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FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020 19 RABIA II - 1442 VOLUME 25 NUMBER 8461 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS Build your own plan! Terms & Conditions Apply Qatar-EU trade volume touches $7bn in 9 months

THE PENINSULA — DOHA which is 12.3 percent of Qatar’s at the Ministry of Foreign total trade globally. Affairs, H E Ambassador Salem Minister of Commerce and He was speaking during a Abdullah Al Jaber and repre- Industry, H E Ali bin Ahmed Al teleconference meeting held sentatives from the World Kuwari said yesterday that the with ambassadors and repre- Trade Organization (WTO). trade volume between Qatar sentatives of EU countries, in During the meeting, officials and EU members reached $7bn the presence of Director of discussed strengthening in the first nine months of 2020, European Affairs Department friendly relations between Qatar and the EU and ways to open new horizons for cooper- ation in areas of common 2,129 interest. In his opening remarks, the Number of Minister of Commerce and European Industry praised the close rela- companies in tions between Qatar and EU Qatar countries, noting that despite the economic and commercial repercussions of the corona- Minister of Commerce and Industry H E Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari addressing a teleconference meeting virus (COVID-19) pandemic, EU held with ambassadors and representatives of EU countries, yesterday. $71.2bn $31bn countries had been able to Qatar’s Qatar’s investment maintain their same position as investment in in EU countries last year as the second trading Commerce and Industry heads in other EU countries. jointly by Qatari and EU Europe partner of Qatar. eight joint committees with a The Minister said Qatar citizens. Growing Qatar- The Minister said that Qatar number of European invested $71.2bn in Europe as a Touching on the Qatari and the EU are linked by a sig- countries. whole, where 43 percent of economy in the post-COVID EU relations nificant number of commercial He said there are more these investments were era, the minister said the year and economic agreements, as than 50,000 EU citizens living invested in the EU countries at 2020 has seen major achieve- Qatar has signed 14 commercial, in Qatar, 95 percent of them a total of around $31bn. ments for Qatar despite the sig- 50,000 economic, and technical coop- are working in high skilled He added that the number nificant challenges arising from Number of EU eration agreements, as well as jobs. Qatar had appointed of European companies oper- the outbreak of the COVID-19 citizens living in 12 “Reciprocal Promotion and three commercial attaches in ating in Qatar currently stood virus, which has disrupted Qatar Protection of Mutual Invest- Geneva, London, and Paris as a at about 2129, of which 307 supply chains and normal ments” agreements. Addi- first step, to be followed by are fully owned by European business operations around the tionally, the Ministry of appointing commercial attaches citizens and 1822 owned globe. `P2 Qatar aims to host most accessible FIFA World Cup in history THE PENINSULA — DOHA accessible experience for all truly be an amazing experience various components of the fan fans is a core commitment for for all,” said Al Thawadi. experience, including tour- More than one million visitors tournament organisers. The SC launched its Acces- nament venues. are expected to flock to Qatar “Ever since we began sibility Forum in 2015 to consult The forum recently organised when it hosts the FIFA World working on hosting the first local stakeholders and people a visit to the Qatar 2022 stadium We have made a Cup in 2022 – and in prepa- edition of the World Cup in the with disabilities. The forum’s in Al Rayyan, which will be inau- commitment to ensure ration for the tournament, Middle East and Arab world, we objective is to deliver a barrier- gurated when it hosts the Amir that all touchpoints of organisers are committed to have made a commitment to free fan experience for all and Cup final between Al Sadd and Al the fan experience meet ensuring that fans with disabil- ensure that all touchpoints of support FIFA, Q22, and SC Arabi on December 18. During the ities enjoy an accessible and the fan experience meet FIFA’s towards providing equal oppor- visit, forum members toured the FIFA’s Accessibility barrier-free experience. Accessibility Requirements and tunities towards an inclusive stadium’s accessibility features, Requirements and are Speaking to mark the Inter- are accessible to fans with and accessible environment. including the seating, bathrooms, accessible to fans with national Day of Persons with disabilities. Besides, the community changing rooms, concession disabilities. Disabilities, Secretary-General This includes accessible sta- platform enables people with stands, and emergency exits. In of the Supreme Committee for diums, transportation networks, disabilities to be active partici- addition, forum members met the Hassan Al Thawadi Delivery & Legacy (SC) Hassan accommodation, fan zones, and pants in setting priorities and venue team to discuss potential Al Thawadi said providing an all other aspects of what will testing the accessibility of areas of improvement. `P2 Global praise for progress in Afghanistan peace negotiations QNA — DOHA peace talks. Rapid progress on their perseverance and will- a political roadmap and a ingness to find common ground, Several countries across the ceasefire is what the people of noting that this achievement world have praised the progress Afghanistan want more than demonstrates that the Afghan made in the agreement between anything else, the US Islamic Republic and Taliban are the Afghan government and the Department of State said. serious, able to overcome differ- Taliban. Along with Qatar, This agreement is a major ences, and ready to deal with dif- countries including The United milestone in the Afghanistan ficult issues. States, Germany, Indonesia, Peace Negotiations that have What has been achieved pro- Norway, and Uzbekistan been underway since Sep- vides hope the two sides will yesterday welcomed the tember 12, the State Department succeed in reaching a political announcements by the negoti- added. settlement to this more than ating sides that they have It also said that the forty-year-old conflict, the State adopted the rules of procedures agreement codifies the rules Department said, adding that the and moved to discuss the draft and procedures the two sides US will continue to support the Qatar to take on Bangladesh today agenda. North Atlantic Treaty have been negotiating since the peace process and work with all Organization (Nato) also start of talks, adding that the sides in pursuit of a serious Qatari players during a training session on the eve of their Group E clash of the Asian Qualifiers welcomed the announcement. teams made a number of reduction of violence and against Bangladesh today. The match will be played at Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium in Doha, with The US welcomed the important decisions that will ceasefire. Germany, Indonesia, kickoff set for 7pm. ` REPORT ON PAGE 16 agreement announced by the guide their negotiations on a Norway and Uzbekistan also Afghan negotiators in Doha, political roadmap and a com- praised Qatar’s key role in expressing gratitude to the State prehensive ceasefire. hosting and facilitating this Disbursal of Qatari grant to 100,000 Gaza families begins of Qatar for its role as a host The US Department of State phase of negotiations and this and facilitator of the Afghan congratulated both sides on important breakthrough. `P2 QNA — GAZA in the strip, with each family Ambassador Al Emadi said receiving $100. He added that that there are strict precau- Chairman of Qatar’s Committee the process will take place tionary and preventative Doha International Book Fair postponed for the Reconstruction of Gaza, through branches of the post measures followed while H E Ambassador Mohammed office and will be fully super- implementing the process, to THE PENINSULA — DOHA of Doha International Book Al Emadi said yesterday that vised by staff from the Qatari ensure the safety of the bene- Fair, which was scheduled from the committee, in cooperation committee in cooperation with ficiaries and the workers. The The Ministry of Culture and January 7 to 16, has been post- with Qatar Fund for Devel- the designated authorities, led measures ensure both parties Sports announced yesterday poned until further notice. The opment, began disbursing cash by the Ministry of Social Devel- adhere to physical distancing that Doha International Book decision was taken in coordi- aid to poor families in Gaza. opment and the Ministry of and the use of disinfectants in Fair has been postponed. nation with the Ministry of situation of COVID-19 pan- He said that the aid will be communications and Infor- light of the spread of the Coro- The Ministry said in Health and the competent demic which has created new provided to 100,000 families mation Technology in Gaza. navirus (COVID-19) in Gaza. statement that the next edition authorities due to the current challenges for the world. 02 HOME FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020

Dhow Festival sheds light on pearl diving, trade OFFICIAL NEWS THE PENINSULA — DOHA Amir sends

The 10th Katara Traditional condolences to Dhow Festival sheds light on the French President PRAYER history of pearl diving and TIMINGS pearling trade as well as other DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMINNGG marine resources which Qatar bin Hamad Al Thani and Deputy and other participating coun- Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin FAJR 04.42 am tries had been known for. Hamad Al Thani sent yesterday Pearls have been one of the cables of condolences to Presi- SUNRISE 06.04 am most valuable and ancient dent of the French Republic H E DHUHR 11.24 am natural resource of Qatar, and Emmanuel Macron on the death ASR 02.24 pm deep-sea diving history of the of Former French President Valery nation has been well-known for Giscard d’Estaing. Prime Minister MAGHRIB 04.45 pm ages. But for the younger gen- and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh ISHA 06.15 pm eration, the presence of people Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz engaged in pearl trade, how Al Thani also sent a cable of con- oysters are brought to land and dolence to Prime Minister of the how a pearl is actually found is friendly French Republic H E Jean fascinating. Castex, on the death of Former Deep-sea diving was once French President Valery Giscard a source of livelihood in the past d’Estaing. — QNA as ‘tawash’ and carpentry being among the prominent occupa- Deputy PM holds tions. The Qatari ‘Al Hayrat’ WEATHER oyster is considered to be one Shura Council Speaker H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud and other officials visiting the phone call with TODAY of the finest in the Arabian 10th Katara Traditional Dhow Festival. British Defence world, as the finest pearls are extracted from them. The marine heritage of Iraq and realise the originality of the shown at the pavilion. Minister Al Majid jewellery pavilion while distinct can at the same tradition and culture.” Also displayed is medi- showcases some of the finest, time be commonly associated The pavilion of Oman is cation, in addition to many DOHA: Deputy Prime Minister ancient and modern jewels with Arabian maritime tradition showcasing antiques and rare exhibits representing models of and Minister of State for Defence including pearls. It also includes and history. collectibles of the sea. famous ships of the Omani mar- Affairs Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed 22oC 30oC a section which shows how Mahdi Mutashar, who Hammoud bin Abdullah Al- itime heritage, pearl extraction Al Attiyah, received yesterday a Minimum Maximum pearls are measured and supervises the Iraqi pavilion Al Amrani, managing the Omani tools, oysters and scales used phone call from British Defence assembled into jewellery, as Janaj, speaking about their pavilion, said they have by the tawash and boxes Minister H E Ben Wallace. During Misty to foggy at places at first well as an assortment of neck- presence at the festival this year antiques and rare collectibles (pashtata) used to collect the the call, they reviewed bilateral becomes moderate temperature laces mixed with traditional said, “We are this time dis- of the sea, also personal sup- pearl crop, as well as many relations in the military fields daytime with some clouds. heritage and shaped by modern playing Iraqi folk craft such as plies of sailors from their long ancient antique collectibles between the two friendly coun- W ALRUWAIS : 24o → 27o designs. making ‘mushaf’ boats used for voyages that could last up to six such as Rumaila clocks and tries and ways to enhance them. W ALKHOR : 20o → 29o While pearls and pearl fishing in addition to handmade months and more. Utensils used compass dating back 150 years. — QNA diving is an important facet, the woollen carpets. Our craftsmen for cooking, food storage The festival will receive vis- W DUKHAN : 21o → 26o boats used for fishing is an are also making baskets and methods, in addition to natural itors from 1pm until 11pm today, WAKRAH 19o → 29o W : equally challenging dimension table mats (woven rugs) which oil utensils that are used for and from 10am to 10pm Qatar-EU trade W MESAIEED : 19o → 29o of maritime culture. people can see for themselves treatment purposes are also tomorrow. W ABUSAMRA : 20o → 27o volume touches $7bn in 9 months HIGH TIDE Qatar attends IOFS 07:07 – 17:38 FROM PAGE 1 LOW TIDE 00:11 – 14:49 Minister of Commerce and General Assembly Industry, H E Ali bin Ahmed Al QNA — DOHA Kuwari added that the State had adopted two-tier rapid Minister of Municipality and Environment, H E measures that had been imple- Qatar aims to Eng. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie, mented: firstly, to support the participated yesterday in the meeting of the third private sector and maintain host most session of the General Assembly of the Islamic the integrity of the financial Organization for Food Security (IOFS), which was and banking markets and the accessible FIFA held under the title 'sustainable development of Qatari riyal, and, secondly, to food security in the Organization of Islamic Coop- maintain the integrity of the World Cup eration (OIC) region', and was hosted by Ankara State budget. H.E. referred in FROM PAGE 1 via video conference. this regard to the measures During the meeting, a number of topics on adopted by Qatar to secure its Additionally, the SC has the agenda were discussed, including: the IOFS economy, including declaring installed sensory rooms in mul- action plan for the development of strategic com- an economic stimulus package tiple stadiums to create acces- modities (wheat, cassava, rice and palm oil), the of QR75bn to support the sible experiences for fans with establishment of a food security reserve for the private sector. autism. The rooms are equipped IOFS, the establishment of an Islamic Food Since the pandemic’s out- with noise cancellation, soft fur- Processing Association, and the management of break, Qatar has maintained nishings, mood lighting, relaxing food security, science, technology and innovation its commitment to the multi- music, and brightly-coloured programmes, agri-food trade promotion and lateral trading system and sensory toys and equipment. investment, humanitarian food programmes, and strengthened international Minister of Municipality and Environment, H E Eng. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki These features are designed to improvement of the balanced food database for cooperation frameworks to Al Subaie, attending the IOFS meeting, yesterday. manage a person’s anxiety and the IOFS. ensure the continuity of trade allow them and their families as the engine for economic and friends to watch football recovery, he said, noting that matches in a welcoming, Qatar has stepped up efforts calming, and inclusive envi- Global praise for progress in Afghan peace negotiations to enhance its advanced logis- ronment. They are set to be FROM PAGE 1 tical networks and capitalize available in the upcoming FIFA urged both sides to give priority and we need to see rapid many hurdles to be overcome, on its high-quality infra- Club World Cup Qatar 2020. A joint statement issued by to ending violence. progress, both on establishing but this is an important first step structure to consolidate its Mark Dyer, the SC’s Access the countries said that the The Secretary-General of a political roadmap, but not and it is encouraging to see that position as a regional and & Inclusivity Strategist, said: achievement was an important Nato, Jens Stoltenberg, wel- least on the important issue of it was possible to make that step global trade and investment “We are proud of our collabo- step in a process that must have comed the progress made in the a comprehensive ceasefire.” today, he added. hub. rative efforts with FIFA and Q22 at its end point a durable and agreement between the Afghan The Secretary-General of Qatar hosted the intra- In the context of discussing towards including people with inclusive peace settlement in government and the Taliban. Nato, Jens Stoltenberg, pointed Afghan peace negotiations on issues related to the World disabilities at every step of the Afghanistan. He said that the agreement out that the agreement which September 12, in a step that was Trade Organization (WTO), he process to prepare for the tour- The countries encouraged is one step towards a lasting, was announced demonstrates described as serious and stated that Qatar shared EU nament which is key to ensuring both sides to build on the political and peaceful resolution that the parties who are nego- important towards establishing countries’ vision on the impor- that stadiums and other key important milestone that was of the conflict in Afghanistan. tiating, are able to make sustainable peace in Afghan- tance of the multilateral facilities are tried and tested by achieved yesterday by con- In a press statement, the Sec- progress, even on tough and istan, especially after the United trading system, especially the those who will use them. We tinuing to engage with each retary-General stressed that all difficult issues, stressing that States and the Taliban signed issues of the WTO’s Appellate believe in the principle of other in good faith, construc- Nato allies strongly support the this is important because the Agreement for Bringing Body, the Joint Statement on ‘nothing about us, without us,’ tively and ready to find peace process, adding “now we Afghans want peace. Peace to Afghanistan at the E-commerce, and the G-33 and that is central to all of our common ground. They also would like to see more progress It is still a long way to go, beginning of this year. Initiative on Food Security. work.” Dyer also spoke of the importance of building an Qatar sends aid accessible ecosystem that goes Qatar reiterates beyond the accessibility of sta- to Philippines diums. “Through the Accessi- bility Forum, we are able to QNA — DOHA support for UNHCR engage those key stakeholders in the country that are respon- Upon the directives of Amir H QNA — GENEVA to face global crisis, and as a sible for some of the most H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al result has worked on enhancing important touchpoints of the Thani, medical aid was sent The State of Qatar reiterated the partnership with the UNHCR user journey when fans with yesterday to support victims of yesterday its commitment to by providing different kinds of disabilities come to Qatar for the the Vamco Typhoon that hit the supporting the efforts of the support. FIFA World Cup,” he added. Republic of the Philippines. United Nations High Commis- He highlighted the strategic Some of the key accessibility Qatar Fund for Devel- sioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in partnership signed between features that fans will enjoy opment (QFFD) in cooperation implementing its humanitarian Education Above All and the during Qatar 2022 include bar- with the Amiri Air Force trans- programmes all over the world. UNHCR to meet the needs of rier-free stops of the Doha ported the aid through an air Qatar expressed its appre- children in the hardest to reach Metro network, inclusive bridge to reach the victims. ciation to the UN High Commis- areas. He also highlighted the accommodation options, and The aid includes 40 tons of sioner Filippo Grandi’s efforts partnership signed between barrier-free entry to key tourist food and non-food products, in in protecting the rights of ref- Qatar Airways and UNHCR to destinations. addition to camping equipment ugees. Qatar also expressed its use the carrier’s network in pro- Looking to the future, Al such as tents, water, sanitation, appreciation to the efforts of all viding aid to refugees all over Thawadi concluded his electricity generators, and workers in that field. This came the world. message by saying, “People rescue boats. in the speech of Qatar read out He noted that Qatar is close with disabilities will be some Director-General of QFFD, by Second Secretary of the Per- to formalising the financing of the most important benefi- Khalifa bin Jassem Al Kuwari manent Mission of Qatar to the plan of 2021, which includes all ciaries of the legacy left behind said that the aid was sent based UN Office in Geneva Talal Al the UN agencies and programs. by Qatar 2022. The transfor- on the directives of Amir H H A photo of aid sent by Qatar for typhoon-affected people in the Naama during the annual He added that the plan will be mation which Qatar’s infra- Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Philippines. pledging conference organised announced soon, and will structure has witnessed to host Thani, noting that the aid was by UNHCR. include support for the UNHCR this tournament will, without part of Qatar’s continued efforts urgency to the aid of the victims the commitment of Qatar to Al Naama stressed that that would enhance Qatar’s a doubt, mean a more acces- in aiding friends in the Republic in the Philippines. He said the alleviating suffering and Qatar believes in the impor- position in the $20m plus club sible country for everyone to of the Philippines. Al Kuwari quick engagement of the wise enhancing international efforts tance of enhancing cooperation that includes the most prom- thrive in and enjoy.” stressed that Qatar moved with leadership reflected in the field of emergency aid. between international parties inent donor countries. FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020 HOME 03 ‘Qatar will stand by Lebanon against all challenges’

QNA — DOHA this critical stage. The State of Qatar has spared Lebanon today is in dire need of Qatar affirmed that it will not hesitate no effort, and was one of the political and economic reform to to continue its efforts to stand by the first countries that rushed to ensure the stability and growth of its brotherly Republic of Lebanon. respond to the fraternal and economy, he said, pointing out that This came in the speech of the this requires all Lebanese factions to State of Qatar, delivered by Minister humanitarian duty to stand by join hands and solidarity to achieve of State for Foreign Affairs, H E Sultan the brotherly Lebanese people the supreme interest of the Lebanese bin Saad Al Muraikhi via video con- by providing them with urgent people and strengthen state institu- ference at the international con- relief aid of $50m as a tions to fulfil the aspirations of the ference in support of the Lebanese contribution to relief Lebanese people for reconstruction people, which was held on Wednesday and development. at the level of heads of states and operations and to alleviate the The Minister of State for Foreign governments. suffering of the Lebanese Affairs thanked President of the The Minister of State for Foreign people. Republic of France, H E Emmanuel Affairs stressed in his speech that the Macron and Secretary-General of the State of Qatar has spared no effort at H E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi United Nations, H E Antonio Guterres the official and popular levels and was for their invitation to hold this one of the first countries that rushed Minister of State for Foreign Affairs important conference, which comes to respond to the fraternal and in light of the continuing economic humanitarian duty to stand by the and political challenges facing brotherly Lebanese people by pro- In this context, he pointed out that universities, in addition to financial He hailed the efforts of the brotherly Lebanon. viding them with urgent relief aid of Qatar Fund for Development recently aids from the Qatari people. Republic of France, as well as all There is no doubt that holding this $50m as a contribution to relief oper- signed several agreements with the Today, Lebanon is facing difficult countries and international and important conference indicates the sin- ations and to alleviate the suffering of authorities concerned in Lebanon for conditions especially the humani- regional organisations that provided cerity of the international community the Lebanese people. the reconstruction of the old building tarian, social, economic and financial assistance to the brothers in Lebanon, in helping the Republic of Lebanon to Qatar also sent an equipped team of the Karantina Hospital in Beirut, and crises and the coronavirus pandemic, calling on the international com- face these challenges, he noted, from the Qatari International Search the rehabilitation of many educational Al Muraikhi said, stressing the need munity to continue providing the nec- expressing hopes that the conference and Rescue Group to establish field buildings, including 55 schools, edu- to reconstruct the areas affected by essary assistance to Lebanon so that would achieve its goals and meet the hospitals. cation and training centres, and three Beirut port blast in August. the Lebanese people could overcome aspirations of the Lebanese people. MoPH marks International Day for Persons with Disabilities HBKU scientists ranked among THE PENINSULA — DOHA under the theme: ‘A Day for All’. Health Strategy 2018-2022 pri- MoPH prepared a number of disability. MoPH also launched It has been celebrated ever ority area Health and Wellbeing educational materials, and the e-learning platform to help world's top 2% The Ministry of Public Health since. for People with Special Needs, awareness videos to raise public the families of the persons suf- (MoPH) and health sector In connection with the Dr. Khalid Abdul Hadi, said, awareness of the precautionary fering autism spectrum. This THE PENINSULA — DOHA partners in Qatar participated occasion, the MoPH has stressed “Work is ongoing through the measures for the persons with platform comprises guidance in the celebrations of the Inter- importance of enhancing col- strategy to improve the early disabilities during the COVID-19 videos as well as educational Faculty members and scien- national Day for Persons with lective efforts to secure health detection of disability, promote pandemic. The MoPH also and training materials targeting tists at Hamad Bin Khalifa Disabilities (IDPWD) yesterday. and social protection for the diagnostic procedures and issued a guide-booklet, in both families which are prepared by University (HBKU) have been The theme of this year’s cel- persons with disabilities, espe- referrals to services, and Arabic and English, for persons behaviour specialists, occupa- named among the top two ebrations is ‘Building Back cially while facing the COVID-19 develop early intervention pro- with disabilities as well as an tional therapists, speech thera- percent of the world’s most- Better: Towards a More Disa- pandemic in order to ensure the grammes and services. awareness video, translated in pists and mental professionals. cited in the career bility-Inclusive, Accessible and smooth and continuous flow "In addition, registers for sign language, addressing all Qatar was one of the first achievement category, part of Sustainable Post-COVID World'. through the activation of a persons with disabilities have types of disabilities in addition states in world to ratify the con- a global list compiled by The day aimed at promoting group of remote tele-health been established and easy to issuing special medical vention of the rights of the Stanford University in the US. an understanding of disability services and measures to ensure access to general and spe- standards and measures for the persons with disabilities in Four scientists from issues and mobilising support access to these health services cialised services have been pro- isolation of persons with disa- 2008. Since then, Qatar has HBKU’s Qatar Computing for the dignity, rights and well- for persons with disabilities. vided without impediments. bilities infected with made remarkable and signif- Research institute made the being of persons with disabil- The health services, the This priority shall focus on inte- COVID-19. icant strides for promoting and list, which included Founding ities. It also seeks to increase rehabilitation services, as well grating persons with special The MoPH launched the call protecting their rights, their Executive Director, Dr. Ahmed awareness of benefits to be as the allied health services for needs to enable them to achieve centre for the health sector to integration in the society as well Elmagarmid; Principal Scien- derived from the integration of persons with disabilities are a better future for themselves receive any inquiries related to as involving them in the devel- tists, Dr. Bernard Jansen, Dr. persons with disabilities in delivered through the clinics and others. A range of targets COVID-19. HMC provided a opment process in line with the Issa Khalil and Dr. Preslav every aspect of political, social, and the virtual clinics using and schemes have been estab- hotline for the parents of Qatar National Vision 2030, Nakov who were recognised economic and cultural life. visual and telephone lished to realise these children experiencing disabil- which stipulates the for their contributions to their IDPWD was proclaimed by communication. objectives.” ities to receive consultations achievement of equality and respective fields. the United Nations in 1992 The lead of the National To mark the day, related to COVID-19 and justice for all. Other researchers from the Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI) were iden- tified among the achievers, “18” exhibition opens with which honoured Scientific Director, Diabetes Research Center at QBRI, Dr. Paul Thor- diverse works by 18 artists nalley. Also listed among the awardees was Senior Scientist, RAYNALD C RIVERA collection which displays diverse Disruptive Technologies THE PENINSULA mediums, styles and subjects, though all Program, Energy Center at the unified in celebrating the historic Qatar Environment and Fifteen days before Qatar National Day, occasion. In “The Celebration”, Qatari Energy Research Institute, Dr. Al Markhiya Gallery has unveiled “18” — independent filmmaker and visual artist Golibjon Berdiyorov. a group exhibition which puts the spot- Khalifa Al Thani created a movie poster Faculty members from light on the work of 18 Qatar-based on the National Day he calls “The Cele- HBKU’s College of Science and contemporary artists to mark the annual bration of the Year.” The 100cm by 150cm Engineering were honoured celebration which falls on December 18. piece never fails to draw visitors’ attention in the same category. Curated by Qatari artists Fatima as the poster is placed in an LED frame Mohammed and Shouq Al Mana, the exhi- complete with light bulbs like the ones bition, which launched yesterday at Al displayed in cineplexes. Some of the artworks on show at “18” exhibition which opened yesterday at Al Five arrested for Markhiya Gallery at the Fire Station, is a Versatile artist Mohammed Al Markhiya Gallery at the Fire Station. PIC: RAYNALD C RIVERA/ THE PENINSULA stunning display of varied artworks and Hammadi, provides a fascinating look violating home Qatar’s wealth of unique talents. into Qatar’s fast-paced progress sym- “”18” exhibition represents 18 artists bolized by Doha’s breathtaking skyline. performance. The two paintings, which Muftah, Mubarak Al Malik, Noor Al Thani, quarantine and the National Day. We chose 18 artists His work is a 200cm by 50cm digital pixel look opposite yet complementary in the and Sumam Azzam. showcasing different talents, young artists art titled “Doha Downtown.” use of maroon and white colours, “rep- Al Markhiya Gallery also launched this QNA — DOHA embarking together to exhibit their rep- Working in mixed media, printmaking resent society and unity,” she said. week the second instalment of “Process” resentation of National Day,” Mohammed and installation art focusing on the Other artists whose works are fea- exhibition which provides art enthusiasts The competent authorities told The Peninsula, adding the selection changing social anatomy of the Arabian tured at the show are Aisha Al Fadhala, a look into the development of an artistic arrested yesterday five people was based on the artists’ work pulled Gulf, Fatima Mohammed is showcasing Alanoud bint Khalid, Almaha Nasser, concept or work. It features works by who violated the requirements together from different mediums. two paintings based on the fictional char- Ameera Al Aji, Amira Natsheh, Ammar Wadha Al Sulaiti, Jameela Al Ansari, of the home quarantine they It is evident that the show has been acter she created she calls ‘Anaj’ which Alqamash, Anfal Al Kandari, Azzam Al Salem Mathkour, and Haitham Al Hamad committed to following, which well-curated with the meticulously has been the subject of many of her works Mannai, Bachir Mohamad, Ibrahim Al and runs until January 8 at Katara Art they are legally accountable chosen artworks included in the from paintings to installations to Baker, Maetha Alkhayarin, Manar Al Centre. for, in accordance with the procedures of the health authorities in the country. The arrested persons being Community College announces referred to the competent prosecution are, Noah Suleiman Mubarak Al Hosani; results of students’ council elections Muhammad Suleiman Mubarak Al Hosani; Sultan THE PENINSULA — DOHA students and CCQ’s man- events and attend the signing of Mahawash Hamid Nasser Al agement because it allows them agreements. Nasser; Nasser Jumaa Ghaith The Community College of Qatar to discuss the challenges they The winners representing all Ghaith Al Khwaiter and Aref (CCQ) has announced the results face in their academic journey. three academic divisions are Mahmoud. of the students’ council elections In other words, the council pro- Mohammad Hamad Alsuwadi, that serve as a communication vides a platform for students’ Salem Yousef Alkhater, Jawaher link between the students, on voices and suggestions, and Abdulaziz Almaadeed, and Aisha MoPH: 221 new the one hand, and the College surely no one can represent stu- Salem Al sheraim (Sciences and administration and faculty dents better than their fellow Technology Division); Taleb COVID-19 cases members, on the other hand. students who share the same Rashed Almarri, Rashid This year’s elections fea- aspirations and challenges.” Mohamed Bastaki, Aljohrh Safar THE PENINSULA — DOHA tured 25 male and female can- It is noteworthy to mention Al-shafi, and Shaikha Khamis didates, competing for 12 seats that the new council members Ghabesh (Management Science The Ministry of Public Health representing CCQ’s academic will have regular meetings with Division); and Ali Hussain (MoPH) yesterday announced divisions, namely the Sciences CCQ President, Dr. Mohamed Murad, Mohamed Abdulghani the registration of 221 new and Technology, the Man- Ibrahim Al Naemi, and CCQ Vice Alsaffar, Amal Salem Raheel confirmed COVID-19 cases. agement Science, and the President, Dr. Khalid Al Al-ali, and Wadha Abdullah Among them 56 were trav- Liberal Arts. Each division had Abdulqader, to discuss students’ Al-ali (Liberal Arts Division). ellers returning from abroad. four seats, divided equally suggestions and concerns and Due to the COVID-19 pre- Another 228 people have between male and female to reach suitable solutions. The cautionary measures, the recovered from the virus, Customs foils smuggling bid students. council members will also have election process was held elec- bringing the total number of The customs department at Hamad International Airport has foiled Commenting on this signif- the opportunity to participate in tronically. CCQ adopted the two- recovered cases in Qatar to an attempt to smuggle prohibited pills, the General Authority of icant milestone, Dean of Student various committees and present vote system, where each student 136,741. Customs (GAC) said on its website. It said 397 Lyrica pills and 46 Affairs, Dr. Fatima Al Naemi, their ideas and proposals to the has two votes: one for a can- All new cases have been Captagon pills were recovered from a passenger during search. said, “The students’ council is deans of the academic divisions didate from the same academic introduced to isolation and are A seizure report was filed accordingly. one of the most important com- and represent the College in division and the other for a can- receiving healthcare according munication channels between national and international didate from another division. to their health status. 04 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020 Zarif rules out renegotiating nuclear deal with Biden

BLOOMBERG & REUTERS — nuclear agreement with the TEHRAN/WASHINGTON West. Zarif—Iran’s lead nego- “We will not renegotiate tiator on the pact —said his Iran will not renegotiate the a deal which we government did not like the nuclear accord it reached with negotiated. The deal was law. “We will implement it world powers, its foreign because it is the law of the minister said, drawing a line in about give and take, it land” but it is not “irre- the sand ahead of Joe Biden’s wasn’t about one side versible,” he said. assumption of the US presidency. asking and the other side The United States yesterday By walking out of an giving.” imposed fresh Iran-related agreement anchored in a sanctions, blacklisting an entity United Nations resolution, the and an individual as Wash- US is not in a position to impose Mohammad Javad Zarif ington continues to ramp up conditions, Mohammad Javad Iran's Foreign Minister pressure on Tehran during US Zarif told a virtual Rome con- President Donald Trump’s final ference on foreign affairs months in office. yesterday. The US Treasury “The United States must “It’s not that you can come Department in a statement said cease its violations of interna- in, impose restrictions on that it had slapped sanctions on Palestinians taking part in a wheelchair race during an event marking the International Day of Persons tional law, it doesn’t require any others, benefit from the privi- Shahid Meisami Group and its with Disabilities in Gaza City, yesterday. negotiations,” Zarif said. “We leges of membership and then director, accusing the entity of will not renegotiate a deal all of a sudden decide to leave being involved in Iran’s which we negotiated. The deal and inflict $250bn of damage chemical weapons research was about give and take, it on the Iranian people,” he said. and linked to the Iranian Life ‘extraordinarily difficult’ wasn’t about one side asking On Wednesday, Iran gave Organization of Defensive and the other side giving.” the Biden administration just Innovation and Research, President Donald Trump weeks to make a diplomatic which is blacklisted by for disabled in Gaza: HRW pulled the US out of the accord breakthrough by giving final Washington. in 2018 and imposed crippling approval to a bill compelling The move comes days after AFP — GAZA CITY with Disabilities, HRW said the Gaza of goods that could be sanctions on Iran, in an unsuc- President Hassan Rouhani to the killing of the Islamic Repub- 2007 blockade Israel imposed used for military purposes and cessful attempt to force it to end international nuclear lic’s top nuclear scientist last People with disabilities can face on the territory following controls the flow of fuel needed enter talks on a tougher pact. inspections unless the US lifts week. Iran’s supreme leader an “extraordinarily difficult” life Hamas’s rise to power had to power the enclave’s sole Biden has said he’ll rejoin the key sanctions by February. promised on Saturday to in the Gaza Strip due to the “robbed people with disabilities electricity plant. The report deal if Iran also returns to full The new legislation also retaliate for the killing, raising Israeli blockade and lack of in Gaza of their freedom of noted the impact of recurring compliance, and then push to says Iran will immediately take the threat of a new confron- assistance from Islamist rulers movement”. power cuts on people with dis- broaden it. measures to start producing tation with the West and Israel Hamas, Human Rights Watch Emina Cerimovic, senior abilities who need light to com- In addition to insisting on the 20% enriched uranium for in the remaining weeks of warned yesterday. researcher in HRW’s disability municate through sign lan- removal of sanctions, Iran has peaceful purposes and Trump’s presidency. Two million Palestinians rights division, said Israeli guage, or electric lifts or demanded economic compen- increase its stockpile of the “Iran’s development of live in the poverty and conflict- control of Gaza’s eastern border scooters to get around. sation for the devastation they’ve fissile material, potentially weapons of mass destruction is plagued enclave wedged had also impaired “access to the “Israel’s policies contribute wrought on the country. Yes- reducing the time Iran needs a threat to the security of its between Israel, Egypt and the devices, electricity, and tech- to making life in Gaza extraor- terday, Zarif signaled a price tag to make preparations to acquire neighbors and the world,” Mediterranean Sea. nology they need to commu- dinarily difficult for many when he observed that the nuclear a weapon. It was promoted by Treasury Secretary Steven In a report released on the nicate or leave their homes.” people with disabilities,” the deal “is not a revolving door.” hardliners who opposed the Mnuchin said in the statement. International Day of Persons Israel limits the entry into report said.

Algeria news Iran surpasses one million cases of COVID-19 sites say blocked

AFP — TEHRAN appears to have eased slightly have responded by taking a President Hassan Rouhani said Committee, announced this by authorities in the past few days, however, series of measures aimed at were needed to curb a “third week that the animal testing Iran said its novel coronavirus after soaring to a daily average halting the spread of the virus. wave” of the outbreak. phase had been completed. AFP — ALGIERS caseload surpassed one million of more than 400 for much of Faced with the dual chal- The measures apply to the They have yet to specify yesterday, as the authorities November. lenge of US sanctions and the vast majority of cities across when testing will be carried out Several Algerian news outlets consider easing restrictions in But some officials— pandemic, however, they have Iran, including Tehran and the on humans. But Namaki said announced that their websites many parts of the Middle East’s including Health Minister Saeed never imposed full lockdowns, country’s 30 other provincial that if the step was successful, had been blocked, the latest in hardest hit country. Namaki—admit the government for fear they would cause capitals. Like most countries “we will be one of the major a series of alleged infringe- The Islamic republic had figures are much lower than the further damage to Iran’s affected by the pandemic, Iran producers of COVID-19 vacci- ments of press freedom in the recorded 49,348 COVID-19 deaths actual numbers. economy. US President Donald — which began developing its nations in the region by early North African country. and 1,003,494 infections since COVID-19 first surfaced in Trump has imposed wave after own vaccine in the spring—is next spring”. “We vigorously denounce announcing its first cases in Feb- Iran on February 19, when wave of sanctions on the Islamic awaiting the availability of a Iran had “pre-purchased” this arbitrary measure,” the ruary, health ministry spokes- authorities said it claimed the republic since 2018, when he vaccine against the virus. about 16.8 million vaccine doses news team at Twala, a new- woman Sima Sadat Lari said. lives of two elderly people in unilaterally withdrew from the Namaki announced on “via Covax” — the World Health comer on the Algerian media In the past 24 hours, the virus Qom, a Shiite holy city south of Iran nuclear deal. Despite not Wednesday that an Iranian Organization’s (WHO) mech- scene and one of the affected caused 358 new deaths in the the capital. imposing lockdowns, non- company had “obtained a anism for equitable access to outlets, said in a statement. country with a population of They were the first con- essential businesses were closed licence to test a vaccine on vaccines —Namaki was quoted The online newspaper was more than 80 million, and 13,922 firmed deaths from the disease for two weeks in areas at the humans”. Minou Mohraz, a as saying on the ministry’s not informed of the move and cases of infection, Lari said. in the Middle East. highest risk on November 21, medical epidemiologist with the website, though which vaccine no explanation has been given The number of fatalities Since then, the authorities reinforcing restrictions National Coronavirus Control was not specified. for this “attack on press freedom”, Twala added. The Casbah Tribune, an established outlet, likewise Almost half of Yemenis Turkey announces Chinese vaccine plan said its site had been blocked, adding in a statement on its AP — ISTANBUL would be among the first coun- Vaccination efforts would Facebook page that the in acute food insecurity tries in the world to begin vac- be rolled out in four stages, the blockage could be circum- REUTERS — DUBAI Turkey’s health minister has cinations in the early phase,” minister said. vented by using a VPN. announced a plan to start using Koca said. The first group includes Twala, which launched six Famine-like conditions have re-appeared in parts of Yemen and an experimental Chinese In November, The Lancet health care workers, citizens weeks ago, also said readers almost half the population is experiencing high levels of food COVID-19 vaccine later this published a study about the above age 65, and people living were able to access its site via insecurity, new United Nations data showed yesterday, with aid month amid a surge in infec- efficacy of Sinovac’s vaccine in homes for the elderly, dis- a VPN, adding that its “team agencies warning time is running out to prevent mass starvation. tions and deaths. candidate based on initial abled or other protective care continues its work”. Around 45% of Yemen’s population is facing high levels of Fahrettin Koca had previ- clinical trials. homes. The two outlets, which acute food insecurity, according to the UN’s Integrated Food ously announced an agreement The study said the efficacy Next would be essential both produce news in French Security Phase Classification (IPC) analysis. with China’s Sinovac Biotech was determined to be mod- workers and people above 50 and Arabic, are not the first to Within this number, 33% of the population are in crisis, 12% for 50 million doses of Coro- erate, and that the vaccine pro- with at least one chronic encounter difficulties in are in emergency and 16,500 people are in a catastrophic, famine- naVac, which is currently in late duced lower levels of anti- disease. Third, people younger Algeria this year. like, situation, the worst level of the IPC classifications. The stage trials. Koca said in a bodies than those that have than 50 with at least one Radio M, Maghreb outlook for next year is worse, the IPC analysis said. Between statement late Wednesday that been found in recovered chronic illness, young adults Emergent, Interlignes, L’Avant- January and June 2021 54% of Yemenis - 16.2 million people - the first shipment of the vaccine COVID-19 patients. and other workers would be Garde and TSA have all com- are likely to experience high levels of acute food insecurity. Those will arrive in Turkey after Dec. “The protective efficacy of vaccinated. The fourth and final plained that the authorities in a catastrophic state will likely increase to 47,000 people. 11. CoronaVac remains to be deter- phase would be for the rest of have censored their output. “These alarming numbers must be a wake-up call to the The minister said early use mined,” the study said. the population. Maghreb Emergent and world,” said David Beasley, executive director of the UN’s World authorization would be granted Candidates from Pfizer- Turkish President Recep Radio M also said on Food Programme (WFP). IPC data analyses for south Yemen, after Turkish labs confirm the BioNTech and Moderna have Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday Wednesday that they were which is under the control of the internationally recognised shots are safe and after said that they have more than the vaccine would be adminis- again inaccessible, after being Yemeni government, were released in July and October. assessment of initial results 90% efficacy rates. The U.K.’s tered free of charge. Other partially unblocked in October. Yesterday’s analysis now includes IPC data for north Yemen, from the latest trials. AstraZeneca have an efficacy COVID-19 vaccines would be The communications min- where the majority live and which is controlled by Houthi “If developments continue rate of 70-90%, again based on sold at pharmacies, according istry has not provided any authorities. positively as we expect, Turkey limited clinical trials. to the health minister. explanation. Ethiopian forces block refugees from entering Sudan AP — HAMDAYET, SUDAN Hamdayet in Sudan but were a request for comment. hurried to set up a system to feed, stopped, and refugees waiting on Asked over the weekend shelter and care for them from Ethiopian forces yesterday the Sudan side became upset and about refugees’ allegations scratch. blocked people from the coun- began throwing rocks. blocked crossings, United Nations Nearly half the refugees are try’s embattled Tigray region The Sudanese forces then refugee chief Filippo Grandi told children, the UN has said, and from crossing into Sudan at the cleared the area, and on reporters that his team had not many people came with nothing. busiest border crossing point for Thursday evening they con- raised the issue with Ethiopia’s Refugees have recounted hor- refugees, Sudanese forces said. firmed that the border crossing government. But refugees told him rific journeys of fleeing attacks Their account follows alle- remained closed. The AP around about the “many checkpoints” and and arriving on foot after two or gations by refugees in previous midday saw more than a dozen pockets of insecurity they faced as three days of walking in the heat. days of Ethiopian forces stopping people waiting on the Ethiopian they fled. Authorities have said they are people from fleeing the month- side of the border. “We have not heard of any preparing for as many as old deadly conflict in Tigray Tensions have been rising at systematic sealing-off,” Grandi 100,000 refugees. But Ethiopia’s between Ethiopian forces and the border in recent days as the said. “But certainly there are government has said it welcomes Tigray regional forces. flow of Ethiopians crossing has growing difficulties.” the refugees to come home for Members of the Sudanese slowed to hundreds per day from More than 45,000 Ethiopians reintegration and has vowed forces, speaking on condition of several thousand. have fled into the remote area of their protection. Janez Lenarcic, European Commissioner for Crisis Management, anonymity because they weren’t A senior Ethiopian gov- Sudan, first straining the gener- Many of the refugees, mainly visits a warehouse erected by the World Food Programme (WFP) authorized to discuss the events, ernment official who has served osity of local communities and ethnic Tigrayans, have said it was at Um Raquba reception camp for Ethiopian refugees who fled said people tried to cross from as spokesman during the conflict then challenging the capacity of Ethiopian forces they were the Tigray conflict, in Sudan’s Gedaref province, yesterday. Ethiopia around 6 a.m. to did not immediately respond to humanitarian groups that have fleeing. FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020 ISLAM 05 Allah enjoins us to be kind on earth ABDULRAHMAN AL SHEHA Islam urges its followers to ustice and fairness are commanded and required in all situations, when control their temper and one is happy and satisfied, and when forgive others, though one is one is upset and unsatisfied, with capable to take revenge. Such JMuslims and with non-Muslims alike. Allah, the Almighty, says: “O ye attitudes, of course, strengthen who believe! Stand out firmly for Allah, the relationships and ties as witnesses to fair dealing, and let not the hatred of others to you make you among people and create a swerve to wrong and depart from justice. better atmosphere within the Be just, that is, next to Piety; and fear society. Islam promised a great Allah. For Allah is well-acquainted with all that ye do.” (Quran, 5:8) reward for controlling one’s Islam enjoins altruism and urges temper Allah, the Almighty, Muslims to practice it. Philanthropy says: “Nor can goodness and and benevolence are some of the results of altruism, if practiced by the evil be equal. Repel evil with members of the society. Allah, the what is better: Then will he, Almighty says: between whom and thee was “But those who, before them, had homes (in Madinah) and had adopted hatred, become as it were thy the faith, show their affection to such friend and intimate!” as came to them for refuge, and (Quran, 41:34) entertain no desire in their hearts for things given to the (latter); but give them preference over themselves, even though poverty was their (own lot). order to avoid all evils. Allah, the And those saved from the covetousness Almighty, says: “Now await in patience of their own souls; they are the ones the command of thy Lord; for verily that achieve prosperity.” (Quran, 59:9) thou art in Our eyes; and celebrate the Islam urges to maintain righteous praises of thy Lord the while thou company. Muslims are advised to stay standest forth.” (Quran, 52:48) aloof from bad company. Allah’s Mes- Islam also urges and encourages senger (peace and blessings of Allah Muslims to be patient on what they be upon him) is reported to have said: have been predestined for such as The example of good and evil com- Islam enjoins to assist people in making up better relationships. This is poverty, hunger, lack of resources, ter- panions is like that of a person who is minal illness or else, and fear. carrying musk and the blacksmith who especially so when there is a rift in the relationship between people. Allah, In fact, Allah, the Almighty, illus- is blowing his blower over the fire to trates the reward of the patient people get it going. A musk carrier would the Almighty says: “In most of their secret talks there is no good; but if one as follows: “Say: O ye My servants who either give you a bit of it, or you may exhorts to a deed of charity or justice or conciliation between men, (secrecy believe! Fear your Lord. Good is (the buy a little from him or at the least, you reward) for those who do good in this would smell good perfume from him. is permissible): To him who does this, seeking the good pleasure of Allah, world. Spacious is Allah’s earth! Those As for the blacksmith who is blowing who patiently persevere will truly his blower over the fire you may either We shall soon give a reward of the highest value.” (Quran, 4:114) receive a reward without measure!” burn your clothes (if you sit by him), or (Quran, 39:10) else you would be disturbed with the Islam enjoins Muslims to control sparkles of his fire, or the least (harm Almighty. Allah’s Messenger (peace and thy hand tied like a niggard’s to thy neck, situation becomes worst. (Muslim) their temper and forgive others, though you may get) is to get disturbed with blessings of Allah be upon him) is nor stretch it forth to its utmost reach, so Islam enjoins on Muslims to hide one is capable to take revenge. Such the bad odor coming from him and his reported to have said: that thou become blameworthy and des- omissions of others, and help each attitudes, of course, strengthen the place. (Bukhari and Muslim) Do favours for those who deserve titute.” (Quran, 17:29) other to achieve their decent and relationships and ties among people Islam enjoins to assist people in to be done for them, and also for those On being generous towards others, honest goals. and create a better atmosphere within making up better relationships. This is who do not deserve to be done for Allah, the Almighty, says: “And render Allah’s Messenger (peace and the society. Islam promised a great especially so when there is a rift in the them. If the doer did the favour for to the kindred their due rights, as (also) blessings of Allah be upon him) is reward for controlling one’s temper. relationship between people. Allah, the those who deserve it (and they are to those in want, and to the wayfarer; reported to have said: “Whosoever Allah Almighty says: Almighty says: “In most of their secret worthy of it) it is fine and good, and if but squander not (your wealth) in the alleviates a believer’s hardship of this “Be quick in the race for forgiveness talks there is no good; but if one not, the doer of the favour himself is manner of a spendthrift. Verily spend- world, Allah, the Almighty, would from your Lord, and for a garden exhorts to a deed of charity or justice one of those who are worthy for thrifts are brothers of the evil ones; and alleviate his hardship and difficulty whose width is that of the whole of the or conciliation between men, (secrecy favours. (Tirmidhi) the evil one is to his Lord (Himself) of the Day of Judgment. Whosoever heavens and of the earth, prepared for is permissible): To him who does this, Islam enjoins on Muslims to be ungrateful.” (Quran, 17:26-27) eases the terms on (a financially) the righteous. Those who spend freely, seeking the good pleasure of Allah, We generous. Generosity brings people Muslims to be kind and benevolent stranded person, Allah, the Almighty, whether in prosperity, or in adversity; shall soon give a reward of the highest closer to each other and enables the to others. The Prophet (peace be upon would ease his difficulties in both this who restrain anger, and pardon all value.” (Quran, 4:114) generous to gain the love and affection him) is reported to have said: world and the Hereafter. Whosoever men; for Allah loves those who do Islam suggests maintaining a good of others. Allah’s Messenger (peace and “Allah, the Almighty, would be hides the defects of a Muslim in this good.” (Quran, 3:133-134) character and morals. Good morals and blessings of Allah be upon him) is (extremely) kind and merciful to those world, Allah, the Almighty, would Also, Allah Almighty commands to virtues are essential for a better society. reported to have said, “Allah, the who are kind and merciful to others. hide the defects of that person both do well, even though they have done Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings Almighty, loves two traits: To be good Be kind to those on earth, the One in in this world and in the Hereafter. unwell and were mistreated with evil of Allah be upon him) is reported to to others and to be generous to them.” Heaven would be kind and merciful Allah, the Almighty, would continue acts. All this is done with the hope that have said: Similarly, Allah, the Almighty, hates to you.” (Tirmidhi and Abu Dawood) to assist a slave-servant so long as people would get closer to each other Among the best believers are the two traits: To be mean to others and Islam commands Muslims to be such person is extending his help and and mane forge affection towards to persons with the best of morals and to be miser to people. On the other kind and accommodating to others and assistance to his Muslim brethren. each other. Allah, the Almighty, says: characteristics and those who are most hand, If Allah, the Almighty, favours a encourages people to do so. Allah’s (Muslim) “Nor can goodness and evil be equal. kind to their family members. person, He would employ him to assist Messenger (peace and blessings of Islam enjoins upon patience. Repel evil with what is better: Then (Tirmidhi) others achieve their goals and fulfil Allah be upon him) is reported to have People are encouraged to be patient will he, between whom and thee was Islam enjoins on Muslims to offer their needs. said: Being kind to others is good in in order to perform their religious hatred, become as it were thy friend their help and assistance to others free There is criterion, however, for gen- every matter and if kindness is duties. People are equally urged and and intimate!” (Quran, 41:34) of charge and for the pleasure of Allah erosity in Islam. Allah says: “Make not removed from the hearts of people, the encouraged to practice patience in www.muslimummah.org

We all need Allah’s shade. We need His shade in this How to be a VIP on the Day of Judgment life and in the Hereafter. It is MUZAMMIL H SIDDIQ It requires a lot of moral strength to mentioned that on the Day of refuse temptation when the other Judgment everyone will be bu Hurairah (may Allah be partner is attractive, rich, and not only pleased with him) reported that consenting but persuasive. worried and will try to find Athe Prophet (peace and blessings 4. Two people loving each other some protection and shade; be upon him) said: for the sake of Allah: but there will be no shade on “Allah will cover seven people with One should be friendly to all people His shade, on the Day when there will and deal with all people in a kind and that Day except the special be no shade but His: a just ruler, a courteous manner. However, the shade of Allah. This shade youth who has grown up in the worship friendship for the sake of Allah, for the will be granted to seven of Allah, a man whose heart is attached reasons of piety and goodness is a very to the mosques, two persons who love blessed friendship. This is a sincere special types of people. each other only for Allah’s sake and friendship and when two or more they meet and part in Allah’s cause people become attached to each other only, a man who refuses the call of a for Allah’s sake they bring a lot of good This is a very powerful and beautiful beautiful and influential woman for to themselves and to those around way to say that a person gives quietly, illicit relation with her and says: I am them. This is a kind of friendship that discreetly and with sincerity. His/her afraid of Allah, a man who gives generates goodness in the world and purpose is not to show off, seek pub- charitable gifts so secretly that his is especially blessed by Allah. licity, name or fame; but only to please left hand does not know what his 5. A person of solid moral Allah. This is the highest kind of charity right hand has given, and a person character: and it has a special reward and blessing who remembers Allah while he is The Prophet gave an example of from Allah. alone and his eyes are flooded with this solid character. He said a man 7. A person who remembers Allah tears.” (Al Bukhari) tempted for illicit relationship by a privately: We all need Allah’s shade. To be woman who is beautiful and rich, influ- Thinking of Allah, repeating His under Allah’s shade is to be protected ential or of a prestigious family (the word Beautiful Names, thanking Him and by Him and be blessed by Him. We “mansib” means all these things in praising Him, these are the ways to need His shade in this life and in the doing of justice when one has power conscious of one’s spirit and growing Arabic) and he refuses. Imam Ibn Hajar remember (dhikr) Allah. Doing the Hereafter. It is mentioned that the Day and authority. More difficult is, of up as a youth in the obedience of Allah says that this is not limited to a man only “dhikr” alone in one’s privacy, when of Judgment will be a very hard and course, dealing justly with those who bring a special honor and blessings. who is tempted by a woman; it equally no one is watching, with moving heart difficult Day. On that day everyone will show hate and animosity towards you. 3. A person whose heart is con- applies to a woman who may be tempted and tearful eyes is a sign of sincere faith be worried and will try to find some A just person, especially a just leader nected to the mosque: by a man who is very beautiful, pow- and deep love of Allah. Those who have protection and shade; but there will be or ruler, is given number one place in Literally it says that the heart is erful and rich and she refuses and says the love of Allah, they are indeed under no shade on that Day except the special this list of seven. hanging (mu`allaq) in the mosque. “I fear Allah.” It requires a lot of moral His shade and protection. shade of Allah. This shade will be 2. A young person growing up in Imam Malik explained that it was a strength to refuse temptation when the All these seven characters are granted to seven special types of the worship of Allah: person who when he leaves the other partner is attractive, rich, and not deeply moral and spiritual characters. people: Worship of Allah is good for all mosque, looks forward to coming back only consenting but persuasive. Those They indicate a person’s faith and 1. A just ruler or a just leader: people at any age and time; but the again soon. Normally people’s hearts who have such a strong character are sincere commitment. They are related It could be any person who has worship of Allah from the tender young are attached to their jobs, business and indeed under the protection of Allah. to feeling, thinking, speaking and some authority and he/she uses this age has special blessings. Many people home. Mosque is not the priority for 6. A person of charity who does action. These are true characters of authority with justice and fairness become devoted to Allah when they many people. However, those who love not show off charity: sincere believers. We pray to Allah to without any favoritism or prejudice. grow old. In the old age when the body the House of Allah and keep it as their A person gives charity in such a bless us with these characters and with Justice is the command of God for all becomes weak, people start paying priority are the blessed people and they way that even his left hand does not his shade in this world and also in the people; but the most critical is the attention to the spirit. However, to be shall receive the special favor of Allah. know what his right hand has done. Hereafter. Ameen. www.islam.ru 06 HOME FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020 FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020 ASIA 07 Rohingya 'coerced' into going to remote island REUTERS — DHAKA Human Rights Rohingya militants who attacked police posts. Refugees and humanitarian Watch said it had “We came here to save our workers said yesterday some of interviewed 12 lives facing different kinds of the thousands of Rohingya families whose names troubles and difficulties,” she being shipped to a remote said. “Why would we go to that island had been coerced, were on the lists, but risky island?” ‘ despite government assertions had not volunteered Bangladesh says moving that none would be forced to go. refugees who agree to go to the Two Rohingya said their to go, while Refugees island will ease chronic over- names appeared on lists compiled International said the crowding in its camps, which by government-appointed local are home to more than 1 million leaders without their consent, move was “nothing Rohingya, members of a Muslim while aid workers said officials short of a dangerous minority who have fled neigh- used threats and enticements to bouring Myanmar. pressure people into going. mass detention of the A Bangladesh naval official Some refugees named as Rohingya”. said the first 1,500 refugees willing to go to the island were would today morning leave from in hiding yesterday, amid a the port to cross to the island. heavy security presence at the told Reuters tearfully by phone The journey takes several hours. sprawling camps. as he boarded a bus. Human Rights Watch said it Mohammad Shamsud “Three days ago, when I had interviewed 12 families Douza, the deputy Bangladesh heard that my family is on the whose names were on the lists, government official in charge list, I ran away from the block, but had not volunteered to go, of refugees, said the relocation but yesterday I was caught and while Refugees International said was voluntary. “They are going taken here,” he said. the move was “nothing short of there happily. No one is forced. An 18-year-old woman said a dangerous mass detention of Buses wait to carry Rohingyas from a refugee camp of Cox’s Bazar to Chattogram, from where they The government has taken all her husband had put their the Rohingya people in violation will eventually be shifted to Bhasan Char island in, Bangladesh, yesterday. measures to deal with disasters, names on the list thinking it was of international human rights including their comfortable for food rations. He fled when obligations”. promised to be given priority to condition in a “state of panic” after a statement it had been given living and livelihood.” they were told to go to Bhasan Two aid workers, who go back to Myanmar when being told he had to move and his “limited information” about the Police escorted the first Char, she said, adding that she spoke on condition of ano- repatriation took place, priority concerns over where he would get relocations and was not group of 1,000 refugees in buses is also hiding in the camp. nymity, said refugees had come to be resettled in third countries, his medication on the island. involved in preparations. from Ukhiya in Cox’s Bazar for She was among more than under pressure from gov- and access to education. A senior foreign ministry More than 300 refugees the journey to Chittagong port 730,000 Rohingya who fled ernment officials who used “We’re deeply concerned official, who asked not to be named were brought to the island and then on to Bhasan Char — Myanmar in 2017 following a threats and offers of cash and about how this is unfolding, par- because he was not authorised to earlier this year after several a flood-prone Bay of Bengal military-led crackdown that the other enticements to persuade ticularly in terms of continuity speak to the media, said the ref- months at sea in an attempt to island that emerged from the United Nations said was exe- them to go to the island. of care for some of our patients,” ugees were being moved because flee Bangladesh. Rights groups sea 20 years ago. cuted with genocidal intent. A briefing note by a human- one of the aid workers said. there was little prospect of repat- say they are being held against “They have taken us here Myanmar denies genocide and itarian organisation, seen by The worker cited a case of a riating them to Myanmar. their will and have complained forcefully,” a 31-year-old man says its forces were targeting Reuters, said refugees were refugee with a mental health The United Nations said in of human rights violations. South Indian Australian PM seeks conciliation in dispute with China action hero AP — WELLINGTON Morrison’s complaints, but its The post took aim at alleged constructive engagement,” he Frydenberg said he was disap- Rajinikanth foreign ministry on Thursday unlawful killings and abuses by said. “The relationship with pointed about both the tweet A diplomatic war of words declined to comment further on Australian soldiers during the China is a mutually beneficial and the deleted post. between Australia and China the controversy. conflict in Afghanistan. one. It supports both our coun- “What the prime minister enters politics over a graphic tweet seemed to Spokesperson Hua Morrison called the tweet tries, it is good for both of our did in his WeChat message finally cool yesterday as Chunying told reporters at a “truly repugnant” and “deeply countries.” China is Australia’s before it was disappointingly AFP — CHENNAI Australian Prime Minister Scott daily briefing that WeChat’s offensive” and demanded an largest trading partner. deleted was he made it very Morrison struck a much more management had their “own apology from China. Morrison said Australia had clear Australia is proud of its Indian film superstar conciliatory tone. rules and regulations, and they But China did not back made its views very clear on servicemen and women who Rajinikanth yesterday became Morrison’s change in have the right to handle down, saying that Australia both the tweet and the WeChat wear the uniform,” Frydenberg the latest in a long line of approach came even after he business concerning WeChat should be the one examining its message. said. big-name actors to enter was thwarted in getting his according to their own rules.” actions. WeChat is ubiquitous in The rift between the two politics, vowing to bring in views out directly to Chinese Earlier this week, On Thursday, Morrison took China and is used for everything nations has grown since the “corruption-free” government people over the messaging app Morrison expressed indig- a much different approach, from getting news to making Australian government called to his home state. WeChat, after the Chinese nation and anger at the tweet telling reporters in Canberra electronic payments. The for an independent inquiry into The action hero, one of company deleted his post on the posted by a Chinese official that that his aim was for the two company is held responsible for the origins of the coronavirus Asia’s best-paid actors, said on grounds it could distort his- showed a fake image of a countries to have a “happy ensuring content doesn’t attract pandemic. China has since Twitter that with “huge torical events and confuse the grinning Australian soldier coexistence.” negative attention, and cen- imposed tariffs and other support from people” he public. holding a bloodied knife to a “My position and my gov- sorship is relatively common. restrictions on a number of Aus- would be launching a political China has angrily rejected child’s throat. ernment’s position is to seek Australian Treasurer Josh tralian exports. party in January that is expected to contest elections scheduled in Tamil Nadu state Great Barrier Reef next year. No breakthrough in talks with Indian farmers The 69-year-old former status lowered to bus conductor said the public IANS — NEW DELHI critical, deteriorating wanted “honest, transparent, corruption-free, caste-less, The over seven-hour long talks REUTERS — MELBOURNE secular and spiritual politics” between the representatives of in the state. the farmers’ bodies and the The health of Australia’s Great “Wonderful and amazing Union government ended Barrier Reef, the world’s most things will happen!” he added without any breakthrough on extensive and spectacular without stating explicitly that Thursday and the next round of coral reef ecosystem, is in a he would stand himself. talks has been scheduled for critical state and deteriorating The actor enjoys a cult-like December 5. As per sources, the as climate change warms up following across India where farmers have given their the waters in which it lies, an he is called “The Superstar” or suggestions to the government international conservation “Thalaivar” (leader). in writing. group said. Every new film sends Earlier in the day, a group of The World Heritage-listed Tamil Nadu into a frenzy, with more than 34 farmer leaders put site off Australia’s north- fans getting haircuts like his out a five-point set of demands eastern coast has lost more most recent character or that seeks to frame a specific law than half its coral in the past having his face tattooed on on minimum support price three decades. their bodies. (MSP) and end the punishment Coral-bleaching in 2016, Rajnikanth, who worked provision for stubble burning, 2017 and 2020 has further on buses in the southern city during the fourth round of talks damaged it health and affected of Bengaluru before moving with the Central government its animal, bird and marine into acting in 1973, proved his yesterday. population, the International political muscle in 1996 when In the written five-point set Union for Conservation of he called on fans to oppose the of demands, one of the key Nature said in a report. Tamil Nadu government, demands is repealing the three Such bleaching occurs which was then voted out of contentious farm laws passed A Nihang (Sikh warrior) shouts slogans as he arrives to take part in a protest against the newly passed when hotter water destroys power. in September during the farm bills at Singhu border near Delhi, India, yesterday. the algae which the coral feeds Rajinikanth said in 2017 Monsoon Session of the Par- on, causing it to turn white. that he wanted to enter pol- liament. It also raised objections give them “written assurance” guarantee them MSP, not just government said the three farm The union moved the reef’s itics to bring “change in Tamil about the upcoming Electricity on MSP despite its earlier state- now, but in the future as well. laws were brought in keeping the status to critical and deterio- Nadu”. His fans set off fire- (Amendment) Act, 2020. ments that MSP will continue. The farmer leaders said: “Let interests of the farmers in mind. rating on its watchlist. works in celebration but have The farmers emphasised The farmers’ union repre- us assume that MSP will continue However, they had never kept Some activities which been waiting since for the that the provision to register a sentatives emphasised that a but the procurement would stop. these in mind. The farmers feel threaten it, like fishing and formal moves. case for stubble burning should new law on MSP be framed in The MSP will have no meaning the farm laws have been passed coastal development, can be He launched his own be ended, and asked why the a special session of Parliament, then.” The farmers’ union repre- to benefit big businesses and cor- tackled by the management movement, Rajini Makkal government wasn’t ready to demanding that it must sentatives said that the porate houses. authorities, the union said. Mandram (RMM), which has since been putting in place the political launchpad for the film hero. He has carried on making Cyclone hits Sri Lanka as southern India hunkers down films and had health scares which led some to believe that AFP — COLOMBO strong winds, but the cyclone Sri Lanka also ordered the India’s National Disaster “Praying for the safety and he would give up his political did not cause any major damage closure of schools along the Response Force said well-being of those staying in ambitions. Cyclone Burevi hit Sri Lanka in our area,” Mangalanath Liy- path of the cyclone for three Wednesday that they had affected areas,” Modi said. Rajinikanth is following a overnight, rattling the island anarachchi, a local reporter in days. deployed around two dozen Last week, a more powerful well-worn path from the nation but leaving it relatively Trincomalee, 260km from However, DMC officials said relief and rescue teams for the cyclone skirted northern Sri cinema into Indian politics. unscathed on its way to southern Colombo, said by telephone. there were no reports of casu- two states, for any emergency Lanka but hit Tamil Nadu with Hindi star Sunny Deol is a India, officials said yesterday. Thousands of people living alties and the damage was response after the cyclone. full force, uprooting trees and member of parliament and Burevi, the second cyclone along the coast had been asked minimal as the cyclone Kerala’s Chief Minister delivering 30 centimetres of another Tamil star, Kamal in the southern Bay of Bengal to seek temporary shelter weakened on its way through Pinari Vijayan said around rain in some areas. Haasan, formed his own party in a week, slammed into north- inland, but they have now sparsely populated areas. 2,500 relief camps had been But more accurate fore- in 2018 but failed to win a seat eastern Sri Lanka just before moved back to their homes, Liy- The weather system was identified to relocate people casting and the timely evacu- in a national election last year. midnight (1830 GMT). anarachchi said. expected to make landfall in the from coastal and low lying ation of several hundred Jaya Bachchan, the actor Packing winds up to 100km Sri Lanka’s Disaster Man- southern Indian state of Tamil areas. thousand people were credited wife of Bollywood’s best- an hour, it soaked parts of the agement Centre (DMC) had Nadu overnight yesterday to Prime Minister Narendra with keeping the number of known star Amitabh Bachchan, country but caused no casu- issued a red alert and asked Friday and move westwards Modi tweeted that the central people reported killed to three, has served four terms as a alties and less devastation than fishermen not to venture out to into Kerala, Indian forecasters government was ready to a fraction of the death tolls in member of the Rjya Sabha. feared. “There was rain and sea. said. provide “all possible support”. previous years. 08 VIEWS FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020

Established in 1996

CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI

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

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected]

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI [email protected]

Palestinians gather to protest against Israel’s annexation plan towards some areas of West Bank, at Jabalia camp in Gaza City. EDITORIAL Qatar reaffirms international legitimacy resolutions, Breakthrough in Afghan talks two-state solution to Palestine issue THE State of Qatar has welcomed a preliminary agreement reached by the Afghan government and QNA human rights and the maintenance of The deterioration of the economic the Taliban in the ongoing Afghan Peace Negotiations international peace and security. situation in the occupied Palestinian in Doha. The agreement, which Doha termed a mile- The State of Qatar reaffirmed the peaceful Sheikha Alya also reaffirmed that Qatar territory is a worrisome issue, stone, is the first written agreement between the two settlement of the Palestine cause through will continue to provide political and especially in the Gaza Strip, which sides in 19 years of Afghan conflict. The Ministry of negotiations between the two parties on humanitarian support for the benefit of the Foreign Affairs said this significant progress shows the basis of the agreed references, the reso- Palestinians, explaining that the State of is still under siege the matter that that the Afghan parties are serious and able to lutions of the international legitimacy, the Qatar’s support exceed $1 billion through caused great human suffering, overcome differences and address difficult issues in land for peace principle, the road map and the Qatar Fund for Development and the H E Sheikha Alya said, stressing on the the way to achieve lasting peace. the Arab peace initiative, as well as the Gaza Reconstruction Committee, in importance of the economic stability Qatar said what has been achieved in the talks so achievement of the two-state solution that addition to the contributions provided by far raises hope that both parties will succeed in guarantees establishing a viable Palestinian the institutions of civil community, as aid in realizing security and stability. reaching a political settlement to the conflict. Doha state on the basis of June 4, 1967 borders was provided in areas including education, has been hosting Afghan Peace Negotiations since with East Jerusalem as its capital, ending electricity supply, infrastructure, housing economic stability in realizing security and September 12, 2020, and has reiterated to continue, the Israeli occupation of the Arab terri- maintenance and construction, and stability. in collaboration with the international community and tories, including the Syrian Golan, ensuring employment financing. Israel’s occupation of Arab lands, its strategic allies, to support the peace process in the rights of the Palestinian people and The Permanent Representative pointed attempts to annex Palestinian lands illegally, pursuit of reaching permanent and comprehensive fining fair solution for the refugees issue. out that the Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin settlement activity in the occupied territory, peace in Afghanistan. The intra-Afghan talks followed This came in the State of Qatar’s Hamad Al Thani directed, this year, to measures aimed at changing the character, a peace deal between the Taliban and the US signed statement delivered by the Permanent Rep- provide $150 million to cover humani- legal status and demographic composition in Doha in February 2020. That agreement envisages resentative of the State of Qatar to the tarian needs, including addressing the of Jerusalem, the siege of the Gaza Strip, the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan by May United Nations Ambassador H E Sheikha Coronavirus pandemic and its effects. use of excessive violence against civilians, 2021 in exchange for counter-terrorism guarantees Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani before the She indicated that the State of Qatar has arbitrary detention, and obstruction of from the Taliban. United Nations General Assembly in its 75th recently raised its contribution to the freedom of movement, the demolition of The US has also welcomed the progress made in the session to discuss the Palestinian cause. benefit of UNRWA, stressing that the role Palestinian homes, the exploitation of their intra-Afghan talks, expressing gratitude to the State of She affirmed that the State of Qatar played by the agency is very important and natural resources, and other violations are Qatar for its role as a host and facilitator of the Afghan supports all the efforts aim at solving the indispensable in order to meet the basic all practices that constitute a flagrant vio- peace talks. The US State Department said rapid progress Palestinian issue and achieving peace in needs of millions of Palestinian refugees lation of international law and United on a political roadmap and a ceasefire is what the people the middle east. She also reaffirmed that and ensure stability. Nations resolutions, she explained. of Afghanistan want more than anything else. Nato, which the State of Qatar supports all the annual The deterioration of the economic situ- The ambassador renewed the State of has thousands of troops in Afghanistan, also welcomed General Assembly resolutions on the issue ation in the occupied Palestinian territory is Qatar's commitment to provide all the the progress towards a peaceful political settlement. of Palestine and the Middle East as it based a worrisome issue, especially in the Gaza political and development support for the Nato secretary general said all Nato allies strongly on the principles of the international laws, Strip, which is still under siege the matter Palestinian brothers, and its firm position support the peace process, adding: “Now we would like the purposes enshrined in the UN charter, that caused great human suffering, she in solidarity with the Palestinian people to to see more progress and we need to see rapid progress, the international norms, the respect of said, stressing on the importance of the obtain their just and legitimate rights. both on establishing a political roadmap, but not least on the important issue of a comprehensive ceasefire.” Neighbouring Pakistan also welcomed the development. More than 100,000 Afghans have been killed or These COVID-19 vaccines are safe, right? wounded since 2009 when the UN Assistance Mission SAM FAZELI drugmakers would be sure that use new technology that har- AstraZeneca and Oxford’s in Afghanistan began documenting casualties. Thou- BLOOMBERG they had a potential viable nesses messenger RNA. Unlike vaccine has shown potentially sands of troops from the US, the UK and other coun- product before ramping up traditional inoculations, which less efficacy, but we need to see tries have also died in the conflict, which has left hun- Pfizer Inc. and BioNTech SE’s manufacturing. With COVID-19 typically inject a weakened more data on that. It is not a dreds of thousands of Afghans displaced from their coronavirus vaccine was vaccines, as regulators from strain of a virus to trigger an completely unexpected homes. cleared for use by the UK after around the world got involved immune response, the “mRNA” outcome given their earlier Over the years, Qatar has played a key role in trial data indicated it works right at the beginning, com- creates the response by data, complex trial and the way seeking an end to the conflict in Afghanistan by well at preventing Covid-19. panies took financial risks at actually instructing cells in the the vaccine was designed. But, bringing together the warring sides and facilitating the Their shot, as well as one from stages of vaccine development body to develop virus proteins. even with 62% efficacy - and it talks. The progress achieved by the Afghan negoti- Moderna Inc. - both based on that they would never have Isn’t this risky? Does it change could be higher in younger indi- ators shows that an end to the long conflict and lasting new technology - are on the done before. All this explains the nature of those cells and viduals - the Astra vaccine can peace in the country is in sight. verge of gaining similar why we’re seeing vaccines could it trigger our immune still have major utility in helping approval in the US and Europe. arrive so quickly. systems to attack them? us get out of the pandemic. Still, Other inoculations in the works If the US Food and Drug There is nothing odd or are they totally safe? There have from AstraZeneca Plc and the Administration approves these dodgy about using messenger been side effects, right? University of Oxford, Novavax vaccines as soon as this month, RNA as a vaccine. It doesn’t Yes, there have been side Inc. and Johnson & Johnson are how much safety data will we genetically modify your cells effects. But they have been the D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR in the late stage of trials, with have on them by the time they and it is a short-lived molecule. type that are totally expected approval likely within months. start getting distributed? When the mRNA carrying the after a vaccination, such as EMAIL: [email protected] This is extraodinary. These We usually know if a “instructions” for making the fever, headaches and muscle or vaccines appear to have been vaccine is going to cause virus protein gets inside a joint aches, which only last for EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 developed at breakneck speed. serious side effects within human cell, it joins the thou- a couple of days. I have to say, I FAX: +974 4455 7758 How is this possible when it about two months of vacci- sands of other RNA molecules am glad I see side effects. They typically takes years to develop nation. Using that time frame, there. As soon as the cell are the results of an immune MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 an effective inoculation? we will have oodles of data. creates the virus protein, the reaction, and you get them with The Pfizer-BioNTech and Just thinking about the Pfizer- body recognises it as a foreign the aformentioned Shingrix DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 Moderna vaccines may seem BioNTech and Moderna vac- agent, just as if we had injected vaccine and many others as brand new, but they are the cul- cines, close to 40,000 people the protein directly (which is well. It is a sign that the vaccine LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 mination of more than a decade will have received two shots of what most vaccines do). The is doing its job. Frankly, I can’t of work that started during the the vaccine by the time they immune reaction is focused wait to get two days of side BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 SARS and MERS outbreaks. are potentially released into the against the protein and not the effects so that I can regain my Vaccines were even developed general population early next human cell that is making it. freedom. And they won’t all be SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 against MERS but were never year. And many of these will be Nothing has changed about the same. We already know, needed. Nevertheless, scientists at the fourth or fifth month that cell. from the little data provided, ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 learned a huge amount from after their first dose. By way of Results from different that the Pfizer-BioNTech email: [email protected] working with that virus, which comparison, GlaxoSmithKline vaccine trials suggest different vaccine seems much better tol- is from the same family as the Plc’s star shingles vaccine, levels of efficacy. Are some erated, but more complete PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 one that causes COVID-19. Shingrix, was tested in about vaccines better than others? details will come out when the email: [email protected] Remember also that technology 28,000 subjects, half of whom Should I be worried about FDA meets to review the early has evolved rapidly - for received the vaccine. None of which one I get? use applications. For Pfizer- ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 example, we’re now about able the side effects reported for the What we know is that two BioNTech, that’s December 10; FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] to sequence the genomes of vaccine - which were the usual of the mRNA vaccines in devel- for Moderna, it’s December 17. every mutant version of the fever, chills and aches after a opment, Pfizer-BioNTech and CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 virus in less than a day. That shot - occurred later than three Moderna, have shown more The author is Bloomberg email: [email protected] helps in speeding up vaccine months after vaccination. than 90% efficacy - levels that opinion contributor who covers development. Here’s something The vaccines made by no one dared imagine before the pharmaceutical industry for SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 else that’s different: In the past, Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna they reported their results. Bloomberg Intelligence. FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar The average global temperature in 2020 is set to be about 1.2 C above the pre-industrial /Peninsula_Qatar (1850-1900) level. There is at least a one in five chance of it temporarily exceeding 1.5 C /ThePeninsulaNewspaper by 2024.

+974 6698 6188 Petteri Taalas, WMO Secretary-General FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020 ASIA 09

Former Pakistan US to keep two PM Jamali, who served after larger Afghan coup, dies bases after pullout AFP — ISLAMABAD Pakistan’s former prime Army General Mark Milley said that in addition minister Mir Zafarullah Khan to the two larger bases, the United States Jamali, who served under military leader Pervez Mush- would also keep “several satellite bases.” He arraf, has died, his family said the US military will also continue its two announced. The 76-year-old died in the core missions. city of Rawalpindi outside Islamabad on Wednesday after recently suffering a heart REUTERS — WASHINGTON counterterrorism operations attack, his son Mir Muhammad against Islamic State and Al Khan Jamali said. The Pentagon has approved Qaeda militants. Jamali was elected prime drawdown plans in Afghanistan However, Milley did not minister but with limited that will still keep two larger disclose which bases in Afghan- powers in November 2002, bases in the country as officials istan would be shuttered or say when president Musharraf carry out President Donald what capabilities would be lost Local restaurants employees and staff stage a protest against the restrictions imposed by the authorities allowed parliamentary elec- Trump’s orders to slash troop as the United States removes after indoor dining was banned following a rise in COVID-19 cases in Karachi, Pakistan, yesterday. tions to take place after he took levels to 2,500 by January 15, 2,000 troops from the country. power in a bloodless 1999 the top US general said on He declined to speculate about coup. Wednesday. what President-elect Joe Biden Over 50,000 active virus cases in Pakistan Musharraf went on to rule Trump’s post-election may decide. the country until 2008 but decision last month to cut “What comes after that, that INTERNEWS — ISLAMABAD came second with 727 new government has made face was forced to resign the same nearly half of the roughly 4,500 will be up to a new adminis- cases, Islamabad recorded 417, masks mandatory in public year after pro-military troops currently in Afghanistan tration,” Milley said. The number of active corona- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 218, Azad spaces, limited large public parties lost parliamentary came before military leaders As the United States pre- virus cases in Pakistan has Jammu and Kashmir 85, Balo- gatherings to 300, banned elections and the country could devise plans to execute pares to withdraw more troops, crossed the 50,000 mark, chistan 53, and Gilgit Baltistan indoor weddings, closed transitioned back to a a drawdown, leaving many the US-backed Afghan gov- reaching yet another grim mile- 16. shrines, cinemas, and theatres, democracy. questions unanswered about ernment and Taliban repre- stone as the second wave of With the virus claiming 39 and instructed public and Jamali stepped down in the the future US military mission sentatives reached a prelim- COVID-19 infections surge lives, the country’s death toll private offices to adopt work- summer of 2004 after devel- after Trump leaves office on inary deal on Wednesday to across the country, according climbed to 8,205 — 3,091 of from-home policy and 50 per oping differences with the January 20. press on with peace talks. to the National Command and which are recorded in Punjab, cent occupancy. party leadership and Mush- Army General Mark Milley, It was their first written Operations Centre (NCOC) tally. 2,968 in Sindh, KP has reported The federal government arraf, paving the way for one chairman of the Joint Chiefs of agreement in 19 years of war The country reported 3,499 1,378 deaths, AJK 173, Balo- also announced that educa- of his cabinet ministers, Staff, offered the first details that Milley said has long been new infections in the past 24 chistan 169 and GB 97. tional institutes will remain Shaukat Aziz, to fill the post about the drawdown at an stalemated, with neither side hours, raising the total tally to The NCOC data showed closed from November 26 to until the next parliamentary event hosted by the Brookings able to defeat the other on the 406,810 as active cases climb 346,951 people have recovered January 10. election in 2008. Institution think tank. He said battlefield. to 51,654. The NCOC data shows from the virus up until now — The students will study at Hailing from an influential that in addition to the two Looking back, Milley said the pandemic’s pace in Pakistan 1,586 in the past 24 hours. home or get weekly political family, Jamali was the larger bases, the United States the United States had has quickened as the tally With the COVID-19 pan- homework till December 24 first and only prime minister would also keep “several sat- “achieved a modicum of crossed 400,000 on December demic progressively getting and winter vacations will start to come from the oil-and-gas- ellite bases.” success” in Afghanistan. He 1 with at least 29,881 new cases worse in Pakistan, the gov- December 25. The schools will rich province of Balochistan, He said the US military will stressed the importance of reported in the last 10 days ernment has placed fresh reopen on January 11 — which which has seen several long- also continue its two core mis- peace talks, even as he only. restrictions across the country is subject to coronavirus situ- running Islamist and separatist sions: aiding Afghan security acknowledged that the idea of The highest number of to prevent the spread of the ation then. insurgencies. forces who are locked in a sitting down with Taliban rep- coronavirus cases in the past virus during its second wave. All examinations have been He was to be buried grinding conflict with Taliban resentatives was “odious” to 24 hours was reported in Sindh Following recommenda- postponed except admission Thursday in his ancestral town insurgents and carrying out some people. with 1,983 infections. Punjab tions by the NCOC, the federal and recruitment tests. of Rojhan Jamali.

Ex-Hong Kong lawmaker goes China hits out at US after report of new visa restrictions AP — BEIJING said it would damage America’s The restrictions would be well as on Chinese and Hong party members or not — became into exile, plans global image. the latest punitive measure Kong officials it accuses of eligible for multiple-entry visas China yesterday accused critics “I think it is obvious to all taken against China’s leadership restricting social and political valid for 10 years, with stays of to travel to UK in the US government of “an that this is an escalation of and economy amid sharpening rights in the semi-autonomous 180 days allowed for each entry, escalation of political political suppression by some disputes over human rights, the Chinese city through the imple- while students were permitted AP — COPENHAGEN suppression” against Beijing extreme anti-China forces in the coronavirus pandemic, trade, mentation of a harsh new visas good for five years. China following a report of new visa US out of strong ideological technology, Taiwan and a host national security law. reciprocated with similar A Hong Kong pro-democracy restrictions on members of prejudice and deep-rooted Cold of other issues. Diplomatic ties hit a low treatment for US citizens. activist and former lawmaker China’s ruling Communist Party War mentality against China,” On Wednesday, the US said point over the summer when Chinese who make up the who is visiting Denmark said and their immediate family Hua said at a daily briefing. it would block imports from a the US ordered the closure of single largest group of foreign yesterday he is going into exile members. The Times report could not major Chinese producer of the Chinese consulate in students at American univer- and will soon move to Britain. Foreign ministry spokes- immediately be confirmed, but cotton goods because of its Houston and China responded sities have already complained “I hereby announce that I person Hua Chunying said follows earlier hints that Wash- reliance on workers detained by demanding the US vacate its of tougher conditions for will go into exile and will China would “make represen- ington was planning such a as part of a crackdown on consulate in the southwestern obtaining or extending visas. withdraw my membership in tations” to the US following the move, possibly even including ethnic minorities in China’s city of Chengdu. Chinese academics have also the Democratic Party of Hong report yesterday in the New a total ban on all 92 million northwest. Washington had been loos- faced greater scrutiny, while Kong to leave Hong Kong,” Ted York Times that such people Communist Party members. It Washington has already ening restrictions on travel by dozens of journalists with state Hui said in a statement. “There would be limited to one-month, wasn’t clear how the restric- slapped travel bans and Chinese to the US, seeking to media have been forced to is no word to explain my pain single-entry visas. tions would be enforced since financial sanctions on officials take advantage of the lavish return home and visa restric- and it’s hard to hold back Hua called Washington’s many members do not play connected to the crackdown on spending habits of China’s newly tions placed on those remaining, tears.” approach “totally inconsistent active public roles in the party’s Uighurs and other Chinese wealthy. Beginning in 2014, prompting retaliation from It was not clear when he with the US’ own interests,” and institutions. Muslim groups in Xinjiang, as Chinese travellers — whether Beijing. would travel to Britain which, in response to a crackdown on opposition in Hong Kong, has extended residency rights for S Koreans take entrance up to three million Hong Kongers eligible for British National Overseas passports, exam amid virus surge allowing them to live and work there for five years. AP — SEOUL roads for test-takers. “My personal determi- This year’s exam had been nation is that my exile will not Hundreds of thousands of originally scheduled for be a migration. My only home masked students in South November but was delayed due is Hong Kong which is why I Korea, including 41 confirmed to the virus outbreak. Experts will not apply for asylum in COVID-19 patients, took the say on-and-off online classes any country,” Hui said. “I will highly competitive university have widened the gap between wait for the day that I can go entrance exam yesterday high achievers and low per- home with the bells of freedom despite a viral resurgence that forming students due to ringing in a free Hong Kong. forced authorities to toughen reduced interaction with Until my last breath I will fight social distancing rules. teachers, digital distractions to the end. Revive Hong Kong, About 426,340 students and technical difficulties. revolution now!” were taking the one-day exam “If the exam had been In July, another democracy at about 1,380 sites across the delayed again, our kids would activist, Nathan Law, left Hong nation, including hospitals and have felt much more psycho- Kong after testifying in a US other medical facilities where logical pressure... I think it’s congressional hearing about a the 41 virus patients and hun- fortunate the exam is taking tough new security law dreds of other test-takers in place now,” said Kim Sun-wha, imposed by mainland China on self-quarantine sat separately the mother of a test-taker. “I the semi-autonomous territory. Protest against abduction of democracy activist from others, according to the hope everyone will avoid At first, he declined to disclose Education Ministry. making mistakes, do their best Demonstrators hold signs and masks as they protest yesterday against pro-democracy activist his whereabouts for safety but The annual exam, called and get good results.” later appeared in London. Wanchalearm Satsaksit’s abduction six months before, in front of the Cambodian embassy in “Suneung,” or College Scho- Mothers hugged their “I will continue to fight on Bangkok, Thailand. lastic Ability Test, is crucial in children and patted their backs aboard and will make it my life the education-obsessed before they entered a tem- mission to widen Hong Kong’s country, where job prospects, porary exam site set up at a international battle front with social standing and even who high school in Seoul. One people like Nathan Law in the Japan prosecutors seek to question Abe you marry can often depend on shouted, “Don’t be nervous! Do UK,” Hui said. which university you attend. Well!” and another screamed Hui was arrested in Hong AFP — TOKYO failed to do so for dinners his Abe’s secretaries for allegedly Defence and land ministries “Cheer up!” Kong in May over an incident political group organised on the failing to properly report the cost said they temporarily banned Students were required to in the Legislative Council in Japanese prosecutors are eve of government-sponsored of the dinners. NHK and Jiji Press military exercises and stopped have their temperature taken which he dropped a rotten seeking to question former cherry blossom viewing parties. agency said prosecutors wanted air traffic to reduce noise before entering the test sites, plant and attempted to kick it prime minister Shinzo Abe over Public broadcaster NHK to question Abe about his during the English-language wear masks throughout the at the body’s president. He was a scandal involving the cost of said the group paid more than knowledge of the payments. listening parts of Thursday’s exam and maintain their dis- able to get his passport back events held for his supporters, eight million yen ($76,000) for Abe, who has not yet exam, as they did in past years. tance from each other. They from the government and a local media said yesterday. the events over five years until responded to the prosecutors’ Government offices and many had to bring their own water visa after receiving an invi- Under Japanese law, 2019. request, has already denied any private companies asked their and lunch because they weren’t tation from Danish lawmakers spending on political events The Tokyo Prosecutors Office, wrongdoing, saying guests, employees to come in late, and allowed to use water purifiers to travel to Denmark, where must be reported, but prose- which declined to comment on including voters in his constituency, the country’s stock market or drinking fountains at the he arrived on Tuesday. cutors allege that Abe’s office the story, has already questioned attended at their own expense. delayed its opening to clear sites or go outside to get meals. 10 EUROPE FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020 Ex-French President Giscard dies from COVID-19 at 94 AFP — PARIS Commission president Jean- Claude Juncker recalled Gis- Tributes poured in yesterday He governed for a single card’s “great ambition for the after the death of former French seven-year term from continent”. president Valery Giscard 1974-1981, when France Giscard launched a radical d’Estaing from COVID-19 aged reform drive that included 94, with French and European made great strides in making it easier for couples to leaders hailing him as an ambi- nuclear power and high- divorce and lowering the voting tious reformer and great speed train travel. age to 18. statesman. In Europe, Giscard helped Giscard, who had been in the push towards a monetary hospital several times in the last was derailed in 1981 when he union in cooperation with months for heart problems, died lost his bid for a second term to German chancellor Helmut surrounded by his family on Socialist rival Francois Schmidt, launching a European Wednesday at the family estate, Mitterrand. exchange rate system that was the family said in a statement. “His seven-year mandate a precursor to the euro. He governed for a single transformed France,” President The europhile president was seven-year term from 1974- Emmanuel Macron said in a born in the German city of 1981, when France made great statement. Koblenz while it was under strides in nuclear power and “The direction he set for French occupation in the high-speed train travel. France still guides our way... his aftermath of World War I. He ensured that Paris was death has plunged the French It was at his initiative that at the heart of Europe in a post- nation into mourning,” Macron, leaders of the world’s richest war partnership with Germany who has sometimes been com- countries first met in 1975, an Former French president Valery Giscard d’Estaing (centre) displays his prize, as former German and also played a key role in pared to Giscard, said. event that evolved into the chancellor Helmut Schmidt (left) and then German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier look what would become the G7 Macron was due to address annual summits of the Group of on, at an award ceremony, during which Schmidt and Giscard d’Estaing were both awarded the group of major world powers. the nation to pay tribute to Seven (G7) club. Adenauer-de Gaulle prize, at the foreign ministry in Berlin, on January 24, 2006. In contrast to his prede- Giscard later yesterday. Some commentators have cessors Georges Pompidou and German Chancellor Angela compared Macron to the remained “deeply relevant” for Aged just 18, he joined the finance minister in 1969. Charles de Gaulle, he was an Merkel mourned the loss of a centre-right Giscard, who until young people and women. French Resistance and took part With a more relaxed presi- accessible and media-savvy “great European” and said the incumbent president arrived He “succeeded in modern- in the World War II liberation dential style than his prede- politician who enjoyed meeting Germany had lost “a friend.” at the Elysee aged just 39 in ising political life in France”, of Paris from its Nazi occupiers cessors, “VGE” was sometimes voters. But he also never shook Tweeting in French and English, 2017 was modern France’s added former president Nicolas in 1944. He then served for eight seen in public playing football, off a sometimes haughty British Prime Minister Boris youngest head of state having Sarkozy. Tall and slender with months in Germany and Austria or the accordion. demeanour linked to his aris- Johnson called Giscard a won office aged 48. an elegant, aristocratic manner, in the run-up to the capitulation Giscard involved his family tocratic background. “hugely important figure in French Prime Minister Jean he studied at elite schools — of the Third Reich. in his political appearances, and His ambition to go down as modernising France”. Castex hailed a “man of Ecole Polytechnique and Ecole He launched his political had the blue and red of France’s one of France’s greatest leaders Former European progress” whose social reforms Nationale d’Administration. career in 1959, becoming tricolour flag toned down. EU takes Bulgaria, Greece Italy curbs travel Four die in UK chemical tank blast to avoid virus to court over air pollution AFP — LONDON ‘third wave’ REUTERS — BRUSSELS daily limits on particulate Four people died yesterday AFP — ROME matter, the Commission said. when a chemical tank exploded The European Commission will EU laws have required at a waste water treatment Italy yesterday announced take Bulgaria and Greece to the countries to limit particulate plant in western England. national travel restrictions for EU Court of Justice after both matter pollution since 2005. “We can confirm there have the Christmas holidays countries breached air However, most of the bloc’s 27 been four fatalities,” Avon and designed to limit the spread of pollution limits for years members are set to miss targets Somerset Police Chief Inspector COVID-19 in the European despite multiple warnings, the this year to tackle dirty air. Mark Runacres said after the country first hit by the Commission said yesterday. The Commission also explosion at the plant at Avon- pandemic. The two cases are the latest referred Greece to the court for mouth, near Bristol. The new rules, together in a string of EU legal actions exceeding particulate matter A fifth person was injured with an existing curfew and over poor air quality in coun- limits in the city of Thessaloniki but their injuries were not said other regulations already in tries including France, Italy and for all but one year since 2005. to be life-threatening, he added. place, seek to curb circulation Romania, as Brussels seeks to “Efforts by the Greek Police said they would not throughout the country during clamp down on violations that authorities have to date been be speculating on the cause of the festive period by limiting threaten human health and the unsatisfactory and insufficient,” the explosion but added it was the number of gatherings. bloc’s pollution targets. it said. not being treated as terror Earlier this year, a pun- Police block the entrance to the scene of the explosion near Bristol, The Commission said it will Air pollution is the biggest related. ishing lockdown of all Italy’s Britain, yesterday. refer Bulgaria to the EU’s top environmental health risk in Prime Minister Boris 60 million residents helped court for exceeding legal limits Europe. Particulate matter con- Johnson tweeted that he was bring the outbreak under on particulate matter from tributed to around 379,000 “deeply saddened to learn that treated bio-solids before they minutes I saw the helicopter control, but the government is 2015-2019 even after the court premature deaths in 2018 in the four people have lost their are recycled as organic soil coming and the police,” he said. trying to avoid missteps made ordered the country’s gov- EU, although this was 13% lives”. conditioners, added Runacres. Another witness, Kieran over the summer after the ernment to address the issue in lower than in 2009, the “Our hearts go out to the Witness Jawad Burhan said Jenkins, told the BBC he was in lockdown lifted, when the 2017. Bulgaria could face European Environment Agency victims and their families. there was a “helicopter looking a nearby warehouse when the return of vacationers fuelled financial penalties for flouting said in a recent report. Thank you to the emergency for missing people” and police explosion occurred. “Next thing a new rise in cases. the earlier ruling. The Commission also services who attended the closed a nearby road leading up you know we looked out of the “If we let down our guard Bulgaria is one of the referred Poland to the EU’s top scene,” he added. to the plant. windows and all we could see now, the third wave is just heaviest offenders in the court yesterday for failing to The explosion at the plant “I heard the sound, I’m was people running." around the corner,” Health European Union in terms of protect forests and the wildlife operated by Wessex Water working beside the building in An investigation has been Minister Roberto Speranza told exceeding both annual and that live there. occurred in a silo that holds another warehouse. After 10 launched into the blast. parliament on Wednesday. Travel between Italy’s regions will be prohibited from Catalonia keeps December 21 through January Spain government studying four-day work week 6, with people barred from virus restrictions travelling outside their own BLOOMBERG considering proposing shorter The idea of a shorter employment during lockdowns towns on December 25, 26 and REUTERS — BARCELONA working hours to boost working week has been around has spurred calls for greater January 1. The decree includes Spain’s government is analysing employment. The comments to for years across the world, but support for low earners or those the “strong recommendation” The Spanish region of Cata- shortening working hours as state-broadcaster RTVE came the pandemic this year, and its in vulnerable industries. to avoid hosting those who do lonia will not relax corona- well as cutting the working- days after consumer-goods impact on work, wellbeing and Any proposal for a change not live together. virus restrictions on Monday week to four days. giant Unilever announced it will inequality, has led to a new to Spain’s working week would Other regulations are as originally planned because According to Deputy Prime trial a four-day working week push to think about economies be presented by the government expected to mandate a 10-day of worsening infection rates, Minister Pablo Iglesias, leader in New Zealand to enhance and social structures. In par- within the so-called social dia- quarantine for those arriving officials said, prompting some of the left-wing Unidas worker wellbeing and boost ticular, the huge use of furlough logue framework with labour in Italy from foreign countries, ski slopes to postpone their Podemos, the government is productivity. programs to keep workers in unions and industry groups. beginning on December 20. planned opening next week. The winter skiing season has become a source of tension among European countries, UN experts say France with some allowing resorts to open and others, like Spain’s must overhaul security bill neighbour France, banning it and planning border checks to AFP — GENEVA police violence. stop people from crossing the Four French police officers border to ski. A group of independent United were charged this week after In Catalonia, a north- Nations experts yesterday being caught on camera eastern Spanish region that urged France to revise its beating black music producer borders France, public ski controversial proposed security Michel Zecler and showering resorts had planned to open law, branding it “incompatible” him with racial abuse. after a December 8 bank with international human Thousands meanwhile holiday. rights legislation. demonstrated against the pro- But these ski slopes will The five UN special rappor- posals at the weekend, some not open until Catalonia teurs, who do not speak for the rallies turning violent and relaxes its coronavirus restric- global body but report their leaving dozens injured. tions, among other conditions, findings to the Human Rights Though the UN experts said a spokeswoman from Council, said the draft law welcomed a planned rewrite FGC, the public company that “should be comprehensively of Article 24, they urged the operates the resorts. revised”. French government to Privately-owned ski slopes The bill’s Article 22 would undertake a comprehensive in Catalonia have not yet allow drone surveillance for evaluation of the entire bill’s decided whether to open, said security purposes, while Article compatibility with interna- a spokeswoman from the 24 would criminalise pub- tional law. “Images of police regional federation of ski lishing images of on-duty abuse captured by the public resorts. British Museum reopens police with the intent of play a vital role in oversight of Baqueira Beret, Spain’s harming their “physical or psy- public institutions, which is A general view shows the glass roof over the Great Court after the British Museum reopened in largest ski station, is sticking chological integrity”. fundamental to the rule of law,” London yesterday, as England emerges from a month-long lockdown to combat the spread of the to its plan to open on The French government said the special rapporteurs, novel coronavirus. England on Wednesday exited a month-long lockdown into a new 3-tiered system December 11 but that is subject has come under increasing including the UN’s top experts to change awaiting clarifi- of curbs with non-essential retail, leisure centres and salons all reopening but with some sectors, pressure to scrap or revise the on freedom of expression, and cation from the Catalan gov- including hospitality, seeing tighter restrictions. bill as outrage has grown over the protection of human rights ernment, a spokesman said. a highly publicised case of while countering terrorism. FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020 EUROPE / AMERICAS 11

2nd body recovered Moldova MPs reduce presidential powers off Lesbos after AFP — CHISINAU President-elect Maia granting official language status “supported his corrupt migrant boat sank Sandu called for to Russian. Moldova has close schemes”, and for early parlia- Moldovan lawmakers passed a historical ties with neighbouring mentary polls. AP — ATHENS bill yesterday reducing presi- the resignation of Romania and they share a “We need a good country dential powers despite more incumbent Dodon’s common language. for all decent people. We need The body of a woman was than 5,000 people rallying in Earlier, protesters gathered snap elections to kick the recovered yesterday on the support of the country’s newly government, outside parliament after Sandu thieves out of power,” Sandu Greek island of Lesbos and elected pro-European leader. which she said called for supporters to rally said. identified as that of a woman Maia Sandu (pictured) is against the bills tabled by The last parliamentary reported missing after a migrant due to take office in late had “supported his Dodon’s Party of Socialists, election was held in 2019 with boat sank the previous day. December as leader of the ex- corrupt schemes”, which she branded a “usur- Dodon’s party securing a third The coast guard said the Soviet republic after winning a and for early pation of power”. of the seats. body was recovered from a surprise victory over pro- Sandu’s supporters chanted During his four years in rocky part of the coast, Russian incumbent Igor Dodon parliamentary polls. “Down with the traitors!” and power, Dodon enjoyed the bringing the death toll from last month. chanting “Shame!” and “Down demanded the dissolution of strong backing of Moscow and the sinking to two. The new legislation of the presidency before she with the mafia!” inside parliament. supported closer ties with Another 32 people, all from transfers control of the the takes office and to boost par- parliament. Police cordoned off the Russia. Somalia and including three country’s intelligence agency liament, where the opposition Images from inside showed building but did not interfere Sandu promised during the children, had been rescued from from the president to is outnumbered by Dodon’s lawmakers coming to blows with the rally. campaign to battle corruption the sea after the dinghy they had parliament. supporters. after the legislation passed. At the protest, Sandu called in the country of 3.5 million been traveling in from the Sandu and her supporters Opposition lawmakers did Lawmakers passed several for the resignation of Dodon’s people, which is one the poorest nearby Turkish coast sank off say the goal is to reduce the role not participate in the voting, other bills, including one government, which she said had in Europe. Lesbos Wednesday morning, Greek authorities said. Government spokesman Stelios Petsas accused the Mother in Sweden no longer Turkish coast guard of refusing to help the migrants when they suspected of locking up son issued a distress call. “It is clear that the Turkish AP — STOCKHOLM crime has been committed by vessel, despite the request for the woman,” Olsson said. help, didn’t help, didn’t rescue A woman in her 70s is no Swedish daily newspaper the passengers of the fatal boat longer suspected of having kept Expressen reported this week while they were in Turkish ter- her son locked up in an that the man was found Sunday ritorial waters,” Petsas said apartment south of Stockholm by a relative who had learned yesterday. “On the contrary, it for as long as 28 years, a pros- that his mother had been urged them to move forward, ecutor said yesterday. admitted to a hospital. The rel- it carried out maneuvers Prosecutor Emma Olsson, ative went to the flat, found the against the boat so that it who headed the preliminary door unlocked and entered. would continue its course investigation, told Swedish The relative told the news- toward Greek shores.” media that investigators found paper there was “urine, dirt and Petsas said smuggling no evidence that the woman’s dust” all over the place and the gangs were knowingly endan- son, who is in his 40s, had been apartment “smelled rotten.” gering people’s lives by kept in the apartment against She heard a noise from the sending them out to illegally his will. kitchen and found the man cross the EU’s borders in The mother had been held sitting on blankets and pillows. unseaworthy vessels. on suspicion of unlawful dep- The investigation has not Greece remains one of the rivation of liberty and grievous yet been formally closed, but most popular routes into the bodily harm. the mother is no longer sus- European Union for people “We have not been able to pected of any crime and has fleeing poverty and conflict in find any evidence that any been released. the Mideast, Africa and Asia. Daily commuters arrive with the metro at Stockholm’s central station amid the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, in Sweden, yesterday. EU steps up fight against disinformation

Masks not mandatory in Sweden as virus toll rises AFP — BRUSSELS It was signed by Google, actors. Facebook, Twitter, Microsoft The EU executive also REUTERS — STOCKHOLM Health Agency, largely behind face mask,” he said. The EU yesterday announced and in June 2020 by TikTok, as wants more transparency from Sweden’s no-lockdown strategy, In a bid to stem a severe plans to step up the fight against well as players in the adver- the platforms on the sources of Sweden has not needed face has refrained from recom- second wave, Prime minister disinformation in Europe at a tising sector. disinformation, their algorithms masks yet, a top health official mending masks, citing poor evi- Stefan Lofven announced yes- time when anti-vaccine content But the EU believes self- and more access to data for said yesterday, as deaths from dence of their effectiveness and terday that high schools would is spreading, fuelled by the regulation is no longer ade- researchers. the pandemic climbed above fears that masks might be used switch to distance learning for coronavirus pandemic. quate and the new measures Campaign group Avaaz said 7,000 and a day after the World as an excuse to not isolate when the rest of the year. The European Commission will coincide with the much- the plan could be ground- Health Organization (WHO) experiencing symptoms. Sweden registered 35 new also plans to regulate political anticipated Digital Services Act, breaking if the platforms are expanded recommendations “Face masks may be needed COVID-19 related deaths yes- advertising and to better protect to be proposed by the com- held accountable with clear for when masks should be used. in some situations. Those situ- terday, taking the total to 7,007. journalists as part of its mission on December 15. objectives and oversight. The WHO said on ations have not arisen in The country also registered Democracy Action Plan. The commission, which has “Or it could remain an inef- Wednesday that, where the epi- Sweden yet, according to our 6,485 new coronavirus cases. “Disinformation is not a already denounced campaigns fective declaration of intent,” demic was spreading, people - dialogue with the (healthcare) That compared with a high of trivial thing... We are speaking allegedly launched by Russia warned Avaaz campaign including children and students regions,” Anders Tegnell, Swe- 7,240 daily cases recorded two about really dangerous attacks,” and China linked to the pan- manager Luca Nicotra, if the aged 12 or over — should den’s chief epidemiologist, told weeks ago. EU commission vice-president demic, is seeking the power to platforms continue to report always wear masks in shops, a news conference yesteday. Sweden’s death rate per Vera Jourova said. impose financial penalties on based on indicators they choose workplaces and schools that “WHO is clear that the state capita is several times higher The plan by the EU exec- foreign agents. themselves. lack adequate ventilation, and of evidence for masks is weak. than that of its Nordic neigh- utive intends to strengthen its It also wants to have a role The commission also said when receiving visitors at home All studies so far suggest that it bours, but lower than several existing code of conduct against in helping member states coor- it would propose new legis- in poorly ventilated rooms. is much more important to keep European countries that opted disinformation, which was dinate their response to disin- lation to regulate political However, the Swedish your distance than to have a for lockdowns. launched in 2018. formation attacks by foreign advertising next year. Mexico president Sao Paulo gets 1 million says Trump helped him get vaccine doses of Chinese vaccine REUTERS — SAO PAULO December, we will be receiving AP — MEXICO CITY 6 million doses,” and another 40 Brazil’s Butantan Institute million by January 15, Sao Paulo Mexico’s president said biomedical centre yesterday Governor João Doria said. yesterday he plans to give the received 1 million doses of a President Jair Bolsonaro, military a role in distributing Chinese vaccine developed by who many expect to be chal- coronavirus vaccines, which Sinovac Biotech that is under- lenged by Doria in the 2022 he says US President Donald going late-stage testing by the presidential election, has long Trump helped him get. institute in Sao Paulo state. criticised the Sinovac vaccine. President Andrés Manuel The consignment of Coro- Doria, meanwhile, has López Obrador said that on his naVac vaccine, which will be accused Anvisa of or becoming visit to Washington in July he packaged and labeled at Butan- overly politicized after a surprise spoke with Trump and Vice tan’s facilities, arrived at Sao suspension of the Sinovac trial President Mike Pence and they Paulo’s Guarulhos airport. due to the suicide of a volunteer. “helped facilitate so that It is the second shipment of The trial was restarted but the Mexico was taken into account the vaccine, which still needs president called the halt a and could get the vaccine.” approval from federal health “victory” for Bolsonaro. López Obrador suggested regulator Anvisa before it can Anvisa said on Wednesday Mexico will probably wait until be used, to arrive in Brazil, after it was open to approving US regulators approve the Pfizer 120,000 doses landed from COVID-19 vaccines for emer- vaccine later this month before China on November 19. Butantan gency use, that authorisations giving it the go-ahead in Mexico. said it expected Sinovac to would be analysed on a case- Sao Paulo and Butantan Institute officials pose for photos next to a container carrying doses of the On Wednesday, Mexico’s publish efficacy results for the by-case basis and that to be con- CoronaVac vaccine after it was unloaded from a cargo plane at Guarulhos International Airport in Health Department signed a treatment by December 15. sidered the vaccine must be in Guarulhos, near Sao Paulo, Brazil, yesterday. contract for 34.4 million doses “By the end of this month of late-stage trials in Brazil. of that vaccine, and said it hoped to receive 250,000 doses in December. Each person requires two doses. Austin mayor travels to Mexico while urging people to stay home The president said the gov- ernment is discussing with “the AP — AUSTIN American-Statesman is the travel now, didn’t over Thanks- people to stay within their own I traveled at a time when I was army and the navy, and we are latest example of a public giving and won’t over households. Denver Mayor telling other people not to defining the whole operation” Austin Mayor Steve Adler went official who has pleaded for vig- Christmas. But my fear is that Michael Hancock also flew to travel.” to distribute the vaccine. López on vacation to Mexico with ilance in the face of rising cases this travel, even having hap- Mississippi to visit family for Texas surpassed 9,000 hos- Obrador has given the military family in November as he urged and hospitalisations across the pened during a safer period, Thanksgiving despite sending pitalised virus patients this an unprecedented array of people to stay home amid wors- US seeming to not heed their could be used by some as justi- messages on social media and week for the first time since a responsibilities in his two years ening coronavirus caseloads in own guidance. fication for risky behaviour. In to city staff asking them to avoid deadly summer outbreak. More in office, including distributing Texas, at one point recording a Hours after the story was hindsight, it set a bad example, traveling for the holiday. than 15,000 new cases were medical supplies and guarding video during the trip in which published, Adler issued a for which I apologise.” “There was no recommen- reported Tuesday, smashing a hospitals. he told residents back home statement apologising for the Last month, California Gov dation for people not to travel single-day record, though state López Obrador is one of that now was “not the time to trip. Gavin Newsom came under during that period of time,” health officials attributed some the few world leaders who has relax.” “While I violated no orders scrutiny for attending a birthday Adler said. “Someone could look of that spike to a backlog of yet to congratulate President- The trip revealed on or guidelines, I regret this party at a posh restaurant near at me and say, ‘He traveled.’ But results from the long Thanks- elect Joe Biden. Wednesday by the Austin travel,” Adler said. “I wouldn’t San Francisco as he urged what they could not say is that giving holiday weekend. 12 AMERICAS FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020 Wisconsin court declines to hear Trump lawsuit

AP — MADISON Trump had asked the challenged procedures that Wisconsin Supreme have been in place for years and The Wisconsin Supreme Court never been found to be illegal. yesterday refused to hear Pres- Court to disqualify He claimed there were ident Donald Trump’s lawsuit more than 221,000 thousands of absentee ballots attempting to overturn his loss without a written application to Democrat Joe Biden in the ballots in the on file. He argued that the elec- battleground state, saying the state’s two biggest tronic log created when a voter case must first wind its way requests a ballot online - the through lower courts. Democratic counties, way the vast majority are The legal defeat was the alleging irregularities requested - doesn’t meet the latest in a string of losses for in the way absentee letter of the law. Trump’s post-election lawsuits. He also challenged more Judges in multiple battleground ballots were ballots where election clerks states have rejected his claims administered. filled in missing address infor- of fraud or irregularities. mation on the certification Trump had asked the Wis- envelope where the ballot is consin Supreme Court to dis- enough time to wage the legal inserted, even though the practice qualify more than 221,000 ballots battle by starting first with a has long been accepted in Wis- in the state’s two biggest Demo- lower court given the looming consin and the state elections US President Donald Trump awards the Presidential Medal of Freedom to retired football coach Lou cratic counties, alleging irregu- December 14 date when presi- commission told clerks it was OK. Holtz in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, yesterday. larities in the way absentee dential electors cast their votes. And Trump challenged ballots were administered. But attorneys for Governor absentee ballots where voters Attorneys for Democratic and outrageous assault on our there is a another one in federal His lawsuit echoed claims Tony Evers and the state declared themselves to be “indef- Governor Tony Evers called the democracy.... He is simply trying court with similar claims from that were earlier rejected by Department of Justice argued initely confined,” a status that lawsuit an “assault on democracy” to seize Wisconsin’s electoral Sidney Powell, a conservative election officials in those the law required the lawsuit to exempts them from having to and urged the court not to accept votes, even though he lost the attorney who was removed counties during a recount that start with lower courts. show photo identification to cast original jurisdiction of the case. statewide election.” Two other from Trump’s legal team. barely affected Biden’s winning It was not immediately a ballot, and one that was used “President Trump’s (lawsuit) lawsuits filed by conservatives Wisconsin this week cer- margin of about 20,700 votes. known if Trump would still much more heavily this year due seeks nothing less than to are still pending with the Wis- tified Biden’s victory, setting the Trump had wanted the con- pursue the case through lower to the pandemic. The Wisconsin overturn the will of nearly 3.3 consin Supreme Court seeking stage for a Democratic slate of servative-controlled Wisconsin courts. He filed a similar lawsuit Supreme Court in March ruled million Wisconsin voters,” to invalidate ballots cast in the electors chosen earlier to cast Supreme Court to take the case in federal court on Wednesday. that it was up to individual voters Evers’ attorneys said in filings presidential election. In addition the state’s 10 electoral votes for directly, saying there wasn’t In Wisconsin, Trump to determine their status. with the court. “It is a shocking to Trump’s federal lawsuit, him. US virus deaths top 3,100 in a single day for first time Harris names all-female

AP — WASHINGTON disregarded warnings to stay warned that the numbers could according to the tally kept by home and celebrate only with fluctuate strongly before and Johns Hopkins University. team of senior staff The US recorded over 3,100 members of their household. after Thanksgiving, as they often That’s more than the number COVID-19 deaths in a single Across the US, the surge has do around holidays and of people killed on 9/11, and it BLOOMBERG — SACRAMENTO African Americans or Latinos day, obliterating the record set swamped hospitals and left weekends, when because of shattered the old mark of 2,603, for key jobs, as he continues to last spring, while the number nurses and other health care reporting delays, figures often set on April 15, when the New For the first time, the top three build out his cabinet. of Americans hospitalized with workers shorthanded and drop, then rise sharply a few days York metropolitan area was the positions in the office of the Representative Jim Clyburn, the virus has eclipsed 100,000 burned out. later as state and local agencies epicenter of the US outbreak. vice president will be held by the highest-ranking Black for the first time and new cases “The reality is December catch up with the backlog. The number of people in the women — and all serving under member of Congress and who has begun topping 200,000 a and January and February are Still, deaths, hospitalizations hospital likewise set an all-time the first woman to hold the is credited with turning the day, according to figures going to be rough times. I and cases in the US have been high Wednesday, according to office. primary campaign in Biden’s released yesterday. actually believe they are going on a fairly steady rise for weeks, the COVID Tracking Project. It Vice President-elect favor, has expressed concern The three benchmarks alto- to be the most difficult time in sometimes breaking records for has more than doubled over the Kamala Harris announced her about the number of Black gether showed a country the public health history of this days on end. Nationwide the past month. top aides yesterday, including appointees. slipping deeper into crisis, with nation,” Dr. Robert Redfield, coronavirus is blamed for over Also, the number of newly Tina Flournoy as chief of staff, Harris is expected to con- perhaps the worst yet to come, head of the Centers for Disease 270,000 deaths and about 14 confirmed infections climbed in addition to naming her tinue to build out her roster of in part because of the delayed Control and Prevention, said on million confirmed infections. just over 200,000 on domestic policy adviser and aides. Flournoy is former Pres- effects from Thanksgiving, Wednesday. The US recorded 3,157 Wednesday for the second time national security adviser. ident Bill Clinton’s chief of staff. when millions of Americans Health authorities had deaths on Wednesday, in less than a week. “Together with the rest of She had also worked as my team, today’s appointees assistant to the president for will work to get this virus under public policy at the American control, open our economy Federation of Teachers. Californians flee as winds push fire through canyons responsibly and make sure it Flournoy served various lifts up all Americans, and roles in the Clinton adminis- AP — LOS ANGELES restore and advance our coun- tration, beginning with his 1992 try’s leadership around the campaign. Powerful winds pushed flames world,” Harris said in a The last woman to hold the through Southern California statement. position of chief of staff to the canyons early yesterday as an President-elect Joe Biden vice president was Ann out-of-control wildfire burned and Harris have made a point Whitman under Vice-President near homes and forced resi- of making historic appoint- Nelson Rockefeller beginning dents to flee. ments to staff jobs and cabinet in 1974. The blaze in Orange positions, pledging to build a Rohini Kosoglu will serve County’s Silverado Canyon team “that looks like as domestic policy adviser to began late Wednesday as a America.” the vice president. Kosoglu cur- house fire that quickly spread It stands in contrast to the rently is a senior adviser to to tinder-dry brush as gusts cabinet and staff for President Harris. She was the first South topped 70mph. Donald Trump and Vice Pres- Asian-American woman to It exploded in size ident Mike Pence, which is serve as chief of staff in the US throughout the night and as the largely White. Senate, having worked for Har- sun came up, an enormous Biden has chosen Janet ris’s Senate office as well for plume of smoke was visible for Yellen, who would be the first her primary presidential miles. female Treasury secretary, and campaign. Firefighters struggled in a diverse group for national Nancy McEldowney, the steep terrain amid unpre- security and economic jobs as former US ambassador to Bul- dictable Santa Ana winds that well as White House staff. garia, will serve as Harris’s have raised fire danger for Firefighters extinguishing a house partially destroyed by a brush fire, along Wind River Road in El Earlier this week, Biden national security adviser. much of the region. Cajon, California, yesterday. announced his senior commu- McEldowney was director of Orange County Fire nications team, all of whom are European affairs on the Authority Captain Thanh what we’re telling all our per- neighborhoods near the city affected or if any homes were women, including two —Ashley National Security Council staff Nguyen said crews were scram- sonnel to be aware of - that of Lake Forest and residents damaged. Etienne and Symone Sanders in the Clinton administration bling to stay ahead of flames constantly changing wind,” he of other nearby areas were Numerous studies have — assigned to Harris. as well as the principal deputy that jumped major roads. told CBS LA TV. told to be ready to get out. It linked bigger wildfires in Nevertheless, Biden is assistant secretary of State in “We’ve seen the wind Evacuations were ordered was not immediately known America to climate change from already facing some criticism the Bureau of European and change also drastically, so that’s for several canyon how many people were the burning of coal, oil and gas. for not choosing enough Eurasian Affairs. Canada could approve Pfizer’s World leaders meet to forge path to end pandemic vaccine within next week AP — UNITED NATIONS speak during the mainly virtual Health Organization provided chief stressed that “a vaccine special session that began with factual information and recom- cannot undo damage that will REUTERS — OTTAWA public health officer, Howard The UN General Assembly pres- Bozkir asking masked ambas- mendations that should have stress across years, even Njoo, later told reporters that ident opened the world body’s sadors and diplomats from the been the basis for a coordinated decades to come.” Canadian health authorities “certainly we expect it to be a first special session on UN’s 193 member nations in the global response. But unfortu- He pointed to rising could approve Pfizer Inc’s favorable one”. COVID-19 yesterday, calling it assembly hall to stand in silent nately, many recommendations numbers of people facing coronavirus vaccine within the A second wave is sweeping a historic and overdue moment tribute to the 1.5 million people weren’t followed, and some extreme poverty, the looming next week, allowing distri- Canada, setting daily records of reckoning to forge a path to who have lost their lives to countries ignored or rejected threat of famine and the bution to start in early 2021, for the number of new cases. end the pandemic that not only COVID-19. the guidance. prospect of “the biggest global medical officials indicated So far, Canada has reported a ensures people everywhere The assembly president “And when countries go in recession in eight decades.” yesterday. total of 389,778 cases of have access to vaccines but called the session “a test for their own direction, the virus Guterres said these impacts Although Canada has COVID-19 and 12,325 deaths. mobilizes financial resources multilateralism” and said what goes in every direction,” he aren’t due to COVID-19 alone signed supply deals with seven Njoo said authorities were for “an inclusive and resilient the world must do is clear — reiterated. but are the result of long-term manufacturers, officials say planning for a total of six recovery.” ensure fair and equitable access “Nearly a year into the pan- inequalities and injustices the first decision is set to be on million doses of vaccines made Volkan Bozkir said the to COVID-19 vaccines, work demic, we face a human exposed by the pandemic that the vaccine Pfizer developed by Pfizer and Moderna Inc to world is looking to the United together “to protect the most tragedy, and a public health, must be addressed. with German partner be administered in the first Nations for leadership and vulnerable countries,” ensure humanitarian and development He welcomed steps to help BioNTech SE. quarter of 2021. This is enough action “to address the greatest adequate resources for an eco- emergency,” Guterres said. “For developing countries but said “Things have been pro- for three million of Canada’s 38 challenge our world is facing nomic recovery that goes the first time since 1945, the “they are totally insufficient gressing really well, and we’re million population. today.” “This is not a time to beyond pre-pandemic levels, entire world is confronted by a for the scale of this crisis,” expecting within the next week Prime Minister Justin point fingers,” he said. “We and ensure that policies common threat, regardless of noting that many low- and to 10 days to be making a final Trudeau told members of his have convened here to forge a adopted ensure human rights nationality, ethnicity or faith.... middle-income countries are decision,” Supriya Sharma, ruling Liberal Party on Tuesday path forward and to end the and don’t undermine demo- The social and economic impact being forced to choose chief medical adviser to the top that priority would be given to suffering of the people we cratic institutions. of the pandemic is enormous between providing basic official at the federal health first responders, workers in serve.” UN Secretary-General and growing.” services to their people or ministry, told the Canadian long-term care homes, the Nearly 100 world leaders Antonio Guterres said that from While vaccines may servicing debts. They need Broadcasting Corp. elderly and members of remote and several dozen government the start of the COVID-19 crisis become available in the next immediate support “to avert Canada’s deputy chief aboriginal communities. ministers are scheduled to early this year, the World weeks and months, the UN a liquidity crisis,” he said. Business 13 FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020 Brexit broken record: Trade deal close but big issues remain We are close, very close, maybe even on the red lines we set in some instances but we have not crossed it. Michel Barnier | 14 EU chief negotiator Business QSE 10,465.64 +73.78 (+0.71%) FTSE 100 6,482.05 +18.66 (0.29%) DOW 30,026.09 +142.30 (0.48%) BRENT $45.19 (-0.20)

Al Kaabi: Stronger collaboration of producer-consumer needed THE PENINSULA - DOHA The Minister of State for Energy In remarks at the 7th Ministerial Gas Forum that was inaugurated and Affairs told the ministerial attended by the Prime Minster of roundtable that “with challenges Malaysia, H E Tan Sri Muhyidden often come opportunities,” Yassin, the Minister of State for Energy stressing the need for stronger Affairs, the President and CEO of Qatar producer-consumer Petroleum, H E Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, collaboration as an important said energy will continue to be key to global growth and development on the path to recovery. road to recovery in the post-COVID world, and that natural gas will con- tinue to be a cornerstone in the low- on the gas industry.” carbon energy transition. He noted that a post-COVID world The Minister made the remarks will be different, and that it will require during a virtual Ministerial Roundtable a new way of thinking on how to held under the title, “Opportunities in manage our economies and our rela- Growing Gas Markets: Producer-Con- tionship with the environment. “This sumer Perspectives on New Realities” is where, I believe, natural gas plays a as part of the 7th Ministerial Gas Forum, pivotal role and displays its most which was organized by the Government important economic and environ- of Malaysia in cooperation with the Inter- mental qualities,” he added. national Energy Forum (lEF) and the The Minister of State for Energy International Gas Union (lGU). Affairs told the ministerial roundtable In his remarks at the roundtable, that “with challenges often come Minister Al Kaabi highlighted the opportunities,” stressing the need for impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and stronger producer-consumer collab- Minister of State for Energy Affairs, the President and CEO of Qatar Petroleum, H E Saad Sherida Al Kaabi and other dignitaries its heavy toll on world economies, oration as an important path to during the 7th Ministerial Gas Forum, organised by the Government of Malaysia in cooperation with the International which has disrupted many aspects of recovery. Energy Forum (lEF) and the International Gas Union (lGU). life with an agonizing human toll, and The Minister also highlighted an unprecedented disruption to the Qatar’s efforts to keep the environment growth and prosperity many countries front and center across the whole LNG by 2027. Qatar Petroleum is imple- note on the future of the LNG industry, between Ministers, CEOs and Industry had hoped to achieve. value chain. menting a series of projects and initi- saying: “I believe that the economic and experts focusing on relevant issues The Minister said: “While we Al Kaabi said: “Lower CO2 emis- atives to reduce gas emissions, and to environmental realities of the post revolving around the role of natural mark one year of life with COVID-19, sions and carbon capture and seques- capture and sequester more than 7 COVID-19 era will help increase the gas in emerging markets, where Asia we are still coming to terms with its tration are part of the basic design of million tons of CO2 per annum by 2027, competitiveness of LNG. And I have no is the main driver of demand. It aims short and long-term impacts on the our new LNG facilities being built as placing us firmly on the road to doubt that the best for the LNG industry to identify and advance energy pol- global economy, and are trying to part of the North Filed Expansion becoming a leader in the de-carboni- is yet to come.” icies and business strategies that assess the over-reaching brunt on projects, which will raise our pro- zation of the LNG value chain.” The Ministerial Gas Forum is an support the dynamic evolution of the energy sector – and particularly duction to 126 million tons per annum Minister Al Kaabi voiced a positive important platform for dialogue global gas markets. Opec and Russia agree modest oil QLM to list shares on QSE THE PENINSULA — DOHA output increase from January 2021 The IPO by REUTERS - LONDON/MOSCOW implemented to tackle weak oil Four Opec+ sources said the QLM Life & Medical Insurance Qatar’s leading demand amid a second coro- group would now gather every Company QPSC yesterday provider of life Opec and Russia yesterday navirus wave. month to decide on output pol- announced its plans to list shares and medical agreed to a modest oil output Opec+ had previously been icies beyond January and on Qatar Stock Exchange. The increase from January by expected to extend existing cuts monthly increases are unlikely company plans to raise around insurance will 500,000 barrels per day but until at least March. to exceed 500,000 bpd. QR659.4m through the Initial make it the 48th failed to find a compromise on But after hopes for a speedy Opec+ has to strike a del- Public Offering (IPO). The IPO company to list a broader and longer term approval of anti-virus vaccines icate balance between pushing by Qatar’s leading provider of share on QSE. policy for the rest of next year, spurred an oil price rally at the up oil prices enough to help life and medical insurance will four Opec+ sources told Reuters. end of November, several pro- their budgets but not by so make it the 48th company to list The increase means the ducers started questioning the much that rival US output share on Qatar Stock Exchange. Organization of the Petroleum need to keep such a tight rein surges. US shale production The subscription for its IPO of the nominal value per share QR1, a premium of QR2.14 and Exporting Countries (Opec) and on oil policy, as advocated by tends to climb above $50 a opens from December 10 and of QR1, a premium of QR2.14 Offering and Listing Fee of Russia, a group known as Opec leader Saudi Arabia. barrel. Monthly meetings by will close on December 23. Eli- and Offering and Listing Fee QR0.01 per Offer Share. Opec+, would move to cutting Opec+ sources have said Opec+ will make price moves gible investors include Qatari of QR0.01 per Offer Share. The The company said that prior production by 7.2 million bpd, Russia, Iraq, Nigeria and the more volatile and complicate citizens and legal entities share capital of QLM is commitments have been or 7 percent of global demand United Arab Emirates have all hedging by US oil producers. incorporated in Qatar. QLM’s QR350m divided into 350 obtained from several anchor from January, compared with to a certain extent expressed Crude prices were little implied total market capitali- million shares of QR1 each. investors to subscribe for 15 current cuts of 7.7 million bpd. interest in supplying the market changed after the Opec+ sation at IPO is QR1.099bn. The Offering Price consists of percent of QLM’s share capital The curbs are being with more oil in 2021. decision at around $48 a barrel. The Offering Price consists the nominal value per share of during the IPO. EU aims 30 million BlackRock’s Deese to lead Biden’s NEC team BLOOMBERG the transition waited until meanwhile criticized Deese, Thursday to announce the move. arguing that his experience at electric cars by 2030 President-elect Joe Biden Deese joins Biden’s growing BlackRock may make him too BLOOMBERG of under 300 kilometers (186 announced yesterday he has economic team. On Tuesday, sympathetic to the financial miles) to become carbon- selected Brian Deese (pictured), Biden announced his first selec- industry. They’re also unim- The European Commission seeks neutral. Zero-emission large air- a BlackRock Inc executive and tions, including Janet Yellen to pressed by his record on climate to have at least 30 million craft and vessels should be former Obama administration be Treasury secretary, Adewale and have pointed to work he did electric vehicles on the region’s “ready for market” by 2035, it official, to lead his National Eco- Adeyemo to be deputy Treasury during the Obama years on roads by the end of the decade says. nomic Council. secretary, Neera Tanden to lead deficit reduction as a warning under a plan that would require Looking further ahead, the Deese is “among the most the Office of Management and sign that he may not support the the auto industry to massively goals include doubling rail- tested and accomplished public Budget, and Cecilia Rouse to significant stimulus spending the accelerate its transformation. freight traffic and tripling high- servants in the country -- a climate challenge, we need to head the Council of Economic left is pushing. The target for zero-emission speed train traffic by the middle trusted voice I can count on to make sure that solutions are Advisers -- all of which require “Any BlackRock executives cars is included in a draft strategy of the century. The road map is help us end the ongoing eco- woven into every output of our Senate confirmation. As a White that move into the Biden admin- document obtained by Bloomberg expected to lead to draft legis- nomic crisis, build a better policy making,” Biden said. House staff position, the NEC role istration need to prove that they News that is scheduled to be pub- lation in the coming months. economy that deals everybody Deese also worked on doesn’t need Senate approval. are willing to take bold, proactive lished next week. The goal is ambi- The proposals for the in, and take on the existential Obama’s 2008 campaign and Biden’s selection of Deese action to stop climate change,” tious considering some 1.4 million transport industry come amid a threat of climate change in a way joined his administration in comes as the president-elect’s said Moira Birss, climate and EVs are being driven in Europe brewing spat between European that creates good-paying 2009. He was part of the task transition office faces pressure finance director at Amazon now, according to BloombergNEF. Union members over a plan to American jobs,” Biden said in a force charged with restructuring to build a diverse senior team, as Watch, a non-profit environ- The researcher is forecasting there toughen its 2030 emissions- written statement. the automobile industry fol- well as to satisfy various ideo- mental group that has criticized will be 28 million plug-in hybrid reduction target to at least 55% In a video accompanying the lowing the financial crisis and logical constituencies within the BlackRock’s track record on and battery-electric vehicles on by the end of the next decade statement, Biden said he chose later became deputy director of Democratic Party. Some Black sustainability. the road by 2028. from 1990 levels. Raising that Deese in part for his experience the Office of Management and groups had hoped that Biden “This includes regulating The plan maps out targets for goal from the existing 40% is a on climate issues, which includes Budget. Deese’s selection to be would choose TIAA chief exec- their friends and former col- the broader transport sector, key element of the European serving as a senior adviser to director of the NEC, which is part utive officer Roger Ferguson or leagues on Wall Street in order calling for high-speed rail traffic Green Deal and would require President Barack Obama on of the White House, had already former American Express CEO to rapidly and justly decarbonize to double by 2030 and for more spending on energy pro- energy and climate. been confirmed by people Ken Chenault for the job. the economy and the financial scheduled travel between cities duction and infrastructure. “If we’re going to tackle the familiar with the decision, but Progressive groups have system,” she said. 14 BUSINESS FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020

Microsoft aims to Vodafone opens help businesses new retail store in get handle on data with new tool

Doha Festival City REUTERS - SAN FRANCISCO

THE PENINSULA - DOHA The store also reflects Microsoft Corp yesterday Vodafone’s world-class announced a new cloud-based Vodafone Qatar has officially tool designed to help corporate opened its new retail store in look and feel and offers customers understand where Doha Festival City that gives cus- customers a vibrant and data is scattered throughout tomers the opportunity to expe- delightful retail their operations and whether rience the power of 5G. ambience besides the they are in compliance with The new retail store in the ease and simplicity. data privacy regulations. country’s most popular mall is the Once known for its first to feature an exclusive expe- Windows operating system and rience area which showcases the Vodafone’s Doha Festival City applications such as Office, latest 5G devices, Gaming console store was meticulously designed Microsoft has built a large and Smart Home solutions such to deliver an engaging experience business in cloud computing, as Smart Lock, Door sensor, that truly brings to life the 5G dif- Vodafone Qatar’s Chief Operating Officer, Diego Camberos during the opening of Vodafone’s Doha helping store and process huge Motion sensor and Smart remote. ference for your device, for your Festival City store. amounts of data for corporate Inaugurating the store, home and for your business. customers. Vodafone Qatar’s Chief Operating Vodafone is 100 percent 5G 5G plans. We’re excited to help and offers customers a vibrant Vodafone customers will visit. Last year, it introduced a Officer, Diego Camberos, said: Ready- we have built a GigaFast customers make the 5G move!” and delightful retail ambience Vodafone’s Doha Festival City tool called Azure Synapse that “On top of offering customers a 5G network, offer a large range The store also reflects Voda- besides the ease and simplicity Store is located on Level 1 near is being used by companies premium customer service, of 5G devices and have fantastic fone’s world-class look and feel that is in line with any other store the north food court. such as FedEx Corp to analyze the flow of its 16 million daily packages. But for large companies, Nestle plans to invest $3.6bn in climate change fight stores of data have become so large, and distributed across so many countries, that Microsoft BLOOMBERG years, and will expand its When Nestle set a target it can’t reduce at source, using is rolling out a tool called Azure offering of plant-based food last year to reach zero net third-party certified and Purview to help companies Nestle SA, the world’s largest and beverages. greenhouse-gas emissions by traceable carbon credits, said better understand precisely food company, said it will The company will start 2050, Schneider said climate Magdi Batato, head of what information they have invest 3.2 billion Swiss francs linking executive board change was one of the greatest operations. and where it resides. ($3.6bn) over the next five members’ remuneration to risks to the business. The The company said the In particular, the tool is years in an effort to fight climate targets from next year company also aims to reach measures it’s taking will help designed to help data privacy climate change. as well as the CEO bonus net-zero in its supply chain, reduce emissions by a fifth in and risk management officials The company will plant package, Schneider told known as Scope 3. the next five years, and cut ensure their companies are in 200 million trees during the journalists. Nestle will offset emissions them in half by 2030. compliance with rules such as next decade and help farmers the European Union’s General and suppliers shift toward Data Protection Regulation, regenerative agriculture, the John “JG” Chirapurath, vice KitKat maker said yesterday. president of Azure data, arti- Nespresso, Perrier and San Pel- years. ficial intelligence and edge, told legrino will become carbon- “Business leaders can no Reuters in an interview. neutral by 2022, with the rest longer afford to be skeptical The new tool uses artificial of its bottled water portfolio and interminably patient,” intelligence to detect sensitive doing so by 2025. Nestle Chief Executive Officer or regulated data and can auto- The food industry is Mark Schneider (pictured) said matically mask it out, for stepping up attempts to burnish in an op-ed in Fortune mag- example by redacting data on its reputation amid criticism for azine. “We should not expect European customers from a environmental damage and comprehensive public policy sales report to US employees packaging waste. Nestle is and unanimity to do the job for who are not authorized to already spending as much as 2 us.” access it. billion francs in an attempt to Schneider compared the “It’s one thing to generate promote more food-safe situation to what executives in insights from data, but it’s recycled plastics. the car industry faced in the another thing to ask questions PepsiCo Inc pledged 1970s and 1980s, choosing to about the data itself. Can we use Wednesday to only use invest billions of dollars to this data? Are we being respon- recycled plastic in its namesake make smaller, more fuel-effi- sible with the fair use of this brand’s bottles in nine cient cars that were less data?” Chirapurath said. “These European markets by 2022. profitable. might seem like esoteric terms, And Danone, which bottles Nestle aims for all of the but they are vital to how we run Evian, has announced a €2bn electricity at its 800 factories modern businesses. You have ($2.4bn) sustainability to come from renewable to be able to trust your data.” A file photo of Nestle SA headquarters building in Vevey, Switzerland. investment over the next three sources within the next five Microsoft said yesterday. Service industries in US expand Brexit broken record: Trade deal at a more moderate pace close but big issues remain BLOOMBERG conditions and the economy,” 1.4 points to 51.5, marking the Anthony Nieves, chair of the third straight month in which AP - LONDON with most at stake that he will US service industries expanded ISM’s Business Survey Com- respondents indicated payrolls remain within their mandate. at a more moderate, yet healthy mittee, said in a statement. “Most gains. The government’s Much like a broken record, “We are close, very close, pace in November, tempered by companies are cautious as they monthly jobs report, to be Brexit trade talks are rumored maybe even on the red lines we softer growth in orders and navigate operations amid the released today, is projected to to be poised for success on the set in some instances but we business activity that remain pandemic and the aftermath of show employment rose 475,000 cusp of a deadline, only to face have not crossed it,” the high- constrained by the the US presidential election.” in November, indicating the the same old fundamental dif- level diplomat said. He indicated coronavirus. At the same time, sectors economy was still adding ferences on fishing rights, legal any compromise would now The Institute for Supply such as information and finance workers but at a slower pace. oversight and fair competition need to come from London. Management’s services index fell have remained strong ISM’s gauge of prices paid by that have dogged the European With less than four weeks to to 55.9 during the month from throughout the pandemic. A con- service providers rose to an Union and Britain for months. go before the possibility of tariffs 56.6 in October, according to sumer shift to online purchases eight-year high of 66.1, indi- It was no different yesterday being imposed on an array of data released yesterday. also indicates retailers and trans- cating accelerating costs for when EU officials said that the products, businesses in the UK Readings above 50 indicate portation companies will con- materials and services, partially remaining differences couldn’t are showing their frustration at expansion, and the November tinue expanding during the hol- due to shortages of personal pro- be bridged in “a matter of hours” the ongoing uncertainty. figure was in line with the 55.8 iday-shopping season. tective equipment. despite swirling excitement that Ken Murphy, chief executive median estimate in a Bloomberg Fourteen service industries Meanwhile, a measure of a decisive breakthrough was of Britain’s biggest supermarket survey of economists. reported growth in November, inventory sentiment dropped to imminent. chain Tesco, told Sky News that Consecutive monthly led by transportation and ware- 49.9 from 51.1, the second-lowest Irish Foreign Minister Simon because the talks were in a the company is preparing for a declines in the gauge underscore housing. Health care, food in records back to 1997 and indi- Coveney urged EU negotiators critical stage. no-deal outcome. the pandemic-related challenges services, construction and retail cating more service providers holed up with their UK counter- Though the UK left the EU “We have been doing eve- faced by service industries that also expanded. see their stockpiles as being too parts in London on a diet of legal on January 31, it remains within rything in our power to make include leisure and hospitality, The ISM’s index of new low. texts and takeout pizza: Let’s the bloc’s tariff-free single sure that we are well placed to travel, dining and retail. While orders at service providers eased A separate ISM report “hold our nerve,” he said. market and customs union until continue trading, to continue to still robust, odds of an acceler- 1.6 points to 57.2. The measure Tuesday showed factory activity “If we do that, there’s a good the end of this year. A trade deal supply our customers regardless ation of growth at service pro- of service-related business also cooled in November but chance that we can get a deal by then would ensure there are of whether there is or isn’t a viders are diminished by a resur- activity, which parallels the ISM’s remained robust. Difficulties of across the line in the next few no tariffs and quotas on trade in no-deal Brexit,” he said. gence of Covid-19 and the onset factory production index, fell to hiring workers and temporary days,” Coveney said. goods between the two sides, On Wednesday, British of cooler temperatures. 58 from 61.2 a month earlier. shutdowns for sanitation will In Brussels though, some EU but there would still be technical Prime Minister Boris Johnson “Respondents’ comments The group’s measure of likely limit manufacturing delegations are already thinking costs, partly associated with said he is “absolutely com- are mixed about business services employment increased growth potential, the ISM said. about ignoring the super- customs checks and non-tariff mitted” to trying to secure a deal stringent January 1 deadline that barriers on services. “if we can.” The discussions for the UK imposed on the talks, and If a trade deal came later months have failed to make simply negotiate through it for than January 1, it would make much headway on three key weeks to come if need. for two massive adaptations of issues. These relate to fishing Any fallout of chaos on customs and border rules within rights in British waters, business borders and in trade could a short time. regulations and state aid. simply be blamed on the British, Though both sides would The bloc has accused Britain who insisted on a 11-month suffer economically from a of wanting to retain access to the timeframe since officially failure to secure a trade deal, EU’s lucrative markets, much leaving the EU on Jan. 31, instead most economists think the like any EU country, without of the half dozen years such British economy would take a agreeing to follow its rules. The talks traditionally take. greater hit, at least in the near- EU fears Britain will slash social “If it doesn’t work out for term, as it is relatively more and environmental standards January 1, that doesn’t mean that reliant on trade with the EU than and pump state money into UK it won’t work for January 15, or vice versa. industries, becoming a low-reg- April 1 or July 1. What it does EU chief negotiator Michel ulation economic rival on the mean is that it would create a Barnier (pictured) has been bloc’s doorstep. huge mess, but that would be briefing the EU delegations over Britain says the EU is making totally blamed on London,” a the last couple of days on any unreasonable demands and is diplomat from an EU nation said progress in an attempt to failing to treat it as an inde- A file photo of a passenger boarding a New York City Subway train in USA. on condition of anonymity assuage itchy member states pendent, sovereign state. Sport FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020 15 Faleh Bughanaim and Seeyoubyme beat strong field to corner Ras Laffan Cup glory

Riders take the final bend during the Ras Laffan Cup, a 2000m turf race, at the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) in Al Rayyan Racecourse yesterday. CENTRE: Faleh Bughanaim, astride Seeyoubyme, on way to winning the Ras Laffan Cup, the feature race. RIGHT: The Seeyoubyme family is seen during the prize distribution ceremony.

SCOREBOARD F1: Grosjean New Zealand 1st innings T. Latham b Roach ...... 86 Maxwell defends ‘switch-hit’, W. Young b Gabriel ...... 5 hails crash K. Williamson not out ...... 97 R. Taylor not out ...... 31 heroes as FIA Extras (b6, lb10, nb7, w1) ...... 24 Total (2 wkts, 78 overs) ...... 243 asks bowlers to evolve To bat: H. Nicholls, T. Blundell, D. Mitchell, K. launches Jamieson, T. Southee, N. Wagner, T. Boult REUTERS - MELBOURNE Fall of wickets: 1-14 (Young), 2-168 (Latham) Bowling: Roach 15-3-53-1, Gabriel, 17-5-62-1 investigation (6nb), Holder 19-8-25-0 (1nb), Joseph 17-6-43- Glenn Maxwell defended the 0 (1w), Chase 9-0-42-0, Brathwaite 1-0-2-0 switch-hit after the audacious West Indies: Kraigg Brathwaite, John Campbell, stroke once again drew crit- REUTERS - LONDON Darren Bravo, Jermaine Blackwood, Shamarh icism from pundits, the Brooks, Roston Chase, Shane Dowrich, Jason Australian all-rounder saying Formula One’s governing body Holder (capt), Kemar Roach, Alzarri Joseph, the onus was on bowlers to said it had opened an investi- Shannon Gabriel. Toss: West Indies evolve and counter batsmen in gation into Romain Grosjean’s Umpires: Chris Gaffaney (NZL), Wayne Knights the shorter formats of the game. (pictured) Bahrain Grand Prix (NZL) Right-handed Maxwell crash yesterday as the French TV umpire: Chris Brown (NZL) switches stance in a flash to driver hailed those who helped Match referee: Jeff Crowe (NZL) transform into a left-hander him escape the fireball. with the bowler well into the Grosjean suffered burns to delivery stride, making field his hands after his Haas car setting impossible against the split in two, penetrating a Williamson’s shot. metal barrier and erupting in Maverick England batsman flames, in Sunday’s race. bat puts NZ Kevin Pietersen was a regular The Frenchman left hos- proponent of the shot, which pital on Wednesday and in an in charge on involves a combination of skill Instagram post accompanying and risk and was deemed legal video footage pointed to “the green strip in 2008 by the MCC, which acts moment I realized I was going as the custodian of cricket’s Australia’s Glenn Maxwell plays a shot as India’s wicketkeeper Kannaur Rahul (left) looks on during to live’. AFP - HAMILTON laws. the third One-Day International cricket match between Australia and India at Manuka Oval in He highlighted the ‘profes- Maxwell smashed 59 from Canberra on Wednesday. sionalism’ of the marshal with A masterful innings from Kane 38 balls at the Manuka Oval in the extinguisher and FIA Williamson, who was 97 not Canberra during Australia’s doctor Ian Roberts. out at stumps, put New 13-run loss in the third and final Former Australian captain postponed when it became an England and Wales Cricket “I told him he was a hero, Zealand in charge on a day one ODI against India on and commentator Ian Chappell clear the coronavirus pandemic Board statement. “Birmingham he went into the fire as much of the first Test that should Wednesday and his innings feels batsmen take unfair meant fans would not be is a fantastic city and I’m really as he could to save me,” he have belonged to the West included a massive switch-hit advantage of field placements allowed into grounds, with one looking forward to calling Edg- said of Roberts. Indies quicks in Hamilton against spinner Kuldeep Yadav by switching stance at the last of the key aims of the 100 balls baston home. Hopefully we can “I felt Ian’s hands pulling yesterday. that went 100 meters long. moment. per side format to attract new welcome crowds and our new me over the barrier and knew New Zealand closed the “It’s within the laws of the “It is very skilful, some of it’s spectators to cricket. fans to the ground because, I was safe. I remember every day at 243 for two after Wil- game,” Maxwell told reporters. amazingly skilful - but it’s not Zampa had already been having played against England second of it and life will never liamson and Tom Latham (86) “I suppose it’s up to the bowlers fair,” Chappell told Wide World signed up by the Phoenix in a at Edgbaston, I know that the be the same again, but I’m sure laid the platform with a to try and combat that, and the of Sports. “I’d love the admin- televised draft and the leg- atmosphere there is awesome.” for the best,” added the driver. 158-run second wicket skills of bowlers are being istrators who made those laws spinner is now set to honour Gardner added: “We’ve got “I met with death and that partnership. tested every day. to explain to me how that’s fair.” that commitment by playing for the makings of an excellent Bir- is the worst feeling I ever had. Williamson will resume “They’re having to come up Meanwhile Australia duo the Phoenix in 2021, with mingham Phoenix squad and I But I’m alive and will enjoy day two requiring just three with different change-ups and Adam Zampa and Ashleigh Gardner joining the franchise can’t wait to get going in next every second of life and every runs to register his 22nd Test different ways to stop batters, Gardner were among several women’s team. year’s competition.” small win in a much better way century, with Ross Taylor 31 and with the way they shut men’s and women’s players “I’m over the moon to know Birmingham-born England from now on.” not out. down one side of the ground yesterday to commit to the Bir- that I’m staying with Bir- all-rounder Moeen Ali is set to The International Auto- The lush, green Seddon and what-not. I suppose the mingham Phoenix franchise for mingham Phoenix and to help captain the men’s team in 2021 mobile Federation (FIA) Park wicket had both sides way that batting is evolving, I next year’s inaugural edition of this new team mount a serious while New Zealand all-rounder expected its investigation to dropping specialist spin in think bowling has got to evolve English cricket’s The Hundred. challenge in this first year of Sophie Devine will skipper the take six to eight weeks. favour of all-out pace, and to the same stage.” This year’s competition was The Hundred,” Zampa said in women’s team. It will look at all safety when Jason Holder won the devices, how the safety barrier toss there was no doubt he performed and the role of would make New Zealand bat. track marshals and medical But after a two-hour rain BCCI to discuss adding 2 new teams to IPL intervention team. delay at the start of the day, The body said it would getting maximum use from the REUTERS NEW DELHI work with Formula One, Haas pace, bounce and swing that BCCI treasurer Arun Singh Dhumal said that Indian conglomerates Adani Group and the Grand Prix Drivers’ were potentially on offer India’s cricket board will consider adding that the AGM will be held at the end of and RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group, which Association (GPDA), who had eluded the West Indies, who two new teams to the popular Indian December with Indian media reports owned the Rising Pune Supergiant fran- already been contacted for toiled for nearly six hours for Premier League (IPL) franchise-based saying the date of the meeting has been chise for two IPL seasons, have shown input. little reward. tournament, according to the agenda of fixed for Dec. 24. interest in buying new teams. Grosjean is one of the three The day was further the governing body’s annual general The IPL currently has eight franchises Both companies did not immediately GPDA directors. worsened for the tourists just meeting scheduled to be held later this and its latest edition was held in the United respond to a request for comment. Researchers also have data before stumps when form month. Arab Emirates without fans due to the During the AGM, the BCCI will also from a driver-facing high batsman Darren Bravo was The IPL, which has an estimated brand COVID-19 pandemic. discuss its stand on the possible inclusion speed camera, the in-car stretchered from the field after value of $6.8bn, drew record television “We have been thinking in terms of a of cricket in the 2028 Los Angeles Accident Data Recorder and injuring an ankle. and digital viewership during its 2020 10-team IPL for some time now, and we’d Olympics. Cricket featured at the 1900 in-ear accelerometers that It started well for the West season amid the turmoil of the COVID-19 like to have two new teams from 2021, if Olympics and was played in the 1998 Com- measure head movement. Indies when Shannon Gabriel pandemic. possible,” an IPL governing council monwealth Games but has largely been The FIA said immediately removed New Zealand deb- “Approval on inclusion of 2 (two) new member requesting anonymity told absent from multi-sport events, which after Sunday’s accident that utant Will Young for five on teams to the Indian Premier League” was Reuters. critics say has restricted the sport’s growth the impact measured more the last ball of the fourth over listed on the agenda. Local media has reported in the past beyond its traditional pockets. than 50G, while Haas said the with the score at 14. car’s last recorded speed was 221kph. “With so much data available in Formula One, it Vet check at QEF's Outdoor Arena allows us to accurately determine every element of what occurred and this work has already begun,” said FIA safety director Adam Baker.

Trainers take their horses for vet checks ahead of the fifth round of the Qatar Equestrian Tour - Longines Hathab Supported By The Social and Sport Contribution Fund. The fifth round will be held at QEF's Indoor Arena today and tomorrow. Sport FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020 Williamson makes hay on green top as West Indies rue decision to bowl first A masterful innings from Kane Williamson, who was 97 not out at stumps, put New Zealand in charge on a day one of the first Test that should have belonged to the West Indies quicks in Hamilton. Kane Williamson New Zealand captain Sport | 15 AFC CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (EAST) Tokyo bt Perth 1-0; Ulsan bt Shanghai 4-1; Beijing draw with Chiangrai 1-1; Melbourne bt Seoul 2-1

Qatar ready to take on Bangladesh

FAWAD HUSSAIN the competition to return again THE PENINSULA Qatar are leading Group E with 13 and we are all eagerly waiting points and will confirm their berth for tomorrow’s match,” the Asian champions Qatar are at the AFC Asian Cup China 2023 by coach said yesterday. favourites against Bangladesh Both the teams last met in in today’s Asian Qualifiers Group winning the group. Dhaka with Qatar winning the Qatar coach E clash at home but coach Felix game 2-0 after a thrilling match. Felix Sanchez Sanchez is not taking things for The match will be played at Doha’s Today’s game is also expected watches granted as Al Annabi returns to Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium with to be an absorbing battle as team's training competitive football after a kick off set for 7pm. Bangladesh are seeking to give session on year’s break. a strong fight against the hosts. the eve of the Qatar, who will host their All the 1,800 tickets, which match against continental opponents at Doha’s pitch only and we do not care were made available for the tie, Bangladesh. Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium, what is said on social media were sold out in quick time. The are seeking to consolidate top platforms or even the words of match will kick off at 7:00pm A Qatari player position in the group in today’s other coaches,” Sanchez said at today. in action during match. a pre-match press conference Fans will be able to see top training session. Ranked 59th on the FIFA yesterday. Qatar stars including reigning computer, the 2019 AFC Asian “Bangladeshi team is AFC Player of the year Akram Cup champions are leading organised and plays collectively Afif, his predecessor Abdel is very well prepared and we will Group E with 13 points and will and therefore we have to be dis- Karim Hassan and Almoez Ali, give our best to achieve victory in confirm their berth at the AFC ciplined and beware of con- the leading scorer at the 2019 the match and live up to expec- Asian Cup China 2023 by ceding goals and avoid counter- AFC Asian Cup in action, as tations of our fans,” he said. winning the group. attacks,” the Spaniard added. Sanchez named a strong squad Meanwhile, Bangladesh Bangladesh, who are ranked Qatar last played a com- for today’s match. assistant coach Stuart Watkiss 184, are at the bottom of the petitive match against Saudi Accompanying Sanchez in said his team is going into the group. Arabia in the semi-final of Gulf yesterday’s press conference, game with lack of competitive Sanchez yesterday shrugged Cup in December 2019 before Muhammad Waad, who is match practice. “You only get off the favourite tag, saying his coronavirus pandemic disrupted expected to make his interna- truly match-fit by playing com- A glimpse of team will go into today’s match international football action. tional debut today, said he is petitive matches, but unfortu- team's training completely focused . “We are happy to play the ‘ready to give his best’ for Qatar. nately we have still not played session. “We prepare for all matches first official match after a long “I am ready to give my best nearly enough,” Watkiss told The by focusing on our goals on the time. Our players are excited for for the national team. Our team Daily Star. Adailton fires Tokyo into Asian Premier League, EFL Champions League Round of 16 agree £250m virus rescue package AFP — DOHA first time since 2006. Having AFP — LONDON booked their knockout berth Brazilian midfielder Adailton earlier, Ulsan made several The EFL says clubs in Leagues One scored a brilliant solo goal in the changes to their line-up but The Premier League and the and Two -- the third and fourth first half as FC Tokyo edged past Park Jeong-in and Lee Sang- English Football League tiers -- would receive grants worth Perth Glory 1-0 to seal the heon put them 2-0 ahead at the agreed a £250m rescue £50m ($67m). The Premier League second Round of 16 spot from break. package yesterday, ending will provide a further financial Group F in the Asian Champions Bjorn Johnsen then added a months of uncertainty for League yesterday. second-half brace as the lower-league clubs struggling commitment to help the EFL secure South Korean giants Ulsan Koreans recorded their fifth financially during the coro- a £200m loan facility for clubs in Hyundai had already made the straight win. navirus pandemic. the second-tier Championship. cut as guaranteed group “After we qualified for the The EFL said clubs in winners, leaving FC Tokyo and round of 16, I expected a few Leagues One and Two -- the Shanghai Shenhua scrapping players might lose concen- third and fourth tiers -- would continue to suffer significant for second place with both Tokyo’s forward tration but all the players con- receive grants worth £50m financial losses as a result of teams on seven points from five Adailton celebrates centrated and played well,” said ($67m). The Premier League the pandemic, but Premier matches. his goal during the Ulsan coach Kim Do-hoon. will provide a further League shareholders today But Shanghai Shenhua fell AFC Champions “We had a lot of young financial commitment to help unanimously agreed to to a crushing 4-1 defeat by League match players and they did their job. I the EFL secure a £200m loan provide additional funding Ulsan yesterday to exit the tour- against Australia’s asked them to play aggressively facility for clubs in the and support for EFL clubs in nament, while FC Tokyo’s Perth Glory at the with combination play and high second-tier Championship. real financial distress.” narrow win over Perth Glory Education City press, and they did it all very It follows months of The package for Leagues helped them maintain their Stadium, yesterday. well.” Shanghai Shenhua’s Choi negotiations between the two One and Two is understood record of qualifying for the Kang-hee said the Covid-19 governing bodies, who had to be £30 million to be split knockout phase every year pandemic meant they faced a been criticised for their failure between the 48 clubs in those since their continental debut in number of difficulties in playing to reach an agreement. divisions, plus access to a 2012. the competition. The government has con- further £20 million package Adailton was in the thick of “Today we are very happy biggest opponent today but “We understand it’s a pan- sistently said that the Premier of monitored grants. the action in the very first about qualifying for the next congratulations to FC Tokyo.” demic. It’s a special time, and League, rather than the tax- The £30m will be paid minute at the Education City round. Some players who didn’t - Shanghai crash out - we have to play in this kind of payer, must help the EFL. immediately from the Stadium when he went for a play much before played today Shanghai Shenhua’s defeat way, but we hope in the future “Our over-arching aim Premier League to help cover spectacular bicycle kick off a and Adailton scored a very good by Ulsan Hyundai meant they the tournament won’t be played throughout this process has lost matchday revenue. cross from Takuya Uchida only goal,” said Hasegawa. failed to make the last 16 for the with such a tight fixture list.” been to ensure that all EFL The monitored grants can to see the ball sail over the “We tried to score clubs survive the financial be applied for by clubs in goalpost. more goals in the Ulsan’s defender impact of the pandemic,” said need, with a joint EFL and But he compensated for that second half but also we Jung Seung- EFL chairman Rick Parry. Premier League panel ruling miss in style seven minutes later knew the result of the Hyun (right) vies “I am pleased that we on eligibility. with a brilliant 30-yard burst other game (Ulsan for the header have now reached a reso- The Premier League has down the left flank, scoring with were leading 2-0 with Shanghai’s lution on behalf of our clubs committed to cover up to £15 a curling shot past Perth goal- against Shenhua at half forward Bi Jinhao and as we have maintained million in interest and keeper Liam Reddy. time), so we were more during their match throughout this will provide arrangement fees to enable a Two minutes later, Adailton comfortable.” at the Jassim Bin much-needed support and £200m loan to be secured for found himself in a great position Perth Glory’s Hamad Stadium, clarity following months of Championship clubs. to strike again but his powerful Cristian Ola said yesterday. uncertainty.” Culture Secretary Oliver effort from outside the penalty fatigue was a big factor Premier League chief Dowden said: “I warmly area saw Reddy producing a for his team’s poor executive Richard Masters welcome this deal between fine save. show. said: “The Premier League is the Premier League and the Perth Glory took control of “Not happy with a huge supporter of the EFL, which provides up to the match in the second half but the result but happy football pyramid and is well £250m support to help clubs could not get past the Tokyo with our boys’ efforts aware of the important role through Covid. defence, ending up at the and display consid- clubs play in their “I’m glad that football has bottom of the table with just one ering it was their fifth communities. come together to agree this point from six matches. game in a short space “Our commitment is that substantial package. Fans are FC Tokyo coach Kente of time which is not no EFL club need go out of starting to return and we look Hasegawa said he always had something we are used business due to Covid-19. forward to building on this as confidence in his team’s to,” said Ola. “All football clubs soon as it’s safe.” abilities. “Fatigue was our