pools sional (CIFP) credential, Bachelors and speaks of the barrier between He made it clear that man has utter helplessness of man, and (55:44), (56:42), (56:93), (78:25). and water cascades. Man has Masters in Engineering and an MBA. 06 ASIA FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2020 Protesters rally as Thai lawmakers debate reform AFP — BANGKOK Protesters are demanding a rewrite to the supported by an arch-royalist Society Buddhipongse Thailand’s monarchy is pro- military and the kingdom’s bil- Punnakunta. tected by one of the world’s Thousands of Thais protested 2017 constitution scripted by the junta regime, lionaire clans. Last month, Facebook com- toughest royal defamation laws, outside parliament yesterday which critics say paved the way for coup leader The ultra-wealthy monarch plied with a government making any criticism of the as lawmakers debated amend- spends much of his time in request to remove “Royalist monarch all but impossible ments to the kingdom’s Prayut Chan-O-Cha to return to power as a Europe, but he was in Bangkok Marketplace”, a group set up by inside the country. military-scripted constitution, civilian premier after last year’s elections. Thursday to mark Prince an exiled government critic Lawmakers are expected to a key demand of a burgeoning Mahidol Day, laying a wreath which discusses the monarchy’s vote after the debate ends pro-democracy movement at his grandfather’s statue, role in Thai society and had Thursday. alongside calls to reform the Chan-O-Cha to return to power Raptor yelled from a truck, according to local media. more than a million members. Junta-appointed senators are unassailable monarchy. as a civilian premier after last while organisers projected a live Ahead of the protest author- But some 400 requested likely to back the ruling govern- Thailand has seen a growing year’s elections. feed of the parliamentary ities officially began legal com- URLs remain on the platform, ment’s amendment — which calls movement of anti-government As lawmakers inside the debate. plaints against some of the said Buddhipongse, declining simply for a drafting committee protests led by student activists building debated setting up a The movement — which social media platforms used by to say if they had been flagged — while opposition parties had in recent months, with a rally constitutional drafting com- students claim is leaderless and the young, tech-savvy demon- by his ministry because they called for wider changes. last weekend drawing 30,000 mittee, outside, rally organiser inspired by Hong Kong’s pro- strators to further their criticised the king. “If they (vote) it down then supporters —the largest dem- Siraphop Attohi — also known democracy protesters — is also message. “It’s not only politics — we we will stay here all night,” onstration since the 2014 coup. as “Raptor”— called for MPs to calling for Prayut to resign and Action had been initiated have other factors covered in prominent student leader Pan- Protesters are demanding a put a constitutionl “limit” on the for the government to stop against Facebook and Twitter the (Computer Crimes Act),” he usaya Sithijirawattanakul said, rewrite to the 2017 constitution monarchy’s power. “harassment” of political for not complying with a said. ahead of giving a speech outside scripted by the junta regime, “If they still resist... then in opponents. request to take down Facebook declined to parliament Thursday. which critics say paved the way the end they would not be able King Maha Vajiralongkorn “offensive” material, said Min- comment on the move, while “We will block the MPs from for coup leader Prayut to withstand the people’s tide,” sits at the apex of Thai power, ister of Digital Economy and Twitter did not respond. going home.” Boy’s death spurs calls for Owners of tanker stricken off Sri bonded labour crackdown Lanka to foot fire

REUTERS — MUMBAI pandemic has wiped out jobs fighting bill and eroded the savings of daily The death of an eight-year-old wage workers, raising fears AFP — COLOMBO boy whose parents worked as that more people will be forced bonded labourers has triggered to take loans and driven into The owners of an oil tanker demands for authorities to bonded labour. crippled by an explosion and crack down on thousands of India identified more than week-long blaze off Sri other suspected cases in nearby 135,000 bonded workers in its Lanka’s coast have agreed to villages in central India. last census in 2011 and vowed foot an initial fire fighting bill Debt bondage is India’s to rescue and rehabilitate more of almost $2m, the government most common form of slavery than 10 million of these said yesterday. despite being outlawed four workers by 2030. The Panamanian-regis- decades ago, and millions of In the Guna case, the tered New Diamond, carrying bonded labourers work in employer, his father and wife over 270,000 tonnes of crude, fields, brick kilns and rice mills were arrested this week on was en-route from Kuwait to to clear loans. charges of bonded labour and India when an explosion in its Police said the boy’s crimes against scheduled caste engine room in early Sep- parents, who were repaying a and scheduled tribes, a term tember killed a Filipino crew Rs25,000 loan by working on used to describe some of India’s member and set off a massive their employer’s farms for five most marginalised fire. years without pay, lived in a communities. Farmers block train tracks during a protest against Indian Prime Minister following the recent passing Firefighters from Sri Lanka “polythene hut” and were Labour officials said they of agriculture bills in the Lok Sabha, in Devi Dasspura near Amritsar, in Punjab, yesterday. and India battled and put out assaulted when they asked for were still investigating how the blaze on the ship, which is money to take the sick child to many more families were in now 122km off the Sri Lankan a doctor. debt bondage in the same Opposition did not oppose provisions in town of Batticaloa. “The father had come to village. “Owners of crude oil register a case against the Workers’ rights groups tanker MT New Diamond have employer for physical assault, urged authorities to carry out Farm Bills: Indian Agriculture Minister informed... of their agreement but when we investigated we an extensive survey to identify to settle fully the interim found it was a case of bonded other debt bondage victims in IANS — NEW DELHI Tomar told farmers’ organ- that the provisions of the Bills claim... of Rs340m ($1.83m),” labour,” said Yogendra Singh Madhya Pradesh state, where isations and farmers across the are farmer-friendly. There is no the Sri Lankan Attorney-Gen- Jadon, station house officer, Guna lies. Following the uproar by the country that the Bills for party in a position to oppose eral’s office said in a statement. Guna cantonment, where the “There are thousands of Opposition over the passing of agrarian reforms will dramat- them.” The Minister said the The vessel is owned by case was registered. bonded workers in Guna and the three contentious Agricul- ically change their lives. These Bills related to agricultural Liberian-registered Porto “When we visited his the government should conduct tural Bills by both houses of Bills were in the interest of the reforms will help the farmers Emporios Shipping Inc and village, we found the other a survey,” said Nirmal Gorana, Parliament, Union Agriculture farmers and sets them free from to get a fair price for their managed by Greek ship owner, children were also unwell and general secretary of non-profit Minister Narendra Singh Tomar the clutches of middlemen. produce. They will be helpful New Shipping Limited, took them to the hospital. The Bandhua Mukti Morcha accused the Congress and the Addressing a press con- in improving the economic con- according to the Sri Lankan family was in a bad shape... it (Bonded Labour Liberation Opposition of misleading the ference at the BJP headquarters dition of the farmers due to navy. was heartrending to see how Front). country on the Farm Bills. here, Tomar said: “No member which they will be able to grow The Attorney-General did they lived.” The boy died on Gorana said a case of 450 Tomar said the Congress of the Opposition opposed any better crops. not specify which organisation Sunday and the couple’s three workers rescued from bondage was playing politics by mis- provisions in the Bills. The The farmers will also be will pay the costs. other children are being treated in Guna and three public leading the farmers over the Opposition’s speeches revolved exposed to newer technology. The remaining 22 crew in hospital for malaria, local interest litigations that they Farm Bills across the country. around the things which were As a result of these Bills, the were rescued and are in quar- labour officials said. have filed against bonded Such type of politics not only not there or cannot be in the farmers will be able to get a fair antine as a precaution against In one of the countries labour in the region are weakens the party but the Bills as well as which are not value for their produce even the coronavirus in the worst-hit by COVID-19, the pending in local courts. country as well. related to the Bills. This proves before sowing. southern port city of Galle.

US lawmaker’s bid to halt security aid Japan, South Korea leaders seek reset in first call this year won’t succeed, BLOOMBERG — TOKYO issues boiled over into a trade “Japan and South Korea are presidential spokesman Kang court rulings demanding Jap- war last year. The conversation extremely important neighbors Min-seok in Seoul. The two anese companies compensate says Philippines The leaders of South Korea and was the first of its kind since for one another,” said Suga, who agreed to improve communi- Korean workers forced into Japan reaffirmed the impor- Suga’s predecessor, former was installed as prime minister cation to resolve their problems, working at factories and mines REUTERS — MANILA tance of strong ties, in an ice- Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, met on September 16 after poor Kang said. during Japan’s 1910-45 occu- breaking phone call after Moon in China in December. health forced Abe to step down. Ties between the two Asian pation of the peninsula. A US lawmaker’s push to block Yoshihide Suga’s ascension to Speaking to reporters The South Korean side neighbors dipped to new lows Why Japan’s Feud With police and military aid to the the prime minister’s job last afterward, Suga said he told requested the conversation, last year after Japan removed South Korea Isn’t Going Away: Philippines over human rights week in Tokyo. Moon that ties were in a difficult Japanese Chief Cabinet Sec- South Korea from its “white list” QuickTake Kato later told a concerns is unlikely to The call between Suga and state, but couldn’t be neglected. retary Katsunobu Kato said. of trusted export destinations briefing that it would be a succeed, because of the South Korean President Moon The two countries needed to Moon described Japan as and curbed exports of several serious problem if South Korean friendship between the leaders Jae-In provided an opportunity cooperate with one another and South Korea’s “closest friend,” items vital to production in the courts liquidated the assets of of the two countries, a senior for the two neighbours to with the US to tackle issues of with which it shares basic country’s high-tech manufac- Japanese firms in the country government official yesterday. rebuild trust after a long-sim- shared concern including North values and strategic interests, turing industry. The moves came to settle the compensation The Philippines is confident mering feud over historical Korea, he added. according to a statement by after a series of South Korean cases. the United States will give more weight to its ties with the Phil- ippines and President Rodrigo Duterte’s personal friendship Sri Lanka scraps $1.5bn with counterpart Donald Trump, said Duterte’s spokesman, Harry Roque. light rail project Roque during a regular AFP — COLOMBO International Cooperation briefing dismissed as a “wild Agency (JICA), which in March suggestion” the bill filed by US Sri Lanka’s president has last year loaned 30bn yen Representative Susan Wild, ordered the termination of a ($285m) to finance the first phase which seeks suspension of $1.5bn Japanese-funded light of the Light Rail Transit (LRT). American aid to the Philippine rail project, saying it is not a Japanese technology military and police, due to con- “cost-effective solution” for the including rolling stock was to cerns over an anti-terrorism congested capital Colombo, be used on the rail system, law that took effect in July. officials said yesterday. which included 16 stations over The new law has been con- The deal signed under the 15.7 km. demned by rights groups at previous government is the Detailed planning and land home and abroad as a weapon largest single foreign-funded acquisition for the project in to target Duterte’s opponents infrastructure project in Sri Colombo, which has some of and stifle free speech. Lanka, and was seen as a sign the worst traffic congestion in Numerous petitions have been of the island nation reducing South Asia, had already been filed with the Supreme Court its dependence on China. completed and initial con- to try to block it. President Gotabaya struction was under way. Duterte says law-abiding Rajapaksa, elected last year, told The Japanese loan carries an citizens should not fear the the transport ministry to “ter- interest rate of 0.1 percent and law, which is intended for “ter- minate this project and close the is repayable over 40 years with rorists” and communist insur- Huge demand for air ticket in Bangladesh project office with immediate a 12-year grace period. Japan gents. Critics, however, fear effect”, top aide P B Jayasundara has already funded sections of the vague definition of what Stranded Bangladeshi workers gather outside of the Biman Bangladesh Airlines office, demanding said in a letter to the ministry. new expressways and a key constitutes a “terrorist” could flight tickets to go back to Saudi Arabia, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, yesterday. There was no immediate bridge to reduce traffic con- be abused. comment from the Japan gestion in and out of the capital. FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2020 ASIA 07 N Korea troops killed missing S Korean official: Seoul REUTERS — SEOUL South Korea’s Moon Jae-in said the North’s shooting of a South Korean North Korean troops shot dead military said evidence civilian was “shocking” and a South Korean fisheries official suggested the man “unpardonable”, Yonhap news who went missing earlier this agency said, citing a presi- week, before dousing his body was attempting to dential Blue House spokesman. in oil and setting it on fire in defect to the North Moon also ordered the what was likely an effort to South Korean military to tighten prevent a coronavirus outbreak, when he was reported their alert to protect the lives of South Korea’s military said missing from a citizens. yesterday. The military said it sent a South Korea’s military said fisheries boat on message on Wednesday to the evidence suggested the man Monday about 10km North through the land border was attempting to defect to the south of the Northern demanding explanations, but North when he was reported has not received any response missing from a fisheries boat on Limit Line. yet. Monday about 10km south of “Our military strongly con- the Northern Limit Line (NLL), demns such an atrocity, and The Mugunghwa 10 fisheries patrol vessel (centre) at sea off the western border island of Yeonpyeong a disputed demarcation of mil- put measures in place to strongly demands North Korea yesterday after a fisheries official disappeared from the patrol vessel near the island. itary control that acts as the de prevent a recurrence of similar provide explanations and facto maritime boundary incidents in the future. punish those who are respon- to prevent an outbreak from that risk is at play (with) shoot- quarantine thousands of between the two Koreas. Citing intelligence sources, sible,” General Ahn Young-ho, disrupting a major military to-kill rules.” people over fears he may have Why the 47-year-old official the military said the uniden- who is in charge of operations parade expected to be held on In July, a man who had had the coronavirus, though was shot was not known but tified man appeared to have at the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told October 10 when the country defected to South Korea three the World Health Organi- North Korean troops appear to been questioned at sea, north a briefing. commemorates the founding of years ago triggered a corona- zation later said his test have been acting under anti- of the NLL and about 38km The US military commander the ruling Workers’ Party of virus scare when he crossed results were inconclusive. coronavirus orders, South from where he went missing, in South Korea said this month Korea, said Chad O’Carroll, CEO back over the heavily moni- Last week, South Korean Korea’s military said. before he was executed on an that North Korean troops had of Korea Risk Group, which tored border into North Korea, police arrested a defector who The presidential Blue “order from a superior been given “shoot-to-kill monitors North Korea. which says it has had no cases they said had tried to return to House’s national security office authority”. Troops in gas masks orders” to prevent the corona- “In many ways, this parade of the disease. North Korea by breaking into a said the killing was a “crime then doused the body in oil and virus entering the country. is a huge potential viral risk,” His arrival prompted military training site in South against humanity”, and called set it on fire. Such strict enforcement of he said in a post on Twitter. North Korean officials to lock Korea’s border town of on North Korea to apologise and South Korean President those orders may be an attempt “And it seems paranoia about down a border city and Cheorwon. Sindh minister warns against schools reopening Hong Kong activist Joshua

INTERNEWS — ISLAMABAD the backdrop of the planned “Do not rush to open continues to be stable below reopening of middle schools in primary schools. Primary two percent,” he said on Wong arrested again The rate of positive coronavirus the province from September schools must be given at least Twitter. cases in the province has 28 which were earlier one to one-and-a-half month Nevertheless, a report AFP — HONG KONG happens, I will continue to resist recently doubled, Sindh Health scheduled to resume classes to reopen,” the Sindh health issued by the Sindh Health and and hope to let the world to Minister Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho from September 21. minister warned. Population Welfare Department Prominent Hong Kong activist know that how Hong Kongers said yesterday, warning against The Sindh government had “It would be right to send indicated that at least 185 Joshua Wong was arrested choose not to surrender.” reopening schools, despite decided to postpone the reo- children to school only when people associated with educa- yesterday for taking part in a At the time of the October federal planning minister, Asad pening amid fears of a virus the situation [related to the tional institutions across the protest at the height of the city’s 5 march, Hong Kong had Umar, boasting a “stable” posi- resurgence. Classes from six to coronavirus pandemic] is province have contracted the pro-democracy unrest last already been battered by four tivity ratio and “highest ever” eight had resumed all over the clear,” she added. deadly coronavirus. year, but he vowed to continue months of increasingly violent number of tests carried out a country from September 23 On the other hand, PTI’s Some 35,339 people at edu- resisting China’s crackdown on pro-democracy protests. day prior. after approval from the Umar, the federal planning and cational institutions were dissent. The city had ground to a Speaking to Geo News, Dr. National Command and Oper- development minister, said a tested, the health department The arrest of the territory’s halt following a night of chaos Pechuho said the coronavirus ations Center (NCOC). “significant build-up in COVID noted, adding that the test most high-profile dissident is in which hardcore protesters positivity rate in the province “A second wave of corona- testing [has been] done to carry reports of 25,000 individuals the latest in a string of arrests trashed dozens of subway sta- “has increased from 1.5 percent virus has been predicted in the out sentinel testing at educa- in universities, colleges, and of government critics and tions, vandalised shops with to three percent and that it was current situation,” Dr Azra tional institutions in order to high schools turned out comes after China imposed a mainland China ties, built fires unwise to reopen schools in the Pechuho said, adding that she identify early trends, if any”. negative. sweeping new national security and blocked roads. current situation. had reservations about reo- “42,299 tests carried out Most of the positive cases law on Hong Kong in late June. Hundreds of protesters, The statement from the pening of the educational yesterday which is by far the across Sindh’s 29 districts were Wong was arrested for almost all masked, staged the health minister is important in institutes. highest ever. Positivity ratio from Karachi, it added. “unlawful assembly” over a 2019 unsanctioned demonstration demonstration against a gov- through the popular shopping ernment ban on face masks that district of Causeway Bay, a day Indonesia sees was imposed before the corona- after the city’s leader Carrie Lam virus pandemic, his lawyer said. outlawed face coverings by another daily Later yesterday the invoking colonial-era emergency European Union criticised the powers not used for half a record in new move, saying it was “the latest century. in a troubling series of arrests Under Hong Kong’s current of pro-democracy activists anti-virus measures, face virus cases since the summer”. masks are now mandatory in REUTERS — JAKARTA Wong, 23, who now faces all public places. three separate court cases, said China’s security law, which Indonesia reported yesterday after being bailed that he was was imposed in late June, was its biggest daily rise of corona- also held for violating the “dra- designed to stamp out the dem- virus cases for a second consec- conian” anti-mask law, which onstrations and targets acts utive day as new clusters has since been ruled deemed to be secession, sub- appeared, though epidemiolo- unconstitutional. version, terrorism and foreign gists said its low testing rates Wong’s lawyer said he was collusion. could be masking far greater re-arrested when he reported to Beijing has described it as infection numbers. a police station concerning a “sword” hanging over the Indonesia has for months another case currently being heads of its opponents as it been battling its first wave of tried. “Wong is accused of partic- pushes to return stability. infections and has struggled to ipating in an unlawful assembly Critics say it has blanketed the stem a rise in transmission, with on October 5 last year, when hun- city in fear, and UN rights 262,022 confirmed cases in dreds marched to oppose an anti- experts warned its broad total and a death toll of 10,105 mask ban the government rolled wording posed a serious risk to that is Asia’s second highest out,” lawyer Jonathan Man said. Hong Kong’s freedoms. after India. Students wearing face masks as a preventive measure against the COVID-19 attend a pharmacy A police spokesman con- Wong — who spent most of The peak comes after Indo- vocational school graduation ceremony in Banda Aceh, Indonesia, yesterday. firmed a 23-year-old was his teenage years leading pro- nesia reported several days of arrested for “knowingly partici- tests and has twice been jailed over 4,000 new cases, with infections rise sharply, and its Epidemiologists say the remains among the world’s pating in unauthorised assembly” — recently said he constantly Thursday’s 4,634 the highest so governor on Thursday extended steady rise in infections is a lowest, making it difficult to see while violating the mask ban. wonders how long it will be far. restrictions until October 11 to try combination of new clusters a clearer picture of the Wong told reporters after he before the police’s new national The capital Jakarta is seeing to take pressure off of hospitals. emerging and a testing rate that contagion. was bailed: “No matter what security unit comes for him. Cambodian oppn activists First Afghan female UN envoy warns over women’s rights sentenced for treason REUTERS — KABUL rights they would allow women to empowering women globally “I told myself, if I want to to retain, saying only that this — a victory hailed as a sign of save this sinking boat, I need to AFP — PHNOM PENH sentenced on “charges of The Taliban’s stance on women’s would be decided according to progress for a country once be on board,” she said. treason” in eastern Tboung rights should concern the world, Islamic Shariah. This week, they notorious for the oppression of “This war has been so dev- Seven Cambodian activists Khmum province, lawyer Sam one of Afghanistan’s top female opposed a move to have mothers’ women. astating, every single Afghan have been handed jail Sokong said yesterday. diplomats has warned, as the names on identity documents. Her focus at the UN will be family has lost family members, sentences for treason over Four in hiding were sen- government holds power- “Their definition of women’s to promote access to markets it does not matter which sides comments posted online tenced to seven years in sharing talks with the Islamist rights remains in the grey area,” for women entrepreneurs, they were... Everyone now supporting an exiled opposition absentia, with warrants issued group that once banned girls said Raz, speaking to the something she sees as key to wants it to end.” Raz entered figure, their lawyer said for their arrest, while another from going to school. Thomson Reuters Foundation their empowerment. Afghan politics, becoming the yesterday, deepening the king- activist given the same sen- Afghanistan’s first female from the UN headquarters in “We have many refreshing first female director of commu- dom’s crackdown on dissent. tence is already in prison. ambassador to the United New York, where she is based. stories of successful women nications for former Afghan Sam Rainsy, who has lived in “This is very unjust for my Nations Adela Raz said the “They have been saying the entrepreneurs who stood by President Hamid Karzai and France since 2015 to avoid prison clients,” Sokong said, adding world had invested heavily in same thing about their version themselves, their contributions later chief of staff for his suc- for convictions he says are polit- that he would appeal against empowering Afghan women of the sharia without explaining are immense toward creating a cessor, Ashraf Ghani. ically motivated, has promised to the sentences. after forcing the Taliban from any change and reforms. fair society,” she said, pointing to She sees the engagement of return to Cambodia. Two other opposition power in 2001, and should pay “This is a concern not only progress in India and Pakistan. women in peace talks as key to But an attempted home- activists charged with treason heed to the hardline group’s for Afghanistan, but for the Raz spent her early enduring success, but said there coming in November was were given five-year sus- views on their future. international community who childhood in Taliban-ruled had been “hesitancy” about thwarted by strongman Prime pended sentences and would The Taliban, who this invested heavily in empow- Afghanistan, leaving Kabul in making that happen. Minister Hun Sen, who labelled not have to serve out their jail month began power-sharing erment of the Afghan women,” 2004 to study in the United Last month one of the few it a “coup attempt” and sent out terms, the lawyer said. talks with the Afghan gov- added Raz, 34, who this month States after losing many close female members of the Afghan arrest warrants to neighbouring The pair have since ernment, say they would allow oversaw Afghanistan’s election relatives and friends in the war. government negotiating team, countries. defected to the ruling party. girls to be educated and women to the UN Commission on the She returned in 2013 despite the former lawmaker Fawzia Opposition activists The United Nations says to work outside the home, in Status of Women. warnings that it was like going Koofi, was attacked by accused of posting supportive Cambodia has arrested 24 some circumstances. It is the first time Afghan- back to a “sinking” ship, with unknown gunmen, under- messages last year about human rights campaigners But they have given little istan has won a seat on the most foreign troops set to leave scoring the dangers faced by Rainsy’s return were this week since late July. detail on which of the hard-won Commission, which is dedicated the country at the end of 2014. women’s rights advocates 08 VIEWS FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2020

Established in 1996

CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI

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

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected]

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI [email protected]

A student takes online classes at home, with his companions, using Zoom app during COVID-19 outbreak in El Masnou, north of Barcelona, Spain EDITORIAL

Qatar’s stance on Syria Coronavirus is teaching me QATAR’S principled position on the crisis in Syria and elsewhere in the region is based on its belief in the rule of law and respect for human dignity and interna- what I can’t do online tional laws. Doha has championed a political solution to the conflict which has killed more than 380,000 knowledge is contained in copy- Economic institutions are among people and driven millions from their homes since 2011. righted works that aren’t available the “social technologies” that get a Addressing the 75th session of the United Nations electronically and can be hard to chapter in my book, and Helen General Assembly on Tuesday, Amir H H Sheikh Tamim obtain even with an unlimited Wang’s work plays an important bin Hamad Al Thani reiterated the State of Qatar’s firm budget for purchases. The problem role in that discussion. You can stance that the only way to end the Syrian crisis is a is especially acute for scholarly watch videos of the conference political solution based on the Geneva Communique books, which tend to go out of presentations on YouTube, but you (1) and the implementation of Security Council Reso- VIRGINIA POSTREL print quickly and often don’t come won’t learn anything about textiles lution 2254. Qatar also affirmed that it will continue, BLOOMBERG in electronic versions. Contrary to as money. If I’d attended the con- with the international community, to support efforts what many of today’s students ference via Zoom, I’d never have to realise justice and hold accountable the perpetrators If you remember life before the assume, not every important had that conversation. of atrocities, war crimes and crimes against humanity Internet, you don’t take its riches source of information is online. Nor was it only such example. At committed in Syria. for granted. One reason you can’t easily start a a gathering in Peru, I met a New H H the Amir said that after more than nine years During the two and a half research university, even with York textile artist whose work is of unprecedented human tragedies, it is still impos- years I spent researching a forth- plenty of money, is that you can’t inspired by circuit boards and the sible to reach an end to this crisis due to the intransi- coming book, I frequently mar- duplicate libraries that took woven core memory systems used gence of the Syrian regime and the inaction of the veled at the cornucopia of mate- decades, even centuries, to build. in early computers. I extended a stay international community, especially, the Security rials available online. I could have For researchers like me, the at the Centre for Textile Research in Council, in assuming its duty to maintain international written my book, ‘The Fabric of locked library is a problem. For Copenhagen to catch an experi- peace and security and protect civilians. Civilization,’ without those most people, it’s an analogy. They mental archaeology workshop and While Qatar seeks a political solution to the crisis, Faced with resources, but it would have taken don’t need to check out books. They wound up learning about the it is also engaged in relief efforts to support the civilians the threat longer and certain factual ques- need to interact with other people. 4,000-year-old cuneiform records displaced due to the conflict. At the UN, H H the Amir of a deadly tions would have gone unan- While researching my book, I of long-distance trade. said Doha would continue providing all forms of swered. Nowadays, you can check went to plenty of conferences. One of the talks that led me to support and assistance to the brotherly Syrian people virus, we’re the exact wording of the 1678 They’re a good way to get to the explore textile history in the first in areas of displacement and refuge till the end of this lucky to have London statute regulating the cloth cutting-edge of academic place was a presentation high- crisis. trade without leaving your house. research, and even far-flung lighting the enormous quantities of Qatar has also voiced its strong condemnation of substitutes But coronavirus pandemic pro- events can cut down on travel. A brazil wood, a red dyestuff, the human rights violations committed in Syria, espe- for in-person vides a sharp reminder of just how conference called “World of exported from Spanish colonies in cially those revealed by the Independent International limited those Internet riches are. Looms,” held at the China National the Americas. I stumbled upon it Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic in interactions. Faced with threat of a deadly virus, Silk Museum in Hangzhou, taught because I’d showed up at UCLA to the areas that returned to the control of the Syrian But in today’s we’re lucky to have substitutes for me not only about Chinese draw hear the completely unrelated talk government forces. in-person interactions. But in looms but also about the technol- that followed. I wouldn’t have Speaking during an interactive dialogue with the world of virtual today’s world of virtual everything, ogies behind Ghanaian kente cloth been around for an online version. commission at UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, everything, too much knowledge is locked and Lao brocade, both of which To advance, knowledge must Qatar’s representative said military operations, indis- too much down in shuttered libraries and wound up in the book. be shared and recombined. One criminate bombing, killing, arrest, demolition of homes, socially distanced minds. I couldn’t One of that gathering’s most idea must spark others. That can arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance, torture, knowledge is have written my book at all under important contributions wasn’t on happen in a Zoom presentation, but prevention of individuals from returning to their homes locked down current circumstances. Infor- the program. It happened over it’s more likely to occur during a and the prevention of freedom of movement continue. mation needed is simply inacces- lunch with a woman from the wide-ranging conversation over a This situation has also affected people’s ability to in shuttered sible - something that those calling British Museum. “So what do you meal or in a setting that encourages access healthcare, education and other services, and libraries for virtual conferences and online study?” I asked, in the academic chance encounters with people, exercise their basic rights. higher education to become post- version of small talk. Seemingly products or ideas. For all their value, Conclusions reached by the commission in its and socially pandemic norm fail to appreciate. afraid of boring me, she confessed our virtual connections too often report require the international community to exert distanced Consider higher education. that her work has nothing to do demand that we know in advance more serious and effective efforts to ensure account- minds. Even ignoring the learning that with looms. She’s the curator of what we want to find out. They ability and end the state of impunity for crimes com- takes place in hands-on studios East Asian money, drawn to the demand planning and articulation. mitted against the brotherly Syrian people. and labs, late-night bull ses- conference by her interest in the And innovation needs serendipity. sions and mealtime conversations, use of cloth as currency on the Silk virtual education has a serious Road. Cloth as currency! I couldn’t Virginia Postrel is a Bloomberg problem. Much of the world’s have been more intrigued. opinion columnist.

D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR EMAIL: [email protected] Lessons from Main Street EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 THE WASHINGTON POST the economy’s rebound, with a small and medium-sized rules attempt to remedy one of FAX: +974 4455 7758 mere $1.4bn in new lending businesses can currently get the most significant problems Like many others, we were since its much-delayed loans from private-sector by encouraging banks to vet MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 optimistic about a program opening on July 6. Though the financial institutions.” candidates for Main Street under which the Federal Fed issued revised rules on Nevertheless, it is also loans based not on their DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 Reserve would support as Sept. 18 that should boost clear that many firms did not current financial condition but much as $600bn in lending to lending, the impact before access the lending program on their pre-pandemic books LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 otherwise sound, mid-size Main Street expires December because of bureaucratic and future prospects. Treasury businesses that faced short- 31 is unclear. It’s time to learn obstacles or because the Fed’s Secretary Steven Mnuchinsaid BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 term cash-flow problems from this experience. lending terms, as interpreted at the House hearing that he because of the pandemic but Admittedly, the private by the risk-averse com- would be willing to lower Main SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 did not qualify for other sector’s non-use of Main mercial banks through which Street’s minimum loan size assistance. Street is in part a good news the money flowed, proved too from $250,000 to $100,000. ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 Authorised by Congress in story. Many companies in the onerous. In the crucial early Again, though, it’s getting late. email: [email protected] the bipartisan Cares Act on relevant category - 15,000 stages of the program, the Main Street’s game- March 27, what came to be employees or fewer; $5bn or Treasury Department, which changing potential having not PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 known as the Main Street less in 2019 sales - managed controlled $75bn in capital materialized, the program could email: [email protected] Lending Program seemed like to draw on conventional bank allocated by Congress, and still be useful as a back-up plan an innovative adaptation of the credit, or found themselves thus had ultimate power over in the event economic condi- ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 central bank’s function as needing less new borrowing the program, albeit within tions turn significantly worse, FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] lender of last resort to a novel when the economy broad leverage limitations set contrary to current forecasts. situation: the devastating rebounded faster than antici- by the Fed, placed a high pri- This may prove especially nec- CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 shutdown of the US economy pated in the second quarter. ority on avoiding taxpayer essary if Congress fails to enact email: [email protected] due to public health concerns. As Fed Chair Jerome Powell losses, as opposed to maxi- a new round of fiscal support In practice, however, Main testified at a House hearing mizing lending to companies. for the economy, as seems all SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 Street has been a non-factor in Tuesday, “most creditworthy The Fed’s newly revised too likely. FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar The coronavirus was out of control as the global death toll approaches 1 million, while /Peninsula_Qatar more than 30 million have been infected. The pandemic is a clear test of international /ThePeninsulaNewspaper cooperation - a test we have essentially failed.

+974 6698 6188 Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2020 EUROPE 09

Ireland tightens Britain records virus restrictions highest daily virus in second region REUTERS — DUBLIN cases at 6,634 The Irish government yesterday imposed tightened COVID-19 restrictions in a REUTERS — LONDON second region, banning indoor restaurant dining and non- Britain recorded its highest At the peak, we estimate essential travel in the north- number of daily cases of through surveys that over western county of Donegal a COVID-19 yesterday at 6,634, 100,000 people a day week after similar measures according to government data, were imposed in Dublin. reflecting a second wave of were catching the Donegal, which has reg- infections sweeping through disease, but we only istered over 120 cases per the country but also a much found about 6,000 of 100,000 population over the higher level of testing than them and they tested past 14 days, borders the during the first wave. positive United Kingdom region of Yesterday's number was up Northern Ireland, which from 6,178 on Wednesday, earlier this week tightened itself a jump from 4,926 the Matt Hancock COVID-19 restrictions due to previous day. UK Health Secretary a surge in cases. The new rules Earlier, Health Secretary will remain in place for three Matt Hancock said the gov- weeks, the government said in ernment estimated fewer than While testing capacity has a statement. 10,000 people were becoming increased dramatically since Ireland removed Germany, infected every day, as opposed the first wave, the system has Poland and Lithuania from its to estimated numbers over nevertheless been under strain, Spanish soldiers work with a nurse at a coronavirus patient tracking center in Palma de Mallorca, travel “green list”, leaving just 100,000 during the peak of the with many people reporting yesterday. Spain is among seven EU countries that are of “high concern” because of rising virus four countries exempt from a first wave. they were unable to get tests, death rates, with worrying trends in several other countries, the EU’s disease control agency warned. 14-day quarantine for arriving “(At the peak), we estimate or had to travel long distances. passengers. Ireland, which has through surveys that over Delays in getting results back some of the tightest travel 100,000 people a day were have also led to criticism of the restrictions in Europe, is only catching the disease, but we system. Spain tops 700,000 coronavirus allowing quarantine-free only found about 6,000 of Public Health England said travel from countries with a them and they tested positive,” there had also been 40 new COVID-19 infection rate of he said in an interview on Sky deaths, up from 37 the day cases, Madrid surge in spotlight under 25 cases per 100,000 News. before. At the peak of the pan- people over the past 14 days. “Now we estimate that it’s demic, Britain was reporting REUTERS — MADRID registered in the past 24 hours. officials. Illa has said the As a result, travellers under 10,000 people a day more than 1,000 deaths per Daily deaths are now around second wave of infections in arriving from all countries getting the disease. That’s too day. Britain has the highest Spain’s cumulative tally of their highest levels since early Spain has a lower intensity and other than Cyprus, Finland, high, but it’s still much lower death toll from COVID-19 in confirmed coronavirus infec- May, but below the late March velocity than the first one, the Latvia and Liechtenstein must than in the peak.” Europe, at 41,902. tions passed 700,000 yesterday record of nearly 900. high numbers owing mostly to go into quarantine for 14 days and authorities warned of Authorities in Madrid, mass testing that now allows from Monday next week, the tougher times ahead in the which has the highest share of authorities to detect six or Department of Foreign Affairs densely-populated virus hospital capacity occupied by seven cases out of 10, as said in a statement. hotspot region of Madrid, which COVID-19 patients and about opposed to one in 10 a few Three of those countries accounts for over a third of 500 people hospitalised a day months earlier. have restrictions on travellers hospital admissions. this week, have imposed a partial “Although the figures may from Ireland, which currently The number of confirmed lockdown in districts with high seem similar, they are not,” Illa has a COVID-19 infection rate cases has spiked since the end contagion rates, and could told parliament earlier this of 71 cases per 100,000 people, of a nationwide lockdown in announce more measures today, week. Education Minister according to the European late June, adding 200,000 in according to local officials. Isabel Celáa also said on Centre for Disease Control. The less than a month, and now “Tough weeks are coming Thursday the reopening of Irish government has said it will stands at 704,209, the highest in Madrid. We must act with schools over the past two weeks adopt a more liberal system of in Western Europe. resolve to bring the pandemic had not led to any significant coordinated travel restrictions The total number of under control,” Health Minister increase in infections, and only proposed by the European COVID-19 fatalities rose by 84 Salvador Illa told reporters 0.73% of all classes have had to Commission once they are to 31,118, including 13 deaths before meeting regional be quarantined so far. adopted in mid-October. Quarantine ordered for 2,500 students at elite Swiss school

AP — LAUSANNE investigation indicated that quarantine live on campus, countries in recent weeks. The newly launched contact tracing app, which uses Bluetooth “one or more parties was at the while all the rest live The University of Glasgow technology to alert users if they spend 15 minutes or more within Swiss authorities ordered 2,500 origin of these many outbreaks.” off-campus. in Scotland said yesterday that two metres (six feet) of another user who subsequently tests students at an elite hospitality The local authorities reiterated a The university, which has over 600 of its students had positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19), is pictured on a smartphone management school to quar- call for party-goers to demon- been heralded as one of the to self-isolate after 124 in London, yesterday. antine themselves due to a strate a ”responsible attitude” by world’s top schools in the field, reported cases emerged in coronavirus outbreak allegedly wearing masks, practicing social has a total student body of “two significant clusters” at linked to off-campus partying, distancing, tracing their contacts about 3,500, including people separate residence halls. The UK seeks to seize $39m from lawyer the latest back-to-school sign and watching for COVID-19 pursuing advanced degrees. university said it believed the of higher education’s place in symptoms. Mamdouh said the quar- outbreak was largely a result who helped corrupt Nigerian politician the pandemic. Ines Blal, the university’s antine runs only through of social activity in mid-Sep- Authorities in Switzerland’s executive dean, said adminis- Monday because Swiss author- tember during “Freshers’ REUTERS — LONDON Vaud canton, or region, said trators had warned students ities factored in a possible Week,” when new students all undergraduates at the against holding start-of-term 14-day virus incubation period arrive and socialise. British prosecutors launched an attempt yesterday to confiscate Ecole Hoteliere de Lausanne, parties, even ff-campus and since this month’s start-of-term The university said none of £30.8m ($39.3m) from a London lawyer who assisted a Nigerian or the Lausanne Hospitality outside the school’s authority - parties. He could not explain its infected students had to politician in looting and laundering funds from the oil state he Management University in and said a “disciplinary investi- why faculty members or receive hospital treatment. It governed. Bhadresh Gohil was convicted in 2010 of 13 counts of English, were told to quar- gation” was underway. She said graduate students were not stressed that anyone who money-laundering and other offences linked to his role in the case antine at home both on and the school had already been included in the quarantine breaks coronavirus restrictions of James Ibori, who was governor of Delta State in southern Nigeria off campus because the virus bracing for “worst-case sce- order, but said it was a decision could be kicked out of student from 1999 to 2007. Gohil was sentenced to 10 years in prison. already had spread too widely narios” in recent months by made by the cantonal author- housing or suspended. Then a partner at a firm in the London district of Mayfair, for a more limited order. putting courses online and rolling ities. They were not immedi- The latest government Gohil had helped Ibori channel stolen funds through shell com- “Significant outbreaks of out distance-learning ately available for comment. figures in France show that 22% panies and offshore accounts, and buy assets such as an English infection have appeared at programmes. Switzerland is not alone in of the country’s currently active country house and a $20 million private jet - although police several levels of training, University spokesman facing a back-to-school virus virus clusters emerged at caught up with the men before the jet was delivered. making impossible a more tar- Sherif Mamdouh said 11 stu- surge among students. The schools and universities. The US Gohil also masterminded a fraud in which $37 million in fake geted closure than that dents had tested positive for the World Health Organization, has also seen clusters linked to consultancy fees was stolen from two Nigerian states in con- involving 2,500 students,” the coronavirus in connection with national health authorities and college students. Denmark’s nection with the sale of their stakes in a telecoms company. Vaud regional office said in a the outbreak so far and none others have cautioned that education minister has urged With its highly developed financial and legal services indus- statement. “Until September 28, required hospitalisation. young people have been a key parents and schools to cancel tries, Britain has long been a favoured destination for people the students must stay home.” Mamdouh said only 67 of the driver for the continued spread all social events, including seeking to launder dirty money. The statement said an early undergraduates affected by the of the coronavirus in several camps and birthday parties. Legendary editor Germany to replaces Harold Evans dies aged 92 military intelligence boss AFP — LONDON after far-right scandals Crusading British newspaper editor Harold Evans has died REUTERS — BERLIN the defence ministry said, adding in New York aged 92, his wife that a successor would be chosen Tina Brown said yesterday, Germany’s defence minister soon. prompting a flood of tributes. will replace the head of the Several incidents in the last UK Culture Secretary military intelligence agency few months have raised con- Oliver Dowden, whose brief (MAD), her ministry said cerns about the influence of the includes media, described yesterday, a move indicating far right in the military, an espe- Evans a “giant of investigative she wants to do more to root cially sensitive subject for journalism”, a reputation he out right-wing radicals from Germans given the country’s established at the helm of the the armed forces. Nazi past. In June, Defence Min- Sunday Times. Ian Murray, MAD chief Christof Gramm ister Annegret Kramp-Karren- executive director of the Society had begun reforms to combat bauer said she would disband a of Editors, paid tribute to Evans, right-wing extremism in the company in the military’s elite who died of congestive heart military and achieved noticeable KSK special forces due to a per- failure on Wednesday. improvements, the ministry said sistent problem of far-right “Sir Harold Evans was a in a statement, adding, however, extremism within the ranks. giant among journalists who that further progress was needed A KSK captain had asked strove to put the ordinary man Heavy rush and this required more effort. the minister to intervene after and woman at the heart of his “This new phase should also be he accused instructors and People wait in line in front of the AliExpress pop-up store in Paris, yesterday. The global marketplace reporting. “He took on the made visible in terms of per- senior commandos in the unit of Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba, AliExpress, opened a pop-up store in Paris for the first time in establishment without fear or sonnel,” the statement said. By of cultivating a “toxic culture France, aiming to showcase its fashion and decoration products and its concept of “shoppertainment” favour and earned a deserved mutual consent, Gramm is to be of acceptance” under which in video streams. reputation as one of the relieved of his duties next month, complaints about far-right world’s greatest editors. and will take early retirement, influence were suppressed. 10 EUROPE / AMERICAS FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2020 EU refuses to recognise Lukashenko as Belarus president AFP — BRUSSELS falsified results,” EU high rep- directed against the Belarusian responsible for the repression resentative Josep Borrell said in people and immediately and and also looking at punishing The European Union refuses to a statement. This ‘inauguration’ directly contradicts the will of large unconditionally release all those Lukashenko himself, diplomatic recognise Alexander “On this basis, the so-called parts of the Belarusian population, as expressed in detained, including political sources say. Lukashenko as Belarus pres- ‘inauguration’” and the new numerous, unprecedented and peaceful protests since the prisoners,” said Borrell. But the unanimity of the 27 ident after his inauguration that mandate Lukashenko claims “The EU remains convinced EU countries is required, and lacked “democratic legitimacy” “lack any democratic legit- elections, and serves to only further deepen the political that an inclusive national dia- Cyprus links its agreement to and Brussels is reviewing its imacy,” Borrell said. crisis in Belarus. logue and responding positively the adoption of steps to force relations with Minsk, the EU’s “This ‘inauguration’ directly to the demands of the Bela- Turkey to stop exploring for gas diplomatic chief said yesterday. contradicts the will of large Josep Borrell rusian people for new demo- in the waters of its economic Lukashenko’s secret inau- parts of the Belarusian popu- EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs cratic elections are the only way zone. guration on Wednesday trig- lation, as expressed in forward in finding a way out of Two countries, Sweden and gered fresh condemnation in numerous, unprecedented and the serious political crisis in Finland, refuse to sanction the West and new mass dem- peaceful protests since the elec- “represented by those they for new elections “despite the Belarus that respects the wishes Lukashenko to allow for medi- onstrations in Belarus that have tions, and serves to only further freely choose through new brutal repression of the Bela- of the Belarusian people." ation by OSCE that will be erupted frequently since the deepen the political crisis in inclusive, transparent and rusian authorities,” he said. The statement also said chaired by Stockholm, the disputed August 9 elections. Belarus,” the former Spanish credible elections,” he said. The EU renews its calls on Brussels was “reviewing its sources add. The elections were neither foreign minister said. The EU again threw its full the authorities in Minsk to relations with Belarus.” The EU The issue will be debated free nor fair and “the European The EU stands for the right support behind the peaceful “immediately refrain from any is preparing sanctions against during an EU summit on 1-2 Union does not recognise their of Belarusians to be Belarus protests and their calls further repression and violence around 40 people deemed October in Brussels. Moscow slams Sofia’s expulsion Hungary acquits of diplomats for spying politician of spying on EU for AFP — MOSCOW information on military mod- ernisation plans since 2016. Russia Russia yesterday criticised EU member Bulgaria was Bulgaria’s expulsion of two of once an ally of the USSR but ties AFP — BUDAPEST its diplomats, dismissing “far- have cooled recently and last fetched” accusations that they year saw the ejection of three A Budapest court yesterday were spying on the military. other Russian diplomats over acquitted a former Hungarian Bulgaria’s foreign ministry allegations of obtaining clas- opposition politician of spying said Wednesday that it had sified information. on the EU for Russia while he ordered the expulsion of the Three Russian nationals was a member of the European diplomats, who Russia said have been charged in absentia Parliament, but found him worked in its trade mission. over the attempted poisoning guilty of lesser charges. The Russian foreign min- in 2015 of a Bulgarian arms The charges, filed in 2017 istry in a statement expressed manufacturer, Emilian Gebrev, against the nationalist Jobbik “regret” and said it viewed the his son and another associate. party member Bela Kovacs, decision as a “deliberate Russia has recently had a included “spying against EU attempt to harm constructive number of its diplomats institutions” and “engaging in Russia-Bulgaria cooperation. expelled from several European espionage in the interests of a It said it would announce countries, responding with tit- Russia war games foreign state” between 2012 retaliatory measures later. for-tat measures. and 2014. Russian army tank fires during military exercises at the Raevsky range in Southern Russia, yesterday, The order for the pair to Norway expelled a dip- Although Russia was not during the “Caucasus-2020” military drills gathering China, Iran, Pakistan and Myanmar troops, along leave within 72 hours came lomat in August after arresting explicitly named on the charge with ex-Soviet Armenia, Azerbaijan and Belarus. Up to 250 tanks and around 450 infantry combat after the Bulgarian public pros- a Norwegian man suspected of sheet, prosecutors said Kovacs ecutor alleged the Russians had passing sensitive information vehicles and armoured personnel carriers will take part in the September 21 to 26 land and naval — a frequent visitor to Moscow been seeking out classified to Moscow. exercises that will involve 80,000 people including support staff. and son of a Russian — regu- larly met covertly with a Russian diplomat believed to Dogs used to be a secret service agent. Kosovo war crimes court arrests first suspect Prosecutors had sought a detect COVID-19 seven-year jail term, while the AFP — THE HAGUE Mustafa was arrested yes- alleged role in nearly 100 some 13,000 lives, pitted ethnic defence called for his acquittal in pilot project at terday in Kosovo and will murders during the 1998-89 Albanian KLA guerrillas seeking due to lack of evidence. Prosecutors for an international appear before a judge at the conflict while he led the KLA. independence for the southern The judge said Kovacs had Helsinki airport tribunal investigating war KSC “without undue delay”, the Thaci was questioned but Serbian province of Kosovo been in contact with the crimes committed during prosecutor’s office said in a not formally arrested. against Serbia’s forces. Russian secret services, but REUTERS — HELSINKI Kosovo’s 1990s independence statement. Mustafa, currently a civil The Serbs withdrew after an only passed on information war have arrested their first The exact charges against staff officer in the defence min- 11-week NATO bombing cam- already in the public domain. Dogs trained to detect the suspect, the prosecutor’s office Mustafa are not yet known and istry, was a KLA member paign but tensions remain to While acquitted of spying, novel coronavirus began said yesterday. “only need to be made public known to have operated in this day, with the US and most Kovacs was handed a one- sniffing passenger samples at Salih Mustafa, a former when the accused first appears north Kosovo. of the West recognising Kosovo, and-a-half-year jail term — Finland’s Helsinki-Vantaa senior commander in the rebel in court,” a spokesman for the Afterwards he led the intel- while Belgrade and its allies suspended for three years — airport this week, authorities Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA), prosecutor’s office, Christopher ligence service in the Kosovo Russia and China do not. after he and three former said, in a pilot project running is being transferred to a Bennett, said. Security Force, a lightly armed The EU-backed tribunal interns from his office were alongside more usual testing detention centre at the court The arrest comes months emergency force that emerged was established in 2015 to found guilty of fiscal fraud and at the airport. based in The Hague called the after the court indicted Kosovo from the demilitarised KLA. investigate alleged war crimes falsification of documents. The dogs’ efficiency has Kosovo Specialist Chambers. President Hashim Thaci for his The conflict, which cost by the KLA. He had been accused of not been proven in compar- signing “fictitious” internship ative scientific studies so pas- contracts leading to substantial sengers who volunteer to be financial losses for institutions tested and are suspected as Stolen plane in Mexico of the European Parliament. carrying the virus are The 60-year-old can instructed to also take a swab appeal the verdict. to confirm the result. flies to Venezuela before An MEP between 2010 and A team of 15 dogs and 10 2019, Kovacs was accused of instructors are being trained crashing in Guatemala passing on information about for the job in Finland by vol- energy issues including Hun- unteers, sponsored by a REUTERS — MEXICO CITY The jet took off from the gary’s only nuclear plant, private veterinary clinic. Cuernavaca airport, located European Parliament elections Among them is Kossi, a rescue A business jet that was reported about 45 72 km south of Mexico and Hungarian domestic pol- dog from Spain, who was stolen in Mexico crashed in a City, around midday on itics. The politician consist- trained as a sniffer dog in Guatemalan jungle on Tuesday without authorisation ently denied the allegations, Finland and who has worked Wednesday near a hidden or a flight plan, then landed at which were first made by the before detecting cancers. airstrip after making a myste- Zulia airport in northwestern Hungarian authorities prior to “What we’ve seen in our rious trip to Venezuela, leaving Venezuela near the border with the EP elections in 2014. research is that the dogs will two men dead near an onboard Colombia several hours later, “I am innocent of all the find (the disease) five days stash of drugs and weapons. the Guatemalan military said. charges, have always worked A handout picture released by Guatemala’s Army showing rubble before they (patients) get any In a statement, the Guate- Shortly afterward it took off in the interests of the Hun- after a plane carrying drugs crashed in Santa Marta Salinas village, clinical symptoms,” Anna malan military confirmed the for Guatemala, where it crashed garian people, never for any Chisec municipality, Guatemala, on Wednesday. Hielm-Bjorkman, who is crash of the Hawker 800 twin- shortly after 8 pm local time on foreign power,” Kovacs told Adjunct Professor at the Uni- engine jet in a mountainous Wednesday. the court before the verdict. versity of Helsinki. area in the Central American The theft of the jet, which Cuernavaca airport, two of not yet filed a formal robbery He said he was “the victim country’s Alta Verapaz region, can seat eight passengers, was whom claiming to be mechanics report. of political attacks” and but said the men had not yet reported by both local and there to take the plane for a test Mexico’s transport ministry accused Prime Minister Viktor Bolivia leader been identified. Next to their federal authorities on Tuesday flight. and attorney general’s office Orban’s right-wing party Fidesz bodies, 3 kilogrammes of in Mexico. After filling up the aircraft’s confirmed that the jet stolen in of “using” him to attack Jobbik. slams Argentina cocaine were found in three According to Pablo Ojeda, fuel tank, those two took off Cuernavaca matched the one Kovacs quit his membership of packages along with unspec- a senior state government without permission, said Ojeda, reported crashed in the nationalist party soon after for harbouring ified guns. official, three men entered the adding that the jet’s owners had Guatemala. the charges were raised. Morales BLOOMBERG Venezuela’s Maduro blasts US in speech to world leaders Bolivia’s interim leader AP — BOGOTA, COLOMBIA spirit, reason and international there is a $15m bounty for infor- media platforms. Standing country’s ordeal. Jeanine Anez criticised the law,” he said, standing before a mation leading to his arrest. before four Venezuelan flags, Though deeply unpopular, government of Argentina for Venezuelan President Nicolás giant portrait of South American The South American he spoke as if addressing a Maduro still controls every harbouring former President Maduro blasted United States independence hero Simón nation’s political feud pitting room full of dignitaries, calling aspect of life in Venezuela. Evo Morales, who she accuses sanctions in his address to the Bolivar. Maduro against US-backed his statement “an act of demo- Guaidó, though backed by influ- of conspiring to foment unrest UN General Assembly on The speech marks Maduro’s opposition leader Juan Guaidó cratic vindication” by the ential world leaders, is increas- in her country. Wednesday, while avoiding any return to the world stage after frequently spills into the inter- nation’s “true representatives.” ingly powerless within the “By what right do they mention of a report accusing his his absence last year as political national arena, where the “The dictatorial regime of beleaguered nation, his popu- harbour a violent conspiracy government of crimes against tumult embroiled the country. world’s greatest powers have Nicolás Maduro with its ties to larity dropping as he struggles by Evo Morales against humanity. The US, which doesn’t recognise staked a claim in the country’s drug trafficking and human to rally more than a small Bolivia’s democracy from In a lengthy, prerecorded him as Venezuela’s legitimate discord. This year’s online rights violations is also usurping crowd of supporters at recent Argentine soil?” Anez said in speech that ran more than twice president, has indicted him on General Assembly offered Venezuela’s right to speak,” he calls for protest. her address to the UN General the allotted time, the socialist drug charges. Maduro likely Maduro a leg up, relegating said. The United Nations has Assembly on Wednesday. leader denounced what he would have skipped this year’s opposition leaders who in 2019 The online sphere, as it been providing humanitarian Argentina’s Foreign Affairs called a “criminal, inhuman proceedings too, had the pan- held side events with powerful turns out, still offered both men aid and shining a light on Ministry said it regretted aggression” by the US aimed at demic not forced the UN leaders further along the a stage, but Maduro’s outsized human rights abuses. The sec- Anez’s decision to involve its ousting him from power, and summit to go virtual. margins. image on giant screens broad- retary general has pressed for government in the internal said Venezuela would resist. Even though he would have Guaidó nonetheless tried to casting his speech in the green dialogue. politics of Bolivia, according “The world must know that UN diplomatic immunity, make his voice heard, releasing marbled UN General Assembly Though nearly 60 nations to a statement released late we are prepared to fight with Maduro would be taking a risk his own pre-recorded video in hall nonetheless served as a support Guaidó, many UN Wednesday. the force of our history, our by travelling to the US, where rebuttal to Maduro on social symbolic microcosm for the members back Maduro. FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2020 AMERICAS 11 Trump won't commit to peaceful transfer of power

AP — WASHINGTON Republican lawmakers vow President Donald Trump again declined to commit to a peaceful transfer of power if he orderly election transition loses the November 3 presi- BLOOMBERG — WASHINGTON Senator Mitt Romney of dential election. Utah, a former presidential “We’re going to have to see Republican lawmakers vowed candidate, was the first what happens,” Trump said at that the presidential transition member of Trump’s party to a news conference, responding after November’s election will speak out on Wednesday. to a question about whether occur without disruption, in a “Fundamental to he’d commit to a peaceful rebuke to President Donald democracy is the peaceful transfer of power. “You know Trump’s refusal to commit to transition of power; without that I’ve been complaining very a peaceful transfer of power. that, there is Belarus. Any sug- strongly about the ballots, and “The winner of the gestion that a president might the ballots are a disaster.” November 3rd election will be not respect this Constitutional It is highly unusual that a inaugurated on January 20th. guarantee is both unthinkable sitting president would express There will be an orderly tran- and unacceptable,” he said on less than complete confidence sition just as there has been Twitter. US President Donald Trump arrives to speak to reporters during a news conference in the Brady Press in the American democracy’s every four years since 1792,” Representative Liz Cheney Briefing Room at the White House in Washington, DC, on Wednesday. electoral process. But he also Senate Majority Leader Mitch of Wyoming tweeted yes- declined four years ago to McConnell tweeted yesterday terday: “The peaceful transfer “The American just say yes. I’m not going to say Trump responded that he would commit to honoring the election morning. of power is enshrined in our no, and I didn’t last time either.” “keep you in suspense.” results if his Democratic Trump has raised ques- Constitution and fundamental people will decide The Biden campaign It’s unlikely that any chaos opponent, Hillary Clinton, won. tions about the security and to the survival of our Republic. this election. And the responded Wednesday: “The in states with universal mail-in His current Democratic legitimacy of mass mailed-in America’s leaders swear an American people will decide voting will cause the election challenger, Joe Biden, was ballots, without offering oath to the Constitution. We US government is this election. And the United result to be inaccurately tabu- asked about Trump’s comment evidence. will uphold that oath.” perfectly capable of States government is perfectly lated, as Trump has suggested. after landing in Wilmington, capable of escorting trespassers The five states that already Delaware, on Wednesday night. the COVID-19 pandemic. Trump on Wednesday escorting trespassers out of the White House.” have such balloting have had “What country are we in?” The president, who uses appeared to suggest that if out of the White The American Civil Liberties time to ramp up their systems, Biden asked incredulously, mail-in voting himself, has tried states got “rid of” the unsolicited House, ” Biden Union also protested Trump’s while four states newly adding: “I’m being facetious. to distinguish between states mailing of ballots there would remarks. “The peaceful transfer adopting it — California, New Look, he says the most irra- that automatically send mail be no concern about fraud or campaign said. of power is essential to a func- Jersey, Nevada and Vermont — tional things. I don’t know what ballots to all registered voters peaceful transfers of power. tioning democracy,” National have not. Washington, DC, is to say about it. But it doesn’t and those, like Florida, that send “You’ll have a very peaceful Legal Director David Cole said. also newly adopting it. surprise me.” them only to voters who request — there won’t be a transfer In a July interview, Trump “This statement from the pres- Of those nine states, only Trump has been pressing a a mail ballot. frankly,” Trump said. “There’ll similarly refused to commit to ident of the United States should Nevada is a battleground, worth monthslong campaign against Trump has baselessly be a continuation. The ballots accepting the results. trouble every American.” six electoral votes and likely to mail-in voting this November by claimed widespread mail voting are out of control, you know it, “I have to see. Look ... I have Trump made similar com- be pivotal only in a national tweeting and speaking out crit- will lead to massive fraud. The and you know, who knows it to see,” Trump told Chris ments ahead of the 2016 presidential deadlock. California, ically about the practice. More five states that routinely send better than anybody else? The Wallace during a wide-ranging election. When asked during an New Jersey, Vermont and DC are states are encouraging mail-in mail ballots to all voters have Democrats know it better than July interview on “Fox News October debate whether he overwhelmingly Democratic and voting to keep voters safe amid seen no significant fraud. anybody else.” Sunday.” “No, I’m not going to would abide by the voters’ will, likely to be won by Biden. Trump may block stricter FDA guidelines for COVID-19 vaccine TikTok argues for US court order to REUTERS — WASHINGTON would issue the guidance to when asked about the Post presidential election. Pfizer Inc on Wednesday. boost transparency and public report. had been the exception, But he did say regulators block Trump ban US President Donald Trump trust as health experts have “That sounds like a political although its timetable could slip would likely provide additional said he may or may not approve become increasingly concerned move. Because when you have with new guidance. information on the emergency AFP — SAN FRANCISCO any new, more stringent FDA the Trump administration might Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, Moderna Inc has said it is use authorisation process. standards for an emergency be interfering in the approval Moderna, these great com- unlikely to have data in October. At the same hearing, US A federal judge yesterday authorisation of a COVID-19 process to rush out a vaccine. panies, coming up with the vac- AstraZeneca Plc’s trial in the Centers for Disease Control and urged the Trump adminis- vaccine, saying such a proposal Trump, however, ques- cines, and they’ve done testing United States is halted while Prevention head Robert Red- tration to consider delaying a would appear political. tioned why a vaccine would and everything else, I’m saying investigators try to determine field said he expects there to be ban on new downloads of the Trump has repeatedly said need to be delayed and said why would they have to be whether a serious neurological about 700 million doses of vac- popular video app TikTok and a vaccine for COVID-19, the such a proposal by the FDA adding great length to the problem suffered by one par- cines available by late March or hinted he might block the disease caused by the corona- would appear to be process.” ticipant in the company’s UK April, enough for 350 million government’s order set to take virus, could be ready for distri- politically-driven. Trump added he had “tre- trial was caused by the vaccine. people. effect on Sunday. bution ahead of the November “We’re looking at that and mendous trust” in those US Food and Drug Admin- “I think that’s going to take Judge Carl Nichols made 3 presidential election. that has to be approved by the companies. istration head Stephen Hahn did us April, May, June, you know, the comments at a hastily The Washington Post White House. We may or may Few vaccine developers not directly address the Wash- possibly July, to get the entire called telephone hearing reported on Tuesday the US not approve it,” Trump told a were expected to have defin- ington Post report when testi- American public completely where TikTok argued a ban, Food and Drug Administration White House news conference, itive trial results before the fying before the Senate earlier vaccinated,” Redfield said. even if temporary, could cause irreparable harm to the video- sharing application with some 100 million US users. Three accused of creating ‘man The judge agreed with TikTok lawyers to an expe- cave’ under NY rail terminal dited hearing schedule and said he would make a decision AP — NEW YORK anonymous tip in February before the ban takes effect at 2019 alleging that there was a 11:59 pm Sunday. Three railroad workers have “man cave” under Grand Nichols said he disagreed been suspended for turning a Central with “a couch and a flat with government lawyers’ storage room under New York’s screen TV” where three specific claims that the ban — which Grand Central Terminal into an employees would “hang out would not immediately unauthorised “man cave” with and party.” prevent usage of TikTok but a television, a refrigerator, a Investigators found the prevent downloads by new microwave and a futon couch, room, which had wooden cab- users and updates — “merely officials said yesterday. inets designed to conceal the preserves the status quo.” A Metropolitan Transpor- TV and futon, according to the “I would like the gov- tation Authority investigation report. ernment (Justice Department) found that managers at Metro- Railroad officials said the to confer with its client,” North Railroad were unaware of space presented a fire hazard Nichols said. the hideaway beneath Track 114. because rescue workers would He asked the Justice Three Metro-North have had difficulty accessing Department lawyers to employees — a wireman, a car- an unmapped room. indicate by Friday if they were penter foreman and an elec- Investigators said that willing to postpone a ban; if trical foreman — were sus- while they could not be certain not he would review briefs pended without pay pending the railroad employees used from both sides and make a disciplinary hearings. the secret break room when ruling on TikTok’s request for The investigation began they were supposed to be a temporary injunction on Protesters march against police brutality in Los Angeles, on Wednesday, following a decision on the after the MTA’s office of the working, it appears likely that President Donald Trump’s Breonna Taylor case in Louisville, Kentucky. inspector general received an they did. order. Two cops shot as protests erupt over Breonna case AFP — LOUISVILLE in New York, Boston, Wash- Thousands of demon- Canada is in a second COVID-19 wave: PM ington and Los Angeles. strators had flooded the streets Two police officers were shot But the biggest demon- of Louisville in the afternoon. AP — TORONTO we won’t be gathering for opposition parties vote against as angry protests rippled across stration was in Taylor’s “Say her name — Breonna Thanksgiving, but we still have the speech, which was for- the United States after author- hometown of Louisville, Ken- Taylor,” they chanted. “No lives Prime Minister Justin Trudeau a shot at Christmas.” mally delivered by Governor ities announced no one would tucky, where two police officers matter till black lives matter.” said that Canada is in a second Trudeau urged Canadians General Julie Payette, an be charged with the killing of were hospitalised after being Police in riot gear made wave of COVID-19 and warned to keep wearing masks and to election would be triggered. Breonna Taylor. shot late Wednesday. several arrests, and used the country is on the brink of a download the government’s But at least one is expected to Taylor, who was shot dead “Both officers are currently flashbang grenades to clear fall season that could be much COVID-app that lets a person support the speech. in her apartment by plainclothes undergoing treatment,” interim hundreds of protesters from a worse than the spring. know if they’ve come in close Two leaders of opposition officers, has become a symbol police chief Robert Schroeder park, where a memorial to Trudeau noted that when contact with someone who has parties could not attend the for the Black Lives Matter told reporters. “One is alert and Taylor was placed. Canada went into lockdown tested positive. speech because they recently movement and demonstrators’ stable. The other officer is cur- A state of emergency and an March 13 there were 47 new “Together, we have the tested positive for COVID-19. calls for an end to what they say rently undergoing surgery and overnight curfew were declared confirmed cases of COVID-19, power to get this second wave Canada has seen a surge in is unjustified police violence. stable,” he said, adding that one for the city of 600,000, with and that Tuesday alone, Canada under control,” he said. cases in recent days. A grand jury charged one person had been arrested. much of downtown closed to had well over 1,000. Trudeau said his gov- The governor general called of the three officers involved in President Donald Trump, traffic, and several shops “We can’t change today’s ernment will do “whatever it the pandemic the most serious the raid with “wanton endan- who is campaigning for ree- boarded up in anticipation of numbers or even tomorrow’s takes” to support Canadians public health crisis Canada has germent” over shots he fired lection on a “law-and-order” violence. — those were already decided and the economy during the ever faced. Over 9,000 Cana- into a neighboring home, but platform, tweeted that he was Taylor, an emergency room by what we did, or didn’t do, pandemic as his Liberal gov- dians have died in six months neither he nor his two col- “praying for the two police technician, died when three two weeks ago,” Trudeau said ernment presented the govern- and the government says the leagues will face charges over officers that were shot tonight plainclothes policemen turned in a national televised address. ment’s priorities for a new economic impact of COVID-19 Taylor’s death. in Louisville, Kentucky. The up at her door in the middle of “But what we can change is session of Parliament in a on Canadians has already been The news sparked protests Federal Government stands the night to execute a search where we are in October, and speech earlier Wednesday. worse than the 2008 financial across the country — including behind you and is ready to help.” warrant. into the winter. It’s all too likely If the three main crisis. Business 12

FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2020 EU to rebalance, not shut City of London's market access We are not closing our doors to financial services in the UK. There will be a "rebalancing" of British financial activities in the bloc.

Valdis Dombrovskis European Commission Vice-President Business | 13 QSE 9,788.29 +1.02% (+0.01) FTSE 100 5,831.05 -68.21 (1.16%) DOW 26,808.98 +45.85 (0.17%) BRENT $40.14 (+0.21)

Britain launches pared-back job Global economic outlook better than protection as COVID-19 surges June prediction: IMF REUTERS - LONDON AFP - WASHINGTON Britain’s finance minister Rishi Sunak launched new, scaled- The global economic outlook back job support yesterday for is less bleak than projected in workers hit by the resurgent June, an IMF spokesman said COVID-19 pandemic, but yesterday, hinting that the warned he could not save eve- organization’s forecasts for ryone during the unprece- growth will be raised next dented economic turmoil. month. Sunak also unveiled plans “Recent incoming data sug- to extend loan repayments for gests that the outlook may be businesses and delay ending a somewhat less dire” than pro- tax cut for the hospitality sector jected in the Washington-based which has been drastically hit crisis lender’s World Economic by coronavirus restrictions. Outlook published in June, Nevertheless, unem- spokesman Gerry Rice (pic- France have reinstituted some ployment looks set to surge in tured) told reporters, nothing restrictions in recent days, the final months of the year, that “parts of the global although on a much more with major employers from economy (are) beginning to limited scale than earlier in the British Airways to Rolls-Royce turn the corner.” As the coro- year. shedding jobs rapidly. navirus has moved through the Rice said households and “These are radical interven- world, economists have been businesses in the United States tions in the UK labour market, forced to constantly revise their continue to face challenges and policies we have never tried in forecasts for growth. signaled that the fund supports this country before,” Sunak told The International Monetary more fiscal support for the Britain’s Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak (centre), Frances O’Grady (left), General-Secretary parliament of the government’s Fund is set to update its global economy. of the British Trades Union Congress (TUC) and Dame Carolyn Fairbairn are seen at Downing Street Economic Winter Plan. outlook on October 13, though Talks on another round of amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in London, Britain, yesterday. “The primary goal of our Rice did not reveal details stimulus are deadlocked in economic policy remains about the new projection. Washington weeks before unchanged - to support people’s businesses who face depressed from closing bars earlier to scheme to give businesses flex- In its June forecast, the fund President Donald Trump stands jobs - but the way we achieve demand the option of keeping telling people to work from ibility to repay loans taken out said world GDP would drop by for a second term in the that must evolve,” he added, employees in a job on shorter home again. during the coronavirus crisis, 4.9 percent and the virus would November polls. acknowledging, however, “I hours, rather than making them The Confederation of British allowing 10 years to repay wipe out $12 trillion over two In a column earlier this cannot save every business, I redundant,” Sunak told Industry said the new scheme rather than six. years, However China and month, IMF leader Kristalina cannot save every job.” At the parliament. would save hundreds of thou- Under the government’s some other advanced econ- Georgieva and chief economist heart of the new measures is a The Job Retention Scheme sands of jobs. Still, millions of Bounce Back Loan Scheme, 1.3 omies performed better than Gita Gopinath said govern- replacement for the Corona- supported around a third of jobs are on the existing pro- million small businesses have expected in the second quarter ments should continue to virus Job Retention Scheme, British workers at its peak and gramme that Sunak refused to taken out a total of £38bn of 2020, Rice said, partly due support workers and busi- which supported 8.9 million earlier on yesterday Britain’s extend. ($48.4bn) in loans worth up to to the easing of lockdown nesses since the unprecedented private sector jobs at its peak statistics agency estimated that Paul Johnson, the head of 50,000 pounds each. measures after the near total nature of the crisis could give in May and ends next month. one in eight workers were being the Institute for Fiscal Studies, The Bank of England shutdowns earlier in the year. rise to a wave of bankruptcies Under the new programme, helped by the programme in said a less generous scheme forecast last month that unem- “We’re also seeing signs of and job destruction. support will only be available early September. would hit furloughed workers. ployment would jump to 7.5 global trade slowly beginning “This crisis, however, is far to workers whose employers The pandemic has killed “Understandable given need to percent by the end of the year to recover,” Rice said. from over,” they wrote. “The keep them on at least a third of nearly 42,000 people in Britain, adapt as economy changes. if there were no replacement “I would emphasize we are recovery remains very fragile their normal hours. For the worst death toll in Europe, Can’t pay all wages forever. But for the existing furlough scheme not out of the woods,” Rice said, and uneven across regions and unworked hours, government and the government is bor- a lot on furlough now likely to ending at the end of October, calling the outlook “very chal- sectors. To ensure that the and the employer will each pay rowing record amounts to help lose their job,” he tweeted. up from 4.1 percent in the three lenging” with emerging recovery continues, it is staff at a third of their normal an economy on track for its Sunak also said he would months to July. markets facing a “precarious” essential that support not be rate, with a maximum gov- biggest annual contraction in extend a cut to value-added tax The opposition Labour situation due to the prematurely withdrawn.” They ernment contribution of £698 around 100 years. for hotels, cafes and restaurants Party said the new support was coronavirus. cautioned that, “Though the ($889) a month. COVID-19 cases this week until March 31 to support the too late. The plunge in demand Economists also fear that a world has learned to live with “The government will showed their biggest daily sectors which are struggling for flights, clothes and nights second wave of infections the virus, a full recovery is directly support the wages of increase since May, prompting with demand. out has already led to tens of could damage growth. Govern- unlikely without a permanent people in work, giving new government restrictions He also introduced a new thousands of job losses. ments including Britain and medical solution.” Oil steadies as frail demand Mnuchin and Powell back jobless ‘Full recovery’ outlook offsets US stock fall for US in reach aid and small business loans by year-end: REUTERS - LONDON year earlier. “The current economic and AP - WASHINGTON popular Paycheck Fed’s Bullard Oil prices steadied yesterday, as oil backdrop is anything but Protection the bullish impact of a fall in US encouraging and this capped the Treasury Secretary Steven Program for small BLOOMBERG inventories was offset by a attempted rally,” Tamas Varga Mnuchin (pictured) and Federal businesses, and to stronger dollar and a renewed of oil brokerage PVM said. Reserve Chairman Jerome boost unem- Federal Reserve Bank of St. wave of coronavirus cases in The jitters over demand and Powell said yesterday that the ployment ben- Louis President James Bullard, Europe that led several countries the economic outlook due to the government’s top priorities in efits. The PPP still in the most upbeat comments to reimpose travel restrictions. coronavirus resurgence have any new economic relief contains around by a central banker since the Brent crude futures rose 8 spurred a rally in the dollar as package should be to provide $130bn that had start of the COVID-19 out- cents, or 0.2 percent, to $41.85 a investors turned to safer assets, affordable loans to small busi- not been allocated break, said the US economy barrel by 1408 GMT. US West adding pressure on oil prices. A nesses and further support for when authori- may surge at a 35 percent Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude stronger dollar makes oil less millions of Americans who zation for the pro- annualized rate in the third futures gained 17 cents, or 0.4 attractive to buyers using other remain unemployed. gramme expired. quarter and the nation may be percent, to $40.1 per barrel. currencies. With the prospects for any The original close to a complete recovery Both benchmarks traded Prices were also capped by new federal aid package relief package by year-end. lower earlier in the session. data showing a cooling of US appearing dim, members of the provided a $600- Rapid expansion in gross On Wednesday, prices business activity in September, Senate Banking Committee support in a new bill. And a-week federal unemployment domestic product in the third climbed slightly after gov- the stalemate in the US Congress pressed both officials to list Republicans urged Democratic benefit, on top of whatever quarter “may put the US ernment data showed US oil over more fiscal stimulus and US improvements that could be members to consider a lower jobless aid a state provides. But economy within reach of a sort inventories fell last week. Federal Reserve officials flagging quickly made in the nearly $3 amount that might clear both the $600 benefit has expired. of ‘full recovery’ by the end of Crude stocks fell by 1.6 concerns about a stalling trillion in support that Congress the House and Senate with Many Republicans objected that 2020,” Bullard, who doesn’t million barrels, gasoline by 4 recovery. has passed to fight the pan- Election Day less than six weeks that amount was so large as to vote on monetary policy this million barrels, and distillate In Europe, Britain, Germany demic-induced recession that’s away. dissuade some unemployed year, said in comments pre- stockpiles posted a surprise and France imposed new restric- left nearly 11 million people still Mnuchin agreed that people from looking for a job. pared for a virtual presentation drawdown of 3.4 million barrels. tions to stem the spread of the jobless. business loans and enhanced President Donald Trump to the Global Interdependence Still, fuel demand in the US novel coronavirus - all factors Democrats on the panel unemployment support would signed an executive order to Center yesterday. With real is subdued as the pandemic affecting fuel demand. urged Mnuchin, one of the be good priorities for Congress provide $300 in weekly ben- GDP possibly rising at a 10 limits travel. The four-week On the supply side, the administration’s top negoti- to back in any new package. efits, with states supplying percent rate in the fourth average of gasoline demand was market remains wary of a ators, to work harder to per- Pressed to state what the $100. But this program has not quarter, national income at the 8.5 million barrels per day (bpd) resumption of exports from suade Republicans in Congress top priorities should be, Powell been widely supported by states end of this year would be in last week, the government data Libya, although it is unclear how to raise the amount of money said it would be to provide and in any case has now reach of the average level for showed, down 9 percent from a quickly it can ramp up volumes. they would be willing to more support through the expired. 2019, Bullard said. FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2020 BUSINESS 13

Bottled water US weekly jobless claims unexpectedly rise billionaire pips REUTERS - WASHINGTON Initial claims for state unemployment Jack Ma to The number of Americans filing benefits totalled a new claims for unemployment become benefits unexpectedly increased seasonally adjusted China’s richest last week, supporting views the 870,000 for the week economic recovery from the ended September 19, COVID-19 pandemic was AFP - BEIJING running out of steam amid compared to 866,000 diminishing government in the prior week, the A businessman who spun his funding. wealth from bottled water Initial claims for state Labor Department and vaccines has usurped unemployment benefits totalled said yesterday. tech tycoon Jack Ma as a seasonally adjusted 870,000 China’s richest man, the for the week ended September Bloomberg Billionaires Index 19, compared to 866,000 in the showed yesterday. prior week, the Labor services and technology that Department said yesterday. were not initially impacted by Economists polled by Reuters the mandated business closures had forecast 840,000 applica- in mid-March because of insuf- tions in the latest week. ficient demand. Claims are above their Federal Reserve Chair A file photo of jobless people seeking unemployment-benefits outside a Labour Department office 665,000 peak during the Jerome Powell told lawmakers in Las Vegas, USA. 2007-09 Great Recession, on Wednesday that Congress though applications have and the US central bank needed dropped from a record 6.867 to “stay with it” in working to businesses has virtually dried with a $300 weekly subsidy, and persistent coronavirus million at the end of March. support the economy’s up. Tens of thousands of airline whose funding is already infections are already While the reopening of busi- recovery. In addition to cutting workers are facing layoffs or running out. New coronavirus restraining the economy after nesses in May boosted activity, interest rates to near zero and furloughs next month unless the cases have been rising recently activity rebounded sharply over demand in the services indus- vowing to keep borrowing costs White House and Congress and the death toll in the country the summer. Retail sales and tries has remained lackluster, low for a while, the Fed has also provide another rescue topped 200,000 on Tuesday - production at factories mod- keeping layoffs elevated. been pumping money into the package. A $600 weekly unem- by far the highest number of any erated in August. Business Job cuts have also spread to economy. ployment benefits supplement nation. activity cooled in September, industries such as financial Government money to help ended in July and was replaced The ebbing fiscal stimulus reports have shown. Nongfu Spring founder Zhong Shanshan’s (pictured) net worth has hit $58.7bn EU to rebalance, not shut City IMF endorses Sudan’s after a massive listing by the bottled water company in Hong Kong earlier this reform plan for battered month. This makes him $2bn of London’s market access richer than previous number African economy one, Alibaba founder Jack Ma, REUTERS - LONDON It does not mean the EU the wealth index said. market is closed as British- AP - CAIRO Chair. Earlier this year, Sudan Zhong’s Nongfu Spring, Britain’s access to European based firms could use bilateral requested the IMF endorse an which claims to be number Union markets will be rebal- access available from some The International Monetary economic plan that envisages one in China’s massive anced, but the City of London member states, he added, a step Fund (IMF)has signed off on several fiscal adjustments, bottled water market, is will not be shut out completely, lawyers have said is Sudan’s economic reform including further eliminating fuel ubiquitous across a country the bloc’s financial services cumbersome. program, a move that can subsidies and broadening the tax where most people shun tap chief Valdis Dombrovskis (pic- Britain and the EU failed to eventually allow the highly- base, the IMF statement added. water for health reasons. tured) said. meet a June deadline for indebted African country to get The IMF’s backing is required for The company raised Dombrovskis set out plans assessing two-way access for debt relief and move ahead eventual debt relief by official nearly $1.1bn in its initial on Thursday to bolster the EU’s financial services from January. with rebuilding its battered creditors. public offering. own capital market to cut its Dombrovskis said he has economy as it transitions to “Sudan’s external debt is high Zhong is also the reliance on Britain, Europe’s asked Britain for more infor- democratic rule. and with longstanding arrears chairman of Beijing Wantai biggest financial centre, which for now, allow the City of mation after it said it would Until the end of June 2021, which severely limit access to Biological Pharmacy Co. Ltd., fully leaves the bloc at the end London to directly offer diverge from some EU rules. IMF staff will be monitoring the external borrowing,” said Sayeh. a listed vaccine of December. investment services to EU cus- “We need to understand implementation of a “home- “A strong track record of macr- manufacturer. “We are not closing our tomers under its access system what kind of divergence Britain grown” economic restructuring oeconomic performance and It is developing a doors to financial services in known as equivalence. is talking about and what are program that aims at “stabi- implementation of reforms, COVID-19 vaccine nasal the UK,” Dombrovskis told “EU rules in this area are the potential implications,” he lizing the economy, removing together with a comprehensive spray in conjunction with a reporters, adding that there will not fully finalised yet so we said. Brussels has already said distortions, improving compet- strategy of arrears clearance and prominent university. be a “rebalancing” of British cannot provide equivalence for it will allow EU investors to itiveness, and strengthening debt relief supported by Sudan’s Zhong, a 66-year-old financial activities in the bloc. something that is still a work in continue using clearing houses governance,” according to an development partners, is former reporter from Zhe- Brussels has said it will not, progress,” Dombrovskis said. in London until June 2022. IMF statement released required for addressing Sudan’s jiang who state media say Wednesday. high debt overhang.” was also once a construction Sudan has been ruled by a In June, the IMF announced worker, is often referred to transitional military-civilian an initial agreement was reached by Chinese media as a “lone government following last with Sudanese authorities on a wolf” for his rare public year’s pro-democracy uprising reform deal. At the time, an IMF appearances and reluctance that toppled longtime autocrat official said Sudan’s debt had to be interviewed. Omar al-Bashir. Elections could reached over 190 percent of its He founded Nongfu in possibly be held in late 2022. GDP in 2019. 1996, just as China’s bottled The current prime minister, Inflation reached 167 percent water market began to take Abdalla Hamdok, is a former in August, and authorities off. economist with the United declared an economic emer- Zhong now ranks 17th Nations. gency on September 10 following overall on its list of the world's Battered by decades of US a dramatic plunge in the value top 500 richest people. sanctions and mismanagement of the national currency. Most of China's new bil- under al-Bashir, Sudan suffers The Sudanese pound went lionaires come from the tech from high inflation, a huge from 183 pounds to the dollar on industry. But rising tensions budget deficit and widespread the black market in August down between China and the US shortages of essential goods, to around 250 pounds to the over Huawei, including fuel, bread and med- dollar earlier this month, despite TikTok and WeChat have icine. The country has close to its official rate of 57 pounds to pushed down valuations of $60bn in foreign debt, meaning $1. Chinese tech stocks. China's debt relief and access to foreign The coronavirus pandemic food and grocery sector is now loans are widely seen as the has exacerbated the economic vying with its tech industry in country’s gateway to economic despair, throwing millions of producing the country's richest recovery. labourers out of work. business people. “A key element to the success Flash floods have also struck Zhong's Beijing Wantai of the program is sufficient donor much of Sudan since late July, Biological Pharmacy Enter- Netherlands debate 3rd financial package funding to support the popu- killing more than 100 people and prise was listed on the Chinese lation through the difficult tran- inundating over 100,000 homes. stock market in April. FROM LEFT: Minister Wouter Koolmees of Social Affairs and Employment (D66), Minister Eric Wiebes sition to a well-functioning Authorities declared the country His controlling stake in the of Economic Affairs and Climate (VVD) and Minister Wopke Hoekstra of Finance (CDA) attend a debate market-based economy,” said a natural disaster area earlier this firm saw his overall wealth at the Senate in The Hague, Netherlands, on the third financial support package for companies and Antoinette Sayeh, IMF Deputy month and imposed a three- jump as much as $20bn by employees during COVID-19, yesterday. Managing Director and Acting month state of emergency. August. Xbox targets mobile gamers with new cloud service in Japan

BLOOMBERG of game development kits to gaming service in the country. right devices, units of the PlayStation 4 and more than 100 independent Cloud gaming is an espe- and we want to Nintendo Co. has sold more Microsoft Corp. will launch its creators. Many of them will cially good fit for Japan, Hinton create an entry than 15 million Switch units in cloud-based video game launch their games “first on said, because many consumers point for every Japan. streaming service in Japan by Xbox,” Hinton said. play games just about anywhere player.” The Xbox One under- June next year, expanding its The Xbox team is in the and use multiple devices in dif- In spite of whelmed in Japan for a variety investment into one of the midst of a shift from a console- ferent settings. xCloud for Japan its sizable of reasons, according to Hideki world’s largest gaming arenas. centric business model to a was announced along with the presence in the Yasuda, an analyst for Ace The streaming service’s play-anywhere style that upcoming next-generation US, the Xbox Research Institute. debut there shows Microsoft’s involves consoles, PCs and Xbox Series X and the less pow- has struggled in It arrived almost a year after commitment to what is the mobile devices. Its streaming erful, budget-oriented Xbox Japan, leading its launch in the US, had a fastest-growing market for service, dubbed Project xCloud, Series S, both of which are some fans to housing that was too bulky for Game Pass subscriptions, said is central to the effort and in 22 launching on November 10. wonder if the typical Japanese living room Xbox chief Phil Spencer (pic- countries so far. In South Korea, “Japanese consumers love Microsoft and lacked the charming char- tured) in a video recorded for Microsoft has roped in the games and they consume games might one day acters that have made Nin- this year’s virtual Tokyo Games nation’s largest wireless carrier more than any other nation on exit the market tendo-made games like Animal Show. The company has already SK Telecom Co. and global elec- Earth per capita,” Hinton said. altogether. Crossing: New Horizons major started testing the technology tronics giant Samsung Elec- Sony Corp.’s head of Play- According to hits. for next year’s launch in Japan, tronics Co. as partners. Wireless Station Jim Ryan has been -- along with the beefier X, PCs Japanese video game researcher Spencer said in the video said Xbox Asia business chief carriers in Japan may also be critical of the Xbox Series S, and smartphones -- is just one Famitsu, Microsoft has sold that his company “learned from Jeremy Hinton in an interview, eager to collaborate as they look saying previous consoles that part of a broad range of options 114,363 Xbox One units in Japan, the past” and Hinton added that without adding further details. to develop the attractiveness of reduced power to meet a low for all gamers. less than a tenth of the previous the Series S, the smallest Xbox Microsoft is also upgrading their faster 5G services. price point failed to have “a “We firmly believe in cus- generation Xbox 360’s roughly ever, “is a version of the console its support for Japanese cre- SoftBank Corp. already offers happy history.” Hinton, in tomer choice,” Hinton said. “It’s 1.6 million units. By comparison, that should do quite well in ators, including the distribution Nvidia Corp.’s GeForce cloud response, said the Series S up to consumers to choose their Sony has sold about 9 million Japan.” Sport FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2020 14

CAS overturns Tokyo Olympics could take life bans handed Lewis Hamilton to three Russian place without vaccine: Bach biathletes REUTERS — LONDON AFP — TOKYO million. Several leading vaccine can- didates are currently in late-stage The Court of Arbitration for Sport Olympic boss Thomas Bach We can see that sport is trials. (CAS) yesterday overturned life (pictures) said yesterday that the coming back slowly but Bach said it was impossible to bans handed to Russian biath- Tokyo Games could take place next make a contingency plan for every letes Olga Vilukhina, Yana year even without a coronavirus surely, and that a number of scenario, and said organisers would Romanova and Olga Zaytseva, vaccine, pointing to the success of big sport events have been not be pressured into making pre- who were stripped of their the Tour de France. successfully organised mature announcements on how the medals for doping violations at Striking an optimistic note at a recently, including matches in Games would take place. the 2014 Sochi Olympics. meeting with Tokyo 2020 organ- different Japanese leagues. “We have to work diligently and The trio won silver in the 4x6 isers, he vowed to make the post- Thomas Bach we have to work comprehensively, kilometre relay biathlon before Hamilton plays poned event a triumph despite the and then at the appropriate time they were disqualified and their uncertainties of the pandemic. taketake thethe rightright decisions,”decisions,” hehe result annulled in 2017 following “We can see that sport is coming said.said. an investigation into widespread down significance back slowly but surely, and that a postponed earlierarlier this yyearear as “I’m sure that we doping and tampering with number of big sport events have the deadly newew illnessillness spreadspread willwill make...make... tthesehese samples of Russian athletes been successfully organised recently, around the globe.globe. OlympicOlympic Games, during the Sochi Games. of records, makes including matches in different Jap- They are now set to open whichwhich wiwillll bbee hhistoricistoric CAS said the case against anese leagues,” he said via on July 23, 2021,021, andand organ-organ- in different respects, Vilukhina and Romanova videolink. isers are insistingsting thetheyy will ggoo we willwill mamakeke it a amounted to nothing more than F1 equality pledge “Also very complex events like ahead in someme foformrm -- aandnd be success, andand we willwill the “suspicion of a potential anti- AFP — SOCHI the Tour de France and others, safe for all involved.nvolved. make it a success doping rule violation (ADRV)”. which showed to us and showed to Drugs companiesmpanies are racingracing together,”together,” hhee saisaid.d. In Zaytseva’s case, CAS Lewis Hamilton played down the prospect of the world that we can organise safe to produce anan effective jab to ruled that she had committed drawing level with Michael Schumacher’s record sport events even without a vaccine.” counter a virusirus that has a doping violation but her ban 91 Grand Prix wins this weekend, saying yesterday But a vaccine and progress in now killed more should only be applied for the there were other more important matters in the rapid testing “would of course than 970,00000 next edition of the Olympics -- world. greatly facilitate” holding the event, people aroundnd the 2018 Pyeongchang Games Speaking during a video news conference ahead said Bach, head of the International the world andd -- instead of a life ban from all of Sunday’s Russian Grand Prix, where he is Olympic Committee (IOC). infectedd future Olympic Games, instead favourite to secure his seventh win of the season The 2020 Games were almost 322 of a life ban. and equal Schumacher’s career total, the six-time champion also warned that winning was not likely to be a straightforward task. “Honestly, I don’t know what it means to me,” the Mercedes champion said. “I don’t know what to say. Firstly, I have to get my work done and Valtteri (Bottas, his Mercedes Djokovic out to make team-mate) has said already himself that he is very fast on this track. “We also have to look at Red Bull.... I have to amends at French Open win first.” He added that it would be meaningful for him, but it should not be taken for granted. “At some point, it will probably happen, but I REUTERS — BELGRADE overcome the disappointment Open quarter-finals but don’t know what it means to me... Of course, there’s of being defaulted in New York Djokovic stressed the Spaniard so much else going on in the world, but, of course, If recent form is in an incident that put him in was still the obvious favourite it’s an honour.” anything to go by, the spotlight for all the wrong to triumph in Paris, adding that Hamilton had earlier expressed his disap- world number one Novak reasons. he’d have to raise his game in pointment at the outcome of the grand jury Djokovic is perfectly poised to “I did experience mentally order to be a contender. indictment in Louisville, Kentucky, where Breonna launch a challenge for his some ups and downs in the first “He’s the player who has Taylor was shot dead by police in her own home second French Open title and four-five days after that hap- the highest chance of being in last March. No one was charged with her murder. an 18th major honour after one pened,” he said. the final... if it’s Roland Garros Hamilton wore a t-shirt with the message ‘Arrest of the lowest ebbs of his “Obviously having a tour- it’s Rafa you bet on,” said the cops who killed Breonna Taylor’ at the Tuscan trophy-laden career. nament a week after helped a Djokovic. Grand Prix two weeks ago. Djokovic was disqual- lot because I really wanted to “I don’t think I played my He pledged to increase the number of black ified from the US Open get on the court and get best tennis (in Rome) to be people in motor racing as he announced the earlier this month whatever trace of that out of honest, I don’t want to sound members of his Hamilton Commission aimed at after hitting a the way. arrogant here. I am very sat- tackling diversity in the sport. line judge in “It was a great week, a very isfied and pleased to win a title. “What is more concerning is that there are still the neck challenging week,” Djokovic I know I still have a couple of very few people of colour across the sport as a said after grinding down gears. whole,” Hamilton said in a statement. with a Schwartzman at the Foro “Hopefully I’ll be able to “In F1, our teams are much bigger than the ath- petulant Italico, having fought back raise that level for the French letes that front them, but representation is insuffi- swipe of the from dropping the opening Open because that’s going to cient across every skill set -- from the garage to the ball but he bounced three games in front of a smat- be necessary if I want to go engineers in the factories and design back in style by winning his tering of fans. deep in the tournament.” departments.” fifth Italian Open title on “I found my best tennis In addition to the Italian Hamilton has been a leading advocate of the Monday. when I needed it most. Now we Open, Djokovic also won the Black Lives Matter movement and a leading figure The Serb’s 7-5, 6-3 defeat turn to Paris and I couldn’t ask Australian Open, the Dubai in Formula One’s anti-racism initiative this year. of Argentine Diego for a better tournament here Championship and the Western “I don’t regret a single moment,” said Hamilton, Schwartzman brought him a in Rome.” & Southern Open this season, referring to the t-shirt he wore and a subsequent record 36th ATP Masters There is little doubt that having also lifted the inaugural furore in which some critics called for an investi- crown, helping put behind an Djokovic will face a strong ATP Cup with Serbia. gation. I usually pull on my heart and do what I feel acrimonious exit at Flushing challenge at the French Open He will now need to hit top is right. I felt that was me following my heart. Meadows during a fourth- from the tournament’s record gear at Roland Garros if he is “I also did something that’s never really hap- round clash with Spaniard 12-times winner Rafa Nadal to erase the US Open debacle, pened in Formula One and obviously they’ll stop Serbia's Novak Djokovic plays a Pablo Carrenno Busta. and Austrian Dominic Thiem, where he was the hot favourite it from happening moving forward. forehand to Argentina's Diego Djokovic, who stretched his who won his maiden grand after Nadal had pulled out due “People do talk about sport not being a place Schwartzman during the Italian hot streak to 31 wins in 2020, slam title in New York. to COVID-19 concerns while for politics. Ultimately it’s human rights issues and, Open final in Rome on Monday. acknowledged the success in Nadal was stunned by Roger Federer is out for the in my opinion, that is something we should be Rome had helped him Schwartman in the Italian season after knee surgery. pushing towards."

Tyler Herro NHL: Stamkos scores of the Miami Herro stars as Heat hold Heat reacts to his shot during on return as Lightning Game Four against Boston off Celtics for 3-1 lead Celtics. crush Dallas Stars 5-2 AFP — ORLANDO postseason in game three. Jayson Tatum scored a team high 28 points, REUTERS — EDMONTON ahead 2-0 seven minutes into Rising star Tyler Herro scored a career all coming in the second half, and the game. high 37 points and Jimmy Butler Jaylen Brown had 21 for Boston, who The Tampa Bay Lightning, On his third shift, Stamkos chipped in 24 as the Miami Heat seized were looking to win consecutive play- bolstered by the long-awaited took a pass in the neutral zone, command of their Eastern Conference off games for the first time since the return of captain Steven eluded a Dallas defender and final series with a 112-109 win on start of their second-round series Stamkos, routed the Dallas then stormed toward the net Wednesday. against the Toronto Raptors. Stars 5-2 on Wednesday to grab where he sniped it home from The 20-year-old rookie Herro Kemba Walker scored 20, Gordon a 2-1 lead in the National a sharp angle 85 seconds after made five of 10 threes as Miami took Hayward 14 and Marcus Smart had 10 Hockey League’s best-of-seven Nikita Kucherov opened the a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series points and 11 assists. Stanley Cup Final. scoring. in the NBA’s quarantine bubble in Miami went on a 10-4 run at the Stamkos, who had surgery Stamkos did not play during Orlando, Florida. end of the first half after Hayward in March for a core muscle the final six minutes of the first "It is a good win for us. I feel good hit a pair of free throws to tie the injury, was limited to less than period and was not on the we are up 3-1 but we still have a lot of score 40-40 with 3:38 left in the three first-period minutes on bench when the second period work to do," Herro said. "We put a lot second. the night but made his presence began. Game Four is scheduled of effort into preparing for game four In the second half, Herro nailed a felt with a goal that put his team today. and we got it done." three pointer with just over four The win moved them to within one minutes left in the fourth quarter to Tampa Bay victory of an NBA finals berth which give Miami a 98-90 lead. Lightning players they will try to secure in game five Brown made a three pointer and celebrate a goal. today. Smart dropped in a layup to get the "Not too many people get an oppor- Celtics within three, but Dragic and tunity to make it this far in the playoffs Butler each made baskets to pad and be in a game like this, but for him Miami’s lead. it's another day in the office," said Butler Dragic responded from beyond the of Herro. arc and Herro added a layup to put "He's just going to keep playing bas- Miami up by nine with 56 seconds left ketball the right way." in regulation. Goran Dragic had 22 points, and Boston got within three again on Bam Adebayo added 20 points and 12 a Brown three-pointer with 16 seconds rebounds for Miami, who rebounded to go, but free throws by Herro and from just their second loss of the Butler sealed the victory. FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2020 SPORT 15

AFC defends ACL: Al Sadd finish second as ACL safety after virus-hit Sepahan FC win Group D thriller Al Hilal axed AFP – KUALA LUMPUR THE PENINSULA – DOHA Asia’s football body yesterday Iranian side Sepahan yesterday beat defended safety measures for an under-strength Al Sadd 2-1 in the AFC Champions League their final group game of the 2020 after coronavirus-hit title- AFC Champions League at the Jassim holders Al Hilal were kicked Bin Hamad Stadium. out of the tournament for Reza Mirzaei’s 14th minute goal failing to field enough players. gave Sepahan a 1-0 lead at halftime, The Saudi giants had and they went on to double their accused the Asian Football advantage in the 53rd minute Al Sadd and Confederation of showing through Sajad Shabazzadeh. Hashim Sepahan FC insufficient “flexibility” after Ali pulled a goal back for Al Sadd in players in the club was axed for being the 82nd minute. action during unable to name a 13-man The result means that Al Sadd their last squad after several players finish with a tally of 9 points as Group D match tested positive for the virus. runners-up of Group D, two points of the AFC Only 11 players were fit for behind leaders Al-Nassr. Having Champions Wednesday’s group-stage already qualified for the Round of League, fixture in Doha against UAE’s 16 prior to this game, Xavi made 10 played at Shabab Al Ahli after 30 players changes to the line-up that started the Jassim and staff were confirmed to against Al Nassr on Matchday 5. Bin Hamad have been infected. The match got off to a calm start, Stadium, Al Hilal had managed to with no real chances for either side. yesterday. send a squad for last week’s In the 14th minute, Sepahan went PIC: TWITTER/ restart of Asia’s showpiece ahead through Mirzaei, who took @ALSADDSC club tournament following a advantage of Al Sadd’s failure to six-month hiatus. clear the ball. He controlled the ball Asked whether they were and got past Tarek Salman, before concerned about the growing finishing with a low striker past Action during yesterday's AFC number of cases, the AFC told Meshaal Barsham. Al Taawoun confirm Champions League Group C AFP they had taken sufficient Sepahan went on to control the match between Al Duhail and precautions at the Qatar hub game against the mostly youthful Al Al Taawoun, played at the where West Asia group Sadd side, but veteran striker last 16 ticket with Education City Stadium. matches are being staged. Rodrigo Tabata did have a chance “Bio-secure bubbles” had to equalise in the 38th minute. been created for players and However, his shot from just outside win over Al Duhail staff and they were being reg- the box went wide and hit the side ularly tested, while new netting. AFC – DOHA bubbles had been set up for the Xavi made his first substitution media and security officials, at halftime, bringing on Abdelkarim Saudi Arabia’s Al Taawoun the body said. Hassan in place of Tarek Salman. FC snatched a ticket to the “There has been no trans- In the 53rd minute, Sepahan 2020 AFC Champions mission of COVID-19 between managed to score once again, dou- League Round-of-16 after two competing teams bling their lead through Shahbaz- defeating Al Duhail 1-0 in throughout the matches,” they zadeh who finished off a rebound Group C yesterday. said in a statement. after Meshaal Barsham had parried The first half was cagey YESTERDAY’S RESULTS “AFC will continue to do a shot into his path. and featured missed everything in its power to min- Al Sadd then made another chances by Mohammed GROUP C imise the transmission of change, bringing on Khoukhi Musa, Edmilson Junior and Persepolis FC (IRN) 4-0 Sharjah (UAE) Covid-19.” Boualem in place of Mohammed Dudu for Al Duhail as well Al Duhail SC (QAT) 0-1 Al Taawoun FC (KSA) The football body insisted Waad in the 61st minute. Tabata got as Cedric Amissi for the GROUP D it was committed to “ensuring a golden opportunity to score in the Buraidah based side. Deep Al Nassr (KSA) 0-1 Al Ain FC (UAE) the safe completion of the AFC 73rd minute, when Musaab Khidir into stoppage time in the Sepahan FC (IRN) 2-1 Al Sadd SC (QAT) Champions League”. sent in a teasing cross but his close- first half, Cassio expertly After the lengthy break due range header was remarkably saved denied Almoez Ali who to the virus, officials are and held between the Sepahan struck from the left. chipped, but substitute Saad rushing to complete the com- keeper’s feet. Junior threatened 55 Yaslam managed to reach petition before the end of the Finally, a goal did come for Al minutes in, and after a the ball and clear off the year, with a single-leg final Sadd, when Hashim Ali scored in the break by his side, the line. now due to take place on 82nd minute. Belgian cut inside from the A bandaged Duke then December 19. Yusuf Abdurisag pounced on a left flank beating two dramatically sealed the tie Al Hilal said they had sug- weak back-pass in the Sepahan box, players before curling an for Al Taawoun after gested various ways of before squaring it for Hashim to tap effort in from range that breaking free from his remaining in the tournament, into an empty net. Cassio gratefully clutched marker in the area to meet including postponing Wednes- In stoppage time, there was an into his arms. Sultan Mandash’s corner day’s match. opportunity to equalise but The match exploded and put the ball past Al But the AFC said it had Khoukhi’s header was kept out by a into life in the final 10 Bakri. rejected the request as it Sepahan defender on the minutes, with Al Duhail The result sees Al Duhail “would have a huge negative goal-line. missing a golden chance to crash out of the compe- impact” on the match The referee then blew his whistle open the scoring through tition, while Al Taawoun schedule. Al Hilal played Iran’s to signal the end of the game as Al Ismail Mohammed, who qualify to the Round of 16 Shahr Khodro on Sunday, after Sadd suffered their first defeat of the was through on goal with for the first time in their the AFC refused to postpone competition. just the keeper to beat and history. the game. Former Aussie batsman, broadcaster Rahul’s ton powers Dean Jones dies of cardiac arrest Kings to 97-run win AFP – MUMBAI -- Dean Jones. Gone so young. Condolences to the family and over Kohli’s RCB Former Australia batsman and may his soul rest in peace,” cricket commentator Dean tweeted India’s head coach Ravi IANS –DUBAI wicket, which was the only Jones, who had been covering Shastri. meaningful partnership that the ongoing Indian Premier Star India called Jones “one Former Riding on a blistering century RCB managed to put up on the League from Mumbai, has died of the great ambassadors of the Australian skipper KL Rahul, Kings XI night. of a heart attack, his employer game” and praised him for his cricketer Punjab thrashed Royal Chal- Ravi Bishnoi (20) ended the Star India said yesterday. involvement with the sport’s Dean Jones lengers Bangalore (RCB) by 97 stand with the wicket of Finch “It is with great sadness that development across cricket- speaking to runs in an IPL encounter at the in the eighth over. De Villiers we share the news of the mad South Asia. media during Dubai International Cricket fell in the ninth over to passing away of Mr. Dean “He was passionate about a press event Stadium yesterday. Murugan Ashwin to end any Mervyn Jones,” the broadcaster discovering new talent and nur- in this file Rahul’s unbeaten 132 off 69 slender chances of RCB putting said in a statement. turing young cricketers... He photo taken balls helped KXIP post a up a challenge. Bishnoi and “He died of a sudden will be sorely missed by eve- on February mammoth 206/3 in 20 overs. Ashwin ended the game with cardiac arrest. We express our ryone at Star and his millions 14, 2014. In reply, RCB were bowled out three wickets each. deep condolences to his family of fans across the globe.” for 109 in 17 overs. It was an especially bad the and stand ready to support RCB needed big contribu- day in office for Kohli, who them in this difficult time.” tions from their star-studded apart from being dismissed for Jones, who played 52 Tests Reactions to death of former Australian batsman Dean Jones top order to stand a chance in just one run, was guilty of and 164 one-day internationals Still in shock hearing the news of Deano’s passing. this. Rip Deano, you will be missed: David Warner, the mammoth chase. But what dropping Rahul twice in the in the 1980s and 1990s, winning Thoughts are with Jane and the family at this Australia batsman ensued was far from it, as RCB 17th and 18th over. the World Cup in 1987, was one incredibly tough time. A great man with an were reduced to 57/5 inside Rahul went berserk after of Australia’s most popular amazing passion for the game: Justin Langer, Simply awful news. Rest in peace Deano. Grew up nine overs with the young that, smashing 26 runs off Dale cricketers. Devdutt Padikkal (1), Aaron Steyn in the 19th over before In 1986, he famously struck Australia coach idolising you and it was a pleasure to know you. Finch (20), Josh Philippe (0), ending the 20th with a four 210 in the blistering heat of Heartbreaking: Jason Gillespie, former Australia captain Virat Kohli (1) and AB and consecutive sixes. His 132 Chennai during cricket’s Dean Jones will be missed, he taught me so much fast bowler de Villiers (28) all back in the is the highest score by any second-ever tied Test. on and off the ground. I and all of the cricketing hut. Indian in the IPL and the first He coached in the Pakistan world will miss him: Darren Lehmann, former Shocked to hear about the tragic loss of Dean Mohammed Shami put the century by any batsman this Super League and was also a Australia batsman and coach Jones. Praying for strength and courage to his early breaks on the RCB season. widely travelled innings, giving away just 14 commentator. family and friends: Virat Kohli, India captain runs in the three overs he BRIEF SCORES: “Shocked to hear about the Incredibly shocked by the news that Dean Jones bowled and taking the wicket KXIP 206/3 in 20 overs tragic loss of Dean Jones. has passed away. Had a poster of the great man in Absolutely heartbreaking news about Dean Jones of Philippe. Sheldon Cottrell (KL Rahul 132 not out, Mayank Praying for strength and my room as a kid: Glenn Maxwell, Australian passing away. A wonderful soul taken away too dismissed Padikkal in the very Agarwal 26; Shivam Dube 2/33) courage to his family and batsman soon. Had the opportunity to play against him first over of the innings before RCB 109 in 17 overs (Wash- friends,” said India’s skipper during my first tour of Australia: Sachin Tendulkar, claiming the all-important ington Sundar 30, AB de Vil- Virat Kohli on Twitter. I can’t believe this news. So very sad to hear about Indian batting great wicket of Kohli in the third. liers 28; Murugan Ashwin 3/21) “Really shocking to lose a Finch and de Villiers then Kings XI Punjab won by 97 colleague and a dear friend put up 49 runs for the fourth runs. Sport

FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2020 Olympics could take place without vaccine: Bach We have to work diligently and we have to work comprehen- sively, and then at the appropriate time take the right deci- sions. I’m sure that we will make... these Olympic Games, which will be historic in different respects, we will make it a success, and we will make it a success together. Thomas Bach Sport | 14 IOC President

NBA: (EAST. CONF. FINALS) Game 4: Miami Heat 112, Boston Celtics 109 (Herro 37, Butler 24, Dragic 22) * Miami Heat lead series 3-1

‘Like a Championship’: Doha primed to stage blockbuster season finale

FAWAD HUSSAIN THE PENINSULA I'm really grateful to have At a time when the world is battling had the opportunity to race the Covid-19 menace, bringing in Rome and Doha. I'd raced together 10 Olympic medallists from a few times in Jamaica but Rio 2016 Olympics and 17 medal winners from last year’s worlds the level and intensity of easily reaffirms Doha’s status as the competition wasn't the game's leading track and field host same. I was a little bit venue. surprised with my run in Today’s final Diamond League Rome because I hadn't raced meet of the year at the Qatar Sports for a few weeks, but I knew Club Stadium, featuring a field that I was capable of running is even rare in the World Champi- fast because I'd put in the onships, guarantees a memorable It’s going to be like a Championship race. I've trained well, and when I train is happy to take part in the Diamond finish to the troubled season that League this year. workwork::El: ElElaineaine well I have no doubts in a race. I've always enjoyed racing in Doha. In 2014, faced incredible challenges due to “I’m really grateful to have had ThomThompson-Herahpson-Herah the pandemic. I set my PB over 3000m (8:20.68), and last year I won the World the opportunity to race in Rome Doha, which is also hosting the Championships here. I like racing here because it's favourable to me: and Doha,” she said. “I had raced AFC Champions League football Kenya’s World 5000m champion Hellen Obiri a few times in Jamaica but the matches currently, lived up to expec- level and intensity of compe- tations to make the star-studded tition wasn’t the same. I was 12-event programme, a reality. The Thrilling action on the cards Another reigning World a little bit surprised with meet includes sprint hurdles and At a pre-event press conference Champion from Kenya, Timothy my run in Rome because 800m for both men and women; yesterday, the track and field stars Cheruiyot, who clinched the 1500m I hadn’t raced for a few 100m, 3000m and long jump for promised thrilling action for TV title at Doha 2019, will test his skills weeks, but I knew I was women; and 200m, 400m, 1500m audiences around the world. in the 800m race for the first time capable of running fast and pole vault for men. However, there will be no fans outside his country. because I’d put in the Strict health protocols have been allowed inside the Qatar SC “All of my other races at 800m work,” she said. implemented for the competition, Stadium, which has attracted huge have been in Kenya, so I’m excited On the field, Mondo which is the top priority for Doha, number of spectators in the past to do an 800m in the Diamond Duplantis - the Swedish also the host venue for the 2019 IAAF editions. League,” Cheruiyot said world record holder in the World Championships hailed as ‘the Kenya’s World 5000m champion yesterday. pole vault will be the centre best in history’ by World Athletics Hellen Obiri, who will compete in “This year has been different for of attraction with his duel President Sebastian Coe. 3000m race, sees the contest as the everyone. In all of my races in 2020, with reigning world “We were facing difficult circum- World Championships race. I’ve only been focused on running. champion Sam Kendricks being stances - just as the rest of the world “It’s going to be like a Champi- I feel blessed because I’ve been able dubbed a must-watch battle. was - with the coronavirus pandemic onship race. I've trained well, and to race. This will be my fourth race Also, world steeplechase but with the efforts of the Ministry when I train well I have no doubts of the year and then from here I’ll champion Beatrice Chepkoech, of Public Health (MOPH), the Qatar in a race,” she said before expressing be going to Nairobi for the Conti- world 5000m silver medallist Olympic Committee and the her love for the Qatari capital. nental Tour meeting,” he added. Margaret Chelimo Kipkemboi, Diamond League Organising Com- “I've always enjoyed racing in world 10,000m bronze medallist mittee, we have put in place safety Doha,” she added. “In 2014, I set my Thompson-Herah ‘grateful’ Agnes Tirop and world 1500m measures to stop the spread of the PB over 3000m (8:20.68), and last for top-notch contest bronze medallist Gudaf Tsegay virus,” said Qatar Athletics Feder- year I won the World Champion- Jamaica’s double Olympic are among some of the other top Jamaica’s double ation (QAF) President Dr Thani Al ships here. I like racing here because champion Elaine Thompson-Herah, names set to compete in Doha Olympic champion Elaine Kuwari in build up to the event. it's favourable to me.” who won in Rome last week, said she today. Thompson-Herah Kendricks aims high in last round of ‘adventure’ year RIZWAN REHMAT melts away. Not that I don’t A: When I first started trav- THE PENINSULA care about the problems of the elling six weeks ago, I started world, but they don’t matter This has certainly been a with an event in Monaco. I was Two-time world pole when you’re standing there on strange year. We, as not even able to get my vault champion Sam the track. athletes, are just grateful equipment there. I could not Kendricks hasn’t let the “At that moment, it’s all because especially the even get a couple of poles from shortened track and field about how fast you can run or organisers, the event America. But because of Turkish season dampen his compet- how high you can jump,” Ken- managers have come Airlines and everybody in itive spirit. In fact, the dricks said. together and put together between stepped up, I got new 28-year-old is glad he is in Here’s what Kendricks had these fantastic events, equipment with me. I have got Doha for the season’s final to say at the press conference: especially the ones like this my best set. You can see my Diamond League meet to be (in Doha). The organisers hands and feet shaking (ges- held at Qatar Sports Club Q: How do you maintain have gone over and beyond tures with hand) and I believe Stadium today. your focus or compartmen- in what was expected of you as organisers have done “I’m just so grateful talize your thoughts during a them: Sam Kendricks your job to get the athletes because meeting organisers competition? excited. have gone above and beyond A: I am fortunate that I Sam Kendricks at a pre-event press conference in PIC: HUSSEIN SAYED to make sure competitions can don’t have to buy a ticket and Doha, yesterday. Q: Do you enjoy com- happen,” Kendricks said during watch the action. I count my peting in front of big crowds? a pre-event press conference blessings because I am right lining is I moved into my house of them. Some would say ‘don’t Will you be missing the fans in Doha yesterday. there in the middle, ready to that I have been trying to finish even try’. I have had directors this time around? “It’s (the shortened season) jump. One of my good friends for two years (smiles) and and agents calling and saying A: For me, this is the most been an adventure. We’ve all in high school, he was the goal- Rebecca is there laughing at me ‘is this even possible?’. It would exciting thing. Back in my just kind of rolled with it this keeper of the soccer team and as I have been telling her about not have been possible without hometown, I would invite my year and that’s been cool,” he he was a damn fine one. He this house for two years since I them. Now we come to the end friends and family to come and added with a smile on his face. watched most of the games in won in London. So I finally got of the year, it has been an watch me practice. And that is But the affable American his corner back in the field as to move in so family life is great adventure. It really has. It selfish because I get so much won’t be taken lightly in the he didn’t have to be every bit as back home but I got to get on makes my heart beat faster and reward when there’s so many pole vault competition that ready until the ball came his the road and do what I do. when I get up in the morning people watching. I am not a will also feature arch-rival way. It is the same with pole and they say ‘they need you diva, it’s a chemical thing that Mondo Duplantis of vault at times. It’s a show a lot Q: How do you look back down at the press conference’. makes you jump well. It really Sweden. of the times. So I just have to at this year? It is all about no good plan sur- works with 20, 30 or 50 people Sam Kendricks “You get to put wait and be beady for my A: Well, this has certainly vives first contact with the real watching and it really works of the US in the whole world moment when they put the been a strange year. We, as ath- problem. It has been a unifying with 50,000 (people watching). action during aside when camera on me. letes, are just grateful because aspect of the whole year. I didn’t In London, I never felt more the Pole Vault you step on especially the organisers, the see myself sitting at the table reinvigorated when I had the event at the to the Q: Do you see any silver event managers have come coming up to October but I am whole stadium to myself (when Lausanne track,” lining in this shortened track together and put together these glad we are here. I was) jumping for the last bar Diamond Kendricks and field season? fantastic events, especially the at 5.95 for the win. It sparks a League in said. “And A: I think, as athletes, it is ones like this (in Doha). The Q: How excited are you to different fire in your mind Switzerland on when you’re on it, time our responsibility to get out organisers have gone over and be competing despite the when it’s that many eyes on September 2. goes fast and the whole world there to compete. My silver beyond in what was expected Covid-19 scenario? you.