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Poverty-tackling Asian championsons trio win Nobel Qatar take Economics on Oman in keyey Prize clash at home

Tuesday 15 October 2019 | 16 Safar 1441 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 24 | Number 8045 | 2 Riyals Available now ‘Fight the Flu’ Amir honours Algerian envoy with Al Wajbah Decoration drive aims to vaccinate nearly 200,000 people

The vaccine is available for free across all PHCC’s health centers, HMC (for patients attending clinic appointments) and at 51 private and semi-governmental health care facilities.

FAZEENA SALEEM flu season and also point to it being THE PENINSULA more severe than the last year, so it is extremely important that With an early start of this year’s people take action and get vacci- flu season and that too being nated, especially those at high risk more severe than last year, a for flu complications. As the comprehensive national influenza virus strains change most influenza vaccination campaign years, you need to get immunised has been launched jointly by the each year to be protected against Ministry of Public Health new strains. People who get the (MoPH), Primary Health Care vaccine each year are better pro- Corporation (PHCC) and Hamad tected than those who remain Medical Corporation (HMC). unimmunised, ” said Dr Abdullatif Being conducted for the fifth Al Khal, Deputy Chief Medical consecutive year, the campaign is Officer and Head of Infectious Dis- being held under the theme ‘Fight eases at HMC and Co-Chair of the the Flu’. The influenza vaccine has National Pandemic Preparedness been made easily accessible to Committee. everyone to ensure vaccination of “Last year we provided as many people as possible. around 160,000 people with The vaccine is available for vaccines. This year have free across all PHCC’s health increased it to 200,000 as we centres, HMC (for patients have seen an increasing interest attending clinic appointments) in people getting vaccinated and at 51 private and semi-gov- against the flu,” said Dr Hamad Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met at the Amiri Diwan yesterday with the Ambassador of the People’s Democratic Republic ernmental health care facilities, Al Romaihi, Health Protection of Algeria to the State of Qatar, Abdulaziz Saba, who called on H H the Amir to greet him on the occasion of ending his tenure in the said officials addressing a press and Communicable Diseases country. H H the Amir granted the Algerian Ambassador Al Wajbah Decoration in recognition of his efforts and role in contributing to conference, yesterday. Manager at MoPH, and Co-chair enhancing bilateral relations, wishing him success in his future missions, and the relations between the two countries further progress “Initial laboratory data of the National Pandemic Pre- and prosperity. The Ambassador expressed thanks and appreciation to H H the Amir and the State’s officials for the cooperation he indicate an early start to this year’s paredness Committee. `P2 received that contributed to the success of his work in the country. Proactive government policies to boost real estate market Amir greets Tunisian SACHIN KUMAR “With falling mortgage rates Qatar told The Peninsula. policies have a clear focus on Lusail and West Bay. Highest THE PENINSULA and capital values, buying “Despite the current market promoting real estate as a tool annual fall in rents of up to 10 President-elect property for non-Qatari house- downturn, the outlook for the for economic progress and future percent was experienced in Abu The proactive government holds is becoming easier than medium and long term is sustainability,” he added. Hamour, Ain Khaled, West Bay QNA policies will encourage Qatar’s before. Sales transaction encouraged by pro-active gov- During third quarter of 2019, Lagoon and Al Duhail. DOHA real estate market, said volumes accumulated to ernment responses in the form residential asking rents declined “Due to lower rents and consulting firm ValuStrat in its QR13.8bn in value during the first of new initiatives. For example, 7.2 percent over the past 12 increasing incentives being Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin third quarter 2019 review report, eight months of 2019, however, this quarter saw a new law intro- months and 1.6 percent since the offered by landlords vacancy Hamad Al Thani held last evening yesterday. The rents in resi- volumes were down by 14 duced which grants a 5-year first quarter. An influx of supply rates in prime locations have via telephone a conversation with dential and office sectors became percent against the same period automatically renewable resi- has led to a reduction in median reduced as tenants are trading Dr Kais Saied, during which His even more competitive during last year,” Pawel Banach, dency visa to owners and bene- monthly asking rents of up to 8 up in a flight to quality for better Highness congratulated him on the third quarter of this year. General Manager, ValuStrat ficiaries of real estate – such percent annually in The Pearl, locations and amenities. `P2 his victory in the presidential elec- tions in the Republic of Tunisia, wishing him success. H H the Amir affirmed the State Operation Peace Spring to ensure Around 40,000 to of Qatar’s standing with Tunisia since the beginning of the revo- lution and its support for the aspi- Turkey’s border security: Envoy take part in Qatar rations of the brotherly Tunisian people, hailing the success of Tuni- SIDI MOHAMED tolerate the presence of terrorists sia’s democratic experience. THE PENINSULA next to us, which is why we Sustainability Week Saied expressed his thanks for launched this military IRFAN BUKHARI as a unique platform to promote His Highness and appreciation to The Ambassador of Turkey to operation.” THE PENINSULA the nation’s sustainability vision Qatar’s leadership and people, Qatar, Fikret Ozer (pictured), has “The main objectives of this with relevant stakeholders. noting the deep fraternally rela- said that the Turkey’s Operation operation are to ensure the With an expected participation The ‘all inclusive’ awareness tions between the two countries. Peace Spring is to ensure the security of our borders and to of ‘around 40,000 individuals campaign this year will be security of Turkey’s borders, keep keep the terrorists away, in order and entities’, Qatar Sustainability revolving around ‘action, terrorists away from them, protect to protect the Syrians as well. Week 2019 starting from October engagement’ theme. Talking to Global Security Syrians from the persecution of The operation is being carried 26 will create mass awareness The Peninsula, Engineer Meshal Forum from today terrorist organisations and facil- out on the basis of international on eco-friendly practices with Al Shamari, Director of QGBC, itate safe and voluntary return of law and in accordance with the the help of over 200 activities. said that QSW 2019 would be QNA/DOHA displaced Syrian citizens. right of self-defence as provided Qatar Green Building Council marked with the help of many Addressing a press conference in Article 51 of the Charter of the (QGBC), a member of Qatar Foun- innovative ideas and the partic- Under the patronage of Prime yesterday on the Turkish Oper- out by the PKK and YPG. United Nations,” the Ambassador dation (QF), yesterday announced ipating organizations would Minister and Interior Minister ation, the Ambassador said that He said that the military oper- said. the fourth edition of Qatar Sus- organise different eco-friendly H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser the terrorist threat in Syria and the ation will continue until the threat He said that only terrorists tainability Week (QSW) 2019. activities to raise awareness like bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Global targeting of Turkish borders is not of “terrorism” at the Turkey-Syria and their military equipment Held under the patronage of no use of plastic bottles, bags. Security Forum 2019 will kick off limited to ISIS as during the last border is completely wiped out. would be targeted and no civilians Prime Minister and Interior Min- “One participating hotel will today. The two-day forum will two years, especially from the east The Ambassador said: “We would be targeted, which would ister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin observe no-elevator day. There discuss the security challenges of the Euphrates River, Turkey informed our allies about this ter- make the operation take longer, Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, QSW will be beach cleaning and posed by the current misinfor- had been subjected to more than rorist threat and talked about a otherwise it would have taken 2019 will run from October 26 to seabed cleaning activities among mation and the serious implica- 100 attacks or hostile acts carried safe zone. We can no longer only two days. `P2 November 2, 2019, and will serve many others,” he said. `P4 tions of this trend. `P3 02 HOME TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019

Speaker of Proactive govt OFFICIAL NEWS Shura Council policies to Amir holds phone call takes part in boost real with Ecuador President

IPU Governing estate market DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Council FROM PAGE 1 held a telephone conversa- QNA It is projected that the tion with the President of BELGRADE upcoming supply will continue to Ecuador, Lenin Moreno, yes- put pressure on rental prices in the terday. The phone call dealt The 205th session of the short term,” said Anum Hasan, with the latest developments Governing Council of the Inter- Senior Market Research Analyst in Ecuador. The Ecuadorian Parliamentary Union (IPU) for ValuStrat. President briefed H H the began in Belgrade yesterday. “Recent rental declines will be Amir on the current situa- The meetings of the Council considered healthy from the per- tion. H H the Amir expressed started yesterday and will spective of tenants, given that past the support of Qatar for the continue until October 17. rates were considered expensive efforts made by the Pres- The Speaker of the Shura by many. These declines will make ident to maintain security Council, H E Ahmed bin housing generally more affordable and stability in his coun- Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, and competitive in Qatar,” said try, affirming the depth of participated in the opening Hasan. the friendship relations and session which discussed a Qatar’s ValuStrat Price Index cooperation between the The Speaker of the Shura Council, H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, with the Speaker number of issues, including (VPI) a valuation-based index for two countries. QNA of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, Mustafa Sentop, on the sidelines of his participation in the proposals for the election of the residential capital values, stood at Amir condoles with President of the 141st Assembly, 141st General Assembly of IPU and the related meetings in Belgrade, yesterday. They reviewed aspects 71.8 points as of Q3 2019. Coun- approval of the summary of cooperation and bilateral relations between the two brotherly countries in the parliamentary field trywide residential capital values Burkina Faso President minutes of the 204th Session of and ways of enhancing them. declined by 15.5 percent compared DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh the Governing Council and the to the same quarter two years ago, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani financial situation of the IPU. Serbian President meets Shura Council Speaker down 5.3 percent year-on year and Deputy Amir H H Sheikh It also discussed the draft (YoY) and 1.4 percent quarter-on- Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani unified budget for 2020 and the QNA Hamad Al Thani to the President Shura Council and IPU. quarter (QoQ). sent yesterday cables of con- report of the President on her BELGRADE and his wishes to him and to the H E the Speaker also met The average capital value of a dolences to President Roch activities since the 204th Serbian people continued with Iran’s Islamic Consultative residential unit stood at QR8,000 Marc Christian Kabore of session of the Governing The President of Serbia, progress and development. Assembly speaker, Dr. Ali Lar- per sq m. Total residential stock Burkina Faso, on the victims Council and the activities of the Aleksandar Vucic, met yesterday The President entrusted H E ijani. They reviewed the existing reached 295,950 units as of Q3 of the attack on a mosque in executive committee, in with the Speaker of the Shura the Speaker to conveye his parliamentary relations between 2019 with the delivery of 1,250 northern Burkina Faso, wish- addition to the local report of Council, H E Ahmed bin Abdullah greetings to H H the Amir, Qatar and Iran. They also dis- apartments and villas in The Pearl ing the injured a speedy the Secretary-General on the bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, on the wishing His Highness and the cussed the topics on the agenda (Viva Bahriya), Lusail (Fox Hills & recovery. The Prime Minis- activities of the IPU since the occasion of his participation in Qatari people further progress of the General Assembly. Waterfront district), Musheireb, Al ter and Interior Minister, H E 204th session of the Governing the 141st General Assembly of the and prosperity. They reviewed The two meetings were Khor, Abu Hamour, New Salata Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser Council and the discussion of a Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) bilateral relations. attended by a number of and Muraikh. Estimated project bin Khalifa Al Thani, also sent number of other topics. and the accompanying meetings. On Sunday, H E the Speaker members of the Shura Council completions for 2020 have been a cable of condolences to Several members of the During the meeting, H E the met with the Secretary-General and Qatar’s Ambassador to adjusted to 13,500 units; 65% of the Prime Minister of Burkina Shura Council attended the Speaker conveyed the greetings of IPU, Martin Chungong. They Serbia, Sheikh Mubarak bin Fahd which is expected in The Pearl and Faso, Christophe Dabire. QNA event. of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin reviewed relations between Al Thani. Lusail. Qatar condemns assassination of ‘Operation Peace Spring to ensure Turkey’s border security’ Afghan official FROM PAGE 1 in those areas and the rest of refugees military operation is not intended to DOHA: Qatar has expressed The Ambassador of Turkey to could not return to their homes,” he change the demographic structure of its strong condemnation Qatar, Fikret Ozer (pictured), said that said. the area, but will enable many dis- and denunciation of the there are many refugees from the areas He also said that Turkey is the only placed people to return to their lands. assassination of the district in which the operation is being carried country fighting ISIS on the ground, The Turkish Ambassador praised administrative chief of Jag- out, about 3,30,000 Kurds from these and there is no army that fought them the positions of a number of countries hatoo district of Wardak areas entered Turkey and could not as strongly as Turkey fought against that have reservations on the statement province in Afghanistan, in a return to their areas due to terrorism them. issued by the Arab League on the mil- shooting incident in Kabul. threat. “Only 15,000 people who stayed The Ambassador added that the itary operation including Qatar.

FROM LEFT: Dr. Khalid Hamid Elawad, Health Protection Manager at PHCC; Dr. Abdullatif Al Khal, Chairman of Pandemic Preparedness Committee/Head of Infectious Disease, HMC; Dr. Hamad Al Romaihi, Health Protection and Communicable Diseases Manager at MOPH, and Dr. Soha Al Bayat, Head of Vaccination at MOPH, addressing media, on the launch of ‘2019 public flu vaccination campaign’ by the Ministry of Public Health, Primary Health Care Corporation and Hamad Medical Corporation, at Al Waab Health Center. PIC: QASSIM RAHMATULLAH / THE PENINSULA ‘Fight the Flu’ drive aims to vaccinate 200,000 FROM PAGE 1 conditions. It is also important directorate at PHCC. “The for healthcare workers to vac- influenza vaccines are safe. Most “The annual seasonal flu cinate themselves against the flu people who get the flu shot only vaccine is the best and safest to protect their patients. Even have redness, soreness or way to reduce the chances healthy people can get very sick swelling where the vaccine was catching the flu and potentially from the flu and spread it to given. Most people with allergies spreading it to others. Every flu others – this is why it is can get an influenza vaccine season is different, and influenza important to take all measures without any problems. However, infection can affect people dif- to protect yourself and your if you have had a severe allergic ferently. The Ministry of Public family,” Dr. Abdullatif Al Khal reaction to a previous dose of Health is building a strong part- said. According to Dr. Al influenza vaccine or any part of nership with private healthcare Romaihi around 10 percent of the vaccine, talk to your health providers to increase levels of the population get effected by care provider. You may need to immunisation against the flu in the seasonal flu every year, and be tested for allergies before our community,” said Dr. Hamad it is similar to the global preva- being immunized. People with Al Romaihi,. lence of the flu. egg allergies can be safely Thousands of staff across the “With the flu vaccination, it immunized with the influenza Qatar healthcare system have is also essential to practice good vaccine,” said Dr. Soha Al Bayat, already received the vaccine in hygiene by properly and fre- Head of Vaccination Unit, Health readiness for the season. quently washing hands and pro- Protection and Communicable “Flu is a serious disease that tecting others from coughs and Disease Control Department at can lead to hospitalisation and sneezes — coughing or sneezing the MoPH. sometimes, even death. Vacci- into a paper tissue or an elbow A dedicated website — www. nation to prevent influenza is — to help prevent the spread of fighttheflu.qa — is again live particularly important for people seasonal influenza. People who where members of the com- who are at high risk for the flu have flu-like symptoms should munity can find information and its complications. This stay at home to avoid infecting about the vaccine including includes the elderly, young others,” said Dr. Khalid Hamid myths and facts as well as where children, pregnant women and Elawad, Health Protection they can get the vaccine for free people with chronic medical Manager, preventive health in Qatar. TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019 HOME 03

Global Security Media City holds workshops FM meets Antigua and Barbuda counterpart Forum from today to explain ways of cooperation with private sector THE PENINSULA/DOHA QNA Under the patronage of Prime Minister DOHA and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al The Media City Board of Directors, chaired by the Chairman Thani, the Global Security Forum 2019 of the Media City, H E Sheikh Saif bin Ahmed Al Thani, began, will kick off today. on Sunday, organising workshops to explain and clarify the The two-day forum, with the par- ways of cooperation between the private sector and the ticipation of a number of ministers, Media City and its various components to encourage the senior local, regional and international Qatari private sector to enter the various tenders in Media officials and international organisa- City. tions, will discuss the security chal- This is in line with the first meeting between the private lenges posed by the current misinfor- and public sectors and the Media City held in Lusail City last mation and the serious implications of Thursday. The tender brochure will be sent this week to this trend and its impact on a world companies that attended the meeting and workshops. H E where communications are increas- the Chairman of the Media City underscored that the Media ingly evolving. The forum, at the St. City project is one of the strategic projects in Qatar, stressing The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Regis Doha, is organised by the Soufan the importance of the participation of the Qatari private Al Thani, met yesterday with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Trade of the Republic Center in collaboration with Hamad sector in the development of the stages of the Media City bin Khalifa University (HBKU) and a project. He also confirmed his confidence in these com- of Antigua and Barbuda, Paul Greene, who is currently visiting the country. The meeting reviewed number of strategic partners. panies to be a key partner in the Media City project. bilateral cooperation relations as well as issues of common concern. Global conference on mental health information sharing begins QNA The conference will challenges in the face of psycho- DOHA provide a space to logical disorder. The conference targets spe- Under the patronage of Prime listen to people with cialists and interested people and Minister and Interior Minister, mental disorders, all sectors working in the field of H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser their families, health care within the public and bin Khalifa Al Thani, the interna- and advocates of private sectors, and will provide tional conference on confidenti- a space to listen to people with ality and information sharing in psychological issues, mental disorders, their families, mental health held at Qatar with a view to and advocates of psychological National Convention Center. producing effective issues, with a view to producing The one-day conference was outcomes on the effective outcomes on the ground. organised by Mental Health The Deputy Chairman of Friends Association (Weyak), in ground. Weyak said that the association collaboration with Hamad targeted the specialists and inter- Medical Corporation, Primary conference will witness the ested parties and all parties Health Care Corporation and organisation of a session to host working in the public and private Qatar Charity. The Minister of a number of patients and their health sector, and over 200 spe- Administrative Development, families to talk about their chal- cialists, doctors, nurses, Labour and Social Affairs, H E lenges in the face of psychological researchers and interested people Yousuf Mohamed Al Othman disorder. are expected to attend the con- Fakhroo, and Deputy Chairman The Minister of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs, H E Yousuf Mohamed Al The challenges of confiden- ference. The Executive Director of Weyak, Hassan bin Abdullah Othman Fakhroo, during the conference. tiality, information sharing and of Weyak, Mohammed Albinali, Al Ghanim, attended the regional and international said that the conference aims at conference. celebration of the World Mental the sharing of mental health examples from Hamad Medical examples and experiences will be creating a healthy environment The conference, which is the Health Day that falls on the tenth information. The recommen- Corporation, Sidra Medical and addressed in this context. The for a dialogue to discuss confi- culmination of a series of events, of this month each year, will come dation will be submitted to the Research Center, Primary Health conference will witness a session dentiality and information programmes and activities held up with a recommendation to be competent authorities in the Care Corporation and Naufar hosting a number of patients and sharing among the mental health by Weyak, on the occasion of the adopted as a national model for country. During the session, local Hospital will be presented. The their families, to talk about their sectors in Qatar. 04 HOME TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019 Education Ministry, NHRC sign memorandum of cooperation THE PENINSULA According to the the preparation of draft programs DOHA memorandum, the two necessary to implement its pro- visions and determine the obli- The Ministry of Education and parties will cooperate gations of the parties, and follow- Higher Education and the to strengthen their up implementation and evalu- National Human Rights relations in the field ation of results. Committee (NHRC) signed a of disseminating and Assistant Undersecretary for memorandum of cooperation on Educational Affairs Fawzia the implementation of the Arab educating human Abdulaziz Al Khater expressed Plan for Human Rights Education rights culture, her happiness at signing a mem- adopted by the Council of the integrating them in orandum of cooperation with the Arab League at the summit level. the curriculum, and NHRC to represent a qualitative The MoU was signed by Min- addition to the educational ister of Education and Higher encouraging schools community. Education H E Dr Mohammed to apply and integrate Al Khater said that the mem- Abdul Wahed Ali Al Hammadi human rights concepts orandum of cooperation in the and Chairman of the NHRC Dr Ali and principles into promotion of human rights is at bin Smaikh Al Marri. the core of the ministry’s compe- During the signing ceremony, educational curricula tencies and interests, especially educational materials on human The Minister of Education and Higher Education, H E Dr Mohammed Abdul Wahed Al Hammadi, and and school activities. after the issuance of the general rights for the preparatory, the Chairman of the NHRC, Dr Ali bin Smaikh Al Marri, after signing the MoU. framework of the national educa- primary and secondary stages disseminating and educating tional curriculum of the State of were presented in order to be human rights culture, integrating Qatar and its educational values, integrated into the curriculum for Hammadi praised the active part- students and establishes them in concepts to students in innovative them in the curriculum, and goals and principles, which the three stages. nership with NHRC as a national the educational environment in and realistic ways. encouraging schools to apply and included all Islamic values and the The signing of the memo- house of expertise, praising its an innovative and systematic Al Marri stressed the read- integrate human rights concepts Arab and Qatari cultural heritage, randum was based on Qatar’s leading awareness role in estab- way, which contributes to prepare iness of the NHRC to train and principles into educational and focused in particular on rights, keenness to meet its obligations lishing and spreading the culture them for the future on the values teaching staff to use materials and curricula and school activities. responsibility, personal integrity, at all local, regional and interna- of human rights in society, of tolerance, justice, equality and harness all its potential to achieve In accordance with the provi- compassion, respect for others and tional levels and from the impor- including the preparation of edu- respect for other. the objective of the materials, to sions of the memorandum, the openness to other cultures. tance of human rights education cational materials of human The Chairman of the NHRC prepare generations that respect NHRC, in coordination with the NHRC Secretary General and its role in establishing, dis- rights for all educational stages. Dr Ali bin Smaikh Al Marri wel- the principles of human rights Ministry, are working on a plan to Mariam bint Abdullah Al Attiyah seminating and promoting these H E Al Hammadi stressed that comed the signing of the cooper- and understand their importance disseminate a culture of human said that educational manuals are rights in the educational and human rights are an essential part ation agreement and the launch to a society that seeks progress rights in educational institutions. an important part in the context community environments in a of the curriculum system in Qatar, of educational materials, hoping and greater justice and sus- The memorandum also stip- of the implementation of the scientific and systematic manner. including educational values and that the materials will find suffi- tainable development. ulated the formation of a joint World Program for Education, Speaking at the signing cer- qualifications, adding that the cient attention from the teaching According to the memo- committee from both sides to by launching human rights emony, the Minister of Education signing of the memorandum staff and that teachers will receive randum, the two parties will propose aspects of cooperation guides in schools for primary, and Higher Education, H E Dr today promotes the concepts and assistance, advice and training to cooperate to strengthen their between the parties in the areas preparatory and secondary Mohammed Abdul Wahed Al meanings of human rights among communicate human rights relations in the field of covered by the memorandum and levels. Secretary-General of Ministry Ooredoo-sponsored play honouring elders a huge success of Foreign Affairs inaugurates THE PENINSULA toddlers to grandparents and DOHA every age in between, in cele- Diplomatic Portal bration of International Day of Ooredoo yesterday announced Older Persons. QNA and the presentation of their a play it sponsored to celebrate Manar Khalifa Al Muraikhi, DOHA credentials, departure and end International Day of Older Director PR and Corporate of tenure of the head of the dip- Persons was a huge success, as Communications at Ooredoo, The Secretary-General of the lomatic mission, the procedures shown by the many photographs said “We were so pleased to see Ministry of Foreign Affairs H E of accrediting the diplomatic and social media shares of the such a good turn-out for per- Dr Ahmed bin Hassan Al attaches (military, medical, cul- event. formances of Tales of My Hammadi yesterday inaugu- tural, commercial .etc), the staff The leading telecommuni- Grandfather. The family unit is rated the Diplomatic Portal of of the diplomatic mission and cations operator was Official of such critical importance to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs their family members and entry Telecommunications Sponsor for our communities and our (dp.mofa.gov.qa). visas to Qatar. a play entitled Tales of My culture here in Qatar, and it was The sections of the portal It also contains diplomatic Grandfather, which was pre- wonderful to see so many vis- include information on diplo- immunities, which include sented at Qatar Mall on October itors from all generations matic missions accredited to the exemption from customs duties, 10 and 11 by the Elderly Empow- enjoying spending time together State of Qatar, forms, the diplo- vehicle procedures and controls, erment and Care Center “Ehsan” acknowledging and appreci- matic guide, circulars of the and diplomatic pouch. under the umbrella of Qatar ating the contribution of our Ministry of Foreign Affairs and The Diplomatic Guide also Foundation for Social Work. elders. Supporting such com- news. includes the Mission’s head- Tales of My Grandfather was munity events is a key pillar of Children during the Ooredoo-sponsored play to celebrate International Information on diplomatic quarters and the Ambassador intended to honour senior cit- our strategy, and we were Day of Older Persons. missions includes GCC, Arab, residence, procedures and con- izens and share with the delighted to work with our long- African, American, European, trols for the use of Hamad Inter- younger generations the con- society, bridging age gaps and together. Hundreds of visitors standing partner Qatar Foun- Asian and Pacific countries, as national Airport facilities, traffic tribution of their elders to our bringing community members enjoyed the performances, from dation to bring the play to life.” well as precedence for heads of procedures, security and com- mission, national days of states, munications procedures con- and events. taining the protection of The forms include customs buildings and persons, political Around 40,000 to take part in Qatar Sustainability Week exemption, diplomatic card, events and official ceremony FROM PAGE 1 vehicles diplomatic plate, events procedures for diplomatic and ceremonies, visas, and leave missions. Al Shamari noted that such notification. The Diplomatic Portal campaigns had positive impact The Diplomatic Guide also includes sections for the cir- on people’s and organization’s contains members of diplomatic culars of the Ministry of Foreign attitudes towards sustainability. missions and international Affairs, another for news of the “When people start practising organizations, the procedures reception and farewell of green habits they ultimately get of accrediting the heads of dip- ambassadors, news of the Min- used to them and organizations lomatic missions, the arrival of istry of Foreign Affairs and dip- also witness some benefits from the heads of diplomatic missions lomatic missions. adopting environmentally- friendly practices.” The ever increasing number Doha Metro to extend services for of participants (both individuals and organizations), he said, was the evidence of people’s maturity Qatar-Oman match tonight The Director of Qatar Green Building Council, Eng Meshal Al Shamari (fifth left), with officials of and interest towards envi- the sponsoring companies of Qatar Sustainability Week 2019, addressing a press briefing at the THE PENINSULA October, 2019. The last train ronment related challenges. Msheireb Museums’ Bin Jelmood House in Doha, yesterday. Also seen are Communications and DOHA leaving Al Wakra station is at “First year, as many as 10,000 PR Manager, of Alfardan Group, Sara Fahad Alfardan (fourth left); Director, Museums, Msheireb 12:00 midnight. @ individuals, organizations par- Properties, Dr Hafiz Ali (fifth right); Assistant General Manager of QNB, Najla Al Mutawa (fourth right). Doha Metro will extend its metrotram_qa” ticipated in the sustainability services tonight for the Qatar- Passengers will be able to week while this number swelled PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA Oman football match. access the metro after the match to 30, 000 in 2018 and this year innovative solutions to the envi- diverse activities we have sponsors and partners will present Qatar Rail, through its which is to last till 9.30pm. Asian we are expecting the partici- ronmental challenges facing Qatar planned over the week.” more than 200 events that offer Twitter handle @qrc_official champions Qatar is playing pation of 40, 000 plus indi- and the wider region. It will During the press conference, the public the opportunity to be said: “To facilitate the fans travel neighbour Oman in a key 2022 viduals and organizations in the further highlight the country’s QGBC also confirmed the sponsors part of the sustainability-oriented from and to Al Janoub Stadium, FIFA World Cup and 2023 Asian week-long campaign.” contributions and progress of this year’s event. Alfardan efforts. Al Wakra Municipality, in we are extending Doha Metro Cup joint qualifying match QSW 2019 is an opportunity towards the implementation of the Group has come on board for the collaboration with QGBC, will working hours for the 15th of tomorrow. for public and private sector Sustainable Development Goals first time as a Diamond Sponsor, launch the ‘Green Home Guide’ in stakeholders to showcase their and the objectives set in Qatar while Msheireb Properties joins Al Wakrah. National Vision 2030. for the fourth consecutive year as Other activities include Addressing the press con- the Platinum Sponsor, and Qatar ‘Future Vision – Botanical Art ference, Engineer Meshal Al National Bank is the Gold Sponsor. Exhibition’; beach cleaning activ- Shamari, Director, QGBC, said: Other key sponsors include ities; recycling, paperless, and “As part of the initiative, Tadmur Holding as Awards water/energy saving campaigns; numerous activities will take Sponsor for the fourth annual awareness initiatives; and place to promote our nation’s Qatar Sustainability Awards 2019; numerous technical talks; while progress towards global environ- Facilities Management and Main- QF food outlets will not issue mental protection and the real- tenance Company (FMM) and plastic bags. ization of our sustainability Jotun Paints are the Conference QGBC will hold an appreci- goals. Advancing this vision Sponsor; Ateliers Artea is Lifestyle ation event in mid November to needs even the smallest indi- Sponsor; Elite Paper Recycling is showcase all the activities that vidual contribution and we Industry Sponsor; and Contactless took part during the week and to encourage everyone to both is Technology Sponsor. thank all the sponsors partners for showcase and participate in the Throughout the week, their participation. TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019 HOME 05 Al Hammadi holds farewell for Algerian Envoy MME developing integrated database of Qatar’s environment

SANAULLAH ATAULLAH The Assistant Undersecretary for Environmental THE PENINSULA Affairs, Eng. Ahmed Mohammed Al Sada said To check the pollution, the Qatar attaches great importance to environment, Ministry of Municipality and Envi- sustainability and the quality of the marine ronment (MME) represented by environment, which is clearly reflected in Qatar the Environmental Monitoring National Vision 2030 in the preservation of the Department is developing an integrated environmental environment for future generations. database which will help in preparing reports on environment future generations. “The workshop Elias Allani, a representative condition of Qatar based on envi- will provide a platform to exchange of ROBME, highlighted the role of ronmental indicators. of ideas which will lead to an the Organization in coordinating The Environmental Moni- understanding of the best ways in among all Member States to unify toring Department is also working which we can improve the man- efforts in the field of protection of on a key project to establish a agement of the quality of the the marine environment, referring national network for monitoring marine environment in the country to the meteorological station of the the quality of seawater round-the- and identify the best practices and Organization, which was estab- clock in Qatar,” said Ahmed experiences in this regards,” he lished in May 2008, which covers Mohammed Al Sada, Assistant added. all the countries under ROBME. Undersecretary for Environmental Environmental Monitoring and Dr. Marwa Mohammed Al Affairs at MME, while addressing Laboratory Department at MME Ghanem, from Environmental the opening ceremony of a organised a regional workshop Monitoring Department and Lab- workshop on marine environment titled ‘Marine Environment: Mon- oratory Department at MME, said The Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, H E Dr Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi, yesterday held yesterday at Al Najada Hotel. itoring and Indicators’ in cooper- the three day workshop will con- held a farewell ceremony in honour of the Ambassador of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, Al Sada said that Qatar ation with the United Nations Envi- clude on October 16. She said a Abdulaziz Saba, on the occasion of the end of his tenure in the State of Qatar. A line-up of Their Excellencies attached great importance to envi- ronment’s West Asia Office (UNEP/ number of topics will be discussed heads of diplomatic missions and bureaus accredited to the country along with Foreign Ministry department ronment, sustainability and the ROWA) and the Regional Organi- during the workshop including directors attended the ceremony, which was held at the Diplomatic Club. quality of the marine environment zation for the Protection of the detection and monitoring of marine following the global rising interest Marine Environment (ROPME). pollution using remote sensing in environmental protection, which Representatives from the State of technologies, systems of instant and was clearly reflected in Qatar Kuwait and of Oman, as well as continuous monitoring of environ- PHCC to expand health centers’ working National Vision 2030 in the pres- international experts participated mental variables, indicators of the hours on weekends and official holidays ervation of the environment for in the workshop. state of the marine environment.

THE PENINSULA Airport HC, Madinat Khalifah HC, centers including Rawdat Al DOHA Mesaimeer HC, West Bay HC, Al Khail HC, Ghrrafat Al Rayyan HC, Khor HC, Al Rayyan HC, Umm Al Kaaban HC, Al Sheehaniya HC, The Primary Health Care Corpo- Ghuwailina HC, Al Shamal HC, Al Shamal HC, and Abu Baker Al ration (PHCC) will be providing Al Sheehaniya HC, Omar Bin Siddiq HC. services during weekends and Khatab HC, Umm Slal HC, PHCC is the main provider public holidays from November Muaither HC, Al Wakra HC, of primary health care in State 1 at 17 health centers across the Labaib HC, Al Jumailiya HC, of Qatar through 27 health country. Rawadat Al Khail HC and Abu- centers of a geographical distri- The health centres which Baker Al Siddiq HC. bution that covers all areas of were operational on two shifts This expansion of working Qatar. These health centers during weekends and public hol- hours during weekends is con- provide an integrated patient- idays operate 7am to 11pm from sidered an addition to other focus health care services that November. similar efforts and other services addresses all current and future The services included provided by PHCC to ease health requirements of all general medicine, radiology, lab- patients access. As PHCC also patients in accordance with the The Assistant Undersecretary for Environmental Affairs at the MME, Eng.Ahmed Mohammed Al Sada, oratory, pharmacy, and nursing provides their 24-hrs’ Urgent National Health Strategy in delivering the opening speech at a workshop in Doha yesterday. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA services, and will be provided at Care Services in six health Qatar. First DC Asian Night Market to put spotlight on Asian cuisines

RAYNALD C RIVERA Event Management and Services singers will provide enter- “The concept of DC Asian the hugely popular bubble tea products and services are top of THE PENINSULA in cooperation with Italian tainment. An Acoustic Night will Night Market 2019 was born out drinks, said Magnipes. the line and resonate the famous company Innovative Hight-Tech be part of the regular weekend of an inspiration to gather the “We are glad to partner with “Made in Italy” branding recog- The inaugural DC Asian Night Solutions, the month-long market programme. various Asian communities in DC Event for the Asian Night nized around the world,” added Market 2019 is all set to celebrate will also feature non-food vendors The market is aimed at show- Qatar and share with the locals Market to showcase our first-class Febbraio. cultural diversity through cuisine offering an array of apparel, cos- casing and celebrating Asian cui- and other expat communities the events equipment and technology There will be a photo booth to when it opens its doors this metics, toys and kitchenware, sines and products through an diverse and colourful cultures of and to provide quality enter- serve as souvenir of event visitors Thursday at Aspire Park’s Chil- among others. event catering to families, foodies Asia through food, crafts and per- tainment to complete the memo- as well as free cupcake making for dren’s Play Area. On weekends, the event will and residents across communities, formances,” said Victor Magnipes, rable experience of shoppers and children aged five to 12 to be More than 30 Asian restau- also highlight street dancing and while promoting cultural DC Event CEO and Managing diners joining the month-long hosted by WASAHQ Culinary Arts, rants offering Korean, Filipino, cultural presentations of students exchange between Asian and Director. bazaar,” said Renato Febbraio, in addition to henna and face Thai, Indian, Pakistani, Turkish from various Asian schools with Qatari and other expat commu- While the culinary event puts Innovative Hight-Tech Solutions painting. Stalls will be encouraged and Arabic specialities are sure to performers garbed in colorful cos- nities through food, products and the spotlight on the best Filipino, CEO. to dress up their stalls to highlight satisfy Doha foodies’ taste buds at tumes and props to recreate the traditional songs and dances. In Indian, Pakistani, Thai, Korean “Innovative Hight-Tech Solu- the countries they are representing the market which runs from ambience of Asian festivals. addition, it provides platform for and Turkish restaurants in Doha, tions is the newest Italian and the best food and non-food October 17 to November 16 from In addition, various com- Asian businesses in Qatar of it also has some local speciality company to venture into the stalls will be selected during the 5pm till midnight. munity groups including choirs, varying scales to promote their cafes as well as outlets selling des- thriving event management and opening day. Entry to the market Organised by Doha City (DC) theatre groups, dance crews and ventures. serts like ice cream, yoghurt and exhibitions industry in Qatar. Our is free of charge. MME launches project to protect endangered tree Registration system of THE PENINSULA winter camping records DOHA 740 bookings on first day The Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME), represented by the Department of THE PENINSULA/DOHA The winter camp season Protection and Wildlife in the Environmental operating room includes a Affairs Sector, launched yesterday the second The registration system of winter number of technical compe- phase of the project to protect a local endan- camping season for 2019-20 tencies from the management gered tree, mesquites (prosopis) which is locally recorded a total of 740 bookings of information systems, based called ‘Ghaf’, at a protected area, Rawdat Al for spaces out of 1,333 camps on the management of the Ghafat Makeen in Al Shamal. made available on first day by camping system, and the spe- The project has helped increase the 2pm, yesterday, said the Ministry cialist technological infra- number of the endangered tree from 50 to of Municipality and Environment structure operating the system, 400 during past three years. in a statement. and the technical support team, The launch was attended by Director of The registration process for which includes remote support Protection and Wildlife Department at MME, the winter camp on the first day team and site support team. Omar Salem Al Nuaimi; Director of Envi- proceeded normally, where the The winter camping service ronment Directorate, Qatar Armed Forces, Eng. operating room follows up the is available to citizens through Mohammed Ibrahim Al Mohannadi; and rep- observations and queries received the Ministry’s website, the appli- resentatives of Qur’anic Botanic Garden, Qatar from the public through the min- cation of the Ministry of Munic- National Commission for Education, Culture istry’s call center on the number ipality and Environment on and Science, and Al-Dosari Reserve. Director of MME Protection and Wildlife Department, Omar Salem Al Nuaimi, with other 184 and all media, and take mobile devices, and through “The Qatari Ghaf Tree Protection Project officials during launch of the 2nd phase of the project to protect a local endangered tree. immediate action to address government service centers. is one of the projects entrusted to the Wildlife them. On the other hand, the Min- Department of the Department of Protection The Ministry of Municipality istry of Municipality and Envi- and Wildlife since 2015,” said Omar Salem Al years. There were about 50 such trees across A natural increase in the number of the and Environment followed the ronment announced the pro- Nuaimi. the State of Qatar in 2015. endangered Ghaf trees was observed in the electronic registration process vision of electronic registration He said that the Department in cooper- He added that a number of important Rawda after its closure, as after about three for the winter camping season service for the winter camping ation with the Department of Agricultural stages have been achieved in the project in years of protection it reached over 400 trees. 2019-2020 which started at 9 season in: Gulf Mall (Gate No. 3) Research, Al Shamal Municipality and Public order to preserve this endangered tree, the During the event, a detailed explanation am yesterday, through an oper- and Mall of Qatar (Gate No. 3) Parks worked hard to put an end to the dete- most important of which is fencing the area to of the phases of the project was presented, ating room set up by the Infor- from 15 to 18 October, from rioration of this important tree, after moni- fully protect the trees from harmful human and an introductory video about the project mation Systems Department at 10am to 9pm, through website toring the decline in numbers during the past intervention. was screened. the Ministry. of the Ministry. 06 HOME TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019 TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019 HOME 07 HIA to demonstrate Smart Airport technology at QITCOM

THE PENINSULA The five-star airport, to the public its continued DOHA which will be an investment in cutting-edge smart official sponsor of the technologies, to provide pas- Hamad International Airport Qatar IT Conference & sengers a seamless experience, (HIA) has announced its partici- fuelled with choice and pation in the much-anticipated Exhibition 2019, will flexibility. Qatar IT Conference & Exhibition showcase the exciting “As well as demonstrating for 2019 (QITCOM) as an official use of robotics for the first time the five Smart sponsor of the biannual event. passenger facilitation. Airport self-service touchpoints In line with QITCOM’s theme at HIA’s booth, HIA will also show this year, ‘Safe, Smart Cities’, the to the public the exciting use of five-star airport plans to dem- public by displaying its five self- robotics for passenger facilitation onstrate the second phase of its service touchpoints consisting of and ensure a faster journey and Smart Airport technology by self-check-in, self-bag-drop, pre- enjoyable travel experience.” inviting the public to its exhi- immigration, airport wayfinding Biometric Identity Man- bition booth to experience touch screen, and self-boarding agement is also a vital piece of paperless airport travel first- — all of which are biometric HIA’s digital strategy, functioning Passengers using self-service touchpoints at the Hamad International Airport. These touchpoints offer hand for the first-time in Qatar. enabled. to serve the terminal’s strategic services such as self-check-in, self-bag-drop, pre-immigration, airport wayfinding, and self-boarding. During the event, HIA will HIA’s exciting major digital priorities such as the improvement also demonstrate the exciting use transformation of the passenger All these services are biometric enabled. of customer experience, terminal of robotics for passenger facili- journey, through facial biometric capacity, and its security. tation. The event is set to take recognition across all five key piece of the airports digital verification at the self-service Engr. Badr Mohammed Al Knowledge of exactly where place from October 29 to passenger touchpoints, attests strategy and combines pas- bag-drop, automated security Meer, Chief Operating Officer at the passengers are in their journey November 1, 2019 at the Qatar that HIA is truly the airport of the sengers’ flight, passport, and facial gate, and the automated boarding HIA stated, “We are excited to be at the airport will also aim to help National Convention Center future, whilst committing to biometric information in a single gate. This promotes a paperless participating at QITCOM 2019. further improve the renowned (QNCC). ensure operational excellence. electronic record at the self- travel for passengers without the This event is a fantastic platform on-time departure performance The state-of-the-art airport HIA’s second phase of the check-in kiosk or mobile app. need to present their passports for knowledge-sharing between at HIA and champion its Smart is showcasing its break-through Smart Airport technology, cur- Subsequently, only the pas- and boarding passes, making the sectors in Qatar, and a great Airport program as a leading global Smart Airport technology to the rently under trial, is a central senger’s face is required for experience fast and seamless. opportunity for HIA to showcase transformation in airports. Baladna sponsors World Beach Games

THE PENINSULA be distributing refreshments to promoting sports and health. In DOHA fans and athletes. The products addition, the products distributed will include fresh dairy drinks will be encourage fans to pursue Baladna Food Industries, Qatar’s and 100 percent natural juices a healthy lifestyle.” largest producer of fresh dairy with no added sugar. Addi- Saba Al Fadala Public Rela- and beverages, is sponsoring the tionally, they will be catering to tions and Communications World Beach Games Qatar 2019, the VIP section with an array of Director at Baladna Food Indus- organised by the Association of food products. tries, said “Baladna’s fan zone is National Olympic Committees Commenting on the spon- has been built to meet a healthy (ANOC). It is an inaugural inter- sorship, Moutaz Al Khayyat, lifestyle in an innovative and national beach multi-sport event Chairman of Baladna Food Indus- creative manner. We have a des- taking place from October 12 to tries, said, “Baladna takes pride in ignated barista to make delicious October 16, 2019. sponsoring ANOC World Beach beverages like milkshakes, iced During the event, Baladna Games in Qatar. The event aligns coffees, and mojitos by using will have a dedicated area called with our core value of supporting Baladna’s products. Our barista Baladna’s Fan Zone. LEFT: Fans enjoying Baladna products the Baladna Fan Zone in Katara Qatar in its mission towards Qatar will be available daily during the during the games. Cultural Village, where they will National Vision 2030, in event from 5-7pm.” UniExpo Qatar opens tomorrow QU, QFMA sign MoU to enhance University Expo Qatar will witness research and training cooperation the participation of over 100 leading QNA meetings and training, cooper- area of cooperation and in the DOHA ation in research and studies, as field of studies, research and universities and well as cooperation in other field surveys, and all areas education providers Qatar University (QU) and Qatar possible areas of common related to scientific, adminis- from around the world Financial Markets Authority interest. trative, technical and research including those based (QFMA) have signed a Memo- The two sides stressed that fields. randum of Understanding (MoU) this cooperation comes within Chief Executive Officer of in Qatar. to enhance cooperation between the aim of exchanging infor- Qatar Financial Markets the two sides, particularly in the mation and experiences to raise Authority said that the signed field of studies, research, the efficiency of performance MoU reflects the mutual interest THE PENINSULA training and field surveys, in in accordance with the in contributing to the DOHA addition to surveys, programs standards of total quality, as enhancement of the exchange and events. well as the need to establish of experiences and information A file photo from UniExpo Qatar 2018. University Expo (UniExpo) 2019 The MoU was signed by QU joint cooperation in various in order to benefit both parties will open tomorrow at Doha Exhi- President Dr Hassan Rashid Al fields related to the scientific, from their respective institu- bition and Convention Centre Qatar, Carnegie Mellon University with many entities showcasing Derham, and Chief Executive administrative, technical and tional experiences. (DECC) targeting the students aged Qatar, and Qatar University. executive education opportunities Officer of Qatar Financial research fields. Al Shaibi expressed his hope above 16, their parents, school Over 15 countries will also be and ways to nourish and grow Markets Authority Nasser Ahmad In his speech at the signing that the MoU will establish a counsellors, principals and career represented including USA, France, careers. Al Shaibi. ceremony, the QU President new phase of constructive coop- advisers, as well as professionals UK, Malaysia, Italy, India, Lebanon, Alan Kelly, Commercial The areas of cooperation said that there is a joint coop- eration between QU and QFMA looking to advance their academic Netherlands, Qatar, Oman, Spain, Director, Informa Tharawat, said: provided in the MoU include the eration between the University which are making great and credentials. The two-day event Turkey, and North Cyprus. Inter- “UniExpo is the only event in exchange of experiences, infor- and the Authority, and under continuous efforts to play their will be held from 8am to 1pm, and national universities showcasing Qatar that gathers such a varied mation including publications, this agreement this partnership role through added value and from 5pm to 9pm. at University Expo Qatar include range of educational institutions periodicals, studies, statistics will increase and further deepen quality that will enhance the Bringing everything on and University of Aberdeen, Wright under one roof. and general statements, organ- it, because it is of particular positive results both parties around undergraduate and State University, Virginia Tech, “University life can be a new, ization of studies, conferences, importance for the QU in the aspire to. graduate all in one place, Uni Expo Swansea University, Middlesex yet intimidating experience for 2019 will host inspirational sem- University Durham University, and most students and their parents. inars and a huge number of exhib- the Lebanese American University, That’s why we have created this Mall of Qatar to iting educational entities to to name a few. platform to make their journey support students in making A wide range of inspirational easier, clearer, and more hold Neuroland informed future career and practical seminars guarantees accessible.” decisions. a rounded experience for visitors The seminar program this mind game University Expo Qatar will providing them with everything year highlights educational expe- witness the participation of over they need to know on university riences in, UK, France, USA, and from October 18 100 leading universities and edu- education from methods to help sheds light on emerging new cation providers from around the students adjust to change, identify careers. The full seminars THE PENINSULA world including the largest con- their passion, and make the right program is available on the DOHA tingents of universities based in decision, to practical and logistical website. Qatar, including: Community aspects such as how to fill a uni- UniExpo 2019 is proud to have The Mall of Qatar has College Qatar, Doha Institute for versity application and life as an Qatar Chamber as its strategic announced to hold Neuroland, Graduate Studies, College of North international student. Partner, Akhlaquna as silver a mind-blowing experience for Atlantic, Qatar Foundation, Edu- In its ninth year, UniExpo exhibitor, and The Great Indian kids (aged five and above) and cation City Qatar, Northwestern remains a perfect platform for Education Fair as the Indian adults. University in Qatar, HEC Paris in industry professionals as well, Partner. “Live in Qatar for the first time, Neuroland really puts your brain to test while being linked The activity will be held at West Gate 2 rotunda daily from 12noon up to various games with dif- MoCI recalls Nissan Tiida models from 2010 to 2013 to 4pm and from 5pm to 9pm from October 18 to October 26. ferent tasks to complete, using THE PENINSULA passenger air bag inflator. repair works and will commu- only your mind. Head monitors DOHA The recall campaign comes nicate with customers to ensure measure heart rate and blood with Cacao daily from 12noon unforgettable experience which within the framework of the Min- that the necessary repairs are pressure giving you the amazing to 4pm and from 5pm to 9pm we know will spread fun into The Ministry of Commerce and istry’s continuous efforts to protect carried out. opportunity to drive, work, play from Friday (October 18) to Sat- everyone’s visit to Mall of Qatar Industry, in cooperation with consumers and ensure that car The Ministry has urged all cus- and move any object with only urday (October 26). during the October Half Term Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., dealers follow up on vehicle tomers to report any violations to the powerful force of your “At Mall of Qatar we con- Break,” said Khaled Sam Hosn, dealer of Nissan in Qatar, has defects and repairs. its Consumer Protection and Anti- mind,” said an official from Mall sistently strive to deliver the Mall of Qatar’s CEO. announced the recall of Nissan The Ministry said that it will Commercial Fraud Department, of Qatar in a release. best entertainment to excite and The activity is brought by Tiida, models from 2010 to 2013, coordinate with the dealer to which processes complaints, The activity will be held at thrill our customers. Neuroland Mall of Qatar free of charge and due to possible defect in the front follow up on the maintenance and inquires and suggestions. West Gate 2 rotunda by Life is a truly unique and no pre-registration is required. 08 VIEWS TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019 Need for urgent action to ESTABLISHED IN 1996 improve global connectivity CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI THE PENINSULA of ‘meaningful universal connec- DOHA tivity,’” said ITU Secretary-General Houlin Zhao, “because digital EDITOR-IN-CHIEF raditional approaches to inclusion can only be meaningful and DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI driving Internet network roll- effective if and when Internet users [email protected] out and uptake are failing to feel empowered to use the technology reach the remaining half of the – and when the technology is T affordable, attractive and safe.” global population still lacking online ACTING MANAGING EDITOR access, according to a new report The 2019 edition of the report also MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED issued in New York by the Broadband reviews progress on the Commission’s seven key advocacy targets and [email protected] Commission for Sustainable Development. emphasizes the need to implement To counter slowing global growth, policy interventions that ensure DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR the report advocates for new collabo- broadband access benefits all MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI rative strategies to drive the concept of members of society. It summarizes seven years of policy advocacy as well [email protected] ‘meaningful universal connectivity’ through greater emphasis on resource as the 66 policy recommendations sharing and a more holistic approach presented in previous editions of the that treats broadband as a basic public report, which have driven the global utility and vital enabler of global dialogue around broadband imple- development. mentation since the Commission’s The notion of ‘meaningful uni- inception in 2010. EDITORIAL versal connectivity’ encompasses To accelerate broadband adoption broadband that is available, accessible, Sheikh Saud bin Nasser Al Thani, Ooredoo and meaningful universal connec- relevant and affordable, but also that Group CEO. tivity, the report stresses the need to is safe, trusted, user-empowering and go beyond ‘business as usual’ policy Strong Qatar-Korea ties leads to positive impact. The report speed of growth in mobile connections prescriptions and projects, and advocates for this new concept to is also slowing, particularly at the towards more collaborative models atar and South Korea strengthened their relations underpin policy makers’ new digital bottom of the pyramid. Mobile based on resource sharing and holistic further. Both the countries agreed to take necessary strategies, as governments seek to find network coverage improved much approaches. Qsteps to bolster investment and industrial cooperation new ways to finance network roll-out more slowly in low-income countries, The report also presents updated in order to increase bilateral trade and facilitate the flow of and reach unconnected populations. with a mere 22 percent improvement data measuring progress towards the goods, services and investments between the two countries. The State of Broadband 2019: in 4G coverage in the past five years, Commission’s seven advocacy targets Minister of Commerce and Industry H E Ali bin Ahmed Broadband as Foundation for Sus- compared with a 66 percent increase (Making broadband universal; Making Al Kuwari, during the fifth meeting of the strategic cooper- tainable Development reveals that in lower-middle-income countries. broadband affordable; Getting people ation committee between Qatar and Korea, said Qatar con- global growth in the percentage of In 2018, 4G overtook 2G to become online; Acquiring minimum digital siders South Korea as a promising strategic partner in the households connected to the Internet the leading mobile technology across skills and literacy; Using digital light of the potential of both countries and called for the is slowing, rising only slightly to 54.8 the world, with 3.4 billion connections, financial services; Getting businesses development of strong and solid partnerships that serve the percent from 53.1 percent last year. In accounting for 44 percent of the total. online; and Achieving gender equality aspirations of both sides in terms of promoting growth and low-income countries, household 4G will soon become the dominant in access to broadband by 2025). At ensuring sustainable development and prosperity. Sung Internet adoption improved by a mere mobile technology, surpassing half of current rates of progress it seems Yun-Mo, South Korea’s Minister of Trade, Industry and 0.8 percent on average. all global mobile connections in 2019, unlikely that all the Commission’s Energy, co-chaired the meeting. Data on individuals using the and expected to peak at 62 percent of targets will be reached by 2025. H E the Minister said South Korea is Qatar’s second largest Internet also indicated slowing global all mobile connections by 2023. UNESCO’s Director-General, trading partner. Total trade volume between the two coun- growth in Data show that of the 730 million Audrey Azoulay, particularly stressed tries reached $15.1bn last year, which was about 13 percent 2018, as well people expected to subscribe to mobile the vital importance of improving of Qatar’s total foreign trade volume last year. There are 37 as a slowing services for the first time over the next digital literacy. “Today, the main factor South Korean companies operating in Qatar with an esti- growth in seven years, half will come from Asia preventing people in developing coun- mated capital of QR4bn currently engaged in trade, con- developing Pacific, and just under a quarter from tries from using mobile Internet is not tracting, construction and infor- countries, Sub-Saharan Africa. affordability but poor literacy and mation technology sectors. This Data show that which are New strategies to connect the digital skills,” she said. “Gender ine- is in addition to more than 140 of the 730 million home to the unconnected quality in digital technology is even Qatar-South Korea joint ventures people expected vast majority The State of Broadband 2019 takes more alarming. Women are less likely with a total capital of QR7.3bn. to subscribe to of the esti- a nuanced look at the nature of to have Internet access than men, and Qatar considers Chief Executive Officer of mated 3.7 broadband connections globally, this gap is widening. The 2019 South Korea Qatar’s Investment Promotion mobile services billion still observing that a false dichotomy UNESCO publication ‘I’d Blush If I as a promising Agency H E Sheikh Ali bin for the first time unconnected. between ‘connected’ vs. ‘unconnected’ Could’, produced under the auspices of Alwaleed Al Thani, said that the over the next Sheikh can hide grave disparities in access the EQUALS Global Partnership, illus- and strategic trated that women are now four times State of Qatar is witnessing com- seven years, half Saud bin and present an inaccurate picture of partner. Both prehensive growth in all fields. Nasser Al the realities on the ground in many less likely than men to be digitally lit- the countries Qatar established special eco- will come from Thani, Group countries. It notes, for example, that erate, and represent just 6 percent of share extensive nomic zones, passed the new Asia Pacific, and CEO, while a connection speed of 256kbps software developers.” The Broadband Commission for bilateral labour law, and increased the just under a Ooredoo, is counted as ‘broadband’ for statistical limits of foreign ownership. said: “A phi- purposes, users connecting at such Sustainable Development was estab- economic Qatar ranked first in financial quarter from Sub- losophy that speeds cannot enjoy a full online lished in 2010 by ITU and UNESCO relations that will safety, first in the Global Entre- Saharan Africa. Ooredoo experience comparable to that of users with the aim of boosting the impor- continue to grow preneurship Index, third in eco- shares with accessing the net over the 100Mbps- tance of broadband on the interna- nomic performance, fifth in gov- the Broadband Commission for Sus- or-better connections now considered tional policy agenda, and expanding in the future. ernment efficiency and tenth in tainable Development is that access to ‘standard’ in the world’s wealthier broadband access in every country as business efficiency. Qatar also broadband is vital for sustainable nations. key to accelerating progress towards ranked 30th globally and second development. Ooredoo is passionate The report notes that individuals national and international devel- in the Middle East in terms of global competitiveness, about mobile technology as a tool to who are online may not fit into neat opment targets. Led by President Paul according to the Global Competitiveness Report 2018. All bring positive social and economic binary statistical categories (‘users’ vs. Kagame of Rwanda and Carlos Slim these indicators highlight the attractive business and change across the communities in ‘non-users’). Instead, people are Helù of Mexico, it is co-chaired by investment climate in Qatar. which we operate. Across our foot- adopting a wide range of ways inter- ITU’s Secretary-General Houlin Zhao Qatar’s economic progress has been proven to be sus- print, we are investing to help our net- acting with, and benefiting from, the and UNESCO Director-General Audrey tainable despite all the regional and global challenges, said works reach the world’s most remote internet. There is also growing recog- Azoulay. It comprises over 50 Com- Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Thani Al Thani, Second Deputy to the and underserved communities, while nition of the potential downsides and missioners who represent a cross- Chairman of the Qatari Businessmen Association. Sheikh working to become digital enablers, risks of technology adoption, particu- cutting group of top CEO and industry Dr. Khalid noted that this is supported by attractive empowering people with access to larly for more vulnerable populations leaders, senior policy-makers and investment incentives provided by the State to foreign digital services.” including women and children, who government representatives, and investors, such as the new investment law, which allows full “Our collective ownership to may become victims of cyber stalking, experts from international agencies, ownership in most economic sectors. Sheikh Dr. Khalid also implement the Commission’s recom- online aggression and hate speech, or academia and organizations con- pointed to the logistical elements such as the Single Window mendations will necessitate all of us to internet-enabled child abuse, exploi- cerned with development. and the free zones that help foreign investors in establishing provide resources – both financial and tation, or bullying. The State of Broadband 2019 was their business in Doha. Sheikh Dr. Khalid called on Korean technical know-how – to create the Towards ‘meaningful universal presented at the annual Fall meeting investors to benefit from the promising opportunities and much-needed impact of our work,” connectivity’ of the Commission in New York, just favourable environment provided by the Qatari economy noted Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT “This year’s State of Broadband ahead of the 73rd UN General in various sectors and participate in achieving the desired and Innovation, Republic of Rwanda, report encourages us to think in terms Assembly. economic diversification goals. representing President Paul Kagame, All in all, Qatar and South Korea share extensive bilateral who Co-Chairs the Commission. ties that will continue to grow in the future. “Connecting the world’s population to the Internet is about collaboration, collective approaches and partner- ships – among different stakeholders, across different sectors and across QUOTE OF THE DAY borders,” said fellow Commission Co- Our vision of poverty Chair Carlos Slim. “It is about under- standing the needs of people in terms is dominated by of connectivity, literacy, access to caricatures and cliches. content in different formats and lan- We need to understand guages, and services. It is about bringing the costs of services and the obstacles faced by devices down. And it is about empow- the poorest and try to ering people who lack standard basic think about how we can ICT skills with the means to participate help them move on. in the digital ecosystem.” Mobile broadband continues to dominate Esther Duflo The State of Broadband 2019 Nobel Economics Prize reports that while almost one billion winner new mobile subscribers have been added in the five years since 2013 (4.2 percent average annual growth), the TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019 HOME 09 GU-Q to take part in University Expo Qatar THE PENINSULA At the shared Expo International Politics, Culture and Pol- DOHA pavilion, GU-Q admissions itics, and International History, as well as five newly introduced minors. Since Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) representatives will be on GU-Q’s first class graduated in 2009, will be taking part in the upcoming hand to share information alumni have pursued careers in a wide University Expo Qatar college fair in the about campus life, range of industries, including education, Doha Exhibition and Convention Center extracurricular activities, finance, media, communications, energy, on Wednesday and Thursday, to and government. showcase the university’s globally recog- and GU-Q’s Bachelor of “VCUarts Qatar is pleased to be part nized degree programs and campus expe- Science in Foreign Service of University Expo where we have an rience and to offer practical advice on (BSFS) degree offered in opportunity to meet prospective students application and financial aid require- face-to-face, and share with them the ments. one of four majors. exciting potential of joining an interna- And for the first time , GU-Q along tionally recognized school of art and with the five other undergraduate of US cooperation with our partner multiversity design right here in Doha,” said VCUarts based universities at Education City - institutions, in order to highlight Qatar Qatar Dean Amir Berbic, “bringing Qatar including Carnegie Mellon Qatar Foundation’s exceptional work in devel- Foundation Universities together in this (CMU-Q), Northwestern University in oping world-class higher education way demonstrates our complementary Qatar (NU-Q), Texas A&M University at options right here at Education City.” strengths and highlights the opportunities Qatar, Weill Cornell Medicine - Qatar Georgetown admissions team assisting prospective students. At the shared Expo pavilion, GU-Q for cooperation and collaboration that (WCM-Q), and VCUarts Qatar - will be admissions representatives will be on Education City makes possible.” sharing a specially designed pavilion at hand to share information about campus The two-day University Expo Qatar this Expo to make it easier than ever for research hub in the region. extracurricular activity that Georgetown life, extracurricular activities, and exhibition includes the partnership of the students, families, educators, and career “Our dedicated admissions team has to offer,” said GU-Q dean, Dr Ahmad GU-Q’s Bachelor of Science in Foreign Qatar Chamber of Commerce & Industry, advisors to learn why Doha has become works hard to introduce prospective stu- Dallal, adding “and this year, we are so Service (BSFS) degree offered in one of and will feature over 100 exhibitors from a globally recognized education and dents to all the rich academic and pleased to pursue these efforts in four majors: International Economics, more than 15 countries. Students of PISQ elect Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha organises Indian Food Festival

THE PENINSULA Head Boy & Head Girl DOHA

THE PENINSULA abide by the laws made by the An Indian Food Festival has opened at DOHA School and the managing body to Bombay Balti, Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha, with guarantee themselves and the a ribbon cutting ceremony led by the General Principal of Pakistan International student body a better School life. Manager of Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha, Gordon School-Qatar (PISQ), Nargis Raza Wonderful speeches were Mackenzie. Otho, has pinned the badges to delivered by the Head Boy and The highly anticipated food festival newly elected Head Boy and Head Head Girl who spoke about the will run daily until October 19 from 6pm Girl for the year 2019-20. Then, the qualities of a true leader. They to 11pm. Indian food is known for its rich other members of Student Council acknowledged the solemnity of aroma, taste and great degree of variety, were sworn in by the newly elected their roles by saying that power exactly what you can expect in this heads of the student parliament. comes with responsibility and also ten-day festival. The buffet is priced at The elections for the par- prayed for God’s blessings, on only QR99 per person where you get a liament were conducted in two behalf of all the office bearers, for chance to indulge in some amazing gastro- phases. In the first phase, the stu- enabling them to carry out their nomical treats including ‘Butter Chicken dents elected class leaders duties to the best of their abilities Masala’, ‘Nihari Lamb’, ‘Chicken Biryani’, through balloting. In the second and uphold the name of the ‘Dal Makhni’ and a lot more tempting Bombay Balti staff during the Indian Food Festival. phase, all the students of the school for achieving the best. dishes. school exercised their right to vote Principal Nargis Raza Otho This festival is the perfect venue for are in the lookout for some authentic Indian foodies will know, Bombay Balti is home to for the election of the Head Boy congratulated and advised the Indian food lovers and Indian nationals who dishes without leaving the city. As most your favourite curry. & the Head Girl which indeed was students to work with responsi- the most thrilling of all. The Inves- bility and honesty and to uphold titure Ceremony of Student these honourable positions with Council for the session 2019 was integrity. She described the school AFG College with the held recently. The oath-taking elections as a platform for the ceremony commenced after dec- young parliamentarian to learn laration of the roles, for which the how to maintain discipline, University of Aberdeen Principal of the school was invited interact with their peers and aid on the stage. She administered the their fellow students. oath of honour and dedication to She also emphasized the enrols 500 students the members of student council. importance of right of vote, Donning the mantle of instructing them to make a fair use THE PENINSULA capacity building element of the responsibility, they also vowed of their vote for the efficient can- DOHA Qatar National Vision 2030,” under oath that they will be active didates and show their sincerity said Brian Buckley, Principal at and responsible members of the and commitment to contribute to AFG College with the University of AFG College with the University student executive council and will uplift the progress of the school. Aberdeen is currently enrolling a of Aberdeen in a statement. total of 500 students for this AFG College with the Uni- academic year. This includes 260 versity of Aberdeen is committed AFG College with the University of Aberdeen is committed to returning students, with a further to encouraging greater partici- encouraging greater participation in the education sector . 240 new students joining the pation in the education sector and programmes across undergraduate will take part in the University and postgraduate portfolio. Expo Qatar on October 16 and 17 education institutions. This event in September 2017. “The number of students at the Doha Exhibition and Con- will be an experience like no It is currently offering under- represents our largest cohort to vention Centre (DECC) to promote other. graduate programmes in Business date and recognises the demand its undergraduate and post- Staff of AFG College will Management & Accountancy and by the local population for graduate programmes. discuss with the Expo guests the Finance, as well as its postgraduate quality British higher education. The University Expo is a benefits of enroling in its under- programmes in MBA and Msc Inter- It has been wonderful to see so two-day exhibition for students graduate and postgraduate national Business Management. many new and returning stu- aged 16 and above, as well as degree programmes. AFG The partnership presents the dents on campus this semester. their parents; school counsellors; College with the University of opportunity for those students It gives me great pleasure to see principals and career advisors. Aberdeen is a unique partnership living and working in Qatar to that over 70 percent of our There will be inspirational talks, between the Al Faleh Group for access a British degree from one current student body is made up seminars, opportunities to Educational and Academic of the leading international uni- of Qatari nationals, which is evi- discuss education and career Services (AFG) and the University versities, currently ranked PISQ Principal Nargis Raza Otho fixing the badge to newly-elected dence of our drive and determi- choices with local and interna- of Aberdeen which opened its number 170 in QS world Uni- Head Boy for the year 2019-20. nation in helping to fulfil the tional universities and higher doors to undergraduate students versity rankings 2020. Galfar Toastmasters Club celebrates 10th anniversary at 201st meeting

THE PENINSULA Director, DTM Dinesh Kumar; District Level were also felicitated. DOHA Division PQD DTM Subair Pab- Special commendation was given davath; and Area Director, TM to TM John Henry who has gone Galfar Toastmasters Club (GTM), Sonia Jadhav. up to the District level in the the Corporate Toastmasters Club The meeting was presided by Annual Speech Contest. TM K. of leading construction company, current GTM President, Ashwini Venkatesan was also felicitated Galfar Al Misnad, recently held a K. Toppo, who thanked Galfar Al for his contribution to the cause celebratory meeting to commem- Misnad’s Executive Director and of Toastmasters and for taking up orate the achievement of two the senior management team for a District Level leadership major milestones in its journey: their continued support and position. its 10-Year Anniversary as well as patronage under which the club Also felicitated were the the successful completion of 200 has scaled great heights. winners of the Speech Contest and meetings. “There has been a discernible Galfar Golden Rules (GGR) Online Members of the Galfar Al improvement in the calibre of staff Quiz, that were a part of a month- Misnad senior management team members that participate in the long campaign on Safety at Work, and dignitaries from the Toast- Toastmasters programme, both which was conducted by Galfar masters fraternity in Qatar graced in terms of their communication Toastmasters and the Galfar QHSE Members of the Galfar Al Misnad senior management team and dignitaries from the Toastmasters the event at Radisson Blu Hotel. skills as well as their leadership team for all staff members. fraternity in Qatar during the GTM 201 meeting at Radisson Blu Hotel. The event was attended by capabilities. Their personal and To mark the occasion, the key officials of District 116 professional development in turn evening concluded with a joint including District Program Quality benefits the company, and equips The evening also witnessed Special appreciation was given to District level. Toastmasters who cake cutting by the Founder Pres- Director (PQD), DTM Thayalan K; us to serve our clients better,” said the recognition of Charter Toastmasters of the Club who have earned laurels for the Club ident of the Club, Sheeju David, District Public Relations Manager, Satish G. Pillai, Executive Director members who still actively have taken leadership positions by taking part in Annual Contests and the current President, TM K. Venkatesan; Division A of Galfar Al Misnad. mentor the Club. in Area level, Division level, and in Area Level, Division Level & Ashwini Toppo. 10 GULF / MIDDLE EAST TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019 EU countries stop short of arms embargo on Turkey The European countries exported $50m worth of arms and ammunition to Turkey last year, Nato chief including missiles, according to EU statistics office Eurostat, with Italy the main vendor, defends stance followed by Spain, Britain and Germany. on Turkey’s REUTERS/LUXEMBOURG Luxembourg, ministers agreed to “commit to strong national offensive in Syria European Union governments positions regarding their arms REUTERS/LONDON agreed yesterday to limit arms export policy to Turkey.” exports to Turkey over its Via Facebook, Italian Foreign The Nato Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg offensive in northern Syria, Minister Luigi Di Maio said on the yesterday defended his stance on Turkey’s stopping short of a bloc-wide sidelines of the meeting: “In the attack on Kurdish militants in northeastern embargo on a Nato ally. next few hours, Italy too will sign Syria as he came under pressure from some Italy, the top arms exporter a ban on the export of arms to members of the Nato Parliamentary to Turkey last year, said it would Turkey”. Belgium also said it Assembly to be tougher with Ankara. join a ban on selling weapons backed stopping arms exports. Splits in the military alliance have and ammunition to Ankara after The Turkish lira slid 0.8% emerged after Nato member Turkey began a weekend decision by France yesterday in the face of US and its offensive in Syria last week, with the gov- and Germany to suspend sales, European threats of sanctions, ernments of EU countries that are also Nato and Spain signalled it was ready though sceptical traders said it members suspending weapon sales to Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (right), welcomes North Atlantic Treaty to do so. would weaken much further if Turkey. Organisation Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, in Istanbul on Friday. With a host of other coun- Western allies turned words into Appearing in London at a plenary tries including the Netherlands, action over Turkey’s incursion in session of the Nato Parliamentary Assembly, against our common enemy, Daesh (Islamic “The only way you can understand what Finland and Sweden halting such Syria. Turkey’s ambassador to the a body made up of delegates from the leg- State),” he said, adding that one imminent is going on there is also to understand the exports, the EU’s collective United Nations in Geneva, Sadik islatures of member states, Stoltenberg said concern was that captive fighters from the important role Turkey has played,” said position was mainly aimed at Arslan, an former Erdogan adviser, he had expressed deep concerns to Turkish jihadist group should not be allowed to Stoltenberg, a former Norwegian prime min- avoiding a legally-binding dismissed the EU measures as “a President Tayyip Erdogan when he saw him escape. ister. “Turkey is important for Nato. It has embargo on Turkey, a longtime joke.” He told reporters: “We have in Istanbul on Friday. Stoltenberg said he But during a question-and-answer proven important in many ways, not least candidate to join the bloc. enough of an industrial base to had told Erdogan and his foreign minister, session after his speech, Stoltenberg faced in the fight against Daesh. We have used, as A full embargo would have substitute them with our much Mevlut Cavusoglu, that Turkey’s military robust remarks from several delegates, par- Nato allies, the global coalition, all of us have grouped Turkey with Venezuela better systems.” operations in northern Syria risked further ticularly those from France and Belgium, used infrastructure in Turkey, bases in and Russia, countries where the The EU exported ¤45m destabilising the region, escalating tensions both countries where deadly attacks linked Turkey in our operations to defeat Daesh. EU has a formal ban and views ($50m) worth of arms and and causing more human suffering. to Islamic State have taken place. “And that’s exactly one of the reasons them as hostile, a move dip- ammunition to Turkey last year, “I expect Turkey to act with restraint Stoltenberg reiterated that he had why I’m concerned about what is going on lomats said ministers were not including missiles, according to and in coordination with other allies so that expressed his deep concerns during his now. Because we risk undermining the unity ready to take despite anger at EU statistics office Eurostat, with we can preserve the gains we have made meetings in Istanbul. we need in the fight against Daesh.” Ankara. “We do not wish to Italy the main vendor, followed support this war and do not want by Spain, Britain and Germany. to make arms available,” German Sales of aircraft to Turkey, foreign investor in Turkey. to neutralize the Syrian Kurdish That statement was seen as doing anything to anger Erdogan, Foreign Minister Heiko Maas told although not all military, With few ways to persuade YPG militia, a former US ally seen progress for the bloc, given early who last week warned that he reporters. amounted to ¤1.4bn last year, Turkey to step back, EU ministers by Ankara as a terrorist group resistance from Hungary. While would “open the gates” and send In their statement after a according to Eurostat, led by issued a statement condemning aligned with Kurdish insurgents not a major arms exporter to 3.6 million refugees to Europe if four-hour-long debate in France. The EU is the top Turkey’s offensive, which aims in Turkey. Turkey, Budapest is wary of it did not back him. Erdogan: Turkey will not back down from offensive against Kurd militants

REUTERS/ANKARA Turkey’s main oppn deputy faces probe Turkey will not back down from its offensive against Kurdish ANATOLIA/ANKARA fighters in northeastern Syria “no matter what anyone says”, Pres- Turkish prosecutors yesterday began an inquiry into an opposition ident Recep Tayyip Erdogan said deputy accused of denigrating the Republic of Turkey in the middle yesterday, adding that the battle of an anti-terrorist operation in Syria, said a judicial source. Sezgin would continue until “ultimate Tanrikulu, Istanbul deputy of the Republican People’s Party (CHP), victory” is achieved. is being investigated by prosecutors in the capital Ankara for his “We are determined to con- comments about Operation Peace Spring, said the source on tinue the operation until the end, condition of anonymity due to restrictions on speaking to the media. without paying attention to threats. We will absolutely finish the job we started. Our battle will Islamic State prisoners held at a attempt to fuel chaos in the continue until ultimate victory is prison in the Syrian border town area,” he said, claiming that no achieved,” Erdogan said during of Tal Abyad. doors had been broken in the a speech in Baku. “Turkish forces raided a prison. He also slammed the prison in Tal Abyad earlier today, Western governments have European Union and Arab League expecting to take custody of voiced concern that Turkey’s for their criticism of Turkey’s Daesh (Islamic State) terrorists operation against the Kurdish operation and asked for interna- held there,” a senior government People’s Protection Units (YPG) tional funds for Ankara’s “safe official told reporters. in northern Syria would lead to Turkish-backed Syrian fighters drive an armoured personel carrier on a road in Syria’s northeastern zone” plans in northeast Syria. “Before they got there, Islamic State (IS) jihadists town of Ras Al Ain in the Pakehas province along the Turkish border as Turkey and its allies continue Turkey accused Kurdish (Kurdish) PKK/YPG terrorists set escaping from detention centres their assault on Kurdish-held border towns in northeastern Syria. forces of deliberately releasing free the Daesh militants in an in the region. Iran urges diplomacy to lower Iran detains exiled Israeli police arrest Palestinian journalist over governor of Jerusalem 2017 unrest tensions, decries tanker incident AFP JÉRUSALEM AP/TEHRAN REUTERS Rouhani said diplomacy was from any concrete act DUBAI the way solve differences. breaching the pact. Iran’s paramilitary Revolu- Israeli police arrested the Palestinian governor of Jerusalem and a “Ending the war in Yemen “The European countries tionary Guard said yesterday it local official of the mainstream Fatah party in dawn raids yesterday Iran yesterday urged regional will pave the ground for de- have failed to fulfil their arrested an exiled journalist in the disputed city, their lawyer said. powers to use diplomacy to escalation in the region,” promises. We will continue to who helped fan the flames of Police arrested governor Adnan Ghaith and the Fatah general reduce tensions including Rouhani told a news conference, decrease our nuclear commit- nationwide economic protests secretary for Jerusalem, Shadi Mutour, in raids on their homes in Yemen’s war, but cautioned that broadcast live on state TV. ments,” Rouhani said. “We will that struck the country at the Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem, lawyer Mohammed Mahmud said. an Iranian tanker damaged in “We want peace and calm in start working on IR-7 and IR-9 end of 2017. He said they were accused of engaging in activity on behalf of the Red Sea last week had been the region... regional crisis can centrifuges.” The Guard and a later the Palestinian Authority in the city. Israeli police spokesman Micky hit by rockets and there would be resolved through diplomacy Under the deal, Iran is announcement on state tele- Rosenfeld said that “two representatives were arrested by police have to be consequences. and co-operation between the allowed limited research and vision did not explain how and are being questioned”, but did not confirm their names or give Addressing a news con- regional countries.” development on advanced cen- authorities detained Ruhollah any further detail. ference, President Hassan Rouhani, restating Iran’s trifuges, which accelerate the Zam, who ran a website called PA activities in Jerusalem are barred by Israel, which occupied Rouhani reiterated policy stance, said Tehran will continue production of fissile material AmadNews that posted embar- east Jerusalem in the 1967 Six-Day War and later annexed it in a towards the Trump adminis- to reduce its nuclear commit- that can be used to make a rassing videos and information move never recognised by the international community. tration, ruling out bilateral talks ments until European parties to nuclear bomb. Iran also agreed about Iranian officials. He had It considers the entire city its capital, while the Palestinians see unless Washington returns to a the pact save it by protecting to limitations on specific been living and working in exile the eastern sector as the capital of their future state. landmark nuclear deal and lifts Iran’s economy from US research and development activ- in Paris. About 320,000 Palestinians live in east Jerusalem. crippling US economic penalties. ities for eight years. The Guard said Zam was Senior Palestinian official Hanan Ashrawi condemned Ghaith’s sanctions. Iran has responded to US Rouhani said an Iranian “guided into the country” arrest in a strongly-worded statement. Tensions in the Gulf have “maximum pressure” by tanker, the Sabiti, damaged in before the arrest. His channel “Governor Ghaith’s detention is an act of political persecution,” risen to new highs since May scaling back commitments the Red Sea on Friday had been on the encrypted messaging she wrote. “It is an illegal abduction that must be roundly and firmly 2018, when the administration since May and threatened to hit by at least two rockets, and app Telegram was apparently condemned by all concerned parties.” of President Donald Trump continue removing curbs on adding that the incident had taken hold of, too, as a message “Israel is waging war against everything Palestinian in Jeru- withdrew from the 2015 accord its nuclear programme unless been caught on video. There has noting his arrest went to its 1 salem,” she added. with Tehran that put limits on its European parties to the pact been no independent report on million subscribers. Ghaith has been taken in for police questioning several times. nuclear programme in exchange did more to shield Iran’s the cause of the damage. An announcement on state The last time was on April 14, when Mahmud said his client was for the easing of sanctions. Iran economy from the US Rouhani, speaking live on television called Zam a “special accused of breaching an order banning him from visiting the occupied and a key regional rival are penalties. state television, said the attack prey.” It said his detention was West Bank. He has previously been grilled over suspicions of involved in proxy wars across Britain, France and was undoubtedly carried out by a victory of the Guard’s intelli- involvement in the PA’s arrest in October of American-Palestinian the Middle East, from Syria to Germany, all parties to the a government and that there gence department over Issam Akel, who was accused in connection with the sale of an east Iraq and Yemen. pact, have urged Iran to refrain would be consequences. Western services. Jerusalem building to Jewish buyers. TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 11 Tunisians seeking change get an unlikely president BLOOMBERG TUNIS

A law professor dubbed ‘Robot Man’ won Tunisia’s presidency by a landslide, but left open the question whether a political outsider can help bridge partisan rifts that have hampered an economic revival in the Arab Spring’s birthplace. Kais Saied, a previously little-known law expert, beat media mogul Nabil Karoui in Sunday’s run-off vote, clinching 72.71% of ballots, according to the national elections commission. Saied, who was propelled to Conservative academic Kais Saied celebrating his victory in the Tunisian presidential election in the capital Tunis, yesterday. RIGHT: Tunisians gather to celebrate the power by the North African victory at Habib Burgiba Street in Tunis, Tunisia. nation’s disenchanted youth, has vowed to be a president “for all Tunisians,” as he promises con- widened by 120 basis points stitutional changes he says are since the first-round presidential crucial to complete the 2011 vote in September, according to Saied takes 72.71% of votes: Commission revolution. JPMorgan Chase & Co. indexes. AFP/TUNIS But the tide that carried Saied The showdown between out- regime. Saied, a retired law professor with a ISIE said turnout was 55 percent, slightly may have a risky undercurrent. siders Saied and Karoui, who Conservative political outsider Kais Saeid rigid and austere demeanour that earned him lower from an initial figure of 58 percent Tunisians’ hopes have been spent much of the pre-election has won Tunisia’s presidential election by the nickname “Robocop”, was carried to announced on Sunday after the run-off. It dashed before as post-uprising campaign period in jail on cor- a landslide taking 72.71 percent of the votes, victory by young voters, wooed by his anti- noted however that turnout was higher than governments have failed to push ruption charges he denies, spot- the North African country’s electoral establishment platform. during the first round on September 15. through badly needed economic lighted that widespread dis- commission said yesterday. Around 90 percent of 18- to 25-year- Saied, a 61-year-old constitutional law changes to tackle issues like youth content in the nation of almost Saied garnered 2.7 million votes against olds voted for Saied, according to estimates expert, campaigned on the values of the 2011 unemployment that’s double the 12 million. The two beat more one million received by his rival business by the Sigma polling institute, compared revolution, based on opposition to West- national average. Now, Saied will than 20 candidates in Septem- tycoon Nabil Karoui in Sunday’s run-off, the with 49.2 percent of voters over 60. ernised and corrupt elites, and in favour of have to deal with a new par- ber’s vibrant first round vote that commission said. The vote — the second pres- According to Tunisian law, the results radical decentralisation. The poll, Tunisia’s liament whose focus in the near showcased one of the region’s idential election since 2014 — reflected Tuni- can still be appealed within two weeks second free presidential election since its term will likely be coalition- rare democracies. sia’s shifting political landscape since the 2011 before the new president is sworn in at the 2011 revolt, followed the death of president building, not economic policy. Karoui cast himself as a Arab Spring uprising that ousted an autocratic end of the month. The electoral commission Beji Caid Essebsi in July. Revamping the economy was champion of the poor. Saied, key for voters. Tunisia has however, offered generalities struggled to curb inflation, while about democracy and com- criticising the professor’s “loose clear views on foreign issues, week’s fractured parliamentary the struggle of building a gov- a series of militant attacks have pleting the course of the 2011 slogans” that he said allowed including the European Union vote, has stoked suspicions erning coalition after Karoui’s battered the vital tourism sector. uprising. That’s left unanswered him to be all things to all and the US’s role in the region, among stauncher secularists. So, rival Heart of Tunisia party, In addition, wrangling between questions about what he actually people. Tunisia’s parliament nor has he suggested anything too, have some of his conserv- which placed second, refused to the government and powerful plans, beyond a drive to expand sets most domestic policy, with more than a “populist and ative social views, including on collaborate. A fragile adminis- labor unions have made it dif- parliament and give more the head of state having a say dreamy” idea to address youth women’s inheritance — a touchy tration will make drafting and ficult to push ahead with Inter- political representation outside in foreign affairs, defence and unemployment, Thabet said. issue in a nation that’s struggled passing laws even tougher. national Monetary Fund-backed major cities. security, although late Pres- The support in the run-off since 2011 to agree the role of “The economic and foreign cost-cutting measures. Saied “doesn’t have a clear ident Beji Caid Essebsi often Saied received from Ennahda, religion in society. policy files will be a big obstacle” The country’s sovereign programme,” said political blurred the roles. the moderate Islamist party that Further political upheaval for the new president, Thabet dollar bond spreads have analyst Mondher Thabet, Saied has also yet to present secured the most seats in last may beckon. Ennahda now faces said.

Airstrike leaves Conflict leaves rubbish mounds four civilians smouldering in Tripoli’s streets dead in Tripoli AP/CAIRO REUTERS/TRIPOLI tape. “Backward people: don’t uprising. The internationally dump your rubbish here,” read recognised government in Libyan health authorities said Mabrouk Ahmed says he has to one sign in Al-Hadba, the dis- Tripoli, hamstrung since its an airstrike has slammed into keep watch into the night to stop trict where Ahmed, a 38-year- inception in 2016 by rejection a house in the capital, Tripoli, people dumping their rubbish on old health worker lives. from rivals in the east and pow- killing at least four people and the wide street that runs in front “If I don’t keep an eye from erful local armed groups, is wounding four others, including of his home in the south of eight in the morning till midnight fighting for survival. a child. Tripoli has been the Libya’s capital, Tripoli. they dump their rubbish in the An influx of tens of thou- scene of fighting between rival A few hundred metres away, street,” he said. “There are lots sands of people displaced by the militias since April. The next to the concrete supports of of harmful effects. When they set current battle has further UN-supported but weak an unfinished bridge, mounds of it on fire you can’t sit in front of strained services, shutting some government holds the capital, trash piled higher than the your home. The smoke even gets schools and driving up rents. while forces associated with Gen. passing cars smoulder by the inside the house.” Trucks now unload at the Khalifa Haftar are trying to seize roadside. The build-up of Despite ongoing, sporadic Abu Slim site by driving up onto it. The Tripoli-based government Leader of Sudan’s transitional council, Lieutenant General Abdel rubbish, which residents say fighting on the city’s outskirts, a 25-metre high mountain of blamed the airstrike on Haftar’s Fattah Al Abdelrahman Burhan (left), is received by South Sudan’s reached unprecedented levels life in central Tripoli continues rubbish. As new deliveries arrive forces. The health ministry said President Salva Kiir at the Juba international airport, in Juba, in recent weeks before easing largely as before. Some rubbish rubbish pickers — mainly African the airstrike took place in South Sudan, yesterday. slightly, reflects the steady trucks and street sweepers are migrants with rags wrapped Tripoli’s Firnaj district, a few decline of public services in a at work, and roads in some round their faces to counter the kilometers from the city center. city cut off from its hinterland - wealthier neighbourhoods are stench — dive in to scavenge for Fighting has stalled in Sudan govt, rebels start and largest landfill site - by a six- clean. But infrastructure in the plastic, cardboard and metals. recent weeks, with both sides month-old military offensive. city of three million has been But the rest stays. “We’re dug in and shelling one another peace talks in Juba Since eastern-based forces gradually ground down by inter- packing the rubbish down now along Tripoli’s southern reaches. led by Khalifa Haftar launched mittent conflict and political to have more space,” said Oraby The fighting has killed hundreds AP/CAIRO Sudan. It has counted on ending a campaign to capture Tripoli in paralysis ever since Libya’s 2011 Moussa, a supervisor. and displaced thousands of the wars with rebels in order to early April, it has become impos- people. Sudan’s new transitional revive the country’s battered sible to access the city’s main government met with rebel economy through slashing the landfill site in Sidi al-Sayih, French tourist leaders yesterday, kicking off military spending, which takes about 50kms south of the centre. stabbed to death peace talks aimed at ending the up much of the national budget. City authorities started country’s yearslong civil wars. Sudanese authorities have depositing waste from across in Tunisia The peace initiative was introduced good-will signals. Tripoli at a transit point in the ANATOLIA/TUNIS built into a power-sharing deal They dismissed death sentences Abu Slim district. When it started between Sudan’s army and its against eight rebel leaders and overflowing, officials tried to cut A French tourist was killed and pro-democracy movement. That released more than a dozen pris- down the intake, causing an a soldier injured in a knife deal was reached after the over- oners of war. They have also accumulation of rubbish on the attack in northern Tunisia, said throw of longtime autocrat Pres- delayed the formation of the par- streets of many neighbourhoods. the country’s interior ministry. ident Omar Hassan Al Bashir in liament and the appointment of In response, people have put up A ministry statement said April. The transitional author- provincial governors to allow time signs threatening violence or the attacker was known to law ities have six months to make for the rebels to come on board. making religious invocations to enforcement authorities and peace with the rebels, according The government delegation, stop the rubbish dumping. had a criminal record. to the agreement. led by Gen. Mohammed Others place plastic water It said a manhunt has been South Sudan’s President Hamadan Dagalo, a member of containers and tyres on pave- launched for the attacker, but Salva Kiir is hosting the talks in the Sudan’s sovereign council, ments near their shops or homes, Cars pass next to mounds of rubbish piled on a street in Tripoli, gave no details about possible its capital, Juba, where some arrived in Juba late on Sunday. or cordon them off with plastic Libya, yesterday. motives for the attack. rebel groups signed a draft Rebel leaders arrived earlier this agreement last month that month. Gen. Abdel-Fattah detailed a roadmap for the talks, Burhan, head of Sudan’s sov- trust-building measures and an ereign council, also arrived in Deputy governor, son dead in Somalia grenade attack extension of a cease-fire already Juba to attend the opening ANATOLIA/MOGADISHU Hirshabele state, officials said. official in the region, told media. mission forces in Somalia and in place. session, along with other African “Mohamed Sugal, deputy Police have launched an one international staff— were South Sudan gained inde- leaders including Egypt’s Prime A deputy governor in Somalia governor of Middle Shabelle investigation into the incident, wounded after a mortar attack pendence from the north in 2011 Minister Mustafa Madbouly and and his son was killed in a region and his son have been Bashiir Roble, a police officer, targeted the compound of UN after decades of civil war. Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy grenade attack that targeted his killed in a grenade blast that tar- told Anadolu Agency over the and African Union Mission to Achieving peace is crucial to the Ahmed, according to the official house in the administrative geted his house in Jowar Town,” phone. At least 7 people — Somalia in capital Mogadishu, transitional government in Suna news agency. capital of the southern Mohamed Abdi, a senior security including 3 African peacekeeping according to Local media. 12 ASIA TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019

Modi offers Postpaid mobile assistance to phone services typhoon-hit Japan in J&K restored IANS/NEW DELHI

AP Landline phones were Prime Minister Narendra Modi SRINAGAR restored in the region yesterday wished Japan early recovery from the damage and Postpaid cellphone services last month, but the devastation caused by Typhoon were restored in India-admin- ban on more than 2 Hagibis that has claimed over istered Kashmir yesterday, million prepaid mobile 30 lives so far and said Indian more than two months after connections and navy personnel who are on a India’s government down- scheduled visit to Japan would graded the region’s semi- Internet services will be happy to assist. autonomy and imposed a continue. Residents In a series of tweets, PM Prime Minister Narendra Modi shaking hands with Duth King Willem-Alexander as Queen Maxima security and communications Modi also said that the “prepar- appeared relieved looks on before their meeting at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi yesterday. lockdown. yesterday after facing edness and resilience of the Landline phones were Japanese people and the lead- restored in the region last difficulties during the ership of my friend” Prime month, but the ban on more long communications Dutch Royals in India to boost ties Minster Shinzo Abe would be than 2 million prepaid mobile embargo. able to address the aftermath connections and Internet IANS at the airport. “A traditional received a ceremonial reception of the Typhoon effectively and services will continue. NEW DELHI welcome to our special guests. at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, after quickly. “I offer condolences on Authorities fear that insur- Their Majesties King Willem- which they went to Raj Ghat to behalf of all Indians on the loss gents and separatists will use August because of security con- In a visit aimed to further build Alexander and Queen Maxima. lay the wreath at the ‘samadhi’ of life caused by super-typhoon the Internet to provoke protests cerns. The government has said on the strong Indo-Dutch stra- @koninklijkhuis Aarrived for of Mahatma Gandhi. External #Hagibis in Japan. I wish early in the region that could morph that Internet facilities are being tegic partnership, King Willem- their first State visit to India. Affairs Minster S Jaishankar recovery from the damage and into large-scale street opened at tourist spots in the Alexander and Queen Maxima Their packed programme in called on them at The Oberoi. devastation caused by this demonstrations. region. “Whatever India does of The Netherlands began their India is intended to further build “Building upon the strategic natural calamity. Residents appeared relieved in Kashmir, it is driven to con- five-day state visit to India, that upon the strong Indo-Dutch trust. EAM @DrSJaishankar “India stands in solidarity yesterday after facing diffi- solidate its position,” said Ali will focus on areas such as water strategic partnership,” tweeted Acalled upon HM King Willem- with Japan at this difficult hour. culties during the long commu- Mohammad, a schoolteacher. technology and maritime devel- MEA spokesperson Raveesh Alexander and HM Queen Personnel of the Indian Navy, nications embargo. “They stopped phones and opment, healthcare, sustainable Kumar. Maxima @koninklijkhuis of the in Japan on a scheduled visit, “It is a relief,” said Internet services to stop us from agriculture, social initiatives and Their trip is on the invitation Netherlands and had fruitful dis- will be happy to assist imme- Mohammad Akram, a trader. He registering protests. Now they cultural heritage. of President Ram Nath Kovind. cussions on expanding our rela- diately.” Typhoon Hagibis made was, however, quick to add how are restoring these services to The Dutch royals, who The royals will also visit Mumbai tionship,” tweeted Kumar on the landfall south of Tokyo on Sat- Kashmiris are expected “to cater to tourists and declare arrived here on Sunday night, and Kochi in Kerala. meeting between Jaishankar and urday evening. thank the government for normalcy in Kashmir.” received a traditional welcome Yesterday, the royals the royals. giving them basic amenities.” The authorities have put out Some said that having no lines newspaper ads aiming to send of communication for the past across a message of normalcy two months was akin to living in the region. A full-page adver- JMB aims to spread terror in India: NIA chief in the Stone Age. tisement in Friday’s Greater “Thank you, India. You have Kashmir daily urged people to IANS Speaking at the NIA’s Assam, Odisha and Jharkhand come to the fore if NIA did not finally decided to partially reopen their shops and send NEW DELHI National Conference of chiefs of and they are investigating it. “In investigate the case across India. restore our digital rights,” said their children back to school. the Anti Terrorism Squads (ATS) NIA’s pan-India probe, we got As the investigation of the state Sameer Ahmad, a college Authorities also released Indicating that Jamaat-ul Muja- and Special Task Forces (STF), to know that JMB is not only police is limited, there is need to student. “When will you restore three low-ranking politicians hideen Bangladesh (JMB) is a Modi said the JMB, a Bang- active in Assam, Odisha and focus on the gravity of cases and our political rights?” in the region last week. threat to the nation, National ladesh-based outfit, has spread Jharkhand but also they are such inputs should be shared Facing international However, prominent Kashmiri Investigation Agency (NIA) its activities in states like spreading their activities in other with the NIA so that larger con- pressure to ease people’s suf- politicians, including some who Director-General Y C Modi Jharkhand, Bihar, Maharashtra, states such as Bihar, Karnataka, spiracy could be unearthed,” NIA fering and restore normal life, have historically accepted yesterday said the terror group Karnataka and Kerala in the Kerala and Maharashtra. A list Inspector General Alok Mittal Indian authorities announced India’s sovereignty over the dis- has been attempting to expand guise of Bangladeshi of 125 suspected JMB members said, adding that the JMB has set last week that they would allow puted Muslim-majority region, its operations across India and immigrants. has already been circulated to up 20-22 hideouts in Bengaluru tourists back into the region remain detained in their homes a list of 125 suspects has been The NIA chief said that JMB’s the concerned states,” Modi said. and tried to spread its bases in after ordering them to leave in or in jails. shared with different states. activities have also increased in “These leads would not have South India from 2014 to 2018. Provide security to Sunni Waqf Board chief, SC tells UP Intense questioning in IANS a threat to his life. Farooqui had of hearing, on the 38th day, told the bench that Farooqui indicated that the court can con- NEW DELHI moved the apex court through flagged the note from Panchu faces threat from the UP gov- clude the arguments in the case Kerala family Sriram Panchu, one of the three- where Farooqui apprehended a ernment, and there is allegedly on October 16, a day ahead of the In a new twist in the last leg of member mediation panel formed threat to his life, saying: “Uttar a conspiracy to get him off the deadline, and insisted all counsel serial murders Ayodhya title dispute case by the court in order to seek an Pradesh government should case. to follow the time slot allocated hearing, the Supreme Court amiable solution to the Ram provide adequate security to him The UP government counsel, to wrap up their arguments. This IANS yesterday directed the Uttar Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid (Farooqui).” who was also present in the reaction from court came after KOZHIKODE Pradesh government to provide dispute. While the Chief Justice was court, gave assurance to the top Dhavan submitted he will take adequate security to Uttar A five-judge bench, headed reading out the note from court on the security arrange- two hours today to finish his With just two more days left for Pradesh Sunni Waqf Board by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, is Panchu, senior advocate Rajeev ments for Farooqui. arguments, and the Hindu urged the police custody of family Chairman, Zufar Ahmad currently hearing the matter. Dhavan, who is leading the argu- The Chief Justice, while the court to give them at least serial killer Jolly Thomas and Farooqui, after he apprehended The Chief Justice at the end ments from Muslim parties’ side, sorting the hearing schedule, two days to reply. her two accomplices to end, yesterday witnessed hectic questioning and statements A very big day being recorded in the case. Will do ‘Kaam Ki Baat’, Jolly has confessed to all the for us, says six deaths between 2002 and not ‘Mann Ki Baat’: Rahul 2016 in her family and yes- terday for the first time, all the IANS here, warning that in six months, alma mater of three were seated together and NUH, HARYANA the economy will reach in such questioned. a position that youth will stand Nobel laureate The police probe team is Slamming the BJP government up against Modi. IANS/KOLKATA divided into six separate units over the economic slowdown, “Modi ji keeps making false besides a technical team com- Congress leader Rahul Gandhi claims. So does (Chief Minister Calling it a very big day for the prising of forensic, legal and yesterday hit out at it for doing Manohar Lal) Khattar ji. They do institution, the South Point High police experts. Jolly’s second nothing to tackle rising unem- Mann Ki baat. I thought I will do School here yesterday rejoiced husband Shaju and his father ployment and farmers’ distress. Kaam Ki Baat. And whatever I at its alumnus Abhijit Vinayak Zachariah were summoned by In his first campaign rally for say today from this stage, it Banerjee getting the coveted the police yesterday morning the October 21 Haryana would be done, go and ask Con- Nobel Prize for Economics. and were first questioned indi- Assembly elections, the former gress-ruled states in Rajasthan “This is a very big day for us. vidually and then jointly. Later, Congress President, speaking in and Madhya Pradesh,” Gandhi No school can expect more from Jolly was also brought in. Muslim-dominated Marora in said. its students,” SPHS Principal Meanwhile, one of the Nuh district, charged Prime Min- “Whatever we say, we do it. Rupa Sanyal Bhattacharya told arrested M S Mathew, who pro- ister Narendra Modi with only I am not here to make false a hurriedly-convened media cured cyanide for Jolly from a Nirmala Banerjee, mother of Abhijit Vinayak Banerjee, one of the working for the corporates, not promises. This is Kaam Ki Baat. meet here. Banerjee passed his jewellery worker Preju Kumar winners of 2019 Nobel Economics Prize, speaking to media at her the common man. Gandhi said The Congress party is everyone’s higher secondary exam from the (also arrested), confessed to the that the Prime Minister has been party and we believe in uniting school in 1978. house in Kolkata, yesterday. police that he paid Rs5,000 and putting money into the pockets people. “And the BJP is doing “But this was expected. For two bottles of beverage to him. of few selected business groups,” what the British were doing in some years, we were hearing teachers till date, despite his Banerjee said in a tweet. Technical team head Divya To rejuvenate the economy, India - dividing people,” that he was being considered for busy schedule at the MIT. “This Announcing the Nobel Prize in Gopinath, an IPS officer, said the government should put Gandhi said in his about the coveted award for his work,” is a great quality - a quality of a Economic Sciences, the Royal that the probe is going on well money back into the common 20-minute-long speech. For said a beaming Bhattacharya. great human being,” she said. Swedish Academy of Sciences and the autopsy report of one man’s pocket, he said, praising people of Mewat, one of the South Point, the first co-edu- An “overjoyed” West Bengal said the research conducted by death (Jolly’s husband — Roy the party-led UPA government’s most backward regions in cation school in Kolkata and still Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Banerjee, his wife and one-time Thomas) is available which flagship MNREGA programme Haryana, he promised a railway one of the leading schools in the congratulated Abhijit Vinayak Ph.D student Duflo, and Harvard talks about the presence of for leading to a boom in the line from Gurugram to Alwar, a metropolis, found its name in the Banerjee for winning the 2019 professor Kremer has consid- cyanide but it has to be proved economy. university as well as speedy Guinness Book of Records (1984- Nobel Prize for Economics. erably improved the ability to scientifically. Yesterday “The economy is in shambles completion of the Mewat Canal 1992) as the world’s largest “Hearty congratulations to fight global poverty. Born in morning, the complainant — and Modi is talking about the and Kotla irrigation project. school in terms of the number of Abhijit Banerjee, alumnus of Mumbai in 1961, Bannerjee is one Jolly’s first husband’s brother, moon,” he said. Raising the “These are four main issues you students. Bhattacharya said Ban- South Point School & Presidency of the leading development Rojo Thomas landed at Kochi issues of unemployment and have, the list is with me. I give erjee was still in touch with the College Kolkata, for winning the economists and is presently airport from the United States farmers’ distress, he asked the you my word, if we come to now retired teachers of the Nobel Prize in Economics. working as a professor of eco- and police gave him security till BJP why Maruti shut its factory power, these will be done. I don’t school who taught him. “He Another Bengali has done the nomics at MIT. His wife is also a he reached his sister’s home and why Tata closed its units make false promises.” replies to e-mails from his nation proud. We are overjoyed,” professor there. near Kochi. TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019 ASIA 13 Prince William, Kate arrive in Pakistan on 5-day visit Three Pakistan senators AFP In addition to ISLAMABAD Islamabad and elected to IPU Prince William and his wife Kate Lahore, the royal committees arrived in Pakistan to a red couple will also visit carpet welcome late yesterday the mountainous INTERNEWS for their “most complex” tour to ISLAMABAD date, with Islamabad eager to north and the region tout improved security after bordering Afghanistan. Three Pakistani senators — years of violent militancy. Raza Rabbani and Sherry The couple — the Duchess of more than a decade, and the Rehman, from the Pakistan Cambridge in a sea-green slow but steady revival of inter- People’s Party and Javed Abbasi shalwar kameez, and the Duke national cricket. of Nawaz Sharif’s PML-N party in a dark suit — were greeted by Analysts have long warned — have been elected to separate Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood that Pakistan is not yet getting to committees of the Inter-Parlia- Qureshi and presented with the root causes of extremism, mentary Union (IPU). flowers after they landed in a however, and militants retain the In a breakthrough at Bel- British government plane at a ability to carry out attacks, grade, Senator Rabbani military base in Rawalpindi, the including in urban areas. emerged victorious after India garrison city adjacent to the Moments before the couple’s withdrew the candidature of capital Islamabad, state tele- arrival yesterday, Qureshi used Congress leader Shashi Tharoor vision images showed. televised comments to invoke for a slot in the prestigious Details of the five-day visit the memory of Diana, who executive committee of IPU. are being kept under wraps. charmed Pakistanis when she The IPU is holding its 141st Security is expected to be tight visited in her official capacity in general assembly in the Serbian for the couple’s first official trip 1991. She also made several capital. It opened with a Britain’s Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, are welcomed as they arrive in to Pakistan, and the first visit by private visits in later years to meeting of the IPU’s Asia Pacific Islamabad, Pakistan, yesterday. a British royal since William’s help Imran — then a cricketer- Group to decide about its joint father Charles and his wife turned-opposition politician nominee for a slot in the exec- Camilla came in 2006. to meet Prime Minister Imran “But it will focus largely on seen tens of thousands of people married to her friend Jemima — utive committee. In addition to Islamabad they Khan, who was close friends with showcasing Pakistan as it is killed in the past 15 or so years. raise money for a cancer hospital Of the 34 members of the are set to visit the ancient Mughal William’s mother, the late today, a dynamic, aspirational, But security has improved in Lahore. “She is held in very executive committee, Asia has capital of Lahore, as well as the Princess Diana. and forward-looking nation,” dramatically since the army high esteem in Pakistan... We are three seats and two of them are mountainous north and the “I’ve always been struck by Drew continued. intensified a crackdown on mil- happy that the Duke and already held by China and region near the border with the warmth in Pakistan towards They are expected to see itant groups in 2015, with several Duchess of Cambridge are now Thailand. Election to the third Afghanistan in the west. the Royal Family,” British High Pakistan’s efforts to combat countries changing their travel coming,” Qureshi said. seat was held on Sunday. The Kensington Palace has called Commissioner Thomas Drew climate change and learn about warnings for Pakistan as a result, The visit showed that term of the executive commit- the trip “the most complex tour said in a video published to the “complex security” of the and Islamabad eager to promote Pakistan has come out of “dif- tee’s member is three years. undertaken by The Duke and Twitter late Sunday. region, among other issues, a both tourism and foreign ficult times”, he added. According to the National Duchess to date, given the logis- The couple’s programme will statement from Kensington investment. Britain is home to more than a Assembly Secretariat (NAS), tical and security pay respect to Britain’s historic Palace said earlier this month. There are promising signs, million people of Pakistani origin, Pakistan fielded former Senate considerations”. relationship with Pakistan, once Pakistan has waged a long such as the British Airways’ making it the largest Pakistani chairman Mian Raza Rabbani The couple are also expected part of colonial India, he said. battle with militancy which has return earlier this year after diaspora community in Europe. for the coveted slot and his can- didature was being vigorously pursued by Pakistan’s parlia- mentary delegation led by NA Afghan election results 5.8-magnitude quake jolts northern Pakistan Speaker Asad Qaiser. It may be INTERNEWS Afghanistan, 157km below the extreme northern parts of the noted that Qaiser is chairman GILGIT surface of earth. country. of the Asia Pacific Group for the likely later this month The tremors were felt in However, no casualties were current year. AP votes for a better future. Those An earthquake measuring 5.8 on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and reported. The National Disaster As the meeting opened, the KABUL voters deserve to be com- the Richter Scale jolted parts of northern areas, including Management Authority had Indian delegation led by Lok mended for carrying out their northern Pakistan early Peshawar, Malakand, Mardan, established a line of communi- Sabha Speaker Om Birla, in a Afghanistan’s delayed presi- civic duty,” said the UN yesterday morning, according to Charsadda, Attock and the cation with the district author- surprise move, forwarded the dential election results should statement. a report by state-run Radio Hazara division, spreading panic ities of earthquake-hit areas to candidature of noted writer and be ready later this month, after The statement called on all Pakistan. and fear among locals. assess damage. Congress member of the Lok technical problems with the Afghan authorities and actors — The Pakistan Meteorological According to reports, the The earthquake follows a Sabha, Shashi Tharoor. counting, its Independent including the government and Department said that the epi- earthquake jolts were also felt smaller 3.8 magnitude earth- However, the Indian dele- Election Commission said the candidates — to “protect the centre of the quake was the as far as Shangla, Kohistan, Batt- quake that shook parts of Punjab gation sought more time for yesterday. integrity of the process, espe- Hindu Kush mountain range in agram, Torghar, Swat and other on Sunday. canvassing and demanded a Afghans voted in presi- cially with regard to tabulating deferment of the vote. They also dential elections earlier last and announcing the results.” tried to refer the matter to the month despite Taliban threats Over the weekend, main general assembly. and violence. However, the Asadullah Saadati, the running However, the Pakistani del- polling was marred by wide- mate of Abdullah, alleged sys- egation sought the group chair- spread misconduct and accusa- tematic fraud in the elections. man’s ruling on the issue and tions of fraud - as well as con- Saadati said that their team urged him to follow the tra- troversy over what appeared to has emphasised that only ballots dition of Asia Pacific fraternity be low turnout and claims from from the biometric system of deciding the matters inter- a lead contender, Abdullah should be used in counting. nally and not by the IPU’s Abdullah, that he had won the Meanwhile in the capital general assembly. vote. Kabul, a high school principal Pakistan’s appeal was sec- Hawa Alam Nuristani, head was shot and killed in front of onded by China, Canada and of the IEC, said that the goal is his home early yesterday by the Philippines, a senior official to meet the deadline for unknown gunmen, according to of the NA Secretariat, who was announcing the preliminary the city police chief’s office. attending the event, said. Con- results on October 19. Sayed Ziauddin, the prin- sequently, Tharoor withdrew She said that the data of ciple of Abdul Ghafoor Nadim his candidature and Raza more than one million voters has high school, was returning to his Rabbani won the seat. been successfully transferred to home, when he was attacked Asia Pacific Group unani- servers after technical problems and killed. mously elected Senator Sherry with biometric devices used in In a separate incident yes- Rehman to the bureau of the the voting process. terday morning again in Kabul, IPU Standing Committee on The UN Assistance Mission three mortars struck close to the Sustainable Development, in Afghanistan urged in a country’s parliament building, Trade and Finance while statement on Sunday that the according to the police chief’s Senator Javed Abbasi was also electoral commission safeguard office. There were no casualties elected to the IPU Drafting and properly complete the or damages. Turning grapes into raisins Committee. With these elec- election process. No one immediately claimed tions, Pakistan’s parliament Grapes are spread out on the ground to dry and become raisins at a field in the Panjwai district of “Afghan citizens braved responsibility for the attacks in now has seven members in dif- Kandahar province, in Afghanistan. security threats to cast their the capital. ferent committees of the IPU. Court sends ECP appointments to parliament Bangladesh Uber drivers INTERNEWS Siddiqui from Sindh and Munir court that petitions regarding the asked, in response to which the strike for commission cut ISLAMABAD Kakar from Balochistan against ECP appointments had been sub- additional attorney-general said two the vacant posts previously mitted in the apex court, the that he should be granted per- AFP/DHAKA Uber, as well as other restric- The Islamabad High Court (IHC) held by Ghaffar Soomro and Sindh High Court and the Lahore mission to ask the federal gov- tions in the mobile-based ride- yesterday ordered that the issue retired Justice Shakeel Baloch High Court. ernment for instructions. Bangladesh’s already congested sharing app, union leader of the appointment of two from the respective provinces. “This is a matter of public The court expressed confi- capital Dhaka was further Kaiyum Ahmed Shuvo said. members of the Election The chief election commis- interest. Do you want to make dence in the parliament to solve disrupted yesterday as thou- Another leader, Belal Commission of Pakistan (ECP) sioner (CEC) refused to admin- the election commission non- the matter, as Justice Minallah sands of Uber drivers went on Ahmed, said out of the 12,000 be sent to the parliament. ister the oath to both members- functional?” Justice Minallah remarked: “Who will say that this strike in the city of 20 million, Uber drivers active in Dhaka at During the hearing of a designate and wrote a letter to inquired during the matter should not be solved in demanding a cut in the least 7,000 had joined the strike, petition challenging the appoint- the law ministry, saying that the proceedings. the forum of the parliament? commission they pay to the due to end early morning today. ments, IHC Chief Justice Athar appointment of ECP members Saying that the ECP had Constitutional institutions should global ridesharing giant. Among several demands, the Minallah said that the National was not in accordance with rel- become “almost non-func- not be non-functional; does the Uber, which has helped to drivers want Uber to cut its com- Assembly speaker and Senate evant articles of the tional”, he asked: “Can the par- government want this?” shake up local transportation mission to 12 percent and also chairman should “end the Constitution. liament not even solve such a Prior to the hearing, the sec- worldwide and whose shares remove the daily 12-hour limit deadlock” and prevent the ECP Following this, the IHC small issue?” retary of the Ministry of Parlia- went public this year, has seen on their working hours. from becoming admitted a petition filed by Bar- Justice Minallah said that the mentary Affairs submitted a a backlash in many countries Uber launched operations in “non-functional”. rister Jahangir Jadoon, chal- National Assembly speaker and reply in the court on behalf of against its business practices Bangladesh in 2016, and some Additionally, the high court lenging the appointments, for Senate chairman should resolve the federal government, from regulators and drivers 100,000 drivers have since said a written order was to regular hearing. the issue through consultations. requesting the IHC to adjourn alike. signed up. Uber Bangladesh apol- follow. During the proceedings “Does the federal government proceedings on the petition till Two driver unions called a ogised for the “disruption” President Dr Arif Alvi, on today, Additional Attorney- still want to defend the the Supreme Court issued its 24-hour strike to protest against caused by what it said was “due August 22, appointed Khalid General Amir Rehman told the deadlock?” the IHC chief justice verdict on the matter. the 25 percent cut they give to a small group of individuals”. 14 ASIA TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019 Japan searches for Indonesia nabs 22 militants typhoon survivors after attack as death toll hits 56 on minister AP AFP Prime Minister Shinzo JAKARTA TOKYO Abe has pledged to At least 22 suspected militants Tens of thousands of rescuers ‘do whatever the plotting bombings and other worked into the night yesterday country can’ for attacks have been arrested in a to find survivors of a powerful victims and survivors, counterterrorism crackdown typhoon in Japan that killed at following last week’s assault by least 56 people, as fresh rain and has ordered a knife-wielding militant threatened to hamper their to call up to 1,000 couple who wounded Indone- efforts. reserve troops to join sia’s top security minister, Typhoon Hagibis crashed 31,000 active forces in police said yesterday. into the country on Saturday National police spokesman night, unleashing high winds and search operations. Dedi Prasetyo told a news con- torrential rain across 36 of the ference that the police’s elite country’s 47 prefectures, trig- call up to 1,000 reserve troops anti-terror squad, known as gering landslides and cata- to join 31,000 active forces in Densus 88, seized 10 Emergency personnel paddle across floodwaters using an inflatable raft during search and rescue strophic flooding. search operations. homemade pipe bombs The death toll from the dis- But rescue work that was operations in the aftermath of Typhoon Hagibis, in Nagano, Japan, yesterday. believed to be intended for aster has risen steadily, with continuing into the night risked suicide attacks, chemicals for national broadcaster NHK saying being hampered by additional secondary disasters due to the of up to 216km per hour, but it from roofs and balconies, or use in explosives, airsoft guns, yesterday night that 56 people rain falling in central and eastern current rain.” was the heavy rains that caused steered boats through muddy knives, documents on planned had been killed and 15 were still Japan that officials warned could The death toll continued to the most damage. waters to reach those trapped. attacks, jihadist books, laptops missing. cause fresh flooding and rise into yesterday evening, with A total of 176 rivers flooded By the afternoon yesterday, and mobile phones in separate It cited its own tally based on landslides. bodies pulled from flooded cars — mainly in eastern and some 75,900 households raids. local reporting. The government “I would like to ask people and homes, swollen rivers and northern Japan — with their remained without power, with Police were hunting other has given lower numbers but is to stay fully vigilant and continue landslides. banks collapsing in two dozen water cut off to 135,000 homes. suspected militants, who mostly still updating its information. watching for landslides and river The casualties included a places, local media said. The disaster left tens of thou- are participants in a social “Even now, many people are flooding,” Chief Cabinet Sec- municipal worker whose car was In central Nagano, a levee sands of people in shelters, with media chat group and are still unaccounted for in the dis- retary Yoshihide Suga told a overcome by floodwaters and at breach sent water from the many unsure when they would members of a local affiliate of aster-hit area,” Prime Minister news conference. least seven crew from a cargo Chikuma river gushing into res- be able to return home. the Islamic State group known Shinzo Abe told an emergency In Nagano, one of the worst- ship that sank in Tokyo Bay on idential neighbourhoods, Most subway trains had as the Jama’ah Anshorut disaster meeting yesterday. hit regions, officials said they Saturday night, a coast guard flooding homes up to the second resumed service yesterday, along Daulah, or JAD. “Units are trying their best to were working cautiously. spokesman said. floor. Television footage from the with many bullet train lines, and Chief Security Minister search for and rescue them, “We are concerned about the Four others, from China, area showed patients being flights had also restarted. Wiranto, a local police chief and working day and night,” Abe impact of the latest rain on Myanmar and Vietnam, were transferred by ambulance from The storm also brought a third man were wounded in said. rescue and recovery efforts,” rescued when the boat sank and a Nagano hospital where some havoc to the sporting world, the broad daylight attack on Later in the day, he pledged local official Hiroki Yamaguchi the coast guard was still 200 people had been cut off by forcing the delay of Japanese Thursday by the couple in the to “do whatever the country can” said. searching for a last crew flooding. Grand Prix qualifiers and the western province of Banten. for victims and survivors, “We will continue operations member. Elsewhere, rescuers used cancellation of three Rugby Wiranto, who goes by one ordering the defence ministry to while watching out for Hagibis packed wind gusts helicopters to winch survivors World Cup matches. name, is recovering in an army hospital in Jakarta and police were interrogating the couple, Philippine police chief who were believed to be South Korea’s justice members of a JAD bloc in quits amid drug scandal Banten. Wiranto, a 72-year-old AFP/MANILA minister resigns former armed forces chief, sus- REUTERS will be successfully completed,” tained two stab wounds in the The Philippines’ top policeman, who leads the SEOUL he added. Cho’s decision to quit stomach but was in stable con- nation’s deadly drugs crackdown, quit yesterday was his own, Moon’s chief dition. The attack came just as he faces allegations of protecting officers South Korea’s recently political advisor Kang Gi-jung over a week before the October accused of selling a huge haul of seized narcotics. appointed justice minister told reporters. 20 inauguration of President Though the scandal dates from before Oscar resigned yesterday saying a graft “I am very sorry for causing Joko Widodo for his second Albayalde’s time as national police chief, it has scandal swirling around his so much conflict among the five-year term. raised fresh criticism of President Rodrigo Duterte’s family had become a political people,” Moon said in a meeting Widodo has called the signature anti-narcotics campaign, which is key burden for President Moon with senior aides yesterday, attackers terrorists and urged to his massive popularity among Filipinos. A file photo of Oscar Albayalde Jae-in’s government. referring to the protests. people to combat radicalism. As part of Duterte’s internationally condemned Selected by Moon to lead the “But... Minister Cho Kuk’s He ordered government forces initiative, police have killed thousands of alleged serving as national police chief since April 2018. ministry, Cho Kuk had been passionate commitment to pros- to hunt down the militant net- dealers and users since mid-2016, but critics say “I thank President Rodrigo Roa Duterte for his tasked with reforming the pros- ecution reform, and his attitude works responsible for the attack the wealthy and powerful have been largely trust and confidence,” Albayalde said in a message ecutors’ office, which critics say to endure all kinds of difficulties on Wiranto. untouched. announcing his departure. has long been susceptible to for it, once again aroused sym- Indonesia, the world’s most Albayalde’s resignation comes days after two Though the issue has been bubbling for weeks political pressure. pathy for the urgency of prose- populous Muslim nation, has former police officials implicated him in a 2013 in Senate hearings, Duterte has remained largely Since his appointment on cution reform.” carried out a sustained raid in which officers in a province near Manila silent on the matter. He had pledged to root out September 9 there have been The controversy over Cho, crackdown on militants since allegedly seized and then sold parts of a large meth- deep-seated corruption in the Philippine police street protests against Cho, due as well as public discontent over bombings on Bali in 2002 killed amphetamine haul. but has repeatedly expressed frustration and anger to investigations mounted by a sluggish economy and stalled 202 people. One former official claimed Albayalde inter- with the extent of the problem. prosecutors into his family’s diplomatic efforts with North vened to protect the officers from disciplinary Neri Colmenares, a lawyer for families pushing financial investments and the Korea, have pushed Moon’s action, while the other said he received money for an International Criminal Court prosecution university admissions of his approval ratings to fresh lows. South Korean from the drug sale. of those behind the drug war, branded the allega- children. In its latest survey, pollster Criminal charges against the officers allegedly tions against Albayalde a “major embarrassment”. “I decided I must not burden Realmeter said 41.4% approved pop star found involved in the matter were dismissed in 2017. “Even the presiding officers of the PNP (national the President and the gov- of Moon’s performance, the However, prosecutors have now re-opened the police) are involved in drugs themselves,” he said. ernment with my family’s affairs lowest since he took office in dead at home case and summoned the men for questioning. It “shows what we’ve been saying all along, this is anymore,” Cho said in a 2017. The survey of 2,502 people Albayalde, then the province commander, has targeted against the poor”. statement announcing his conducted last week found AP vehemently denied any wrongdoing. He said the Philippine police say they have killed just over resignation. 56.1% disapproved of his per- SEOUL allegations may have been an effort to gain pub- 5,500 suspects who fought back against arrest, but “I believe that now is the formance, up from 52.3% in the licity for people interested in his job. rights groups say the true toll is four times higher time for me to step down so that first week of October, the South Korean pop star and He was due to retire on November 8 after and may amount to crimes against humanity. reforming the prosecutor’s office pollster said yesterday. actress Sulli was found dead at her home south of Seoul yesterday, police said. The 25-year-old was found Hong Kong police say homemade bomb targeted officers after her manager went to her home in Seongnam because she AP Deputy Commissioner Tang for President Donald Trump to didn’t answer phone calls for HONG KONG Ping-keung said at a news con- “liberate Hong Kong.” Another hours, said Kim Seong-tae, an ference, speaking through a read, “Make Hong Kong great official from the Seongnam A homemade, remote-controlled translator. again.” Sujeong Police Department. bomb intended to “kill or to But despite spiralling vio- The majority of demon- Kim said that there were no harm” riot control officers was lence, widespread vandalism and strators wore face masks, a signs of foul play and that police detonated as they were deployed gasoline-bomb attacks by black- practice first adopted by many did not find a suicide note. against renewed violence in clad hardcore protesters, and to protect their identities amid “The investigation is Hong Kong over the weekend, repeated government appeals for profound distrust of the police ongoing and we won’t make police said yesterday, in a further people not to take their side, the and government but now also a presumptions about the cause escalation of destructive street protest movement is still rousing symbol of dissent since Hong of death,” said Kim, adding that battles gripping the business hub. determined support from more Kong’s leader, Carrie Lam, made security camera footage at The “loud thud” on Sunday moderate demonstrators, the wearing of masks at rallies Sulli’s home showed no signs night close to riot officers who broadly worried about the future punishable by a year in jail. of an intrusion. had been clearing away a pro- of the semi-autonomous Chinese Tang, the deputy commis- In a statement sent to tester-built road block marked territory and its freedoms, sioner, said violence against reporters, SM Entertainment, the first known use of an unique in China. police has reached “a life-threat- Sulli’s agency, said her death explosive device during protests A peaceful rally in central ening level.” “If members of the was “very hard to believe and Protesters attended a rally in Hong Kong yesterday, calling on US that started in June over a con- Hong Kong’s swanky business public continue to remain silent sorrowful.” Sulli’s legal name is politicians to pass a bill that could alter Washington’s relationship tested extradition bill and have district yesterday night drew a and condone and tolerate such Choi Jin-ri. She began her snowballed into an anti-gov- giant crowd tens of thousands with the trading hub. behaviour they will go from bad singing career in 2009 as a ernment and anti-police strong, a chanting, singing throng to worse,” he said. member of the girl band “f(x)” movement. so massive that demonstrators participants. Many waved US special economic and trade “Please cut ties with these and also acted in numerous tel- “It exploded less than 2 filled side streets and broad flags. The rally appealed for the status, providing a check on Bei- criminals and rioters.” evision dramas and movies. meters (yards) away from a boulevards. Holding aloft lit US Congress to press on with leg- jing’s influence over the No casualties were reported She recently appeared in a police vehicle. We have reason mobile hones, the crowd looked islation that would require the territory. from the detonation on Sunday TV show and spoke out against to believe that the bomb was like a galaxy of stars. Organisers secretary of state to annually A banner where speakers night on a usually busy thor- online backlash she received meant to target police officers,” said they drew 130,000 review Hong Kong’s whipped up the crowd appealed oughfare in Kowloon. over her lifestyle. TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019 EUROPE 15 Brexit hangs in balance as EU doubts deal this week

REUTERS “If there could be one 1982 Falklands War. LONDON/BRUSSELS thing more divisive, As EU ministers met in Lux- embourg ahead of the leaders’ A deal to smooth Britain’s more toxic than the summit, Johnson’s planned leg- departure from the European first referendum, it islative agenda was read out by Union hung in the balance be would be a second Queen Elizabeth at the state yesterday after diplomats indi- referendum,” Prime opening of parliament. cated the bloc wanted more If he is unable to clinch a concessions from Prime Minister Minister Boris Johnson deal, an acrimonious divorce Boris Johnson and said a full said yesterday. could follow that would divide agreement was unlikely this the West, roil financial markets week. agreement before the EU Council and test the cohesion of the As the Brexit maelstrom meeting,” Prime Minister Antti United Kingdom. spins, Johnson and EU leaders Rinne said after talks with the “Let’s not wait - we can’t face a tumultuous week of reck- next chair of EU summits, wait: let’s get Brexit done,” oning that could decide whether Charles Michel. Johnson told parliament. “If there the divorce is orderly, acrimo- “We need more time and we could be one thing more divisive, nious or delayed yet again. need to have negotiations after more toxic than the first refer- Johnson says he wants to the (European) Council meeting.” endum, it be would be a second Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II (left) sits with Britain’s Prince Charles, Prince of Wales on the Sovereign’s strike an exit deal at an EU Some EU politicians such as referendum.” The pound fell throne to deliver the Queen’s Speech at the State Opening of Parliament in the Houses of Parliament summit on Thursday and Friday Irish Foreign Minister Simon more than 1% to a session low of to allow an orderly departure on Coveney said a deal was possible $1.2517. Against the euro, the in London, yesterday. The State Opening of Parliament is where Queen Elizabeth II performs her October 31. If an agreement is not with more work. But EU dip- British currency weakened by a ceremonial duty of informing Parliament about the government’s agenda for the coming year. possible, he says he will lead the lomats were pessimistic about similar margin to 88.11 pence. United Kingdom out of the club the chances of Johnson’s hybrid The main sticking point must master the complexities of but are essentially a compromise and Northern Ireland. If Johnson it joined in 1973 without a deal - customs proposal for the Irish remains the border between EU the Irish border before getting in which Northern Ireland is for- fails to strike a deal with the EU, even though parliament has border riddle. member Ireland and the British the approval of Europe’s biggest mally in the United Kingdom’s a law passed by parliament passed a law saying he cannot “We are not very optimistic,” province of Northern Ireland: powers and then sell any deal to customs union but also infor- obliges him to seek a delay — the do so. a senior EU diplomat said. how to prevent it becoming a the parliament in which he has mally in the EU’s customs union. scenario EU diplomats think is But current EU president After more than three years backdoor into the EU after Brexit no majority and which he sus- But the EU is worried it most likely. Finland said more time was of Brexit crisis that has claimed without erecting controls that pended unlawfully last month. would be impossible to ensure “It’s up to the Brits to decide needed and that negotiations the scalps of two British prime could undermine the 1998 peace “Johnson doesn’t have a goods entering Northern Ireland if they will ask for an extension,” could continue even after the EU ministers, Johnson will have to agreement that largely ended majority for anything in par- do not end up in the bloc and is European Commission head summit. ratify any last-minute deal in three decades of sectarian liament,” one EU official said. concerned about the complexity Jean-Claude Juncker said in an “I think there is no time in a parliament, which will hold its violence. The details of Johnson’s pro- of a system for charging tariffs interview with Austrian media practical or legal way to find an first Saturday sitting since the To get a deal done, Johnson posals have not been published on goods moved between Britain outlet Kurier. Germany not Blow for Orban in Budapest’s mayoral election Afghan man gets taking back all 26 years in jail AFP Fidesz had run a highly neg- ities just one opposition chal- Daesh fighters BUDAPEST ative campaign attacking Kara- lenger lined up against Fidesz. for Amsterdam csony for an allegedly pro- Polls had still forecast only ANATOLIA Hungary’s opposition scored a migration stance and his “unsuit- slight gains nationwide for the stabbing attack BERLIN shock win in the Budapest ability” for the job, while Orban opposition outside the capital, AFP / THE HAGUE mayoralty election on Sunday, had threatened to withhold but in another surprise it won 10 Germany yesterday ruled out the first electoral blow for cooperation from municipalities of 23 of Hungary’s main cities. Dutch judges yesterday taking back all of its Daesh nationalist Prime Minister Viktor lost by his party. The vote was seen as a litmus sentenced an Afghan man to 26 fighters currently held in Orban since he came to power But pre-vote favourite Tarlos test for its new strategy of coop- years and eight months in jail prisons in northern Syria, in 2010. and Fidesz, which brands itself eration, which could offer a for stabbing two American despite criticism and pressure The win was “historic” said as Christian-conservatvie, were route to mount a serious chal- tourists at Amsterdam’s Central by the US and Turkish leaders. the pro-European centre-left damaged by a scandal involving lenge to Orban at the next station in a terror attack. Speaking at a news con- challenger Gergely Karacsony, a Fidesz mayor in the western general election in 2022. The 20-year-old, identified ference in Berlin, an Interior 44, who was backed by a wide city of Gyor that erupted last “The win (in Budapest) was only as Jawed S., was also Gergely Karacsony Ministry spokesman told range of opposition parties from week. just the first step on the road to ordered at Amsterdam district reporters that the government across the political spectrum. “We acknowledge this changing Hungary,” said court to pay almost ¤3m has three criteria on the issue The mild-mannered former politicians to win a district in the decision in Budapest, and stand Karacsony. ($3.3m) in damages following of repatriation of Daesh political scientist led by 51 last election five years ago. ready to cooperate,” Orban told “It proves that the new the August 31, 2018 assault. fighters. percent of the vote ahead of the “Budapest will be green and supporters at a rally. strategy of opposition cooper- One of the two victims “First of all, there won’t be incumbent Istvan Tarlos on free, we will bring it back to The elections were seen as a ation works, it was its best result remains in a wheelchair after a blanket acceptance, each case around 44 percent, with 82 Europe,” he said. rare chance for the beleaguered in years,” said Andras Biro-Nagy, the attack, which sent midday will be examined individually,” percent of votes counted. Since 2010 Orban has opposition to roll back the power an analyst with Policy commuters at the city’s busiest Steve Alter stressed. In office since 2010, the reformed Hungary’s institutions of Fidesz, who also hold a super- Solutions. station into a panic. “Secondly, the identity of 71-year-old Tarlos, backed by and concentrated power and majority in parliament, and “Budapest is the big prize, Police shot Jawed S. in the the person that we are expected Orban’s right-wing Fidesz party, media organs in his hands, and Orban who has boasted about but the breakthrough in lower body before arresting to take back has to be proved congratulated the new mayor by regularly clashed with Brussels building an “illiberal state”. numerous provincial cities is at him. beyond a doubt,” he phone, Karacsony told cheering over migration and rule-of-law Parties from left to right least as important,” said Dutch prosecutors charged continued. supporters. issues. joined forces in an effort to wrest Biro-Nagy. Jawad S. with two counts of “Thirdly, anyone taken back “We will take the city from He has also cruised to con- control of Fidesz-held munici- “It is the first crack in the attempted murder with a ter- should not pose a threat to our the 20th century to the 21st,” said secutive landslide victories at the palities and prevent an electoral Orban system, and it seems rorist aim and judges found all society,” he added. the pro-EU Karacsony, who was polls, partly due to electoral rule rout for the first time in almost guaranteed that the strategy will accusations against him had US President Donald Trump one of the few opposition changes he oversaw. a decade. In many municipal- continue for 2022,” he said. been proven. has repeatedly called on Germany and other European countries to take back their Two migrants found dead nationals after more than 800 foreign terrorist fighters were captured in Syria. on beach in northern France

AFP A similar boat was found Parents of crash LILLE, FRANCE some 450 metres from the scene but it was not clear if the two victim urge The bodies of two young Iraqis were linked. were found washed up on a Over the past year, growing diplomat’s wife beach in northern France numbers of migrants from to return to UK yesterday, a first in a region Africa, the Middle East and where migrants are taking to Central Asia have taken to the AP/NEW YORK boats in growing numbers to try treacherous waters of the reach Britain. Channel in small fishing boats The parents of a motorcyclist A passerby yesterday or inflatable dinghies. killed in a traffic crash with an morning spotted the body of a Rights groups have linked American diplomat’s wife took 17-year-old Iraqi Kurdish youth the crossings to a police their case directly to US audi- on a beach in Le Touquet, about crackdown in Calais, which has ences yesterday, holding a New 70km south of the port of Calais, made it harder for migrants to York news conference at which long a rallying point for migrants set up camp or try climb aboard they urged the woman to return hoping to stow away on a truck a passing truck. to Britain. or ferry to Britain. Eight migrants were inter- Activists and supporters of nationalist forces march in downtown Kiev, Ukraine, yesterday. The parents of Harry Dunn A few hours later, another cepted on a beach near Calais have reached out to US politi- passerby spotted the body of a and taken to a shelter cians and plan to be in Wash- Protest in Ukraine against troop pullback second Iraqi man, aged 22, on yesterday. ington on Wednesday and the same beach. This is the first Maritime authorities in Thursday in their quest to get AFP a group of nationalists who designated as Ukraine’s armed time that two migrants have northern France counted 1,473 the woman back in the UK “to KIEV fought against Soviet troops in forces day. been found dead on the same migrants who tried to reach Brit- present herself to police,” World War II alongside Nazi Protesters chanted “No to day on northern French shores. ain’s shores by sea between family spokesman Radd Seiger Thousands of Ukrainians forces. capitulation!”, “Ukraine above The two men “probably January and August this year, said. If that occurs, the family marched in Kiev yesterday, Nationalist forces custom- all” and “Russian language came from the same boat”, compared with 586 in all of indicated, it would be willing to decrying as “capitulation” a arily hold the “UPA March” on today, Russian tanks tomorrow”. which was found empty next to 2018. In August, two migrants speak with her there. mooted pullback of troops this date, with many of the President Volodymyr Zel- the body of the younger man, the were found dead in the Channel, The diplomat’s wife, Anne fighting Moscow-backed sepa- former fighters in the conflict in enskiy is gearing up for an EU- region’s security department an Iranian woman who drowned Sacoolas, should “do the right ratists in the east and calling for eastern Ukraine among the dem- supported summit with Russian said. Police found two oars after falling out of a packed thing,” Charlotte Charles, victory in the five-year war. onstrators, as well as supporters leader Vladimir Putin, the first inside the inflatable dinghy, and migrant boat and an Iraqi man Dunn’s mother, “face us as a Monday marked the anni- of nationalist organisation in years, in an effort to revive a a canister of fuel and life vest who was found dead off the broken family” and face the UK versary of the foundation of the Svoboda. stalled peace process for the nearby, security officials for the Belgian port of Zeebrugge after legal system, urged tearfully. Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), October 14 has also been region. Pas-de-Calais region said. trying to swim to England. 16 EUROPE TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019 Spain’s top court jails 9 Catalan separatist leaders

REUTERS The court also issued MADRID an European arrest warrant for Carles Spain’s Supreme Court yesterday Puigdemont, who was jailed nine Catalan separatist leaders for between nine and 13 regional leader during years for their role in a failed its independence bid. independence bid, a decision that triggered protests in the region The case concerned an inde- and left the future course of the pendence referendum held in dispute uncertain. October 2017 despite being ruled Acting Prime Minister Pedro illegal by Spanish courts, and the Sanchez said the leader’s impris- subsequeent short-lived decla- onment signified the defeat of ration of independence by the the independence movement, regional parliament. whose long-running campaign The longest prison term — 13 has caused Spain’s most serious years — was imposed on the political crisis since the death of Catalan goverment’s former dictator Francisco Franco four deputy leader, Oriol Junqueras. decades ago. The court convicted him and Former Catalan President Carles Puigdemont holding a news conference after Spain’s Supreme Court sentenced nine separatist leaders But after the court in Madrid eight other leaders on charges of from Catalonia, in Brussels, yesterday. RIGHT: Protesters clash with Spanish policemen outside El Prat airport in Barcelona. announced the verdicts and sedition and four of them of prison sentences, protesters misuse of public funds. the defeat of a movement that between Barcelona and France social media that they would demand and said the sentences marched on Barcelona’s airport, Three other defendants were failed to gain internal support was interrupted as was the carry on their fight. must be carried out, although he blocked highways and halted found guilty only of disobedience and international recognition,” regional train network due to “Nine years in prison won’t also suggested dialogue. traffic at several places in the and not sentenced to prison. All he said in a televised speech. protests in the separatist end my optimism. Catalonia will The court also issued an nothwestern region. defendants were acquitted of the The jailed men sent out mes- stronghold of Girona, where be independent if we persist. Let European arrest warrant for The strength of the protests gravest charge, rebellion. sages of defiance, urging people people stood on the tracks us demonstrate without fear, let Carles Puigdemont, who was could be the first indication of “What happened on October to take to the streets. wrapped in pro-independence us move forward determinedly regional leader during its inde- how the future looks for the 1 was not just a demonstration The CDR grassroots flags. from non-violence to freedom,” pendence bid. He now lives in independence struggle, which or a massive act of citizen movement said on social media: In Barcelona, four main said Jordi Sanchez, former leader self-imposed exile in Belgium. In has so far been largely peaceful. protest,” the Madrid court said “It’s time to rise up against the streets were blocked by pro- of the Catalan National Assembly July 2018, the Spanish court Nor does the ruling answer the in its ruling. “It was a tumultuous authoritarian fascism of the testers holding signs calling for grassroots movement, who was dropped a warrant after Germany question of how to handle the uprising encouraged by the Spanish state and its accom- “Freedom for political prisoners”. sentenced to nine years in prison. refused to extradite him. separatism drive supported by accused, among many others.” plices. It is time for the #Revolta- A crowd chanted “We’ll do it Catalan regional president Scotland’s First Minister nearly half of Catalonia’s Prime Minister Sanchez, a Popular (popular revolt).” again” . Quim Torra, a separatist, called Nicola Sturgeon, who seeks inde- population. socialist who had taken a less Many protesters marched to The ruling is also likely to for an amnesty for all 12 leaders pendence for her own country, “This sentence is an attack rigid line with the separatist Barcelona’s airport. Riot police colour a national election on and said he would seek a was among the few foreign on democracy and the rights of movement than his conservative cordoned off dozens of pro- November 10, Spain’s fourth in meeting with King Felipe and wfigures to condemn the sen- all citizens,” the president of the predecessor, said it was time to testers at one airport access hall. four years and influence the Sanchez. He stopped short of tences, saying that “any political Catalan parliament Roger open a new chapter but he did Airport operator AENA said some direction taken by the separatist repeating calls for civil system that leads to such a Torrent said. “Today we are all not elaborate. flights could be affected. movement.. disobedience. dreadful outcome needs urgent convicted, not just 12 people.” “Today’s decision confirms The high-speed rail link The jailed separatists said via Sanchez rebuffed the change”. Denmark to strip foreign fighters of citizenship France weighs troop

REUTERS has raised the risk of jihadists All 27 are Danish nationals but hold another nationality of their COPENHAGEN escaping or returning home. it is unclear how many also have Danish citizenship without a pullout from Syria “There is a risk that the citizenship of another country. court order. Denmark will fast-track legis- Kurdish-controlled IS-camps in Europeans comprise a fifth The law would not apply to AFP operating in northern Syria in lation allowing people with dual the border area will collapse and of around 10,000 IS fighters held single nationality Danes who PARIS the event of a US exit, The Times citizenship who have gone that foreign warriors with Danish captive in Syria by Kurdish could be left stateless. newspaper reported last week. abroad to fight for militant citizenship will move towards militias which are now under “These are people who have France may have no choice but US Defense Secretary Mark groups like IS to be stripped of Denmark,” Frederiksen said in heavy attack by Turkish forces. turned their backs on Denmark to pull its troops out of the Esper said Sunday that 1,000 their Danish nationality, Prime a statement. If the militias redeploy prison and fought with violence against coalition fighting IS militants in soldiers — almost the entire US Minister Mette Frederiksen said Authorities believe at least guards to the front line, there is our democracy and freedom. northern Syria, after President force in Syria — would be pulled yesterday. 158 people from Denmark have a risk of jail-breaks. They pose a threat to our security. Donald Trump’s decision to from the country’s north amid European states are trying to joined militant groups in Syria The proposed new law, They are unwanted in Denmark,” withdraw US forces, sources said Turkey’s assault on Syrian accelerate a plan to shift thou- or Iraq since 2012, about 27 of which has broad support among Frederiksen said. “The gov- yesterday. Kurdish forces. sands of foreign IS militants out whom remain in the conflict lawmakers of different parties, ernment will therefore do every- Paris has contributed around Ankara launched the of Syrian prison camps and into zone. Twelve of these are would allow the government to thing possible, to prevent them 1,000 soldiers to the anti-IS coa- offensive after Trump effectively Iraq, as a fresh conflict in Syria believed to be imprisoned. strip fighters abroad who also from returning to Denmark.” lition in Syria and Iraq, which gave a green light for the oper- military sources say includes a ation by announcing that US couple of hundred special force forces, who had acted as a buffer Migrant rescue members in Syria’s north. between Turkey and the Syrian The government has never Kurds, would leave. vessel seeks port officially confirmed their Trump has been accused of presence, but President betraying the Kurdish-led militia AFP/MARSEILLE Emmanuel Macron tacitly that spearheaded the fight acknowledged soldiers were against Islamic State, which was The crew of a ship that rescued operating in the region after a dislodged from its final Syrian 176 migrants in the Mediter- meeting with his defence chiefs holdout last March. ranean over the weekend said late Sunday. Laying out the difficulties for yesterday it had so far received “Measures will be taken in French troops to stay on in the no response from any EU port the coming hours to ensure the absence of US forces, a gov- to requests to disembark them. security of French military per- ernment source said: “The Ocean Viking, operated by sonnel and civilians present in Americans deployed a very sig- the NGOs SOS Mediterranee the zone,” the presidency said nificant portion of the critical and Doctors Without Borders, in a statement. capabilities, in terms of intelli- picked up the migrants from It also said steps had been gence, targeting, air inflatable boats in two opera- taken to boost national security. refuelling.” tions off the coast of Libya. France’s armed forces Paris has condemned the US “No site in Libya can cur- spokesman refused to elaborate troop pullout, saying IS remains rently be considered safe” for on the announcement, citing a threat and must be kept from migrants, SOS Mediterranee security concerns. carrying out or inspiring attacks said in a statement, adding that “We’ve never hidden the fact in Europe. it was the fourth time it had that countries with small con- A foreign ministry spokes- asked for access to an EU port tingents would not be able to woman declined to comment on since August, shortly after stay if the United States pulled whether France would move to Leader of Poland’s Law and Justice (PiS) party, Jaroslaw Kaczynski (right) and Polish Prime Minister Mateusz relaunching rescue operations out,” a French diplomatic source take back French IS fighters Morawiecki (second right) react after the first exit polls during the party’s electoral evening in Warsaw. following a seven-month hiatus said. detained in Syria, amid fears it blamed on obstruction by Britain is also ready to they could escape Kurdish-held Polish conservatives win European nations. withdraw special forces prisons and camps. Lower House but lose Senate Russia detains four more protesters AP/WARSAW without consulting opposition party would still have a majority AFP many of them supporters of July 27 protest and Lesnykh had parties . in the lower house of parliament, MOSCOW opposition leader Alexei kicked another. Poland’s conservative ruling Law Opposition candidates but only a few seats more than Navalny, took to the streets of Another man detained, and Justice (PiS) party capitalised appeared to have secured a slim before. Russian investigators said Moscow during the summer Andrei Barshai, knocked a on its popular social spending majority of 51 seats in the 100- The Civic Coalition, a centrist yesterday they had detained four demanding fair elections. National Guard officer onto his policies to win a majority of seats seat upper house of parliament. alliance built around the Civic more people suspected of Authorities unleashed a back, investigators said, while a in the lower house of parliament The Senate is less powerful than Platform party, once led by EU violence against police at an crackdown on the anti-gov- fourth man, Vladimir Yem- but lost control of the Senate, the 460-seat lower house but leader Donald Tusk, was running unauthorised opposition protest ernment rallies and sentenced elyanov, seized hold of a National according to results yesterday. can delay legislation already second with over 27% support. in July, after jailing several several people to jail terms of Guard officer and prevented him When exit polls were passed in the lower house. It also Turnout was at a record high demonstrators. between two and five years. One carrying out his duties. released after voting ended on appoints officials to several of over 61% in a sign of how The powerful Investigative protester’s jail term was later The men are set to be Sunday evening, the ruling PiS important state bodies. important voters on all sides Committee in charge of the reduced to a suspended charged shortly, after which a party appeared headed for a In the lower house, Law and considered this election. probe said it had detained four sentence. court will decide whether to hold strong victory. The results from Justice won just under 44% of Despite the win, PiS leaders suspects and searched their Investigators said two of the them behind bars, the Investi- the Senate, however, indicate Sunday’s vote, up from 38% in were not overly enthusiastic. The homes while two other suspects four detained yesterday, Yegor gative Committee said. that the opposition will have a 2015, the state electoral com- result left them short of the two- had fled. Lesnykh and Maksim Martintsov, It said two others had “con- tool to prevent the ruling party mission said. Under the Polish thirds majority that they sought The latest detentions came had knocked a National Guard cealed themselves after learning from rushing through laws system for seat distribution, the to change the constitution. after tens of thousands of people, officer to the ground during a of the investigators’ activities.” TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019 AMERICAS 17 Trump says whistle-blower must testify as former aide Fiona talks to Congress AFP House Democrat their identity is a crime. WASHINGTON Jamie Raskin said he “Adam Schiff now doesn’t believes Fiona Hill seem to want the Whistleblower Donald Trump demanded could shed light on to testify. NO! Must testify to yesterday that a whistle-blower explain why he got my Ukraine whose warning about the US what he described conversation sooo wrong,” president’s call with Ukraine as “a very powerful Trump tweeted. triggered the impeachment shadow foreign policy “Did Schiff tell him to do inquiry against him be identified being operated out that? We must determine the and testify before Congress. Whistleblower’s identity to As the president menaced the of Ukraine by Rudy determine WHY this was done person who exposed his potential Giuliani”. to the USA.” wrongdoing, Trump faced a new Trump repeatedly charac- setback with his former top reporters as she entered the terises his Zelenskiy call as Russia adviser, Fiona Hill, sitting secure meeting room in the US “perfect,” but the whistleblower’s for a closed-door deposition Capitol for a deposition expected complaint noted how some Monday before Capitol Hill to last several hours. White House officials were so lawmakers. With the impeachment concerned about Trump’s actions Hill served in the National inquiry charging ahead, Trump on the call that they sought to Fiona Hill, former Special Assistant to US President Donald Trump and Senior Director for European and Security Council but left the lashed out at House Intelligence severely restrict access to its Russian Affairs on the United States National Security Council, arrives on Capitol Hill in Washington, administration shortly before Committee chairman Adam record. DC, yesterday. Trump’s July 25 call with his Schiff after the Democratic law- The White House memo of Ukrainian counterpart Volo- maker suggested the whistle- the call shows Trump sought a of Ukraine by the president’s subpoenaed by the House Intel- Democrats have accused dymyr Zelensky. blower might not testify out of “favour” from Zelenskiy. Dem- lawyer Rudy Giuliani” that ligence Committee. He has not Trump of pressuring a vul- Democrats expect her to concern for their safety. ocrats say it was a demand to bypassed normal channels in said whether he will comply. nerable US ally to dig up dirt on share her concerns about Trump has repeatedly investigate Joe Biden -- the pres- order to apply coercive pressure Lawmakers this week are a domestic rival after with- Trump’s involvement in the pushed for the unmasking of the ident’s potential 2020 election on Kiev. returning from a two-week holding $391m in US security Ukraine scandal, including his unidentified author of a com- rival -- and a Ukrainian firm that “I think that she would have recess, with testimony from aid intended to help combat ouster of the US ambassador to plaint that said Trump may have hired Biden’s son Hunter. a comprehensive overview of current and former adminis- Russian-backed separatists in Kiev Marie Yovanovitch, who abused his power on the call by House Democrat Jamie that whole situation,” Raskin tration officials on the schedule. the eastern part of Ukraine. testified to Congress last week. urging Ukraine to dig up dirt on Raskin said he believes Hill could said. A key event could be testimony The Ukraine leader agreed Hill, under a congressional his political rival Joe Biden. shed light on what he described Giuliani faces a Tuesday on Thursday from Gordon to investigate. Trump eventually subpoena according to her Whistleblowers are pro- as “a very powerful shadow deadline to produce documents Sondland, the US ambassador to allowed the aid. lawyer, made no remarks to tected by US law, and revealing foreign policy being operated out related to the Ukraine matter the European Union.

Over a dozen police officers dead in White House condemns video of fake Trump attacking media Mexico ambush AFP the logos of media outlets 2020 Democratic presidential speech,” Alex Phillips said. “At a conference of Trump WASHINGTON including CNN, The Washington rival. CNN wrote on Twitter: “This supporters, they played a video REUTERS Post and NBC TV. He throws Republican is not the first time that sup- of our president murdering jour- MEXICO CITY The White House yesterday “The @POTUS @realDon- senator Mitt Romney to the porters of the President have nalists in a church,” tweeted condemned a video depicting a aldTrump has not yet seen the ground and strikes former pres- promoted violence against the Democratic presidential hopeful Suspected cartel hitmen shot fake President Donald Trump video, he will see it shortly, but ident Barack Obama in the back media in a video they apparently Beto O’Rourke. dead more than a dozen police shooting and stabbing media based upon everything he has and slams him against a wall. find entertaining, but it is by far The former Texas con- in an ambush in the western figures and political opponents heard, he strongly condemns this The organiser of last week’s and away the worst.” gressman noted that Trump sup- Mexican state of Michoacan, that was shown at a conference video,” White House spokes- three-day “American Priority” The network called on the porter Cesar Sayoc was jailed last authorities said yesterday, in for his supporters. woman Stephanie Grisham said event — which was held at the White House to denounce the year to CNN and prominent one of the bloodiest attacks on In the Internet meme — in a tweet. president’s Trump National clip, saying “anything less Democrats, while only two days security forces since President taken from a scene in the 2014 During the rampage inside Doral Miami resort — said the equates to a tacit endorsement ago a shooter opened fire on a Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador spy comedy “Kingsman: The the “Church of Fake News,” the clip was part of a “meme exhibit.” of violence.” wedding in a small town church took office. Secret Service” — the president’s Trump character strikes the late “American Priority rejects all The White House Corre- in New Hampshire. The ministry for public head is superimposed on a man senator John McCain on the back political violence and aims to spondents’ Association also “This video isn’t funny. It will security said the attack was opening fire on people whose of the neck and torches the head promote a healthy dialogue called on Trump to denounce the get people killed,” O’Rourke carried out in the municipality faces have been replaced with of Senator Bernie Sanders, a about the preservation of free meme. added. of Aguililla in Michoacan, a state that has long been convulsed by turf wars between drug gangs, notably the Jalisco New SUV plunges onto train Generation Cartel (CJNG) and its enemies. tracks, burns; 2 teens die The federal public security ministry said 14 police were AP department came,” Geppner killed, though its Michoacan PEARL RIVER said. “I kept seeing the flames state counterpart reported that no matter what they did, they 13 officers were confirmed dead A two-car collision sent a just kept coming up.” and three injured. Porsche SUV plummeting off an NJ Transit service was sus- Photos of the crime scene overpass onto train tracks pended in both directions along published on social media below, where it burst into a section of the Pascack Valley showed shot-up and burning flames, killing two teenagers and line. police vehicles, as well as the sending a third to a hospital with The other driver of the other bodies of slain officers. They serious injuries. vehicle, Jason T Castro, of also showed large placards The Porsche fell from Route Nanuet, wasn’t injured, police signed by “CJNG” left on police 304 in Pearl River, New York, said. He was driving a vehicles. They warned police on Sunday afternoon and Volkswagen Jetta. not to support rival crime burned on New Jersey Transit Police didn’t provide details groups, including Los Viagras. tracks below. on the collision, including its The ambush was an attack Saniha Cekic, 15, of cause. on the police by local gangsters, Brooklyn, and Altin Nezaj, 17, of Nezaj was a member of People remove an oil spill on Coruripe beach, Alagoas state, Brazil, yesterday. said a state official, who Pearl River, were pronounced Pearl River High School’s requested anonymity. The dead at hospitals, Orangeburg football and wrestling teams; official confirmed the authen- State of emergency in Brazil state over oil spills police said in a prepared Radoncic also is a student there, ticity of the photos. statement. The driver, Aisha according to the Journal News. The Michoacan security AP/RIO DE JANEIRO popular with tourists had been claim denied by Caracas — but Radoncic, 17, of Orangeburg, “When our school com- ministry said on Twitter the polluted by oil leaking from an authorities are still trying to was seriously injured. munity experiences a tragedy, state police were working near Brazil’s northeastern state of unknown source since the determine the source of the “I was watching the car and such as the loss of a young life, El Aguaje when they came Bahia is declaring a state of beginning of September. leak. all of a sudden I heard this big it impacts all of us,” Schools under fire. emergency after several of its The mysterious oil has pol- The main hypothesis is that bang,” witness Joe Geppner told Superintendent Marco F. Three police trucks were beaches were contaminated by luted at least 150 beaches in nine the oil spilled from a vessel WCBS . “We started trying to put Pochintesta said on the district’s ambushed and there was no oil sludge. different states. passing near the Brazilian coast. out the fire. All we heard was website . “Our thoughts and indication that the suspected Brazil’s environmental Brazil’s environment min- The Bahia government this poor girl screaming. And she prayers are with the students gang members had suffered agency reported yesterday that ister has said that the oil is very signed the declaration of the was screaming terribly.” and their families and friends at casualties, the state official said. some 20 beaches in the state likely of Venezuela origin — a state of emergency yesterday. “Thank God the fire this incredibly difficult time.” Sanders vows to release medical records after heart attack

BLOOMBERG diagnosed with a myocardial inf- an interview when asked when symptoms he should have between Elizabeth and myself,” WASHINGTON arction, his doctors said in a he’ll release his records. “When heeded, including more fatigue, Sanders said. “Elizabeth, I think, statement on October 4. He’s you’re running for president of not sleeping well and “occa- as you know, has said she is a cap- Senator Bernie Sanders scheduled to return to cam- the United States, the American sionally, I was a little bit wobbly.” italist through her bones. I’m not.” (pictured) pledged to release his paigning in the next week, and people have a right to know the Sanders in the interview also In 2018 Warren told the New medical records “as soon as we said he’ll participate in today’s condition of your health.” sought to stake out ground as the England Council, a regional can” after the 2020 Democratic Democratic primary debate in His campaign on Saturday only true progressive in the business organisation, that she hopeful suffered a heart attack Ohio. announced a “Bernie’s Back” rally Democratic race, calling Senator was “a capitalist to her bones,” this month. “As soon as we can, and we in New York City on October 19. Elizabeth Warren, who’s although many of her policy pro- The Vermont senator, 78, has intended to do that before the Sanders said he didn’t think of emerging as a front-runner in the posals are aimed at narrowing been off the campaign trail since heart attack, and we’ll certainly dropping out of the race, and that primary process, “a capitalist economic inequality in the US having two stents inserted to do it with all of the information he’s “feeling very well.” through her bones.” She’s laid out a vision of what she treat a blocked artery. He was that’s available,” Sanders said in Sanders said there were “There are differences calls “accountable capitalism.” 18 AMERICAS TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019

Six dead as Ecuador govt and roof collapses protesters reach on Peru party AFP deal to end unrest LIMA At least six people died and 40 AFP “With this agreement, were injured after a hailstorm QUITO the mobilizations... caused a roof to collapse on a across Ecuador are costume party in central Peru, Ecuador’s president and indig- terminated and we authorities said. enous leaders reached an Around 1,000 people were agreement to end nearly two commit ourselves to in the building at the time of the weeks of violent protests against restoring peace in the accident on Sunday, according austerity measures adopted to country,” said a joint to local media. obtain a multi-billion-dollar loan statement, adding Some are still trapped in the from the IMF. rubble and five of the injured The demonstrations have left the government had are in a serious condition, seven people dead and were withdrawn an order police said. sparked by President Lenin that removed fuel The incident occurred Moreno scrapping fuel subsidies subsidies. Ecuador’s President Lenin Moreno, Catholic Bishop Luis Cabrera and Arnaud Peral, representative during a local festival taking to obtain a $4.2bn loan from the of the United Nations in Ecuador, meet with the leaders of indigenous communities, on the outskirts place in a building in Huancayo, International Monetary Fund, a of Quito, in Ecuador. some 200km east of the capital move that caused prices to announcement, waving the Lima. double. national flag, honking horns and “The structure collapsed Moreno met with Jaime setting off fireworks in continued before the talks began to Quito to spearhead demands UN Secretary-General because of intense rain and Vargas, the head of the indig- celebration. as police fought to disperse pro- the subsidies be reinstated. Antonio Guterres earlier called hail,” police said. enous umbrella grouping The statement was read by testers who tried to put up a bar- Authorities said 1,349 people on all groups “to commit to In January this year, 15 CONAIE, for four hours of talks an official from the United ricade of debris from Saturday’s had been injured and 1,152 inclusive and meaningful talks, people died while celebrating in the capital Quito broadcast Nations, which mediated the unrest. detained in the demonstrations. and to work in good faith a wedding when the hotel they live on state television. talks along with the Catholic “Indigenous brothers, I have The violence forced Moreno to towards a peaceful solution.” were in was hit by an avalanche “With this agreement, the Church. always treated you with respect relocate his government to Ecua- Demonstrators on Saturday of stones and mud in the coun- mobilizations... across Ecuador “The measures applied in all and affection,” Moreno said as dor’s second city, Guayaquil, and ransacked and set fire to the try’s southeast. are terminated and we commit our territories are lifted,” con- the talks opened. “It was never hit the oil industry hard with the building housing the comptroller ourselves to restoring peace in firmed Vargas, wearing face my intention to affect the poorest energy ministry suspending general’s office, which was the country,” said a joint paint and a head wreath of sectors.” more than two-thirds of its dis- shrouded in thick smoke after 3-year-old boy statement, adding the gov- feathers. Ecuador’s indigenous groups tribution of crude. being attacked with fire bombs. ernment had withdrawn an Moreno had declared a make up a quarter of the coun- Protesters seized three oil The prosecutor’s office said shot in the head order that removed fuel curfew and placed Quito under try’s 17.3 million people. Thou- facilities in the Amazon. 34 people were arrested. subsidies. military control to quell the sands from disadvantaged com- CONAIE had previously Protesters on Saturday also in Chicago Thousands flooded into the unrest. munities from across the rejected an offer of dialogue but targeted a television station and streets of Quito shortly after the On Sunday, violent clashes Amazon and the Andes traveled reversed course Saturday. a newspaper. AP CHICAGO

Chicago police said a Trudeau says only he can stand up to Trump 3-year-old boy has been shot in the head while sitting in a REUTERS the House of Commons. This A Nanos Research poll have struck informal deals to parked car with his mother and WINDSOR would leave them relying on released yesterday put the Lib- keep minority Liberal govern- two other children. smaller parties to govern. erals at 32.3 percent public ments in power, most notably According to the police the Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, campaigning on the support and the Conservatives from 1972-1974 and in 2005. shooting on Sunday night on the Trudeau, who looks set to lose Canadian Thanksgiving holiday, at 32.1 percent. The left-leaning Asked about a possible coa- city’s south side left the boy his majority after an October 21 noted the Liberals had overseen New Democrats of Jagmeet lition with the New Democrats, hospitalized in critical election, yesterday said he the successful negotiation of a Singh, the most obvious choice Trudeau replied, “I’m cam- condition. needed a strong government to new US-Mexico-Canada trade of partner for a Liberal minority paigning hard to stop Conserv- His name wasn’t immedi- continue standing up to US Pres- agreement last year. The talks government, were at 19.2 ative cuts and elect a progressive ately released. ident Donald Trump. were tough at times and Trudeau percent. government.” Police added that three Trudeau’s remarks were said Scheer had favored capitu- Singh indicated on Sunday The Conservatives males walked up to the car and unusually forceful, especially lating to the US side. he would be open to a coalition announced their platform last started shooting. Actress Queen since the two leaders looked to “We need to continue to have government with the Liberals, week and outlined tens of bil- Bullets struck the rear pas- have patched up relations after a strong government with a clear who have struggled to open a lions of dollars in spending senger’s side, where a window Latifah to receive Trump accused the Canadian of focus on standing up for Cana- clear lead over their rivals since reductions. was shattered near a child’s car being weak and dishonest last dians, standing up to Donald the emergence of photos last The New Democrats hold seat. Harvard black year. Trump, standing up to the forces month showing Trudeau in both of Windsor’s parliamentary The woman told officers culture award Polls put Trudeau’s Liberals of populism and chaos around blackface. seats. Trudeau is also scheduled she sped away until she got a as level with the Conservatives the world,” Trudeau told Canada has had only one to tour a constituency the New gas station where she flagged AP of Andrew Scheer and suggest reporters in Windsor, Ontario, formal coalition government Democrats hold in London, down an office for help, author- CAMBRDIGE they will lose their majority in which sits opposite Detroit. ever, in 1917. The New Democrats Ontario. ities said.

Music artiste and actress Queen Latifah (pictured) is among the honorees being recognised by Hundreds of migrants Harvard University this year for their contributions to black corralled at detention history and culture. Harvard is set to award the centre in southern Mexico W.E.B. Du Bois Medal to Queen Latifah and six other recipients AP heading for the US. But under on October 22, according to the TAPACHULA pressure from Washington, the Cambridge, Massachusetts, government has been taking a school’s Hutchins Center for Hundreds of migrants from tougher stance in dealing with African and African American Africa, the Caribbean and migrants, and many Mexicans Research. Central America found them- are being less welcoming. Other honorees include selves corralled in a migrant Salva Lacruz, from the Fray poet and educator Elizabeth detention facility in southern Matías de Córdova Human Alexander; Secretary of the Mexico yesterday after a futile Rights Center in Tapachula, Smithsonian Institution Lonnie attempt to head north as part of called the roundup a “human Bunch III; poet Rita Dove; co- a caravan aiming to reach the hunt” and noted officials waited founder of Black Entertainment United States. until the migrants had tired out Television Sheila Johnson; artist The group set out before before forcing them into vans. Kerry James Marshall and sunrise on Saturday from the Sending the migrants back Robert Smith, founder, town of Tapachula, where many south was an “exercise in chairman and chief executive had been marooned for months cruelty,” Lacruz said, adding the of Vista Equity Partners. unsuccessfully trying to get migrants have come to Mexico The award is named after Rod of Iron Freedom Festival transit visas. They carried heavy because “they need interna- Du Bois, a scholar, writer, backpacks, babies and parcels tional protection.” A young boy shoots an AR-15 rifles and other weapons at a shooting range during the Rod of Iron Freedom editor, and civil rights pioneer on their heads. About half of the migrants in Festival, in Greeley, Pennsylvania, yesterday. The two-day event, which is organised by Kahr Arms/Tommy who became the first black Just before dusk, after the caravan were black, including student to earn a doctorate Gun Warehouse and Rod of Iron Ministries, has billed itself as a second amendment rally and celebration having trudged more than 20 Haitians, estimated Lacruz, who from Harvard in 1895. of freedom, faith and family. Vendors and displays celebrated guns and gun culture in America. miles north, they were sur- accompanied the group. rounded by hundreds of Wilner Metelus, a Mexican National Guard agents and activist who was born in Haiti, police who persuaded the described the government’s Fort Worth cop resigns after fatally shooting woman exhausted migrants to board behavior toward migrants of vans back to Tapachula. African descent as “shameful.” AP responded about 2:25am on Sat- Kraus said at separate news con- camera video released by police Children cried, and women “Today the Afro- FORT WORTH urday after a neighbour called a ference yesterday that officer, shows two officers searching the complained angrily about descendants are alone,” he said. non-emergency line to report Aaron Dean, has resigned. He home from the outside with waiting months for papers. It “Migrants of African descent A police officer who shot and Jefferson’s front door had been said if Dean had not stepped flashlights before one shouts, was unclear if any would be don’t represent a threat to Mex- killed a black woman in her left open. The responding officer down, he would have been fired. “Put your hands up, show me deported. icans. Many of them are highly home in the presence of her fired a shot through a window, Merritt added, officer’s firing your hands.” One shot is then The crackdown on the educated and could offer a lot 8-year-old nephew acted inap- killing the 28-year-old woman. was “the least we should expect.” fired through a window. caravan, many of whose to the country,” Metelus added. propriately and has resigned, the “Why this man is not in In a statement released at the Fort Worth Mayor Betsy members were of African The National Migration chief of police said yesterday, handcuffs is a source of con- weekend, Fort Worth police said Price called for “justice and descent, underlined the sharp Institute said in a statement that after Atatiana Jefferson’s tinued agitation for this family officers saw someone near a closure” for Jefferson’s family. reversal from the immigration each member of the caravan surviving family called for the and for this community,” family window inside the home and Kraus said he expects a “sub- policy at work in Mexico a year “will be treated in a personalised man to be fired and charged. attorney Lee Merritt said at a that one of them drew his duty stantial update” by tomorrow on ago, when officials looked the manner” and that some will be The Fort Worth Police news conference in Dallas. weapon and fired after “per- whether criminal charges will be other way as large groups of returned to their countries of Department said officers Interim Police Chief Ed ceiving a threat.” The body filed against Dean. migrants traversed the country origin. TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019 HOME 19 QBRI signs pact with Singenics for cancer, diabetes research THE PENINSULA sample cohorts will be analysed DOHA through the platform to facilitate personalized medicine, help gain Qatar Biomedical Research a better understanding of disease Institute (QBRI), part of Hamad Bin pathology, and identify biomarkers Khalifa University (HBKU), is part- to promote patient stratification to Qatar Biomedical Research Institute and Sengenics officials after signing nering with global biotech guide better treatment. a five-year Platform Agreement to benefit the institute’s three centres. company, Sengenics, to establish Dr Richard O’Kennedy, vice- a platform for advancing research president for research, devel- related to cancer, diabetes, and opment and innovation (RDI) at underscores QBRI’s commitment confident that our partnership with neurological disorders. Qatar Foundation, said: “Through to improving and transforming Sengenics will help to strengthen this At a special event held earlier partnerships with leading interna- healthcare through innovation in reputation.” in October to mark the partnership, tional companies such as Sen- prevention, diagnosis, and Johan Poole-Johnson, chief representatives from both organ- genics, we aim to build initiatives treatment. Establishing the QBRI- commercial officer at Sengenics, isations signed a five-year Platform that address the most pressing Sengenics platform within our lab said, “Our fundamental aim going Agreement that will pair QBRI’s local and global challenges from space serves the institute espe- forward is to translate the output equipment with Sengenics’ KREX novel perspectives. cially well because it brings the of KREX research directly to protein array technology to facil- “Such empowering collabo- technology closer to the patients, leading to either earlier itate autoantibody disease rations, align strategically with our researchers, thus increasing the diagnosis of life-threatening con- biomarker discovery research. The research, development, and inno- prospect of novel and impactful ditions or delivering the vision of agreement covers QBRI’s three vation objectives, and help us discoveries. precision medicine. The estab- research centres — Cancer, Dia- create opportunities that have the “The decision to make us sole lishment of QBRI as the Centre of betes, and Neurological Disorders. potential to shape our present and provider of this service in Qatar and Excellence for Proteomics Through this agreement, QBRI will future.” the wider region also reflects QBRI’s Research in the Middle East will serve as the sole provider of the Speaking about the status as a global hub for cutting- enhance QBRI’s capabilities as a service in Qatar, with exclusive agreement, Dr Omar El Agnaf, edge biomedical research that’s standalone center, driving licensing rights for the MENA executive director of QBRI, said: well-connected to national and regional innovation and entrepre- region, India, Pakistan, and Turkey. “We are delighted to have formed international institutions from across neurship which will benefit Qatar QBRI’s well-characterised this important partnership, as it the public and private sectors. We’re and the region.” Texas A&M at Qatar students complete project management course THE PENINSULA Omnya Abdalla, Raghad Al Sulaiti, Reem Faraj, Bader Al Jaidah, TAFAWOQ director, said, DOHA Samozai Farheen Mansoor, Shaik Afzal and “The course is normally reserved for industry Skander Helali. professionals, but TAFAWOQ opened it to uni- Seventeen engineering students from Texas A&M The course offered the students in Qatar a versity students as part of its commitment to pro- University at Qatar have completed the Contrib- glimpse into the real-life dynamics of project moting human development during the early uting to Projects course given by TAFAWOQ- management. TAFAWOQ’s Senior Facilitator stages of education and professional Qatar Shell. TAFAWOQ, the elite project Sally Jabaley guided the Contributing to Projects development.” management centre of excellence, facilitated the course, which featured three weeks of virtual Dr Bilal Mansoor, director of student course, which engaged soon-to-graduate work and four days of classroom training, dis- enrichment programs at Texas A&M at Qatar, students with insights into the project cussions and case study analysis at Texas A&M said: “The Contributing to Projects course taught management industry. at Qatar’s building in Education City. our students both basic terminology, and current The students who completed the course are The course concluded with a panel dis- practices for conceiving and delivering major Ahmed El Agnaf, Ameen Siddiqui, Bandar Nasser, cussion featuring graduates of the branch campus capital investment projects on time. The course Elizabeth Abraham, Ghida Dandan, Hamna who are now working in industry, such as Qatar was the first of a kind offering for our student to Saeed, Husnain Manzoor, Malek Helali, Marwan Shell and Qatar Petroleum, among other help equip them with the skills and knowledge El Wahsh, Mohamed Soltan, Nur-Hamza Peljto, companies. they need to enter Qatar’s workforce.”

CROSSWORD MALL ROYAL PLAZA

Manoharam (2D/Malayalam) 2:00pm War (2D/Hindi) 3:00 & 11:15pm; Aruvam (2D/Tamil) 2:15pm A Shaun The Sheep Movie: Faramageddon (2D/Animation) 5:00pm; Gemini Man (2D/Action) 7:00pm Adhya Rathri (2D/Malayalam) 2:30 & 11:30pm; The Sky is Pink (2D/Hindi) 9:00pm; Manoharam (2D/Malayalam) 4:00pm; War (2D/Hindi) 2:00, 6:00, 8:45 & 11:30pm Gemini Man (2D/Action) 7:00 & 9:30pm; The Big Trip (2D/Animation) 4:15pm; Joker (2D/Crime) 5:00, 7:15, 9:15 & 11:30pm Adhya Rathri (2D/Malayalam) 4:45 & 11:30pm; Petromax (2D/Tamil) 6:00pm; Joker (2D/Crime) 4:45, 7:00, 9:15 & 11:30pm The Sky is Pink (2D/Hindi) 8:30pm; Aruvam (2D/Tamil) 2:15pm LANDMARK

Adhya Rathri (2D/Malayalam) 2:30 & 9:00pm; Katapadi Kattappa (2D/Tulu) 3:00pm ROXY A Shaun The Sheep Movie: Faramageddon (2D/Animation) 2:30 & 5:00pm; Abominable (2D/Ani- A Shaun The Sheep Movie: Faramageddon (2D/Animation) 4:30, 8:40 mation) 6:00pm; The Sky is Pink (2D/Hindi) 4:30 & & 12:30pm 11:30pm; Gemini Man (2D/Action) 7:00pm Joker (2D/Crime) 7:00 & 9:15pm; Ganagandharvan Adhya Rathri (2D/Malayalam) 3:00 & 8:30pm; (2D/Malayalam) 4:30 & 11:30pm; War (2D/Hindi) 8:00 Abominable (2D/Animation) 2:20 & 6:20pm & 11:00pm; Petromax (2D/Tamil) 11:30pm; Gemini Man (2D/Action) 12:30, 1:00, 5:40, 8:40, 10:50 & 11:10pm AL KHOR Manoharam (2D/Malayalam) 12:30, 6:00 & 11:30pm Joker (2D/Crime) 3:00, 3:20, 6:00, 8:10 & 10:50pm Manoharam (2D/Malayalam) 11:00am & 6:30pm The Sky is Pink (2D/Hindi) 3:10 & 8:40pm War (2D/Hindi) 11:45am, 5:30 & 11:15pm Gemini Man (3D/Action) 10:30am, 3:30 & 8;30pm; Petromax (2D/Tamil) 12:30, 6:00 & 11:30pm Gemini Man (2D/Action) 4:00 & 11:30pm Adhya Rathri (2D/Malayalam) 1:30 & 9:00pm The Sky is Pink (2D/Hindi) 2:45 & 8:30pm ASIAN TOWN Joker (2D/Crime) 1:00, 6:00 & 11:00pm FLIK Mirqab Mall Manoharam (2D/Malayalam) 5:00, 7:30 & 10:00pm Adhya Rathri (2D/Malayalam) 5:30, 8:00 & 10:30pm Abominable (2D/Animation) 11:45am, 1:30, 3:30, 4:10, Aruvam (2D/Tamil) 3:30, 8:45 & 11:15pm 6:10 & 7:55pm War (2D/Hindi) 6:00pm; The Sky is Pink (2D/Hindi) 6:00pm Ad Astra (2D/Adventure) 12:05 & 4:55pm Petromax (2D/Tamil) 1:00 & 11:30pm Gemini Man (2D/Action) 10:40, 11:10am, 12:20, 1:00, Note: Programme is subject to change without prior notice. 2:40, 3:20, 5:00, 5:40, 7:20, 8:00, 9:40, 10;20pm & 12:00 midnight. Gemini Man (3D/Action) 11:20am, 1:40, 5:00, 6:20, 8:40 & 11:00pm Joker (2D/Crime) 10;45am, 11:45am, 1:10, 1:45, 2:10, 3:35, 4:35, 6:00, 7:00, 8;25, 9:25, 11:10 & 11:50pm War (2D/Hindi) 8:10 & 10:50pm

THE SKY IS PINK It is based on the love story of a couple spanning 25 years, told through the lens of their spunky teenage daughter Aisha Chaudhary, who was diagnosed with a Pulmonary fibrosis. 20 MORNING BREAK TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2019

PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR 04. 16 AM NMoQ showcases dazzling jewellery SHOROOK 05. 32 AM ZUHR 11. 20 AM MAGHRIB 05. 09 PM by iconic French designer ASR ISHA 06. 39 PM 02.39 PM RAYNALD C RIVERA THE PENINSULA WEATHER TODAY More than 125 dazzling pieces of jewellery and art objects crafted by iconic French jewellery designer Jean Jean Schlumberger are on show at the “Magnificent Jewels of Jean Schlum- berger: From the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Collection” exhibition which opened yesterday at the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ). H E Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari, Minister of Public Health, Ahmad Al Namla, Acting CEO of Qatar Museums, and Ali Alfardan, Vice-Chairman of Alfardan Group and President of Alfardan Jewellery along with several VIP guests were present at the launch of the exhibition. The exhibition is dedicated to the vibrant and sculptural work of Schlum- berger (1907–1987) who transformed 20th century fashion with jewellery and accessories inspired by natural forms. On view at the NMoQ until January 15 next year, the exhibition includes o o pieces from the Rachel Lambert Mellon 29 C 35 C Collection at the Virginia Museum of Minimum Maximum Fine Arts (VMFA), the largest and most Minister of Public Health, H E Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari (centre); Acting CEO of Qatar Museums, Ahmad Al Namla comprehensive public collection of (fourth left); and Ali Alfardan (fourth right), Vice-Chairman of Alfardan Group and President of Alfardan Jewellery, Relatively hot daytime with local clouds jewellery and art objects by Schlum- along with guests at the launch of the “Magnificent Jewels of Jean Schlumberger: From the Virginia Museum of Fine and a chance of rain at some places by Arts Collection” exhibition yesterday at the National Museum of Qatar. afternoon may be thundery and slight berger. The exhibition features the dust to blowing dust. designer’s imaginative, witty and awe-

inspiring interpretations of animal and Michael R. Taylor, Chief Curator and and natural inspirations – showcase whose collection is the focus of this

HIGH TIDE 05:31 – 16:40 LOW TIDE 00:04 – 12:20 botanical subjects, particularly marine Deputy Director for Art and Education Schlumberger’s dazzling imagination exhibition. Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department life and flowers, which combine pre- at VMFA, and Kristie Couser, Curatorial and clarity of vision,” said Taylor. Schlumberger’s designs featuring cious metals and gemstones, as well as Assistant for Works on Paper, The Clark Schlumberger began his career precious stones would include diverse organic materials. Art Institute. It debuted in 2017 at the crafting costume jewellery for the cuts, carat size, and colour –adding a “We are proud to present Magnif- VMFA and has traveled to The Museum French fashion designer Elsa Schia- multi-faceted dynamism to each piece. icent Jewels of Jean Schlumberger as of Fine Art in St. Petersburg, Florida parelli in 1930s Paris, before heading A natural lapidary (gem artisan), he one of the first temporary exhibitions and The National Museum of China in his own private salon at New York’s shaped minerals and gems using the at the recently opened NMoQ. Schlum- Beijing. Tiffany & Co. beginning in the 1950s. techniques of cabochon cutting to max- berger’s dazzling jewellery and art “This unparalleled collection of Schlumberger’s designs for objects imise a gem’s brilliance. objects, which were inspired by nature, Jean Schlumberger’s iconic jewellery, ranging from cigarette cases and pill The exhibition is supported by will certainly captivate visitors, just as accessories, and other decorative boxes to brooches and necklaces were Alfardan Group and Tiffany &Co. the museum has through its organic objects was given to VMFA by Rachel popular with some of the most cele- Admission to the exhibition is design, resembling a desert rose,” said Lambert Mellon, one of the most gen- brated women of the period, among QR20 for adults; QR10 for students and Sheikha Reem Al Thani, Director of erous donors in our history. These them Rachel “Bunny” Lambert free for children under 16, Culture Pass Exhibitions at Qatar Museums. extraordinary works — with their Mellon(1910-2014), a noted American Plus and Culture Pass Family Members, The exhibition is organised by Dr. vibrant colors, exquisite craftsmanship, horticulturalist and philanthropist, and visitors with disabilities.

LEFT AND CENTRE: Some of the pieces of jewellery and art objects crafted by iconic French jewellery designer Jean Jean Schlumberger which are on show at the “Magnificent Jewels of Jean Schlumberger: From the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Collection” exhibition which opened yesterday at the National Museum of Qatar. RIGHT: Dr. Michael R Taylor, Chief Curator and Deputy Director for Art and Education at VMFA. PICS: ABDUL BASIT / THE PENINSULA Normally hush-hush NSA opens doors of new cyber directorate BLOOMBERG infamous year in NSA history when employees from the NSA and U.S. Cyber NEW YORK whistle-blower Edward Snowden Command, the military’s cyber division spilled its secrets. Neuberger, who and is staffed around the clock. The National Security Agency is served as the agency’s chief risk Each 12-hour shift includes a staff normally so secretive that its creation officer following the disclosures, was of about 200. Besides searching for was classified, leading to the struck that a surveillance agency has adversaries, the cyber sleuths defend nickname “No Such Agency.” a unique role in a democracy -- it government networks, share infor- But in a move that surely caused should publicly explain its values and mation with government agencies, hand-wringing and murmurs among the way it balances national security coordinate with allies and support the nation’s longtime spies, the with civil liberties and privacy. offensive cyber operations, officials agency opened its doors to journalists. “If we are a black box then a black said. The glass refogged 12 minutes But just a crack. Reporters were wel- box is not trusted,” she recalls later and the hub of cyber activity comed into the agency’s Fort Meade, thinking at the time. “The average vanished from sight, a reminder that Maryland headquarters last week for American is a thoughtful thinking person, the NSA’s new transparency policy Literature train a carefully curated tour. The and they want to know what’s in the box.” has its limits. occasion? The NSA wanted to show Two hours wasn’t much time to examine Creation of the Cybersecurity Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway (centre), talking with children bookwriter Anna off its Cybersecurity Directorate, a the box. But it was a start. Directorate is the first major reorgan- Fiske (left) onboard the German railways’ Deutsche Bahn literature train’, from Berlin newly minted organization that began One of the highlights came after ization of the agency in three years, and to Frankfurt am Main, western Germany, yesterday. The train will bring Norway’s royal operations this month to protect the journalists were led into a conference it seeks to restore some of the old couple to Frankfurt, where they will be attending the opening of the Frankfurt Book U.S. against emerging cyber threats. room where opaque frosted glass organizational chart -- with a few Fair. Norway is this year’s honorary guest of the fair starting from tomorrow. “This is a little bit of a different panels lined the wall. Then, in a tech- tweaks. Under the 2016 reorganization, approach for us from the traditional nological feat worthy of a Bond the agency’s Information Assurance No Such Agency approach,” said Anne movie, the glass clarified on Directorate, which had been respon- Irfan Pathan, Harbhajan to debut in Tamil film Neuberger, the head of the new cyber command — revealing a view, albeit sible for the NSA’s defensive mission, directorate, who was among the brief, of a newly formed cyber oper- was eliminated and the agency’s IANS/MUMBAI Pathan to the big screen, is tentatively titled handful of NSA officials who spoke ations center that had been fogged offensive and defensive missions were “Vikram 58”. It is directed by Ajay Gnan- to journalists during the two-hour from sight moments before. combined. Since then, the so-called Former Indian cricketers Irfan Pathan and amuthu, who is known for films like “Imaikka event. The tour took place on Oct. 10 There, the nation’s cyber warriors ’defensive’ challenges facing the NSA Harbhajan Singh are all set to make their Nodigal” and “Demonte Colony”. amid a recognition that U.S. enemies — some in plain clothes, others in have only grown. Advances in quantum big screen debut in Tamil cinema. “Welcome on board @IrfanPathan Can’t are rapidly developing cyber tools uniform— sit hunched over in semi- computing may soon threaten the While Irfan will be seen essaying a wait to unleash your new avatar to the that threaten national security and circular pods that face 20-foot-tall security of the U.S. government’s most prominent role in a film starring Tamil audience!! Time for some solid action!!,” the private sector alike, according to screens, where they search for mali- sensitive communications. And digital superstar Vikram, Harbhajan will make his tweeted the film’s director Gnanamuthu, agency officials. cious hackers stalking through the adversaries like Russia, China and Iran debut in a Santhanam film titled “Dikkiloona”. along with a picture of himself with But Neuberger also traced the nation’s computers. This “Joint Oper- have grown both more sophisticated The Vikram film, which will introduce Irfan Irfan. agency’s new openness to 2013, the ations Center” includes a mix of and more ruthless.