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TUESDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2021 30 MUHARRAM - 1443 VOLUME 26 NUMBER 8737 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS

US President thanks Amir for Qatar’s pivotal role in Afghanistan

Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani with the Minister of Interior of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, at the Amiri Diwan, yesterday. Amir meets Saudi Interior Minister

QNA — DOHA Minister conveyed the greetings of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani meeting with the US Secretary of State H E Antony Blinken and the Secretary the Custodian of the Two Holy of Defence H E Lloyd Austin, at the Pearl Palace, yesterday. The Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz, Hamad Al Thani received at the Amiri and Crown Prince, Deputy Chairman QNA — DOHA prominent developments in the the efforts exerted by the State of Qatar Diwan yesterday morning, the of the Council Ministers and Minister regional and international arenas, in support of the peace process in Afghan- Minister of Interior of the Kingdom of Defence HRH Prince Muhammad The Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin mainly the developments in Afghan- istan, and its pivotal role in facilitating of Saudi Arabia, HRH Prince bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, to Hamad Al Thani met with the US istan and the efforts made to enhance the evacuation operations of US nationals Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin HH the Amir, and their best wishes Secretary of State H E Antony Blinken security and stability in the country. as well as the citizens of allied countries Abdulaziz Al Saud, and the accom- to His Highness for continued health and the Secretary of Defence H E Lloyd The U S Secretaries conveyed the and Afghan civilians; in addition to Doha's panying delegation, on the occasion and happiness, and to the Qatari Austin, at the Pearl Palace last evening. thanks and appreciation of the U S Pres- hosting of the negotiations between the of his visit to the country. people further progress and pros- The meeting discussed the most ident H E Joe Biden to H H the Amir for United States and the Taliban. `P2 The Saudi Interior perity. `P2 Qatar Tourism issues regulations on holiday home rentals THE PENINSULA — DOHA provide a complete licencing and clas- The new regulations outline the environmental sustainability. Granted enjoying our unparalleled hospitality. sification process while ensuring inter- requirements for homeowners to apply to individuals who own or rent apart- The Holiday Home regulation is part of Qatar Tourism is taking steps to national best practices are adopted to for a licence, including quality standards, ments or villas, the licence provides vis- Qatar Tourism’s efforts to promote a regulate the operation of holiday increase the sector’s transparency, amenities, health and safety, accessi- itors with peace of mind, allowing them safe, enjoyable experience for those who homes owned by individuals and safety, and standardisation. bility criteria, code of conduct, and to explore Qatar’s varied offerings while visit Qatar. `P3 02 HOME TUESDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2021 Qatar, Saudi Arabia discuss boosting ties, cooperation

PRAYER It was a pleasure to receive my brother, HRH @AbdulazizSNA during TIMINGS his official visit to the State of Qatar. It was a fruitful meeting during which we discussed ways to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMING that unite us and the prospects for cooperation between our two countries in the field of security and to strengthen our joint efforts FAJR 03.58 am to consolidate peace and stability in our region in accordance with the aspirations of the leadership of our two countries and SUNRISE 05.17 am the ambition of our peoples. DHUHR 11.32 am ASR 03.01 pm MAGHRIB 05.49 pm QNA — DOHA and combating terrorism. ISHA 07.19 pm The most prominent Prime Minister and Minister of regional and international Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin developments were also Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani discussed. and Minister of Interior of the The session was attended Kingdom of Saudi Arabia HRH by a number of Their Excel- Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin lencies senior officials of the Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud held Ministry of Interior. On the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani meeting a session of talks yesterday Saudi side, it was attended Minister of Interior of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin morning. by a number of Their Excel- WEATHER During the session, they dis- lencies members of the Abdulaziz Al Saud, in Doha, yesterday. TODAY cussed relations between the official delegation accom- two countries and ways of panying the Minister of Minister of Interior also hosted Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and by a number of Their Excel- developing them, especially in Interior. a luncheon banquet in honour the accompanying delegation. lencies senior officials of the the security and police fields The Prime Minister and of Minister of Interior of the The banquet was attended Ministry of Interior. US President 33oC 41oC PM, Saudi Interior Minister visit S’hail 2021 Exhibition Minimum Maximum thanks Amir for QNA — DOHA Hazy at first becomes hot daytime Qatar’s role in with some clouds at times, humid Prime Minister and Minister by night. of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid Afghanistan bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al W ALRUWAIS : 30o → 40o Thani and Minister of Interior FROM PAGE 1 W ALKHOR : 30o → 38o of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia HRH Prince Abdulaziz The US Secretaries praised W DUKHAN : 31o → 39o bin Saud bin Naif bin the strong partnership W WAKRAH : 29o → 39o Abdulaziz Al Saud visited between the two countries and yesterday the 5th edition of the diplomatic role of the State W MESAIEED : 29o → 39o Katara International Hunting of Qatar which contributes to W ABUSAMRA : 29o → 40o and Falcons Exhibition (S’hail maintaining the regional and 2021) held at the Cultural international peace and Village Foundation (Katara). security. Both sides reviewed many The meeting also touched HIGH TIDE exhibits of local, Arab, and on the strategic relations 03:46 – 16:54 international companies spe- between the two countries and LOW TIDE 00:07 – 11:00 cialising in hunting and fal- ways of enhancing and devel- conry supplies, hunting and oping them to serve the joint Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani and Minister shooting weapons, and interests of both friendly of Interior of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud camping products and peoples. equipment. visiting Katara International Hunting and Falcons Exhibition (S’hail 2021) in Doha, yesterday. Amir meets Agreement reached on Qatari grant, opening of Gaza crossings Saudi Interior QNA — GAZA all parties with the agreement with the United Nations and disbursement process will urged the parties to assume Minister to completely reopen the the Palestinian Authority and start, according to the mech- their responsibilities to FROM PAGE 1 Chairman of Qatar’s Committee crossings to meet the main in agreement with all parties. anism agreed upon with the maintain calm and stability, for the Reconstruction of Gaza needs of the sector, while pro- He also stressed that these UN, during September, after with the aim of improving the For his part, H H the Amir, H E Ambassador Mohammed viding various facilities that results will have a clear pos- the UN completes all technical conditions of the population conveyed to Minister of Al Emadi announced yesterday would help all parties to get out itive impact on improving the procedures related to the dis- living in extremely difficult Interior of the Kingdom of that an agreement had been of the crisis situation and ease living conditions in the Gaza bursement process. humanitarian conditions, and Saudi Arabia his greetings to reached regarding the Qatari tension in the region. Strip. The Ambassador also made so that international organisa- his brother Custodian of the grant and the opening of the He stressed that the He indicated that the pro- it clear that the grant for Gaza tions and institutions could also Two Holy Mosques King Gaza crossings in order to meetings achieved positive cedures related to the dis- employees will be disbursed in resume implementing various Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud establish a state of calm and results that will be built upon bursement of the Qatari grant coordination with the Pales- projects, including recon- of the Kingdom of Saudi stability in the Strip. in the files and issues related to needy families have been tinian Authority during the struction and support for the Arabia, and His Royal Highness Ambassador Al Emadi con- to improving the living condi- completed in agreement with coming days, and in agreement various sectors in Gaza, the Prince Muhammad bin Salman firmed that during the past few tions of the residents of the the Palestinian Authority and with the various parties. most important of which is the bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, wishing days, meetings were held with Gaza Strip, in full coordination the UN, pointing out that the Ambassador Al Emadi health sector. them good health and wellness, and the Saudi people more development and progress. EAA to award 1,200 scholarships to youth in Lebanon, Jordan During the meeting, the relations between the two THE PENINSULA — DOHA The programme will also them enhance their quality of countries and ways to support enable students to participate life by equipping them with the and develop them were Education Above All (EAA) in extramural events such as tools they need to build a better reviewed. Foundation, with the support conferences and workshops, future, which is why we strive The meeting was attended of Qatar Fund For Devel- and opportunities to engage to provide our students with by Prime Minister and Minister opment (QFFD), through Qatar with Qatari educational insti- high-quality, demand-driven, of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid Scholarship Programme, has tutions and organisations. technical and practical edu- bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al entered into a cooperation Additionally, top students cation that is powered by tech- Thani. agreement with the American from both universities will be nology and reinforced with University of Beirut (AUB) and selected to study abroad in practical experience to facil- Luminus Technical University Qatar at some of the country’s itate their smooth transition to MoPH: 126 local College (LTUC) to develop leading universities under the the job market. Our part- scholarship programmes, scholarship programme. nership with EAA’s scholarship COVID-19 cases which will award scholarships At Luminus Technical Uni- programme helps us to reach to 1,200 disadvantaged youth versity College in Jordan, this even more of those who are in THE PENINSULA — DOHA over the next four years. programme will award 800 dire need of such opportu- In conjunction, Qatar Fund scholarships to Syrian and Pal- nities; together we give them The Ministry of Public Health For Development (QFFD) estinian refugee youth, as well a better chance to shape a yesterday reported 189 new A virtual MoU signing ceremony between Education Above All signed a Memorandum of as marginalised Jordanian better future.” cases of COVID-19. Among Foundation and Luminus Technical University College in Jordan. Understanding (MoU) with the youth, allowing them to com- AUB Deputy Provost, Lina them 63 were travellers relevant Ministries in Lebanon plete their higher education at Choueiri, PhD, said: “We are returning from abroad. and Jordan in support of the the diploma, associate degree education is positioned in the while Lebanon is reeling from excited to partner with EAA for A total of 210 people programme. and bachelor’s degree levels. forefront of supporting com- the pandemic and is home to the Qatar Scholarship Pro- recovered from COVID-19 The Qatar Scholarship Pro- At the American University munities around the world. We the world’s highest number of gramme, which will strengthen yesterday, bringing the total gramme, implemented by of Beirut in Lebanon, the pro- believe that the support of edu- refugees per capita. Through AUB’s efforts to further extend number of people recovered EAA’s Al Fakhoora pro- gramme will support 400 cation results in empowering our new partnerships, we aim access to high quality edu- in Qatar 230,878. gramme, will serve margin- socio-economically disadvan- the youth and therefore they to ensure that the next gener- cation to disadvantaged youth In addition, the Ministry alised Lebanese, Jordanian, taged Lebanese and refugee will be able to build a com- ation of students across the from across Lebanon, including announced one new death, Palestinian and Syrian youth, youth in pursuit of an under- munity that nourishes and region can continue learning those from its large refugee aged 61, who had a history of allowing them to access graduate degree. The scholar- brings justice and peace. The despite all difficulties,” population, and this agreement chronic disease and was quality education, student ships at AUB come at a time scholarships offered to ref- explained EAA’s CEO, Fahad Al could not come at a more receiving the necessary support services, and civic when Lebanon is facing one of ugees through the Qatar Schol- Sulaiti. critical time with Lebanon’s medical care. engagement opportunities. the worst crises in its history, arship Programme will enable The Qatar Scholarship Pro- economical and financial crises As many as 8,260 with over the youth to expand their gramme is part of a five-year adding a heavy burden on COVID-19 vaccine doses have half of its knowledge and gain expertise expansion in which EAA higher education been administered in 24 residents to build a bright future for commits to awarding 4,000 institutions.” hours while 4,523,990 pushed themselves and their scholarships throughout the Both Lebanon and Jordan COVID-19 vaccine doses have below the communities.” Middle East and North Africa are also host to approximately been administered since the poverty line. “We remain committed to region and beyond, in close 1.5 million and 1.3 million start of the National Khalifa our mission to raise educa- partnership with institutions Syrian refugees respectively, COVID-19 Vaccination bin Jassim Al tional opportunities despite the that are models of excellence thereby putting additional Program. Kuwari, many challenges, particularly in their respective countries strains on the two countries’ Also 95.1% of the eligible Director for students from vulnerable and regions. educational systems and infra- population (12 years and General of and marginalised backgrounds. Ibrahim Safadi, CEO and structures. As a result of the over) have now received at QFFD, said: Jordan is facing complex chal- Founder of Luminus Education deteriorating situation, educa- least one dose of the vaccine “At QFFD, lenges brought about by the Group, said: “Luminus has tional exclusion, particularly while 82.7% of the total pop- the support economic impacts of COVID-19 always been a firm believer in among the most disadvantaged ulation has now received at of quality and the ongoing refugee crisis, youth, and our goal is to help youth, is deepening. least one dose of the vaccine. TUESDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2021 HOME 03 Minister inaugurates new South Al Wakra Health Center THE PENINSULA — DOHA Minister says MoPH is working to ensure that all patients receive healthcare at the right Minister of Public Health H E Dr. Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari time and place, while improving patients’ inaugurated the Primary Health experience and enhancing their safety. care Corporation (PHCC)’s South Al Wakra Health Center yesterday. services provided to keep pace comprehensiveness and inte- Dr. Mariam Abdulmalik, with patients’ needs, while gration of services. Managing Director of PHCC and applying the best and highest With the launch of South Al a number of officials in the standards of quality. Wakra HC, the number of PHCC health sector attended the She also pointed out that the HCs increased to 28, distributed opening ceremony. National Primary Health Care across all regions of the country, The Minister toured the Strategy is committed to ena- where a number of patients in health center (HC) after the bling the patient to have faster the zone will be transferred to opening ceremony, where she access to high quality primary the new HC, which will have a Minister of Public Health H E Dr. Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari and other officials at the inauguration of was briefed about the services healthcare services to achieve positive impact on booking South Al Wakra Health Center, in Al Wakra, yesterday. available for patients, as well as patient’s satisfaction level. appointments, especially for the various specialised clinics Dr. Abdulmalik mentioned specialized clinics. In the first and the HC’s facilities. that the new HC has been pro- year, the HC’s capacity will be annex buildings, a mosque, the new health centers came in reception and appointments for She stressed that the plan to vided with all the necessary 5,000 patients, then it will grad- support services building, accordance with the highest the HC staff and PHCC staff and open a number of new health requirements to deliver an ually increase to 10,000 patients. guards building, monitoring standards of quality and safety their families only within the centers in the country seeks to outstanding health and The new HC will receive chamber, an electrical and and with the standards of the trial launch of the HC to check meet the increasing needs of the medical services level for patients during the official mechanical maintenance Global Sustainability the status of the workflow, public for primary health care optimal use. working hours between 7am to annex, a garage for ambulances, Assessment System (GSAS), which would support the people services, taking into account the Dr. Abdulmalik explained 11pm, Sunday to Thursday. and 127 parking slots. where architectural and oper- of Al Wakra city in addition to geographical distribution and that the distribution of services The services covered in the The buildings design also ational considerations were the current health center. population density of each area in HCs has been done in main building include a reflects the heritage and culture taken to accomplish a 3-star Patients can use PHCC’s in which a health center is accordance with the plans pharmacy, general clinics, of Qatar without compromising environmental level in terms of Nar’aakom mobile application launched. developed, Corporate Strategy, dental clinic, pediatric clinic, international standards of safety energy saving and environment to register in or transfer to the The Minister added that the future vision, and the needs of medical labs, radiology section, for fire protection, besides preservation. new South Al Wakra HC, where Ministry of Public Health is patients, noting that South Al isolation room, and Masjid green buildings and a 3-star The location of South Al the services cover some of the working to ensure that all Wakra HC has been imple- building. rated sustainability. Another Wakra HC around schools neighbourhoods of zone 90 patients receive healthcare at mented in accordance with the Spread over an area of important design feature of the enhances future activities to according to the national the right time and place, while highest standards approved for about 3,000sq m, South Al architectural design of the HC support common issues and address. The new HC will improving patients’ experience health facilities and with inter- Wakra HC includes a single- is inclusion of next generation interests between the two. provide services through the and enhancing their safety. national standards, to achieve storey main building with a technologies in the field of PHCC started the trial run appointments system and the There is also a continuous the required sustainability main clinical building (health medical equipment. of the new HC on Sunday, walk-in system after development of the quality of standards and ensure the center) covering nine clinics, Most notably, the design of August 8, 2021 by opening the classification. Vaccinated people 29 times less likely to be hospitalised: Health official

SANAULLAH ATAULLAH said that the study was conducted from high efficiency. diseases, low immunity, senior citizens THE PENINSULA May 1 to July 25 to find differences Speaking about the and children from age 2 to 12 years and between vaccinated and unvaccinated seasonal flue, Dr. Muna pregnant women are strongly recom- People vaccinated against COVID-19 people. “Since the start of the said: “The Hamad Medical mended to take seasonal influenza are 29 times less likely to be hospi- COVID-19 pandemic, many new var- Corporation launched vaccine. talised than the unvaccinated. iants of coronaviurs were detected but seasonal influenza vacci- “It is noted that some pregnant “Unvaccinated people are likely to the most dangerous and fast-spreading nation campaign on Sep- women feel reluctance in taking vac- catch the infection of coronavirus five was Delta,” said Dr. Muna, adding that tember 1 to protect people cines whether it is against coronavirus times more than those vaccinated the vaccines which are administered in winter season.” She or seasonal influenza. Both types of vac- which reflects the effectiveness of vac- in Qatar are effective against COVID-19 said that the symptoms of cines in Qatar are safe for pregnant cines even with emergence of new protecting people from severe disease, coronavirus and seasonal women and they could take both at the strains,” said Medical Director of Com- and reducing admissions to hospitals influenza are similar as same time and on the same day,” said municable Disease Center (CDC) at and ICUs. both are viral diseases Dr. Muna. She said that the vaccines Dr. Muna Al Maslamani speaking on COVID-19 during Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), “A vaccinated person could be and affect respiratory boost the immune system of human a Qatar TV programme yesterday. Dr. Muna Al Maslamani. infected with minor symptoms but the system of an infected body which helps greatly in protecting Speaking in a Qatar TV programme vaccine will protect him from severe person. against diseases. “The influenza vacci- yesterday, Dr. Muna said that this came disease and admission to hospital,” said “Seasonal influenza could cause influenza vaccine, which will reduce nation is available at 28 health centers, in a comparative study conducted by Dr. Muna. She said that the vaccine, admission to hospital and ICU, so I the pressure on health sector.” Dr. private clinics and semi-governmental an international research centre. She even in cases of Delta, maintains its would like to urge people to take the Muna said people with chronic health facilities,” said Dr. Muna. Official: Swift passport Qatar Tourism Qatar, GCC members discuss issues regulations cooperation in combating crime procedures at airport for on holiday home rentals QNA — DOHA returning passengers FROM PAGE 1 Qatar participated in the 35th SIDI MOHAMED facilitate and speed up travel Qatar Airways Group Chief meeting of the Directors General THE PENINSULA procedures. Executive and Chairman of of Inquiries and Criminal Inves- Al Buainain said among Qatar Tourism, H E Akbar Al tigations of the Gulf Cooperation The Airport Passport important procedures is to Baker, said: “As we prepare for Council (GCC) countries, which Department has said that the arrange arriving passengers the FIFA World Cup Qatar was held yesterday through procedures for returning into vaccinated and unvacci- 2022, we are working towards video conference. passengers are easy and take nated and directing them to rel- ensuring a seamless expe- The meeting reviewed a only 20 to 35 minutes from the evant counters. “There is a plan, rience for fans, rooted in number of topics, the most time of the passenger’s arrival set by the department annually, Qatar’s tradition of hospitality. important of which are the future to exit from the airport. to facilitate the return of trav- With a diverse range of hospi- vision of the Gulf police force, the “These procedures differ ellers at this time of the year, tality options across hotels, development of a unified mech- from one traveller to another, when a large number of cit- onboard cruise ships, sta- anism to combat currency coun- as well as according to peak izens return after the annual diums, and luxury campsites, terfeiting, and ways to combat times when there are a large leave. It is noticeable that there Qatar Tourism is working with money laundering. number of travellers arriving is great activity during this year stakeholders to provide the Participants were also at the same time,” said Captain due to easing of travel restric- best visitor experience across briefed on the successful expe- Mohammad Mubarak Al tions announced by different touchpoints. This new service Director of Criminal Evidence and Information Department at riences of member states in the Buainain, an officer at the countries including Qatar,” he of regulated holiday homes the Ministry of Interior, Brigadier Nasser Abdullah Al Mahmoud, fight against crime, and the Airport Passport Department. said. will therefore allow fans with minutes of the 12th meeting of participating in the GCC meeting. Speaking to Qatar Radio, He added that number of more hospitality choices to the technical team tasked with he said the department counters and employees as well choose from while retaining studying the automatic exchange Qatar was represented at Information Department at the increases the number of as e-gates has been increased the luxury and service excel- of fingerprints and criminal the meeting by the Director of Ministry of Interior, Brigadier passport counters and e-gates to cater to the increase in lence that Qatar is known for.” information. Criminal Evidence and Nasser Abdullah Al Mahmoud. during peak hours in order to arriving passengers. Qatar Tourism has upgraded its system to facil- itate the new licence applica- Qatar participates in GCC tions for owners and DFI: Applications open for ‘Producers Lab’ workshop authorised tenants who can civil aviation meeting now apply for a Holiday AYENI OLUSEGUN in the region,” DFI stated on its The workshop is designed for Homes licence through the THE PENINSULA website. filmmakers, producers, investors, fin- QNA — DOHA e-Services portal https:// The seven-day programme would anciers, directors, or anyone inter- eservices.visitqatar.qa/. Home- Doha Film Institute has announced focus on producing feature-length ested in entering the filmmaking The State of Qatar, represented by the Qatar Civil owners are accountable for it would hold a workshop for documentary and fiction films on the business in the area of production. Aviation Authority (QCAA), participated in the ensuring the unit meets all leg- emerging film talent in the region. creative, artistic, and strategic Participants must be from Qatar or 17th meeting of the GCC Executive Committee of islative and maintenance The online workshop ‘Producers Lab’ aspects. Participants will gain deeper the MENA region and must have a Civil Aviation, which was held yesterday via video requirements and is accurately will run from October 24-30 and be insight into various elements of film feature-length project in devel- conference. listed with all necessary amen- held in Arabic and English. production and genuinely understand opment. The director or screenwriter The delegation of the State of Qatar to the ities and guest services pro- Participants will have to pay the role of a producer. can partake in aspects of the pro- meeting was headed by President of Qatar Civil vided. Qatar Tourism will QR1500, while Qatar Museums Also, organisers would select gramme, and candidates must have Aviation Authority Abdulla bin Nasser Turki Al conduct frequent inspections Culture Pass members will receive a eight to 10 Qatar and MENA-based produced at least one short or Subaey. in order to maintain standards. 10% discount on the fee, DFI producers with a project in feature-length or documentary in the The move is a part of announced. The deadline for appli- development. past. Qatar’s objective to diversify cation is September 25. The programme would cover an Prospective candidates must Qatar attends GCC supreme & and increase offerings, in line “This workshop is an opportunity in-depth understanding of a pro- submit a short synopsis of the project with Qatar National Vision for local and MENA-based producers ducer’s role in all stages of film, in development, film treatment, a cassation courts meeting 2030, which develops to develop their skills further with understanding the responsibility of brief bio of the producer, script, and products and services to experts in the field, in a small and various producers, and an intro- other requirements listed on DFI’s QNA — DOHA attract visitors for 2022 and intimate group of a maximum of 8-10 duction to the producer’s approach website. beyond. This regulation com- projects. Further, we hope to to script and development. Other Lab mentors will include Jovan Qatar participated in the 6th meeting of deputies plements the growth trend in strengthen co-productions in the aspects of the programme include Marjanovic, Violeta Bava, Dora Bou- and assistants from the supreme and cassation the city’s hotel and hotel MENA region, to open networking budget, applying for film funds, mar- choucha, Jad Abi Khalil, Jana Wehbe, courts in GCC countries. Qatar was represented apartment segment, catering opportunities, and to improve the keting strategies, pitch training, man- Aranka Matits, and Myriam Sassine. in the meeting by Vice-President of the Court of to changing traveller demo- overall quality of projects developed aging post-production, etc. Cassation Sheikh Dr. Thaqeel Sayer Al Shammari. graphics and needs. 04 HOME TUESDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2021 TUESDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2021 HOME 05 Working in partnership with the community - Inspiring leaders

Interview with Dominic Genetti, ExxonMobil Qatar’s President ExxonMobil Open for 26 years. Our unique part- technologies: Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), nership has become a model of cooperation – Hydrogen, and Biofuels. and General Manager about the company’s relationship with the one that began with a vision to stage a global CCS promises the potential to reduce carbon State of Qatar that can be traced back more than half a century, event that appeals to tennis fans of all ages from emissions significantly at a competitive cost. CCS around the world. technology is mature and can be applied broadly and its work in the local community. Today, thanks to collaborative efforts, the where storage is available. Qatar ExxonMobil Open has grown to become As a company, we have more than 30 years an outstanding and extremely popular tour- of experience in CCS technology, and a current 1. ExxonMobil Qatar is largely involved in World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE), nament, attracting players, spectators and fans carbon capture capacity of about 9 million metric community development programs. Can Education Above All, Pre-University Education from all over the world and providing a stage for tons per year. We were the first company to you tell us why? Center, Al Shaqab Riding Academy, and Your young, up-and-coming Qatari tennis stars. capture more than 120 million metric tons of CO2, Health First. which is equivalent to the annual emissions of We also collaborate on programs that support 3. ExxonMobil Research Qatar (EMRQ) is more than 25 million cars. The work ExxonMobil does in Qatar is mul- Qatari educators through partners like Teach for also a main component of the company’s In 2019, ExxonMobil launched the Qatar tifaceted and includes both our business activ- Qatar (TFQ). ExxonMobil has been a supporting national outreach strategy. Could you Carbon Management Initiative (QCMI) as part of ities with Qatar Petroleum and our community partner of TFQ since 2016. Our partnership pro- EMRQ. QCMI is aimed at supporting Qatar in outreach programs. It’s driven by our com- vides opportunities for knowledge sharing at an explain how? addressing the dual challenge of providing mitment to building on the firm foundation of advisory level, ongoing collaboration and spe- reliable, affordable energy while minimizing envi- our relationship with the State of Qatar – that we cialized training for TFQ fellows at the annual EMRQ was established in 2009 to support ronmental impacts and the risks of climate can trace back more than half a century. Qatar University ExxonMobil Teachers Academy. Qatar’s research, safety, water reuse, LNG tech- change. Our efforts are focused on Qatar’s LNG Over the years, we have built a relationship TFQ aims to attract the best graduates and pro- nology, geology and environmental efforts, and value chain, but our research and methodologies that has grown to become a close and strong fessionals in country and equip them with skills also help fulfil the objectives of its National Vision have application across a range of sectors in friendship based on cooperation, trust and mutual and knowledge to teach in government schools 2030. The center is located at Qatar Science and Qatar. respect; and our objective as an active partic- for two years through a “Leadership Journey” Technology Park and is one of its first anchor We believe that QCMI will serve as a unique ipant in the local community is to help realize tenants. opportunity for collaboration in the Qatar energy the National Vision 2030 and contribute to a Scientists and researchers at EMRQ – some sector towards developing a carbon management better and brighter future for Qatar and its people. of whom are Qatari nationals – have been roadmap for Qatar and to help highlight Qatar’s We believe that one of the greatest contribu- tions we can make in Qatar as a responsible member of the community is to work with local partners to help provide the energy to build human capacity and contribute to a thriving society. To this end, we rolled out a national out- reach strategy in 2013 that focuses on longer term programs, and further enhances our commitment to supporting Qatar and its people now and in the years to come.

We believe that one of the greatest contributions we can make in Qatar as a responsible member of the community is to work with local partners to help provide the energy to build human capacity and contribute to a thriving society.

Our community investments are aligned with program. Close to 120 individuals have been teaching strategies so they can better provide of math and science and improving the education economic and social goals and emphasize science, trained as teachers, impacting more than 24,000 their students with enriching STEM opportunities, field. technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) students to date. and the hope of successful futures in STEM that We also support programs that promote education ,and capacity building and research. Qatar University (QU) is another strategic can benefit their communities. Qatar’s youth and culture. Our partnership with We also support programs that inspire healthy partner in education, and we have worked closely With the support of the Ministry of Education INJAZ Qatar was established when the organi- lifestyles within the local community. with them for over two decades. Our partnership and Higher Education, the academy has reached zation was founded in 2007. We share common Moreover, through our community devel- has produced several successful educational pro- over 380 teachers. These teachers have gone on principles and values, and also believe in the capa- opment programs, we are committed to sup- grams and initiatives, particularly in STEM, and to impact more than 18,000 students in Qatar’s bilities of Qatar’s youth. Initiatives that we support, decarbonization efforts in the energy sector to require innovation and collaboration from com- 100,000 pounds of ocean-bound plastics from porting Qatar in addressing the “dual challenge” continues to support high-quality teaching and independent schools, deepening their knowledge such as the INJAZ Mubadara Competition, offer the rest of the world. panies across the entire plastics value chain, waste India’s Ganges River in the first year; Project of supplying the world with affordable energy learning opportunities in Qatar’s education Qatari youth the support they will need to succeed Our partnership with Qatar Museums (QM) is 5. There is interest among local entities in management companies, retail brands, NGOs, STOP to design and develop an integrated waste while mitigating climate risk. Our efforts are system. in a globally competitive and dynamic world. To an extremely important one to us. QM shares plastic recycling. Can you tell us what Exx- governments and consumers. management system in Bali province, Indonesia; focused on Qatar’s LNG value chain, but our In 2012, we made a commitment to establish date, more than 100,000 students have benefited In its first year, the Alliance kicked off several and Plug & Play Innovation Network on the “End a vision of preserving Qatari culture and onMobil is doing to address this issue? research and methodologies have implications the Qatar University ExxonMobil Teachers Communities need excellent schools, from the programs INJAZ offers. projects targeting areas where the environmental Plastic Waste Innovation Platform” to attract across a range of sectors in Qatar. Academy, the first ExxonMobil Teachers Academy universities and education systems. Our partnership with Qatar Museums (QM) heritage, and we are excited that it is impact of plastic waste is highest, start-up applications that could address the plastic launched outside of the United States. The ExxonMobil is pleased to work jointly with is an extremely important one to us. QM shares supporting ExxonMobil Research Qatar’s In 2019, ExxonMobil helped launch the including: RenewOceans for a project to divert waste issue in Asia, Europe and North America. academy helps teachers enhance their under- a vision of preserving Qatari culture and her- Alliance to End Plastic Waste as a founding Additionally, ExxonMobil is taking action to 2. Tell us about ExxonMobil Qatar’s com- its partners to further help Qatar build these (EMRQ) efforts to help protect Qatar’s iconic munity development programs. standing of math and science content, builds on itage, and we are excited that it is supporting Exx- member. We worked with companies from mul- address plastic waste by increasing plastic recy- their expertise in facilitating student learning communities and a sustained high quality of onMobil Research Qatar’s (EMRQ) efforts to help dugong population by hosting the Seagrass tiple sectors to form the world’s most significant clability, supporting improvements in plastic It has been a privilege and an honor for through problem-solving and inquiry, and uses life for generations to come. protect Qatar’s iconic dugong population by Tales, Dugong Trails exhibition that was held organization of business and non-profit partners waste recovery, and minimizing pellet loss from As I mentioned, education and STEM skills in links between math and science to support hosting the Seagrass Tales, Dugong Trails exhi- at the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ). to help address plastic waste. The membership ExxonMobil to work with the State of Qatar our operations. We are also assessing technology particular are at the heart of our community student learning. It also provides them with the bition that was held at the National Museum of has since grown to nearly 50 organizations that and to see and be part of its remarkable options to convert plastic waste to petrochemical development programs as critical components opportunity to access the latest Qatar (NMoQ). Conservation efforts can only have collectively committed more than $1 billion and refining feedstocks and reduce overall green- to ensuring today’s students are prepared for the truly succeed with society’s support, which is best to develop safe, scalable and economically viable growth and success. Whether its advancing house gas emissions on a full lifecycle basis. jobs of the 21st century. We work closely with achieved when society is well informed on the solutions. The Alliance aims to accelerate addi- the LNG industry, strengthening the We have been engaged in conversations with local partners to invest in meaningful programs important role species play in Qatar’s unique advancing key research inenvironmental man- tional investment by proving the effectiveness of education system, or protecting the key stakeholders in Qatar, including Qatar that support the development of quality edu- marine ecosystem. This will bring us even closer agement, water reuse, safety, LNG technologyand these solutions, particularly in countries with the Museums, QP, and the MME, about our work in cation, build human capacity, and promote active to our objective of ensuring Qatar’s dugong pop- modern geology, working in partnership with the highest levels of plastic waste in the environment, we are Qatar’s steadfast addressing plastic waste, and we are actively and healthy living within Qatar’s community. ulation continues to thrive in its natural habitat Ministry of Municipality and Environment, Qatar environment. partner in pursuing sustainable goals for the exploring ways in which we can collaborate in Communities need excellent schools, univer- for generations to come. University, Qatar Petroleum, Qatargas and others. ExxonMobil shares society’s concern about future. Qatar. sities and education systems. ExxonMobil is We are also honored to be the platinum Their efforts helped earn EMRQ the Qatar plastic waste and agrees it must be addressed. pleased to work jointly with its partners to further sponsor of Qatar-U.S. Year of Culture 2021 – a Petroleum HSE Excellence and Innovation Award. Plastics are valuable, and they should not end up 6. What do you have planned for the future help Qatar build these communities and a sus- Qatar Museums initiative. As a U.S. company and EMRQ’s team has successfully developed new in our oceans or the environment. Solutions will of ExxonMobil Qatar’s community devel- tained high quality of life for generations to come. an active participant in the local communities of concepts and projects that have benefited the oil and opment programs? These partners include the Ministry of Edu- both countries, our participation emphasizes the gas industry in Qatar and around the world, while cation and Higher Education. In 2018, following strong partnership between the two countries safeguarding the country’s unique environment and our successful involvement in the Ministry of Edu- that has extended beyond economics and grown marine life, including Qatar’s iconic dugong. It has been a privilege and an honor for Exx- cation and Higher Education’s first science and into a true friendship. Several studies have been carried out at EMRQ onMobil to work with the State of Qatar and to technology secondary school, we took the next As I mentioned earlier, our community devel- to explore ways to preserve Qatar’s dugong pop- see and be part of its remarkable growth and step in our partnership to support energy labs at opment programs also include support for healthy ulation and ensure its protection for generations success. Whether its advancing the LNG industry, two new STEM schools. The schools are part of lifestyles. That’s why, ExxonMobil has long been by raising public awareness. Dugongs are IUCN- strengthening the education system, or protecting a ministry-led initiative developed to build STEM- a supporter of many sporting activities in Qatar, listed as vulnerable, which suggests that they are the environment, we are Qatar’s steadfast partner literate employees for Qatar’s workforce. inspiring healthy lifestyles within the local com- facing a high risk of extinction in the wild in the in pursuing sustainable goals for the future. We have excellent collaboration with Qatar munity, while supporting Qatar to grow on the medium term future. As a committed partner and active member Foundation (QF). Our partnership with QF world stage as a global sporting destination Looking ahead, the center will continue to of the community, we’re constantly looking for reached a new level in 2020, when we signed an through partnerships with numerous Qatari push the boundaries of innovation and discovery, ways to provide support in areas where we agreement to build on our decade-long rela- sporting federations and entities. and remain focused on finding solutions for chal- believe we can be of most help. This is why we tionship and continue to help fulfil the objectives We are particularly proud of our partnership lenges in areas of strategic interest to Qatar and created our national outreach strategy, and when of the Qatar National Vision 2030. Some of our with Qatar Tennis Federation (QTF) that started ExxonMobil. we look at all that we have accomplished, we see projects and initiatives with QF include: The in 1993, and our title sponsorship of the Qatar just how far we have come. 4. Climate change is the defining issue of We will continue to work with our long- our time. Can you give us some insight into standing partners, and look forward to building more synergies, creating further opportunities what ExxonMobil’s position is on this and and exploring new ways that we can support and what you’re doing about it in Qatar? help realize the objectives of the QNV 2030.

ExxonMobil has supported development of climate science in partnership with governments and academic institutions for nearly 40 years. Our four decades of research in climate science has resulted in nearly 150 publicly available papers, including more than 50 peer-reviewed publica- tions, and nearly 300 patents for cutting-edge technological advances in emissions reductions and other related applications. Our scientists have been involved in the forefront of climate research, understanding and working with the world’s leading experts on climate. We are committed to affordable energy to support human progress while advancing effective solutions to address the risks of climate change. That’s why we are working to be part of the solution. Since 2000, ExxonMobil has invested over $10 billion in projects to research, develop and deploy lower-emission energy solutions. To support development of affordable and abundant solutions, in February, EM started a new company called EM Low Carbon Solutions, with an initial focus on three promising 06 HOME TUESDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2021 Embassy marks Defence Day of Pakistan Ooredoo renews support THE PENINSULA — DOHA for International Hunting A flag hoisting ceremony was organised at the Embassy and Falcons Exhibition premises yesterday to pay homage and tributes to the THE PENINSULA — DOHA The International Hunt- ‘Shuhada’ and ‘Ghazis’ of Pakistan Armed Forces who Qatar’s leading telecommu- ing and Falcons Exhibition rendered supreme sacrifice in nications operator has 2021, the fifth edition of defence of the motherland. announced it would reprise the event, is set to be held The event was attended by its sponsorship of the members of Pakistani Armed immensely popular S’hail from September 7 to 11, Forces and the Embassy staff. International Hunting and 2021, at Hall 12, Al Hekma The national anthem was played Falcons Exhibition for the Hall at Katara. Visitors are and Ambassador H E Syed Ahsan fourth year running. Raza Shah hoisted the national Dedicated to preserving welcome to visit the exhi- flag. and promoting the art of bition from 10am to 10pm, A military contingent gave hunting and falconry and and on Friday, from 2pm to salute. Later, the participants offering insights into tradi- witnessed an emotional and tional Qatari sport and 11pm. heart-warming documentary, Pakistan Ambassador to Qatar H E Syed Ahsan Raza Shah with other officials during the celebration culture, the S’hail Interna- which paid tribute to heroes of of Defence Day of Pakistan at the Embassy premises, yesterday. tional Hunting and Falcons once again sponsoring the the nation who were awarded Exhibition is the biggest such S’hail International Hunting the highest gallantry award, the The Ambassador said that to confront any challenge are based on historical bonds international event of its and Falcons Exhibition for the Nishan-e-Haider. the day inspires all Pakistanis to threatening the national of a shared faith, history and kind. 2021 edition. We’re com- In his address, the Ambas- serve the country with greater security,” he added. culture. He expressed confi- The S’hail International mitted to supporting events sador highlighted the impor- dedication and to keep the green He also referred to the sac- dence at the excellent bilateral Hunting and Falcons Exhi- and initiatives that promote tance of the Defence Day in the and white flag, which symbolises rifices of Pakistan in the global defence relations. bition 2021, the fifth edition and preserve Qatari culture history of Pakistan. the nation’s hopes and aspira- war against terror and men- The Ambassador expressed of the event, is set to be held and heritage, and this exhi- The Ambassador mentioned tions, flying even higher. tioned the significant contri- pride in the contribution of the from today till September 11, bition is a prime example of the sacrifices of the members of The Ambassador said that bution of the Pakistani Armed Pakistani community, which is at Hall 12, Al Hekma Hall at our fulfilment of this Pakistan Armed forces in the line Pakistan strives for peace in the Forces to UN peace-keeping a “living bridge” between the Katara. commitment. of duty, adding that the day not region and around the globe, operations and in providing two countries in the Visitors are welcome to “The event draws thou- only is a remembrance of the and supports resolution of all humanitarian assistance glo- remarkable progress and pros- visit the exhibition from 10 sands of visitors each year, martyrs and ‘Ghazis’, but also disputes through peaceful bally in case of natural perity of the State of Qatar. am to 10pm, and on Friday, both from within Qatar and refreshes the enthusiasm and means. disasters. The ceremony concluded from 2pm to 11pm. from further afield, and we rejuvenates the resolve to work “However, the Pakistani The Ambassador high- with prayers for progress, Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari look forward to seeing what’s for the progress and prosperity nation and its Armed Forces are lighted that bilateral relations prosperity and solidarity of – Director PR at Ooredoo - on the exciting schedule this of the motherland. always fully geared up between Pakistan and Qatar Pakistan. said: “We’re delighted to be year.” Sidra Medicine to host 8th Qatar National Sepsis Symposium

THE PENINSULA — DOHA grammes updates in Qatar. Alliance and the World Health Organ- Dr. Mohammad Janahi, Division isation, sepsis is the underlying cause Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Chief of Infectious Diseases and Chair of death from most infectious dis- Foundation, will be hosting the of the Sepsis programme at Sidra eases, including COVID-19. 8thQatar National Sepsis Symposium Medicine: “Sepsis is a global health “The theme “Stop Sepsis, Save on September 13 in partnership with crisis and according to the World Lives” remains relevant today and our Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC). Health Organisation, one in every five experts from Sidra Medicine along Sepsis is a life-threatening com- deaths can be attributed to Sepsis! with our partners from across the plication and arises when the body’s With 50 million patients affected by healthcare spectrum in Qatar will be Ministry of Municipality and Environment officials during a workshop on issuing an response to an infection injures its sepsis, many survivors face long term discussing the national efforts to electoral campaign licence. own tissues and organs. It may lead consequences. address sepsis care as well as the to shock, multi-organ failure, and “This is a critical topic and our impact of COVID-19. We look forward death, especially if not recognised main goal is to actively engage clinical to working together with our col- MME holds workshops on issuing early and treated promptly. and scientific expertise to enhance leagues and peers across Qatar in The Qatar 8th National Sepsis healthcare professionals’ knowledge raising awareness and enhancing electoral advertising licences Symposium will bring together of early detection and immediate sepsis care for all patients.” national and international healthcare treatment of sepsis based on global “Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health THE PENINSULA — DOHA professionals to discuss all aspects of best practices. has mandated that sepsis care is one advertising licensing system, as well as sepsis, including prevention through “We are pleased to partner with of a few significant health challenges The Ministry of Municipality and Envi- the customer service offices in the vaccines, biomarkers and best prac- Hamad Medical Corporation in con- being addressed by inter-professional ronment represented by the Office of the municipalities. tices for treatment. The event, which tinuing our national mission of con- and multi-disciplinary teams working Assistant Undersecretary for Municipal The procedures and requirements is in its third year, will be hosted tinually improving sepsis care and across the public healthcare sector. Affairs held two workshops to introduce that have been prepared and the design online and in person (by invitation) at outcomes within the healthcare sector The National Sepsis Programme, the procedures and requirements for of all forms for these advertising licenses Sidra Medicine’s auditorium. in Qatar.” which includes representatives from issuing an electoral campaign licence. have been explained during the International speakers at the The symposium will also seek to Hamad Medical Corporation, Primary The workshops were held in workshops. event include Dr. John Bradley, Pro- address the wide-ranging conse- Health Care Corporation and Sidra accordance with Law No. (6) of 2021 The two workshops were organized fessor of Infectious Diseases from quences of Sepsis including evidence- Medicine, focuses on developing, regarding the organisation of the Shura by the Consultative Council elections UC San Diego School of Medicine, based correlation between COVID-19 implementing and monitoring Council elections and Law No. (1) of 2012 follow-up team in the office of the who will be presenting on the and sepsis related deaths. national sepsis management protocols regarding the regulation and control of Assistant Undersecretary for Municipal ‘Biomarkers of Sepsis’ and Dr. Dr. Rasha Ashour, Senior and guidelines to promote high advertisements. Affairs, which includes. The team com- Abdulelah Alhawsawi, lead from the Attending Physician at Sidra Medicine, standards of evidenced- based care,” The events were organised with the prised of Nasser Abdul Rahman Al Eastern Mediterranean Sepsis National Paediatric Sepsis Lead and said Dr. Abdul Salam Saif, National participation of technical affairs depart- Sarami, Eng. Khaled Suleiman Al Khalifa, Alliance (EMSA). In addition to Chair of the Symposium, said: “The Sepsis Program Lead and Head of ments in the municipalities, the coordi- Iman Mohamed Hamdi Ibrahim, experts from Sidra Medicine, pandemic has put sepsis at the fore- Medicine Critical Care at HMC. nators and those approved by the Muhammad Abdul Hamid Radwani. speakers from the Ministry of Public front as a critical healthcare emer- Qatar is now an official member Health, the Communicable Disease gency given that sepsis remains the of the Global Sepsis Alliance, in part Centre, Hamad Medical Corporation main cause of hospital re-admissions through Sidra Medicine’s membership and Primary Health Care Corpo- and higher healthcare costs. with the Eastern Mediterranean Sepsis ration will also present Sepsis pro- According to the Global Sepsis Alliance (EMSA). MES Indian School celebrates Teachers’ Day THE PENINSULA — DOHA

MES Indian School has celebrated Teachers’ Day by holding a ceremony on the virtual platform to honour teachers for their commitment and contribution to the lives of students. On this occasion, the crucial role played by teachers in the betterment of the younger generation was lauded. Speaking on the occasion, President of MES Governing Board, K Abdul Karim complimented teachers for their tireless efforts and unconditional Participants during an event by MES Indian School to mark Teachers’ Day. support, especially in these excep- tional times of the pandemic. “We are grateful for the sacrifices Kadeeja Beevi A felicitated teachers Kashif Jaleel; Director, Co-Curricular that teachers make for the betterment on the occasion. Teachers, who have & Cultural Activities MC Muhammed of students and duly acknowledge put in 10, 15, and 20 years of service and other members of the school their relentless service for the growth in the institution, were honoured for Governing Board, officials and and development of the modern their meritorious service. teachers of MES and MESIS. society,” said Abdul Karim. The recorded tributes of students Rema Devi and Fiona Mary D’ Applauding the skills of teachers hailing teachers and their noble Cruz, Department of English com- in shifting to this new technology- service, rendition of medley of songs, pered the programme. Zeenath Jalal driven teaching, Principal of MES video presentation glorifying and Limia Pressi staff secretaries of Indian School Hameeda Kadar said teaching profession added colour to their respective sections welcomed that in the wake of the coronavirus the programme. Sectionwise special the attendees and proposed a vote pandemic, teachers have exhibited assemblies were conducted in which of thanks respectively. great resilience and innovation in students paid glowing tribute to their Anver K and Sumitha Nassar, cul- ensuring the learning process to go mentors for their guidance and tural coordinators of the school, on ceaselessly. She also added that support. coordinated the cultural segment of teachers have worked individually Among others present on the the event. The ICT Department under and collectively to find solutions and occasion were Senior Vice President the guidance of Haroon Muhammed create new learning environments Dr. Najeeb KP; Vice President Khaleel provided the technical support for for their students. AP; Deputy General Secretary the smooth functioning of the Staff Secretary of Junior Section, Ahamed Isham; Director, Academics programme. TUESDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2021 HOME 07 Lulu Hypermarket launches 4th ‘Let’s Eatalian Festival’

SANAULLAH ATAULLAH The week-long festival expanding. Italian food is very THE PENINSULA is showcasing fresh popular in tastes, quality, and safety standards. In addition, we The major retailer of the region fruits and vegetables are able to bring all functional Lulu Hypermarket Qatar has to cheeses and dairy food categories – gluten free, launched 4th Edition of ‘Let’s organic and other healthy Eatalian Festival’ offering wide products, olive oil to ranges,” said Dr. Althaf. range of high quality Italian pasta, sauces and The Festival is a great way food products and highlighting salad dressings like to explore the tastes and the Italian excellence in the food goodness of Italian ingredients sector. balsamic vinegar, at prices that are deliciously The week-long festival is canned vegetables, surprising. The Festival’s showcasing fresh fruits and opening was graced by an vegetables to cheeses and dairy canned tomato and exciting cookery demo of Italian products, olive oil to pasta, many more. cuisine. sauces and salad dressings like The fourth edition of the balsamic vinegar, canned veg- promotional campaign will run etables, canned tomato as well Lulu Hypermarket to open Italian for a week and is dedicated to as the best Italian rice, confec- Festival during my presence in the Italian culinary and food tionary, coffee, biscuits, choc- Qatar since one and a half year, tradition and largely focused on olates, sauces, spices, condi- which shows great partnership boosting the sales of authentic ments and many more. between Embassy of Italy in Italian food products in Qatar. The event is being held in Qatar and Lulu Hypermarket in Rather than a festival of Italian cooperation with the Italian holding the festival on regular food, it is more of a celebration Trade Agency (ITA), the Ministry basis.” of the rich heritage of advances of Foreign Affairs and Interna- “The partnership is growing made by Italy in various sectors. Ambassador of Italy to Qatar H E Alessandro Prunas; Italian Trade Commissioner to Qatar Giosafat Rigano tional Cooperation and Trade fast in terms of increasing the As a large-scale importer of and Director of Lulu Group International Dr. Mohamed Althaf at the inauguration ceremony of ‘Let’s Promotion Section of the Italian availability of Italian products Italian products for decades Embassy in Qatar. in Qatar. I am really happy to Eatalian Festival’ held at Lulu Hypermarket, Al Messila branch. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT / THE PENINSULA together, Lulu Hypermarket has The promotion titled ‘Let’s see that the range of products, been conducting Italian Festival Eatalian - Authentically Italian which Lulu is bringing from healthy. “Through the bridge activities to enhance import from of visitors. “Visitors will find a lot since last 16 years in Products Promotion in Qatar Italy to Qatar through the which we created through Lulu, Italy to Qatar.” of innovation at the festival. I am succession. 2020-21’, is the fourth and the agreement between Lulu and we are expanding a culture of Describing Lulu Hyper- happy to announce that many Characterized by simplicity, last quarterly edition as per the Italian Trade Commission,” said nutrition, which is very market an extraordinary new food product categories that Italian cuisine is known for the agreement that was signed in the Ambassador. important,” said the partner for Italian Trade Com- are not typically associated with least number of ingredients. July’2020 between the ITA and He said that only quantity Ambassador. mission, Rigano said: “I feel other supermarkets in Qatar are Pasta, vegetables, olive oil and LuLu Hypermarket Qatar. of Italy products in Lulu shelves Italian Trade Commissioner proud to be in partnership with being showcased at the festival,” fish are a major part of the Italian Ambassador of Italy to Qatar are not increasing but the to Qatar Giosafat Rigano said that Lulu during past four years. We said Dr. Althaf. cuisine. Generally, Italian cooks H E Alessandro Prunas inaugu- quality products as well. “Italy Let’s Etalian Festival is very made great achievements in He said that this shows that rely chiefly on the quality of the rated the festival yesterday at offers quality food products in important to promote Italian enhancing the import from Italy the commitment and support ingredients rather than on elab- Lulu Hypermarket, Al Messila large quantity. Italian food products in Qatar. He said that a to Qatar.” which Lulu received from orate preparation. With Italian branch. Addressing the event, always associated with high new business hub of Lulu is going Director of Lulu Group Inter- Italian Trade Agency in facili- food trending worldwide, it is a Prunas said that ‘Let’s Etalian quality and healthy products,” to open soon in Milan city of Italy. national Dr. Mohamed Althaf said tating to import quality products great opportunity to explore a Festival’ is being held at Lulu said the Ambassador. “The new Lulu facility in Italy that Let’s Eatalian Festival is from Italy to Qatar. “We have wide range of new products, Hypermarket regularly. “This is He said that eating Italian wills open doors for new projects, getting tremendous popularity by fantastic ranges of Italian food favourite classics and time-tested my fourth visit to food products means eating activities and promotional the time attracting large number items, which are now popular brands of foods. Blended learning would become an integral ACRPS Strategic Studies Unit to component of education system, says QF expert hold conference on Arab civil wars THE PENINSULA – DOHA The conference will FAZEENA SALEEM Imagine an array of programs address several THE PENINSULA I think the MoEHE’s decision and courses in which students The Strategic Studies Unit of the from different parts of the Arab Center for Research and questions prompted A senior education expert at the was necessary given the region have access through Policy Studies (ACRPS) will by the Arab Civil wars Qatar Foundation (QF) has said volatility of the number of online platforms, portable hold a four-day conference, like exceptionalism that eventually blended COVID-19 cases while portals, delocalized learning “Protracted Arab Civil Wars: learning would become an spaces, from the field (experi- Causes and Challenges,” from in Arab civil wars, integral component of the residents return from their ential) learning and more September 11-14. in terms of causes, education system and added summer break and the importantly, to each other in a Over eight sessions, 31 duration, intensity, that it was a ‘necessary’ decision recent spread of the delta seamless and organic way,” he scholars and practitioners will taken by the Ministry of added. examine and discuss the pro- scale, and scope. It Education and Higher variant. According to Benchaabane, traction of Arab civil wars, Education (MoEHE) regarding Mehdi Benchaabane blended learning comes in more including causations; “excep- will also address the continuing blended learning for Mehdi Benchaabane than just one model. It is about tionalisms;” security, humani- strategic implications the 2021/2022 academic year. Executive Director for Learning increasing access to education tarian and environmental ram- Executive Director for and Innovation for approaches to teaching and by leveraging the adequate ifications; the impact of both of protracted civil Learning and Innovation for Pre-University Education at QF learning and design the ade- technology and deploying the female and foreign fighters’ wars for regional and Pre-University Education at QF, quate professional learning for fit for purpose pedagogy. (participation); the changing Mehdi Benchaabane said, “I teachers and leaders in order “If schools in Qatar invest character of civil wars in terms international security think the MoEHE’s decision was to be ready for the gradual and in their teachers’ professional of tactics and strategies; the and how external necessary given the volatility of idea about blended learning intermittent return of students,” learning along both of these role(s) of international and powers influence the the number of COVID-19 cases was considered several years he added. dimensions, engage parents as regional powers; the impact(s) while residents return from prior to the pandemic. Answering a question about collaborators and focus on the of spoilers; and comparative trajectories of these their summer break and the “We have worked on devel- the future of blended learning development of their students’ non-Arab cases of ending civil civil wars. recent spread of the delta oping the infrastructure and in QF and across Qatar, Ben- learning kills and agency, there wars and post-civil war variant.” acquiring the tools that allow chaabane said that with the is no reason why this wouldn’t management. “At QF we welcome this students to have online and tools and connectivity currently become the new norm,” he said. The conference will address can be improved, roles of decision as it also allowed our asynchronous learning experi- available, there is a wider and Benchaabane also empha- several questions prompted by armed nonstate actors as mil- schools to continue with a ences and provided access to the more spontaneous deployment sized that, parents are a critical the Arab Civil wars like excep- itary, political, and nonstate similar operational plan as the relevant training for teachers of blended learning environ- collaborator in the mission of tionalism in Arab civil wars, in administrative entities, and one in place last year. Moving along the way. Two years ago, ments across K-12 and Higher any school. terms of causes, duration, how these wars and their on, I look forward to a flexible we started exploring possible Education. He said that, with blended intensity, scale, and scope. aftermath affect humanitarian and responsive approach to solutions to offering access to “Giving the option to edu- learning, this becomes even It will also address the and environmental policies in policy around the return of stu- quality education beyond the cators and learners for joining more crucial as they are the strategic implications of pro- the region and beyond. dents to schools. I expect that limitation of physical access to the learning experience either ones who take the lead in tracted civil wars for regional The prospects of total war most schools will want to go the classroom,” said online or physically, regardless setting up the learning envi- and international security and termination, nonviolent con- back to ‘normal’, but the reality Benchaabane. of the pandemic, should ronment at home during the how external powers influence flict management, and sus- is that blended learning should “As for blended learning, as become the norm,” he said. online component. “We have the trajectories of these civil taining civil peace, stability, be more than a contingency soon as the pandemic started, “My vision and dream is to seen some students thrive wars. and reforms in the aftermath plan if we want to sustain we ran an interdepartmental see Education City become the during the pandemic thanks to Other questions the con- of these civil wars would be learning in a world of uncer- study and gathered data middle east capital of edu- their parents’ involvement and ference aims to address include discussed, and lessons learned tainty,” he told The Peninsula. through a mapping exercise that cation, and blended learning is to the school’s engagement with whether governance in areas from non-Arab cases would At Qatar Foundation, the allowed us to recommend the key to this becoming reality. them,” Benchaabane said. that civil wars have afflicted also be examined. Customs seize VCUarts Qatar fall community classes begin with free taster sessions hashish at Al Program twice a year, are for those keen gaining an overview of graphic design, Ruwais port to pick up skills in art and design as a interior design, fashion design and hobby, or who would like to enhance painting and printmaking, a few weeks their creative practice for career pur- before choosing specialized individual THE PENINSULA – DOHA poses. The program covers courses in programs. different disciplines, to fit various “Our instructors, who include our Al Ruwais Customs under the interests, levels of skill, and age groups. own alumni, have considerable expe- Maritime Customs Adminis- The free taster sessions will be held rience in leading such community tration has foiled an attempt online in September, following which classes, and they’re excited at the to smuggle 76 kg of hashish participants can choose from an array prospect of being able to introduce hidden inside a diesel tank. of individual courses that will be held in members of the public to various art and Accordingly, the smuggler person at VCUarts Qatar from October design pathways.” Participants are and the seizures were trans- 12 to December 7. All classes are requested to adhere to the guidelines ferred to the security author- scheduled for the evenings at or after stipulated by the MoPH. These include ities in the country. 5.30 pm, making it ideal for those movement inside the building as indi- The General Authority of working during the day. However, based cated by signage and adhering to a 1.5 Customs (GAC) monitors on evolving government rules and reg- meter distance between people, wearing Qatar’s sea, air, land ports ulations, all classes may be shifted masks at all times, and displaying the to thwart smuggling online. The taster sessions and courses green Ehteraz status on request. attempts. are led by professional artists and All instructors are fully vaccinated. In this regard, GAC stresses Community classes help people keen on art and design to pick up skill. designers, including VCUarts Qatar Participants are required to be vacci- that all its ports are making alumni. nated as well, or will need to provide a every effort to stop attempts THE PENINSULA — DOHA painting and print-making for members “This year, we’re delighted to be able proof of a weekly rapid antigen test to undermine the country’s of the public interested in exploring the to offer free taster sessions to members required for building entry and an in- security and ensure cooper- This year, VCUarts Qatar – a Qatar Foun- University’s art and design community of the public,” Aysha AlKhooheji, person instruction. Further details on ation and coordination with dation partner university – is offering classes. Program Manager for Community and registration can be found at https://www. the relevant agencies to curb free taster sessions in graphic design, The community classes, held by Continuing Education said. “This means qatar.vcu.edu/community/ drug smuggling. interior design, fashion design and VCUarts Qatar’s Community Education that participants now have the luxury of register-online/. 08 VIEWS TUESDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2021 Anxious wait to see how Germany’s Established in 1996

CHAIRMAN next government may shape up DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI

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

MANAGING EDITOR ARNE DELFS MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI BLOOMBERG [email protected] Olaf Scholz has guided the Social Democrats to within touching distance of toppling EDITORIAL Chancellor Angela Merkel’s conservatives from power for the first time since 2005. But winning the election Qatar, US boost cooperation would only be a first step for the center-left SPD, which is THE relationship between Qatar and the United States leading Merkel’s CDU/CSU of America has spanned several decades of mutual bloc by five points in one poll. interest, trade, and several other facets of inter-gov- While the Greens led by ernment diplomacy. Since relations were established Annalena Baerbock are likely in 1971, Qatar has played a constructive financial, to be willing partners, that German Chancellor Angela Merkel speaks during an event of CDU to present a program of the future political, and military role in addressing regional turmoil, won’t be enough to secure a digital policy for the country at the party’s headquarters in Berlin, Germany, yesterday. and in partnership with the United States, has con- majority. That leaves the door tributed to progress, stability, and prosperity in the open for conservative con- pro-business FDP would investment program worth position to lead such an region. tender Armin Laschet. probably push back against 500 billion euros ($591 alliance, they might change Qatar currently houses the largest US military base With political loyalties in higher spending and billion) and a loosening of the their minds. It remains to be in the Middle East in Al Udeid Air Force Base and flux after 16 years under increased borrowing and debt restrictions. seen if the conservatives CENTCOM Forward Headquarters, and Qatar’s support Merkel, coalition building is lobby for a return to a stricter Q Conservatives in oppo- would accept a subordinate of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato) and more complex than ever. Five budget policy. sition with left-wing parties role under Scholz as the US military operations in the region. parties stand a chance of Q Laschet pulls off joining forces: A leftist chancellor. More recently, Qatar has played an outsized role playing a role in government comeback win, rules with alliance between the SPD, the Q An improbable ‘Grand in the US efforts to evacuate tens of thousands of after the Sept. 26 vote, with Greens, FDP: A coalition led Greens and the Left is one of Coalition’ including the Free people from Afghanistan. only the far-right Alternative by Laschet’s conservatives the most controversial coali- Democrats: Even more Qatar’s impartial diplomacy has enabled dialogues for Germany shut out. with the Greens and the FDP tions under discussion. The unlikely would be a between the parties in Afghanistan and the US and Here’s a look at the main would only come into play if Left, which wants Germany to “Germany” coalition of CDU/ European countries, who are now asking Doha to help options, named according to he can pull off what would be leave Nato and has roots in CSU, SPD and FDP -- whose shape what is next for Afghanistan as it has been a the traditional party colors of a spectacular turnaround in East Germany’s communist colors match the national flag. longtime mediator between the West and the Taliban. red for the SPD, black for the the polls. Four years ago, party, has never played a role Lindner has been an out- In a phone conversation in August, US President CDU/CSU, green for the efforts failed to form a in federal government. But if spoken critic of Merkel’s three Joe Biden thanked Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Greens, yellow for the liberal Jamaica coalition -- named the FDP refuses to join an “grand coalitions” with the Al Thani for the country’s role in facilitating intra-Afghan Free Democrats and a darker after the colors of the Car- administration with the SPD Social Democrats, and his talks and in helping with the evacuation efforts. Over shade of red for the anti-capi- ibbean island’s flag -- because and Greens, a coalition with supporters would see it as a 50,000 refugees have been housed in Doha, in what talist Left party: - Scholz as FDP Chairman Christian the Left party might be breach of faith if he agreed to President Biden called “the largest airlift of people in chancellor backed by Greens, Lindner flounced out of the Scholz’s only option. join them in government. history.” pro-business FDP: If the talks. For investors, such an Whatever combination of Hence, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s Social Democrats can Lindner is unlikely to risk alliance could lead to less- parties gets to govern in the visit to Qatar for his first trip since the Taliban takeover maintain their lead in the that again, which means favorable conditions for doing end, one thing is for sure: the comes as no shock as he seeks a united front with polls, Scholz will likely be there would be a greater business. In Berlin, for coalition talks will again be allies shaken by the chaos. Blinken met with H H the asked by President Frank- chance of success. The dif- example, the red-green-red lengthy and complicated. Amir yesterday and the Afghanistan situation was Walter Steinmeier to form a ference this time is that the state government enforced a After the last election in 2017, prominent in their discussion, QNA reported. government. An SPD-led coa- Greens would probably be rent cap that was later over- it took about five months for a Meanwhile, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, lition with the Greens and the the second-strongest force, turned by Germany’s Consti- new government to take also met H H the Amir. FDP -- known as the “traffic and might be less willing to tutional Court. office. According to the con- Qatar has become a trusted mediator, initiating light” -- is the most likely sce- sign up, particularly as Q Another reluctant stitution, Merkel will remain peace negotiations among the US, the collapsed nario, although the liberals Lindner blamed them for the ‘Grand Coalition,’ this time as chancellor until a Afghan government, and the Taliban as a US ally. have distanced themselves failure of negotiations after with the Greens: A coalition of replacement administration is Qatar also announced on Saturday that it had reo- from such an alliance without the last election. CDU/CSU, SPD and the approved by the Bundestag. pened Kabul airport for humanitarian aid and domestic ruling out it out completely. Both the conservative bloc Greens is also a mathematical If the talks drag on beyond flights in coordination with the Taliban. Other interna- Both the SPD and the and the FDP would aim for a possibility. The Kenya coa- Dec. 16, a national record will tional flights are expected to resume soon, officials Greens back looser budget quick return to a balanced lition, named after the African be broken: Merkel will have said. policy, at the domestic as well budget and the re-imposition nation’s flag, is unlikely as the been in power longer than her However, its role as a mediator started over ten as the European level. Scholz of the “debt brake,” a limit on Social Democrats have indi- CDU predecessor and former years ago when the Obama administration sought to sees the EU’s coronavirus borrowing enshrined in Ger- cated that they are unwilling mentor Helmut Kohl, and end the war in Afghanistan and Doha began hosting recovery fund as a first step many’s constitution. This to join another “grand coa- would thus become Ger- peace talks between the US and the Taliban. The toward a common debt could cause conflict with the lition” with the conservatives. many’s longest-serving Taliban opened its permanent political office in Doha mechanism for the bloc. The Greens, who want a 10-year However, if they were in a chancellor. in 2013, and negotiations continued until 2020, ending in an agreement with former President Trump admin- istration to pull out US troops in 2021. Qatar’s effort to ensure peace and stability in the In defence of the much-maligned foreign policy establishment region is highlighted again as it managed to navigate a potentially catastrophic situation into a diplomatic MAX BOOT worry about attacks that go withdrawal would lead to a in Afghanistan has already accomplishment. THE WASHINGTON POST too far and focus only on the takeover by the same Taliban happened, then the with- establishment’s failures while regime that had allowed its drawal will be vindicated, and After America’s first military ignoring its more numerous territory to be a staging the 20-year war will be defeat, in the Vietnam War, successes. That can only ground for the Sept. 11, 2001, judged a terrible waste of there were understandable empower populists such as attacks. money and lives. But if the attacks on the foreign policy former president Donald National security leaders, worst is still to come - in par- D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR establishment - “the best and Trump whose track record is generals in particular, are ticular, if Afghanistan once again becomes a haven for EMAIL: [email protected] the brightest,” in David far worse than the establish- now reviled for not winning Halberstam’s biting phrase. ment’s. (His mishandling of the war, but that was never terrorism - then the com- Now, after America’s second covid-19 may have caused the mission. Learning from mitment to Afghanistan will EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 look better than it does at the FAX: +974 4455 7758 military defeat, in the Afghan- 160,000 unnecessary deaths Vietnam, policymakers soon istan War, there is equally - more than the number of realized that it would be too moment. MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 understandable criticism of Americans killed in all of our hard to extinguish an Whatever the final what some call “the Blob” or post-1945 wars combined.) entrenched insurgency with judgment on the Afghanistan DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 “the deep state.” From the It’s easy to fault the estab- cross-border support. So they War - and we are still too close right: “The lesson to American lishment when you know settled for not losing rather to events to make any defin- LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 voters should be clear: The how the story turned out. than winning. That helps to itive assessments - we can BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 foreign-policy and military But policymakers had to explain why the US military confidently say that, overall, establishment has failed and make difficult decisions with toll in Afghanistan (2,461 the foreign policy estab- SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 failed miserably.” imperfect information while killed) was so much lower lishment has served America From the left: “The real trying to choose the least bad than in Vietnam (58,220 well over the past 76 years. ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 threat to Western security option. Even if they made the killed). Arguably the mission Yes, post-1945 policy- email: [email protected] and credibility comes not wrong calls, how do we know in Afghanistan was accom- makers got it catastrophically PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 from what happens in the that other decisions would plished - the war was a wrong in Vietnam. But they email: [email protected] Pashtun countryside, or from have worked out any better? stalemate before President got it right by containing the any regrouping of al-Qaida, The establishment is vilified Joe Biden, himself a long- Soviet Union while building MARKETING: TEL: 4455 7657 but from what has passed for for a 20-year commitment to standing member of the security alliances and pro- email: [email protected] thinking in much of the Afghanistan that unraveled in establishment, pulled the moting free trade. Those pol- Beltway.” I understand the a few days. But the events of plug. icies set the stage for the ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 857 impulse, and to some extent August show precisely why It is too early to know who greatest expansion of freedom FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] applaud it. Only by studying presidents of both parties was right: the presidents who and prosperity in history, CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 what went wrong in the past stayed in Afghanistan. It kept US forces in Afghanistan made the United States the email: [email protected] can we avoid making the wasn’t because they were (George W. Bush and Barack wealthiest and most powerful same mistakes in the future. trying to build the Switzerland Obama) or the ones (Trump nation in the world, and even- SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 66766718 (Instead, we’ll probably make of Central Asia. It was because and Biden) who pulled them tually led to the peaceful end WhatsApp: 66766718, email: [email protected] different mistakes.) But I they knew that a complete US out. If the worst of the Cold War.

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar There is not anymore a situation where we can say /ThePeninsulaQatar these are the vulnerable countries and these are /Peninsula_Qatar the not vulnerable countries. We need to see that parties move beyond politics of deferral and delay /ThePeninsulaNewspaper and widen the narrow scope of self-interest. +974 6698 6188 Patricia Espinosa, UN Climate Chief TUESDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2021 GULF / MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 09 Guinea coup leader bars govt officials from foreign travel REUTERS — CONAKRY The apparent coup has been met by Guinean government officials are condemnation from some of Guinea’s strongest barred from leaving the country allies. The United Nations quickly denounced the until further notice and a curfew imposed in mining areas has takeover, and both the African Union and West been lifted, the leader of an army Africa’s regional bloc have threatened sanctions. unit which ousted President Alpha Conde said yesterday. Colonel Mamady Doum- cation of such disruption yet. comment. Doumbouya said on bouya — a former French Light traffic resumed, and state television on Sunday that legionnaire officer — told a some shops reopened around “poverty and endemic cor- gathering of Conde’s ministers, the main administrative district ruption” had driven his forces including the prime minister of Kaloum in Conakry which to remove Conde from office. and top government officials, witnessed heavy gunfire The apparent coup has been that they should also hand back throughout Sunday as the met by condemnation from their official vehicles. “There special forces battled soldiers some of Guinea’s strongest will be no witch hunt,” he said loyal to Conde. A military allies. The United Nations Soldiers hold a checkpoint after the uprising that led to the toppling of President Alpha Conde in a day after the coup which drew spokesman said on television quickly denounced the Kaloum neighbourhood of Conakry in Guinea, yesterday. international condemnation that land air borders had also takeover, and both the African and threats of sanctions. been reopened. Union and West Africa’s The takeover in the West However, uncertainty regional bloc have threatened United States and Guinea’s coup, leverage on the military contributing to pent-up frus- African nation that holds the remains. While the army unit sanctions. other international partners to in Guinea could be limited tration among millions of world’s largest bauxite reserves, appeared to have Conde in In an overnight statement, support the country,” the because it is not landlocked, jobless youths.Despite an over- an ore used to produce alu- detention, telling the West the US State Department said statement said. also because it is not a member night curfew, the headquarters minium, sent prices of the metal African nation on state tele- that violence and extra-consti- Regional experts say of the West African currency of Conde’s presidential guard sky-rocketing to a 10-year high vision that they had dissolved tutional measures could erode however that unlike in land- union. Although mineral wealth was looted by people who made yesterday over fears of further the government and consti- Guinea’s prospects for stability locked Mali where neighbours has fuelled economic growth off with rice, cans of oil, air con- supply disruption in the down- tution, other branches of the and prosperity. “These actions and partners were able to during Conde’s reign, few cit- ditioners and mattresses, a stream market. There was no indi- army are yet to publicly could limit the ability of the pressure a junta there after a izens significantly benefited, Reuters correspondent said. Crackdown on kidnappers in northwest Nigeria IN BRIEF Gaddafi son freed after 7-plus years REUTERS — MAIDUGURI, NIGERIA (NCC) to network provider Glo- not going through. secondary school in the village bacom instructing it to shut A source at the Nigerian air of Kaya last week. CAIRO: Libyan authorities yesterday Mobile telephone networks down services in Zamfara from force, asked to comment on One of the Zamfara resi- released one of Muammar Gaddafi’s were shut down in the north- Sept. 3 was circulating on social media reports that military dents contacted by Reuters, lec- sons after more than seven years of western Nigerian state of media. operations against criminal turer Abubakar Abdullahi detention in the capital of Tripoli Zamfara, residents said Officials from the NCC did gangs were underway, said: Alhasan, said he had heard that following his extradition from neigh- yesterday, amid reports that not respond to repeated “We are clearing these elements a military crackdown had been boring Niger. a government authorities had ordered a requests for comment, and fiercely and decisively. It’s a going on since the mobile net- spokesman said. blackout while they tackled Reuters could not immediately total operation.” works had stopped working. Mohamed Hamouda, a spokesman armed gangs of kidnappers reach a spokesperson for Zamfara has been one of the “The Nigerian air force and for the transitional government, said terrorising the area. Globacom. worst-hit states in a wave of army were succeeding in dis- Saadi Gaddafi (pictured), walked free Two residents of Zamfara, The letter said the telecoms mass abductions of pupils from lodging some of the bandits’ from Tripoli’s Al Hadaba prison, reached by phone after they blackout was being ordered “to schools across northwestern camps. They killed many and where many Gaddafi regime officials travelled to neighbouring enable relevant security Nigeria. Armed gangs operating recovered arms and ammu- are being held pending trial, mostly Sokoto State, said their mobile agencies (to) carry out required from camps in remote areas of nition while many others were in connection to the crackdown on the networks had stopped func- activities towards addressing scrubland have been taking arrested,” he said. 2011 uprising that toppled the longtime ruler and led to his killing. tioning over the weekend. the security challenge in the people for ransom. Military spokespersons in Hamuda did not elaborate the circumstances of the son’s A document that appeared state”. Calls to the police In the latest reported the capital Abuja were not release but said authorities have just implemented a two-year- to be a letter from the Nigerian spokesman for Zamfara and to incident, more than 70 pupils responding to requests for old court order to free him. Local media reported Saadi Gaddafi Communications Commission state government officials were were kidnapped from a comment. was released after he was acquitted on charges dating back to the uprising against his father’s rule. Following his release, he trav- elled to Turkey, according to the Al Marsad news website. Somali PM suspends At the time of the 2011 revolt, Saadi Gaddafi headed a special Jordanian soldier from 1967 war forces brigade that was involved in the crackdown on protesters intelligence chief and rebels. He was smuggled across the desert to Niger in 2011 amid political rift just as his father’s regime was crumbling. He was extradited in laid to rest in east Jerusalem March 2014 after he, as well as colleagues who accompanied him, AP — JERUSALEM support. The kingdom gave up Israeli government, led by “failed to respect the conditions of his stay in Niger,” the West REUTERS — MOGADISHU its territorial claims decades Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, African nation’s government said at the time. The dictator had A Jordanian soldier killed in the ago but remains the custodian has sought to repair relations eight children, most of whom played significant roles in his regime. Somalia’s prime minister 1967 Middle East war was given of Al Aqsa and other religious with Jordan. Bennett met with Jor- His son Muatassim was killed at the same time Gaddafi was cap- suspended the intelligence a military funeral and laid to sites in east Jerusalem. dan’s King Abdullah II in secret less tured and slain. Two other sons, Seif Al Arab and Khamis, were chief yesterday, prompting a rest in east Jerusalem yesterday. Israel annexed east Jeru- than two months ago, and in the killed earlier in the uprising. Seif Al Islam, the one-time heir public rebuke from the pres- The soldier’s remains were salem in a move not recognised following week the two countries apparent to his father, has been in Libya since his release from ident and highlighting growing discovered last month during internationally and considers signed breakthrough deals on detention in 2017. -AP divisions at the heart of the construction work at Ammu- the entire city to be its unified water and trade. political elite. nition Hill, the site of a famous capital. Meanwhile, Israel launched Saudi reports six new COVID-19 deaths The suspension — trig- battle between Israeli and Jor- Al Aqsa is the third holiest a massive manhunt in the coun- gered by a dispute over inves- danian forces. Funeral prayers site in Islam. Jerusalem and its try’s north and the occupied RIYADH: The Ministry of Health announced yesterday that 124 tigations into an unsolved were held at the Al Aqsa holy sites are at the heart of the West Bank early yesterday after new confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) have murder — followed months of mosque and a Jordanian honour Israeli-Palestinian conflict and six Palestinian prisoners tun- been reported in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, bringing the total wrangling that have guard in uniform, with red- have been the epicenter of neled out of their cell and number to 545,367, including 2,503 active cases. Of these, there threatened to further desta- checkered headscarves several waves of violence, most escaped from a high-security are 689 critical cases. The statement added that 6 new deaths bilise a country already riven wrapped around their faces, recently in May, when tensions facility in the biggest prison have been reported, putting the tally of fatalities at 8,585. by militant attacks and clan carried the casket to a nearby over Jerusalem helped ignite the break of its kind in decades. The Omani Ministry of Health confirmed that 80 new cases rivalries. Islamic cemetery. 11-day Gaza war. The escape marks an of COVID-19 have been recorded during the past 24 hours, bringing Prime Minister Jordanian military officers Israel and Jordan signed a embarrassing security breach the total number of positive COVID-19 cases to 302,748. The Min- Mohammed Hussein Roble and government officials, as peace agreement in 1994 and just ahead of the Jewish New istry said that three new COVID-19-related deaths was reported, said he had told Fahad Yasin, well as Palestinian represent- maintain close security ties. But Year, when Israelis flock to the bringing the total number of deaths to 4,078. -QNA the director of Somalia’s atives, attended the funeral. tensions over Jerusalem and the north to enjoy beaches, camp- National Intelligence Service Israel captured east Jeru- moribund peace process with sites and the Sea of Galilee. The Kuwait to resume flights with India today Agency (NISA), to step aside for salem and the West Bank from the Palestinians spiked during prisoners appear to have gone failing to deliver a report on Jordan in the 1967 war. The Pal- the 12-year-rule of Israeli into hiding and there was no CAIRO: Kuwait will resume direct commercial flights with India the murder of one of the estinians want both territories Prime Minister Benjamin indication Israeli authorities today, the Gulf country’s civil aviation authority said yesterday. agency’s agents. to be part of their future state, Netanyahu, who was replaced view them as an immediate The decision to resume flights was first announced last month Soon after, President a position with strong Jordanian in June. The new threat. but without giving a time frame for implementation. -Reuters Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed issued his own statement calling the prime minister’s move unconstitutional. As its rivers shrink, Iraq thirsts for regional cooperation “(Yasin) should continue being the director of NISA,” the pres- ident said. Somalia’s police REUTERS — HALABJA, IRAQ will have to leave as well”, he chief called an emergency said. The Sirwan begins in Iran security meeting yesterday, “Where we are standing right and runs along its border with officers said on condition of now, there should be a river,” Iraq before flowing into Iraq’s anonymity without going into says Nabil Musa, gesturing at a semi-autonomous Kurdistan further details. “This shows the dried-up riverbed in northern region and then on south to join rift between the president and Iraq. the Tigris. the prime minister is fully in For the environmental Once abundant, it’s now the open— something that had activist, the reason the once dotted with measuring poles been bubbling beneath the swirling Sirwan river has showing where water once surface for some time,” dwindled to a trickle lies across reached. Mahmood Omar, Somalia the border in Iran, which he As a heatwave baked the analyst at the International says is “controlling all” of the drought-hit region in July, Iraq Crisis Group, said. river’s water. said the situation in the down- “It could result in another With this year’s lack of stream province of Diyala security crisis as the president rainfall, Iraq is badly short of would worsen without is telling Roble there are some water, and officials trying to agreement with Iran, where clear red lines to what he will revive rivers like the Sirwan say about 18% of Iraq’s Tigris river accept, while Roble interprets lower flows from upstream originates, on ways to share his authority differently. The neighbours Iran and Turkey are “damage” from lower flows. danger is either side, ... will try worsening home-grown To try to cope, Baghdad to impose their will on the problems such as leaks, ageing A general view of an orchard that dried out due to lack of water in Diyala province in Iraq. limited this summer’s cultivated other.” The immediate cause pipes and illegal siphoning off surfaces in Diyala in both irri- for the dispute - the murder of of supplies. in Iran is diverting parts of the two years, complaining that the Ahmed Mahmud from the gated and rainfed areas to 30% the young female agent, Ikran Iran and Turkey are Sirwan back into Iranian lands fall has had a punishing effect nearby village of Imami Zamen, of last year’s and dug water Tahlil Farah, who worked in building big dams to solve their through a 48km-long tunnel. on communities downstream said. With the river drying up, wells to support struggling the cybersecurity department own lack of water, but regional Iran has said the dam is still especially during increasingly most of the village’s 70 families farmers. and went missing in late June cooperation on the issue is being built. Local Iraqi villagers frequent years of drought. have already left. The primary Iraq’s water crisis has been - has been a highly contentious patchy. Iraqi officials said the say they have felt the impact of “It’s been two years since I school closed. in the making for nearly two issue. Daryan dam across the border reduced volumes from Iran for had to stop fishing”, fisherman “If it continues like this, we decades. 10 ASIA TUESDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2021 Taliban claim victory over opposition in Panjshir

REUTERS — KABUL “Panjshir, which was escaped to neighbouring the last hideout of Tajikistan. The Taliban claimed victory Ali Maisam Nazary, head of over opposition forces in the the escapee enemy, foreign relations at NRFA, said Panjshir valley northeast of is captured,” Taliban the Taliban’s claim of victory Kabul yesterday, declaring that was false and opposition forces they had completed their spokesman Zabihullah continued to fight. takeover of Afghanistan and Mujahid told a news “The NRF forces are present promising to announce a new in all strategic positions across government soon. conference adding the valley to continue the fight,” Pictures on social media that there would be no he said on his Facebook page. showed Taliban members Mujahid denied there were standing in front of the gate of “discriminatory act any disagreements within the the Panjshir provincial gover- against them”. movement about the formation nor’s compound after fighting of a new government and said over the weekend with the it would be announced soon, Members of the Taliban at the gate of the provincial governor’s office in Panjshir, in this picture National Resistance Front of would work together for a joint but he did not set a date. uploaded to social media, yesterday. Afghanistan (NRFA), com- purpose and welfare of the He also said women were manded by Panjshiri leader country,” Mujahid said. back at work in the health and protected. The Panjshir fighting has including Americans, have been Ahmad Massoud. However, Massoud, who education sectors and “other The Taliban seized control been the most prominent stuck in northern Afghanistan “Panjshir, which was the leads a force drawn from the fields will be provided, one by of most of Afghanistan three example of resistance to the for days awaiting clearance for last hideout of the escapee remnants of the regular Afghan one, once the system has been weeks ago, taking power in Taliban. But some cities have their charter flights to leave, an enemy, is captured,” Taliban army as well as local militia established for them”. Kabul on August 15 after the also witnessed small, isolated organiser said, blaming the spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid fighters, remained defiant and The militants, who swept Western-backed government protests for women’s rights or delay on the US State told a news conference. did not concede defeat. back into to power last month collapsed and President Ashraf in defence of the green, red and Department. The Taliban assured the “We are in Panjshir and our as the United States withdrew Ghani fled the country. black flag of the vanquished Western powers say they people of Panjshir, who are Resistance will continue,” he its troops after a 20-year war, Panjshir, the last pocket of Afghan republic. are prepared to engage with the ethnically distinct from the said on Twitter. banned girls and women from armed resistance against the US-led foreign forces evac- Taliban and send humanitarian Pashtun-dominated Taliban His exact whereabouts were schools and most work when Taliban, has a history of being uated about 124,000 foreigners aid to people displaced by and fought against the unclear. He also said he was they last ruled the country. difficult for enemies to take. and at-risk Afghans in the drought and war, but that Islamists during their 1996- safe, but gave no details. The group has now said The rugged mountain valley weeks before the last US troops formal recognition of the gov- 2001 rule, that there would be Taliban spokesman Mujahid women would be allowed to is still littered with the wreckage left Kabul, but tens of thousands ernment and broader economic no “discriminatory act against said he had been told that work across important sectors of tanks destroyed during the who fear Taliban retribution assistance will depend on them”. Massoud and former vice-pres- of society, in line with Islamic long war against the Soviet were left behind. action, not just promises, to “They are our brothers and ident Amrullah Saleh had law, and their rights would be Union in the 1980s. About 1,000 people, safeguard human rights. Sri Lankan Parliament Vaccine Minister Kono popular with voters for Japan PM REUTERS — TOKYO wide open, with an array of can- members, is considering support among rank-and-file A former foreign and approves state didates —including two women backing Kono instead of party members in the past that he defence minister, the 58-year- Taro Kono, Japan’s minister in — considering runs. running himself, TV Asahi defeated Suga’s predecessor old Kono, educated at Geor- of emergency charge of fighting COVID-19 The LDP’s majority in par- reported, without citing sources Shinzo Abe in the first round of a getown University and a fluent and a top choice of voters for liament guarantees the winner or further details - a move that 2012 leadership race. He lost in a English speaker, has built a AP — COLOMBO Japanese prime minister, may will become prime minister. could significantly increase later round, when only lawmakers popular following among young also pick up the backing of a Former foreign minister Kono’s chances of winning. could vote, and has since lost two voters with an active social Sri Lanka’s Parliament popular ruling party heavy- Fumio Kishida, 64, is the only Kono sidestepped the issue more leadership contests. media presence in two lan- yesterday approved a state of weight in the race for party candidate to throw his hat into at a news conference yesterday Two public opinion polls guages and 2.3 million followers emergency declared by the leader, broadcaster TV Asahi the ring so far. on Japan’s vaccination drive, over the past few days have said on his Japanese page alone. president, who said it is said yesterday. Kono has yet to formally saying only that in the case he did Kono is the top choice of voters Kono has long been a needed to control food prices Prime Minister Yoshihide declare his candidacy but media run he would make sure it had to assume the premiership, with favoured candidate among and prevent hoarding amid Suga’s shock Friday reports say his intention to run no impact on his current duties, 23% telling the Yomiuri Shimbun voters for prime minister and shortages of some staples. announcement he was stepping is strengthening. including a vaccine rollout in a daily in a poll published yes- has made no secret of wanting Opposition lawmakers down has thrown a ruling Liberal Former defence minister nation where not quite half have terday that they favoured him. the job, but party elders are wary said the emergency decla- Democratic Party (LDP) lead- Shigeru Ishiba, who is popular been fully inoculated. But he was just a hair ahead of him for his outspokenness and ration isn’t needed because ership race set for September 29 among LDP grassroots Ishiba, 64, had such strong of Ishiba at 21%. reputation as a maverick. other laws can be used to maintain essential supplies, and the tough emergency rules IN BRIEF can be misused to stifle critics. The emergency law UK aircraft carrier visits Japan for enables authorities to detain people without warrants, seize drill amid China worry property, enter and search any premises, suspend laws and TOKYO: Japan’s defence minister yesterday welcomed the British issue orders that cannot be aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth as it made its first Japanese questioned in court. Officials port call, saying the involvement of European nations in the Indo- who issue such orders are also Pacific region is key to peace and stability as China’s military immune from lawsuits. strength and influence grow. President Gotabaya Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi met the strike group’s com- Rajapaksa declared the emer- mander, Commodore Steve Moorhouse, on board the carrier. gency on August 30. The con- The ship arrived at the US Navy base in Yokosuka near Tokyo stitution requires that it be on Saturday. Japan is seeking to expand its military cooperation approved within 14 days by the beyond its traditional alliance with the United States as China’s 225-member Parliament, navy expands and increasingly presses its territorial claims. where the governing party has The Queen Elizabeth participated in a joint exercise with war- more than 150 seats. The res- ships from the United States, the Netherlands, Canada and Japan olution received 132 votes in before arriving in Yokosuka. The exercise was part of efforts to favour and 51 against. achieve a “free and open Indo-Pacific” vision led by Washington The government said it has and Tokyo. — AP made maximum efforts to use normal laws, but that court Ardern promises new law to counter cases it filed have been delayed by the pandemic. Gov- terrorism by end of month erning party lawmakers said Heavy rainfall triggers flooding in Kathmandu the emergency was declared WELLINGTON: New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said only because other options People use buckets to clear the flood water along with the shops after the heavy rainfall in Kathmandu, yesterday a legal loophole that allowed an Islamic State-inspired were not working, and that the Nepal, yesterday. militant who carried out a supermarket attack to remain free government does not intend would be closed off with new laws by the end of the month. to use the emergency regula- Police shot dead 32-year-old Sri Lankan Ahamed Aathil tions against opponents. Mohamed Samsudeen moments after he launched his stabbing Sri Lanka has been gov- Philippines plans new lockdown strategy spree at an Auckland supermarket on Friday. erned under a state of emer- Samsudeen was known to authorities for about five years and gency for much the last 50 years REUTERS — MANILA would be more effective in con- quarantine measures in place had spent the equivalent of three years in jail over that period for as it went through two Marxist trolling outbreaks without con- in Metro Manila will expire offences including possession of objectionable materials, pos- insurrections and a decades- The Philippines will relax some straining mobility and business today after which the region session of dangerous weapons and failing to assist police in exer- long civil war. Authorities were COVID-19 restrictions in the activity too much, Presidential will be under the more cising search powers. often accused of using the rules Manila region from tomorrow Spokesperson Harry Roque told relaxed “general community Authorities repeatedly tried to keep Samsudeen in prison or to suppress opponents. and also intends to outline a briefing. quarantine” restriction until deport him, but were stymied by the country’s current laws. Sam- In recent weeks there have plans to shift to smaller, Region-wide lockdowns the end of September, Roque sudeen was last released from prison in July. — Reuters been shortages of essential localised lockdowns to support have proved to be costly for the said. items such as sugar, milk the economy, the presidential economy, which is now This means dine-in services New Zealand lifts virus curbs, says power and cooking gas. The spokesperson said. expected to grow less than pre- will be allowed as well as reli- government says the shortages The moves come despite viously thought after the capital gious gatherings of up to 10% Delta elimination in sight were artificially created by the Southeast Asian country region was placed under the of capacity among others. hoarders. The country is also reporting record infection strictest “enhanced community “The truth of the matter is WELLINGTON: New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern facing a foreign exchange numbers as it battles the Delta quarantine” (ECQ) restrictions the ECQ as we practice it may yesterday said nationwide coronavirus curbs would be lifted, bar crisis triggered by a drop in variant. last month, which were later not be enough, we need to in the biggest city of Auckland, as the country gets on top of an tourism and exports, along The government believed eased. come up with new strategy,” he outbreak of the Delta variant. with heavy loan repayments. localised COVID-19 restrictions The second toughest said. New Zealand had been largely virus-free, excluding a small cluster of cases in February, until an infected traveller from Aus- tralia seeded an outbreak that prompted Ardern to impose the national lockdown last week. Sydney COVID-19 cases seen topping 2,000 a day Ardern, who said restrictions would be eased outside of Auckland from Wednesday, is continuing to pursue an elimination REUTERS — SYDNEY Australia is trying to government’s modelling 2,000 until the middle of this strategy for the disease. “We are within sight of elimination, but contain a third wave of infec- revealed the state would month, the modelling we can’t drop the ball,” Ardern said at a televised news conference. Sydney, the epicentre of tions that has hit its two largest require its highest number of showed. “Day by day we are making very good progress. What I dont want Australia’s biggest coronavirus cities, Sydney and Melbourne, intensive care beds in early “If too many of us do the to do is move too quickly and then see a resurgence.” outbreak, is expected to see and its capital Canberra, forcing October, with “additional wrong thing, (if) there are too About 1.7 million people in greater Auckland, the epicentre daily infections peak next week, more than half the country’s 25 pressure on the system” in the many super-spreading events, of the outbreak, will remain in a full level 4 lockdown until at authorities said yesterday, as million people into strict stay- next few weeks. we could see those numbers least Sept. 14. they look to speed up immuni- at-home restrictions. Daily cases in Sydney’s higher,” Berejiklian said during The easing of the alert status to level 2 from level 3 in the rest sations before easing lockdown New South Wales Premier worst-affected suburbs are a media briefing in Sydney, the of the country will allow the reopening of schools, offices and rules. Gladys Berejiklian said the expected to rise to as high as state capital. businesses. Regional travel will also be allowed. — Reuters TUESDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2021 EUROPE 11

Taliban tells Belarus protest leader given 11-year jail term Berlin it will Maria Kolesnikova and another senior welcome German opposition figure, Maxim Znak, were charged companies, aid with extremism and trying to seize power illegally. Both denied wrongdoing. REUTERS — BERLIN The Taliban would welcome REUTERS — KIEV called the charges absurd. German investment in Afghan- Znak was sentenced to 10 istan and help in areas Maria Kolesnikova, one of the years in prison. Both prisoners including humanitarian aid, leaders of mass street protests will appeal the verdict, Znak’s health care, education and against Belarusian President lawyer told reporters. infrastructure, the group’s Alexander Lukashenko last The European Union spokesman told Bild news- year, was sentenced yesterday denounced the verdict, while paper. to 11 years in prison, leading to Britain’s foreign minister called The Taliban took power in an outcry from Western coun- it an assault on defenders of Afghanistan last month as tries. democracy. foreign forces pulled out after Kolesnikova, 39, had been “The EU deplores the con- a 20-year mission, and the detained after ripping up her tinuous blatant disrespect by country is facing an economic passport to prevent Belarusian the Minsk regime of the human collapse and humanitarian security forces from deporting rights and fundamental crisis while donors and gov- her in a standoff at the freedoms of the people of ernments weigh up how to Ukrainian border in Belarus,” the EU’s spokesperson deal with the new leaders. September. said in a statement. Germany, acting in concert The musician-turned-pol- The United States con- Belarusian opposition figures Maria Kolesnikova and Maxim Znak stand inside a defendants’ cage as with the European Union, has itician became one of the faces demned the “politically moti- they attend a court hearing in Minsk, Belarus, yesterday. laid out conditions to resume of the mass opposition vated conviction and shameful a diplomatic presence in Kabul movement during the August sentencing” of the two and Przydacz said on Twitter. Belarusians. The regime wants the court building yesterday, and unfreeze development aid, 2020 presidential election, called the charges against them Belarus has denied com- us to see them crushed & according to several videos cir- urging the Taliban to respect which the protesters say was bogus, Secretary of State Antony mitting human rights abuses exhausted. But look — they are culating on social media. human rights, particularly rigged to extend Lukashenko’s Blinken said. and portrayed the protesters as smiling & dancing.” Kolesnikova was among those of women. grip on power. “These sentencings are bent on violent revolution, “They know — we will tens of thousands of people “The German government Lukashenko, who has further evidence of the regime’s backed by foreign powers. release them much earlier than detained after the protests could encourage its entrepre- denied electoral fraud, has been total disregard for the human Footage from the Sputnik these 11 years. Their terms began. neurs to come and invest in our in office in the former Soviet rights and fundamental Belarus channel showed the shouldn’t frighten us - Maksim She was one of three country,” Taliban spokesman republic since 1994 and has freedoms of the people of two prisoners in a glass cage and Maria wouldn’t want this,” women, all political novices, Zabihullah Mujahid said in an faced fresh Western sanctions Belarus,” Blinken said in a ahead of the verdict. Koles- she added. who joined forces to front last interview with Bild published since launching a violent statement. nikova raised her handcuffed The trial, which began last year’s election campaign yesterday. crackdown on his opponents. Poland condemned the sen- hands to make her trademark month, was closed to the against Lukashenko after The Taliban would pave Kolesnikova and another tencing as a crushing of human heart sign and smiled for the public on national security higher-profile male candidates the way for investments and senior opposition figure, Maxim rights intended to intimidate the cameras. grounds. The circumstances of were barred from standing. ensure companies’ security, he Znak, were charged with people of Belarus. Exiled opposition figure the case, the investigators and Viktor Babariko, one of the said. extremism and trying to seize “This repression should not Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya the witnesses were not men who tried to stand against Germany maintained close power illegally. Both denied go unanswered,” Deputy wrote on Twitter: “Maria & disclosed. Lukashenko, was jailed in July relations with Afghanistan in wrongdoing and Kolesnikova Foreign Minister Marcin Maksim are the heroes for Dozens of people came to for 14 years. the past and after the fall of the first Taliban government in 2001 hosted a conference in IN BRIEF Bonn that was supposed to lay Germany protests to Russia over pre-poll cyberattacks the foundation for a demo- Some UK veterans cratic Afghanistan. AP — BERLIN She said that, ahead of Ger- cyber-actors of the Russian which German deputy foreign The hardline Islamist commit suicide many’s parliamentary election state and, specifically, Russia’s minister Miguel Berger raised group has sought to present a Germany has protested to on September 26, there have GRU military intelligence the issue with Russia’s deputy more moderate face this time. over Afghan pullout Russia over attempts to steal been attempts — using phishing service,” Sasse said. It “views foreign minister. “We would like to revive data from lawmakers in what emails, among other things — this unacceptable activity as a Sasse wouldn’t comment on the friendly atmosphere that LONDON: Some British it suspects may have been prep- to get hold of personal login danger to the security of the the extent of the cyberattacks existed between Afghans and military veterans from the aration to spread disinfor- details of federal and state law- Federal Republic of Germany or possible damage, saying only Germans. The next gov- Afghan war have taken their mation before the upcoming makers, with the aim of identity and for the process of demo- that they “are of course com- ernment will be based on a own lives because they are so German election, the Foreign theft. cratic decision-making, and as pletely unacceptable, and that friendly relationship with devastated by the chaotic Ministry in Berlin said “These attacks could serve a severe strain on bilateral the German government Germany,” Mujahid said. withdrawal of US-led forces yesterday. as preparations for influence relations.” reserves the right to take further “We would like Germany from the country and the Foreign Ministry spokes- operations such as disinfor- She said Germany calls on measures.” to support us in the humani- victory of the Taliban, Britain’s woman Andrea Sasse said that mation campaigns connected the Russian government to end In mid-July, the head of tarian sector, and we need help armed forces minister said a hacker outfit called Ghost- with the parliamentary such activity immediately, and Germany’s domestic intelli- in the health care sector, in the yesterday. writer has been “combining election,” she told reporters in has made that demand directly gence agency said that since area of education and with the The humiliation of the conventional cyberattacks with Berlin. to Russian officials — most February his agency had seen infrastructure,” he added. He lightning Taliban takeover in disinformation and influence “The German government recently during a meeting on activity focusing on phishing also said the Taliban would be Afghanistan after a 20-year operations,” and that activities has reliable information on the Thursday and Friday of a attempts on the private email “very happy” to welcome war has dismayed veterans of targeting Germany have been basis of which Ghostwriter German-Russian working accounts of federal and state Chancellor Angela Merkel for the war. Britain lost 457 armed observed “for some time.” activities can be attributed to group on security policy, at lawmakers and their staff. a visit in Afghanistan. forces personnel in Afghan- istan, or 13 percent of the international military coali- tion’s 3,500 fatalities since UK to extend N Ireland’s 2001. — Reuters German envoy to Brexit grace period

China, ex-Merkel REUTERS — LONDON/DUBLIN Brexit treaty. London has now indicated aide, dies at 54 Britain plans to further extend it would prolong grace periods, post-Brexit grace periods on suspending new checks on BERLIN: Germany’s new some goods imports to cross-channel trade due to kick ambassador to China, who was Northern Ireland, Brexit in within weeks. previously a senior adviser to minister David Frost said Ireland is a key player in Chancellor Angela Merkel, has yesterday, in a move designed post-Brexit trade talks and Irish died at age 54, the German to give London and Brussels deputy prime minister Leo Var- government said yesterday. more time for talks about trade adkar, speaking after a meeting The Foreign Ministry with the province. with British Cabinet Office Min- announced Jan Hecker’s The fate of British-ruled ister Michael Gove, said he “sudden death” in a short Northern Ireland was the most expected the British move to statement in the early hours of contentious issue in Britain’s lead towards attempts to reach yesterday. It didn’t give details negotiations over its exit from a more permanent solution. of when or where Hecker died, the European Union, which was “The expectation is that the or specify a cause of death. completed on December 31, and United Kingdom will announce Ministry spokeswoman it has continued to cause a further extension of the grace Andrea Sasse said “there are friction. periods, not just in relation to no indications that the death To avoid imposing a hard Northern Ireland but also is connected to Ambassador border on the island of Ireland, imports from the EU and Hecker’s political function.” Britain agreed to leave some EU Ireland into the UK,” Varadkar Kin of victims of The Troubles hand over protest letter — AP rules in place in its province of said in an interview with Irish Northern Ireland and accept state broadcaster RTE. Campaigners and families of those affected during the period of conflict centred in Northern Ireland, Greece creates checks on goods arriving there “It is important that we use known as The Troubles, pose as they hand a letter of protest against the British government’s from elsewhere in the United the period of any extension that proposals for possible legal proceedings into various killings, at Downing Street in London, yesterday. climate crisis Kingdom. may occur really to get down London has since said the to business and to try to put in ministry arrangement is not working and place more permanent... wants it changed, while the EU arrangements to make sure France mourns ‘national treasure’ ATHENS: Greece’s center-right rejects renegotiating the treaty. that the protocol is made more government has created a new “To provide space for potential workable,” Varadkar told RTE. ministry to address the impact further discussions (with the The European Commission Belmondo, New Wave cinema star of climate change and named EU), and to give certainty and is expected to “note” the British former European Union stability to businesses while any decision rather than retaliate, REUTERS — PARIS down in tears. doesn’t want to make an effort commissioner Christos such discussions proceed, the RTE reported. A charismatic actor who or take any risks,” Belmondo Stylianides as minister. government will continue to But Varadkar warned that Jean-Paul Belmondo, a star of often performed his own once said. Stylianides, 63, who served operate the protocol on the any more permanent solution France’s New Wave cinema stunts, Belmondo switched in Belmondo’s lawyer said he as commissioner for humani- current basis,” Frost said in a secured between London and after his breakthrough the 1960s to mainstream films passed away at home. “He had tarian aid and crisis man- ministerial statement. Brussels would have to be performance in Jean-Luc and became one of France’s been very tired for sometime. agement between 2014 and “This includes the grace within the confines of the Godard’s Breathless in 1959, has leading comedy and action He died peacefully,” lawyer 2019, was appointed in the periods and easements cur- existing agreement. died. He was 88. heroes. Michel Godest said. wake of wildfires that burned rently in force,” he said. Varadkar said Gove had The death of a leading His decision to pursue a Belmondo was born on more than 1,000sqkm of forest Officials in London and told him that Britain “doesn’t figure in French cinema was felt career in commercial cinema April 9, 1933, in Neuilly-sur- on the island of Evia and in Brussels are trying to prevent want to walk away from the across the country. President and to shun the art houses led Seine, the son of the renowned southern Greece. the dispute from escalating into protocol but does want to make Emmanuel Macron tweeted to criticism that he had wasted sculptor Paul Belmondo and Intense heat waves in a full-blown trade war. it more workable”. that France had lost a “national his undisputed talent — some- painter Sarah Rainaud-Richard. southern Europe in July and The European Commission Irish Prime Minister treasure”. thing he always denied. Despite his cultured back- August fueled deadly wildfires agreed in July to freeze legal Micheal Martin said last month “It seems to me that all of “When an actor is suc- ground, he appeared more in Turkey as well and blazes action against Britain for he believed the issues could be France is unhappy,” Michel cessful, people turn their back drawn to the world of sport in Italy, France, and Balkan making changes to the protocol resolved with the right political Godest, a lawyer and friend of on him and say that he has than the arts and was a keen countries. — AP that Brussels says breach the will. the actor, told BFM TV, breaking taken the easy way out, that he boxer in his youth. 12 AMERICAS TUESDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2021 Biden directs federal aid to NY, NJ after deadly flooding

AP — LAMBERTVILLE the White House said. The storm homes and caused about $50m At least 50 people were killed in six Eastern Cepparulo told reporters after killed at least 27 people in New in damage to public infra- speaking with Murphy. President Joe Biden approved Jersey and 13 in New York City. structure and property. Jersey states as record rainfall last Wednesday “We need a little help major disaster declarations New Jersey Gov Phil City Mayor Steven Fulop said overwhelmed rivers and sewer systems. Some getting there.” In New York yesterday greenlighting federal Murphy, touring flood-damaged damage to city infrastructure people were trapped in fast-filling basement City, Mayor Bill de Blasio, Sen aid for people in six New Jersey areas of Lambertville on Labour was estimated at $35m. Chuck Schumer and US Rep counties and five New York Day, said Biden’s major disaster In the Hudson Valley, apartments and cars, or swept away as they Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez counties affected by devastating declaration will allow indi- Metro-North said commuter tried to escape. The storm also spawned spent part of the morning flooding last week from the viduals to receive assistance, rail service will return for today touring of storm damage in remnants of Hurricane Ida. including grants for temporary morning’s rush hour after several tornadoes. Queens with Deanne Criswell, At least 50 people were housing and home repairs and crews removed several feet of the former city emergency killed in six Eastern states as low-cost loans to cover unin- mud from the tracks and assistance for people in Bronx, as residents spent their Labor management chief who’s now record rainfall last Wednesday sured property losses. restoring washed out slopes Queens, Kings, Richmond and Day clearing flood debris, aided administrator of the Federal overwhelmed rivers and sewer An existing emergency dec- and ballast. Westchester counties in New at one point by a bulldozer. Emergency Management systems. Some people were laration issued last week Two of the four tracks on York. Murphy said he would be The major disaster decla- Agency. One resident greeted trapped in fast-filling basement enabled state, county and local the Hudson line remain out of talking to Biden during his visit ration could help people like de Blasio with an arm on his apartments and cars, or swept governments to get reimbursed service for repairs between to about adding other counties Nick Cepparulo, who told shoulder and a quip about their away as they tried to escape. for disaster spending, Murphy Riverdale and Tarrytown. to the major disaster Murphy all of his family’s first- flooded homes. The storm also spawned several said. Biden’s disaster declara- declaration. floor possessions were washed “Welcome to Woodside,” tornadoes. New York Gov Kathy tions cover Bergen, Gloucester, Murphy joined state and away soon after they got in she said. “We have swimming Biden is scheduled to visit Hochul said an initial Hunterdon, Middlesex, Passaic, local officials on a walking tour their car and raced for higher pools in each house. So you can New Jersey and New York City assessment found that the storm and Somerset counties in New of Lambertville, passing homes ground. get your bathing suit on and today to survey storm damage, damaged more than 1,200 Jersey and allow for individual with belongings piled outside “We’ll be all right,” take a dip with us.” Chile approves Four Americans evacuated CoronaVac use among children from Afghanistan overland over age 6 REUTERS — WASHINGTON flights over, and commercial fights avoiding Kabul’s airport, REUTERS — SANTIAGO The United States has evac- which has no air traffic control, uated four Americans from thousands of Afghans are The Chilean health regulator Afghanistan into a bordering focused on potentially haz- yesterday approved the country, a State Department ardous overland escape. COVID-19 vaccine produced official said yesterday, in the Countries bordering by China’s Sinovac Biotech Ltd first US-facilitated overland Afghanistan include Pakistan, for use in children over 6 years evacuation since the August 31 Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turk- of age, allowing more people pullout. menistan and Iran. to be included in the country’s Roughly 124,000 people The State Department on rapid inoculation campaign. were evacuated last month Sunday published a declaration The South American from Kabul in a massive US-led by around 100 countries com- country has already approved airlift of US and other foreign mitted to helping Afghans reach the use of the Pfizer Inc/ citizens as well as vulnerable destinations outside Afghan- BioNTech vaccine for children Afghans as the Taliban took istan. However, none of Afghan- over 12, with 654,053 receiving control there. istan’s neighbors signed up. at least one dose since May. US officials have said about Tajikistan has pledged to Sinovac’s CoronaVac has 100 more citizens who have accept 100,000 Afghan ref- Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau bumps elbows with a kid at a campaign stop, at Valbruna formed the backbone, said they want to leave remain ugees, while Uzbekistan com- ASW Inc in Welland, Ontario, Canada, yesterday. however, of Chile’s vacci- in Afghanistan. mitted to allow transit through nation campaign, which has “We have facilitated the its territory for Americans and seen more than 13 million of departure of four American cit- potentially others from Afghan- the country’s 19 million inhab- Trudeau, trailing in polls, goes on izens from Afghanistan via an istan. But it was not clear how itants fully inoculated so far overland route. Our Embassy many people, if any yet, both and 19.49 million CoronaVac greeted the Americans as they countries have actually allowed doses issued in total. attack two weeks before vote crossed the border into the in. “This is great news for third country,” the official said Pakistan — home to more school-age children and those REUTERS — OTTAWA in southern Ontario, Canada’s of wishy-washy, weak lead- without elaborating. than 1.4 million Afghan refugees that were not included in pre- most-populous province. “That’s ership where he doesn’t stand up US Representative Ronny — has admitted some 2,000 vious vaccination plans,” said Canadian Liberal Prime Minister not leadership. That’s not for what he believes in, doesn’t Jackson identified the four as Afghans employed by foreign Health Minister Enrique Paris. Justin Trudeau, trailing in opinion integrity.” After being criticized tell Canadians what he actually being from his district in Texas, missions, international institu- Five of the experts on the polls, attacked his main rival by O’Toole for calling the election believes,” he said. saying in a Twitter post they left tions, and non-governmental evaluation panel convened by yesterday for waffling on gun two years early during a rising Speaking in Ottawa, O’Toole “after 2 weeks & multiple life groups on one-month transit the Institute of Public Health control and vaccine mandates as fourth wave of the COVID-19 refused to say how many of his threatening attempts.” With US visas, said a diplomatic source (ISP) voted in favor of applying the campaign enters its final pandemic, Trudeau assailed his candidates had not been inocu- troops gone, the evacuation on condition of anonymity. the shot to children over 6, stretch ahead of the September rival’s opposition to vaccine lated. He has said those who are while two voted in favor of 20 election. mandates, including for his own not vaccinated must be tested issuing it only to those over 12, Conservative leader Erin candidates. daily. and one voted against issuing O’Toole on Sunday scrapped a Trudeau said O’Toole was “Our approach, with respect Brazil braces for it to children. campaign promise to eliminate pandering to anti-vaxxers just as to vaccinations, is we try and CoronaVac also has emer- a ban on some assault weapons, he had to the gun lobby. Anti-vax encourage and inform and work gency approval for use in a sensitive issue in Canada after hecklers have shouted abuse and with people, but we will respect pro-Bolsonaro rallies children in Indonesia and mass shootings in recent years. even death threats at Trudeau their personal health decisions,” China. Chile has seen in recent Trudeau sought to capitalise on throughout his campaign. O’Toole said. Liberal strategists weeks a noticeable drop in his opponent’s shift with just two “Erin O’Toole is at least have said the crucial period of REUTERS — BRASILIA US Capitol. The demonstrations infections, recording just 435 weeks left to reverse his taking some of his cues from (the the campaign starts after Labour are “stoking fears of a coup new cases yesterday. It has fortunes. anti-vax crowd),” Trudeau said. Day, because Canadians have Brazil prepared yesterday for d’état in the world’s third- had a total of 1.6 million con- O’Toole “will say anything to “Canadians are beginning to been more focused until now on Independence Day demonstra- largest democracy,” the letter firmed COVID-19 cases and try and get elected,” Trudeau told see that that’s the future being their summer vacations than the tions by supporters of far-right warned. 37,108 deaths. supporters at a campaign event offered by Erin O’Toole, a future election. President Jair Bolsonaro, who Bolsonaro said on Friday has called for a show of support that the demonstrations will be for his attacks on the country’s an “ultimatum” to the Supreme IN BRIEF Supreme Court that are rattling Court justices who have taken Latin America’s largest “unconstitutional” decisions democracy. against his government. Mexico City to replace Security was reinforced in The court has authorised Columbus statue the capital Brasilia and police investigations of Bolsonaro started blocking access to the allies for allegedly attacking central mall where thousands Brazil’s democratic institutions MEXICO CITY: A prominent are expected to march on with misinformation online. He statue of explorer Christopher Tuesday, supporting Bolsonaro has called the court-ordered Columbus on one of Mexico in his clash with the judiciary probes a violation of free City’s principal avenues is to over changes to Brazil’s voting speech rights. be replaced with that of an system. Congress and the courts indigenous Mexican woman, Critics fear the president is also resisted Bolsonaro’s the capital’s mayor, Claudia encouraging supporters to the attempt to introduce paper Sheinbaum, said on Sunday. point that they might try to voting receipts as a backup of The 19th-century bronze intimidate or invade the courts, an electronic voting system, statue was taken down from warning of parallels with which he argues is vulnerable the Paseo de la Reforma boul- former US President Donald to fraud. The electoral court evard last year for restoration Trump’s backers who stormed maintains the system is trans- work ahead of an annual the Capitol after his electoral parent and safe. protest. It is to make way for defeat. Bolsonaro’s critics say he is a monument that delivers Internationally, more than sowing doubts so he can chal- “social justice” regarding the 150 left-leaning former presi- lenge the results of next year’s Venezuela govt, opposition talks continue historic role of women in dents and party leaders signed election, which opinion polls Mexico, particularly those of an open letter criticising Bol- now show him losing to former indigenous origin, Sheinbaum sonaro for encouraging what leftist President Luiz Inacio Police officers stand guard outside a hotel as the Venezuelan government and opposition continue said at an event in the Mexican they called an imitation of the Lula de Silva. Neither has con- negotiations to resolve the country’s political crisis, in Mexico City, Mexico, yesterday. capital. -Reuters January 6 “insurrection” at the firmed their candidacies. Former Marine held without bond in shooting of Florida family AP — FORT LAUDERDALE appointed his own lawyer until Polk County Sheriff Grady when he randomly stopped by and told him to leave. They called ambush,” the sheriff told he can get one, a judge said. Judd said Riley, who served in their home in Lakeland, about law enforcement and authorities reporters. A former Marine sharpshooter Riley surrendered on Sunday both Iraq and Afghanistan, 48km from Tampa, where he responded, but Riley was gone. A lieutenant working a good who told authorities he was high morning after a furious gun battle appeared to be suffering from lives, Judd said. Hours later, Riley returned distance away heard popping on methamphetamines when he with authorities who brought in mental health issues. He said Justice Gleason, 40, was and shot the family, telling his noises and immediately put the invaded a home in Florida and at least one armoured vehicle Riley’s girlfriend told investi- mowing his lawn when Riley interrogators that “they begged agency on active-shooter mode, fatally shot a mother, her during their standoff. An officer gators he had post-traumatic pulled onto their property and for their lives and I killed them bringing all state and local law 3-month-old baby and two then rushed into the home and stress syndrome and had been said God had sent him there to anyway,” Judd said. enforcement in the area to the others was ordered held without rescued an 11-year-old girl, who unravelling for weeks, repeatedly prevent a suicide by someone Around 4.30am on Sunday, scene. They followed the sounds bond during his first court was still conscious despite being telling her he could communicate named “Amber.” Gleason and Riley put out glowsticks in the of gunfire to the home and found appearance yesterday. shot seven times. She was in directly with God. another person Judd described early morning darkness to create Riley’s white truck ablaze and an Bryan Riley, 33, also asked for critical but stable condition yes- The slain family first encoun- as one of the victims said there a path leading to the house in an unarmed Riley outside, dressed his own lawyer and will be terday, the sheriff’s office said. tered Riley on Saturday evening was no one there by that name, attempt to draw officers “into an in camouflage.