1996 - 2021 SILVER JUBILEE YEAR

Qatari non-oil Qatar Coach sectors’ economic Sanchez happy contribution at 66% with win over in Q1: Minister ‘defensive’ Al Kuwari India

Business | 11 Sport | 16

SATURDAY 5 JUNE 2021 24 SHAWWAL - 1442 VOLUME 26 NUMBER 8644 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS

Amir: Qatar-Russia relations have witnessed concrete development over last two decades Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani delivered the speech via video conference in the main session of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF 2021) which took place yesterday in St. Petersburg in Russia.

QNA — DOHA

Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani participated in the main session of the St. Petersburg Interna- I am pleased with the hospitality of my friend Russian President tional Economic Forum (SPIEF 2021), H E Vladimir Putin for us in St. Petersburg International Economic which took place at noon yesterday in St. Petersburg in Russia with the partic- Forum where Qatar is the guest of this edition. The forum witnessed ipation of President of the Russian big participation of our national institutions, which reflects the great Federation H E Vladimir Putin, Pres- cooperation between the two countries. I wish success for the forum ident of the Argentine Republic H E and participants. #SPIEF2021 Alberto Fernandez, President of the Federative Republic of Brazil H E Jair Bolsonaro, and Chancellor of the Republic of Austria H E Sebastian Kurz. position on foreign investors list in H H the Amir delivered the speech Russia.” via video conference. “At the outset, it We in the State of Qatar take pride in “In this context, we value our active gives me pleasure to extend many the strong historical relations with the cooperation in the economic sphere, espe- thanks to His Excellency President cially in the energy field, and in confir- Vladimir Putin for his kind invitation Russian Federation. These relations mation of our confidence in the robustness to us to participate in this Forum held have witnessed a concrete of the Russian economy and the impor- in this ancient city known for pro- development over the last two decades tance of investing in it, the volume of ducing culture, literature and art and in various political and economic fields, Qatar’s investments in Russia has doubled resisting occupation —and for choosing especially in trade and investment in recent years, and we look forward to the State of Qatar as the guest State at increasing it in the coming years.” the Forum,” H H the Amir said. domains as the State of Qatar has H H the Amir said that the eco- H H the Amir said that this Forum assumed an advanced position on nomic cooperation between Qatar and is being held against the backdrop of foreign investors list in Russia. Russia is not limited to direct invest- great economic conditions and chal- ments, but rather goes beyond that to lenges at the local, regional and inter- paradigm for the initiatives that should include coordination to create the nec- national levels, especially amid the on- be undertaken by the international com- essary international regulatory frame- going COVID-19 pandemic and its munity to contribute to establishing a works to promote this cooperation. “I serious negative repercussions on the sound environment for the regional and point out here that the two countries global economy, which have doubled global economy and investment, and to have established, together with other the need for convening the Forum as it finding effective solutions to common friendly countries, the Doha-based Gas has become an important global event economic challenges. The broad inter- Exporting Countries Forum (GECF).” in the field of economics and business. national participation in this Forum H H the Amir said: “The State of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani participating in the main session “This Forum is considered also as a undoubtedly reflects the prestigious Qatar is going through a significant of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF 2021), via video position assumed by Russia in the region stage in its overall development by conferencing, yesterday. and the world.” H H the Amir added: “We in the means of implementing its national small and medium enterprises, etc. We The economic cooperation between State of Qatar take pride in the strong strategies, numerous programs and seek to achieve progress in economic Qatar and Russia is not limited to historical relations with the Russian The State of Qatar is working to projects in accordance with the Qatar diversification and to focus on direct investments, but rather goes Federation. These relations have wit- increase investment in green and National Vision 2030, and I confirm increasing private sector investments beyond that to include coordination nessed a concrete development over sustainable energy, and other areas that the main driving force of Qatar’s in all economic sectors by providing to create the necessary international the last two decades in various political that will contribute to preserving the economy at this phase is the invest- incentives, offering partnership and economic fields, especially in trade environment and combating climate ments in infrastructure and devel- projects between the public and private regulatory frameworks to promote and investment domains as the State opment projects, especially in edu- sectors, and attracting direct foreign this cooperation. of Qatar has assumed an advanced change. cation, health, transportation, research, investments.” `P2 Amir affirms Qatar’s full readiness to host 2022 World Cup SPIEF opens new scope of QNA — DOHA future and stressing the State of Highness indicated that the successful organization of the cooperation with Russia: FM Qatar’s confidence in the State of Qatar will host in the 2018 World Cup, praising Rus- Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Russian economy. coming months a conference of sia’s opening all its doors at that QNA — ST. PETERSBURG Hamad Al Thani participated via Also, His Highness pointed gas exporting countries to time to Qatari organizers videoconferencing in the out that mutual tourism discuss clean energy develop- working in the Supreme Com- discussion session of the St. between the two countries ments and cooperation in this mittee for Delivery and Legacy Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Petersburg International doubled during Qatar-Russia field. to exchange experiences with Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said that the participation Economic Forum (SPIEF 2021) Cultural Year after the 2018 H H the Amir explained that their Russian counterparts. of the State of Qatar in the St. Petersburg International Economic with the participation of Pres- World Cup. Qatar’s responsibility towards His Highness affirmed Forum is a great opportunity to enhance Qatari-Russian ties, ident of the Russian Federation In the field of the future of the environment is great as a Qatar’s full readiness to host which have grown greatly in recent years under the wise lead- H E Vladimir Putin and Chan- energy, H H the Amir explained country that depends on gas and the 2022 World Cup and that ership of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Pres- cellor of the Republic of Austria that the State of Qatar plays a energy, therefore, the fourth the construction and infra- ident of the Russian Federation H E Vladimir Putin. H E Sebastian Kurz. major role in distributing gas pillar of Qatar National Vision structure projects of the tour- This came during His Excellency’s speech on Thursday at the During the session, H H the around the world and invests is related to the environment nament were not affected by official reception of the State of Qatar during the 24th St. Petersburg Amir said that the State of Qatar huge investments in it, noting and its protection. the COVID-19 pandemic, a year International Economic Forum, which takes place from June 2-5 is one of the largest foreign that its gas production will Concerning the exchange of and a half ahead of the hosting in the Russian Federation. He said that the State of Qatar’s par- investors in Russia, with diver- increase by 40 percent by 2026 experiences between Qatar and date, noting that Qatar will host ticipation in the forum was an important landmark for bilateral sified investments amounting and that Qatar is cooperating Russia in the sports field, H H the FIFA Arab Cup in cooperation, and opens new scopes for joint efforts that enhance to more than $13bn, looking with international energy com- the Amir indicated that Russia November, which is a trial development and prosperity for the two countries. `P2 forward to doubling them in the panies, including Rosneft. His set high standards in its before the World Cup. `P2 Qatar Airways Group highlights environmental sustainability initiatives

THE PENINSULA — DOHA services, retail outlets and expand its capacity to more than common target to achieve hotels. 53 million passengers annually carbon neutrality. Its most To mark World Environment Qatar Airways is the first by 2022. The terminal will also advanced aircraft technology Day, Qatar Airways Group is airline in the Middle East to be a LEED Silver certified and fuel-optimisation initiatives reinforcing its commitment to secure accreditation to the building, featuring a number of are part of a comprehensive protect the planet by highlighting highest level in the IATA Envi- innovative energy efficiency strategy to address its CO2 its key environmental sustaina- ronmental Assessment Pro- measures. emissions, and it continues to bility initiatives. gramme (IEnvA) while its hub, In addition, Qatar Airways remain compliant with the EU Qatar Airways Group is ded- Hamad International Airport, will has committed as a oneworld Emissions Trading System (EU icated to environmental lead- be the first airport in the region member airline, to net zero ETS), and the ICAO’s Carbon ership across all of its entities, to achieve a 4-star Global Sus- carbon emissions by 2050, Offsetting and Reduction including airline, airport oper- tainability Assessment System becoming part of the first global Scheme for International Avi- ations, aviation and catering (GSAS) rating as part of plans to alliance to unite behind a ation (CORSIA). `P3 02 HOME SATURDAY 5 JUNE 2021

Amir affirms Qatar’s Amir: Qatar-Russia relations have witnessed full readiness to concrete development over last two decades host 2022 World Cup FROM PAGE 1 FROM PAGE 1 PRAYER H H the Amir added: “I point With regard to HH the TIMINGS out here that the development Amir’s vision about the world PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMING projects in the State of Qatar after the COVID-19 pandemic, provide great opportunities for His Highness pointed out that FAJR 03.15 am foreign companies to increase many countries were affected their participation in Qatar’s by this pandemic economically, SUNRISE 04.43 am economy in various sectors. while the economies of other DHUHR 11.32 am Over the recent years we have countries were able to deal with ASR 02.56 pm developed and introduced it, noting that the State of Qatar pivotal amendments to many was proudly able, thanks to the MAGHRIB 06.24 pm legislations that enhance private strength of its economy and its ISHA 07.54 pm sectors participation and attract expertise, to deal with this foreign investments, which have pandemic. contributed to creating an His Highness praised the attractive environment for international cooperation in the investment. manufacture and distribution The State of Qatar, H H the of vaccines, calling for the need Amir said, is working to increase to facilitate the arrival of vac- investment in green and sus- cines to all parts of the world to tainable energy, and other areas eliminate the pandemic. that will contribute to preserving His Highness explained that WEATHER the environment and combating the world will return to nor- TODAY climate change. malcy as it was before the pan- “The COVID-19 pandemic Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani participating in the discussion session of the St. Petersburg demic, but after taking expe- has revealed the extent to which International Economic Forum (SPIEF 2021), via videoconferencing. rience in dealing with anything the lives of peoples and their in the future. destinies in our modern world acceptable to subjugate people’s change. It is also the path for President Vladimir Putin for his are intertwined and correlated. health to the laws of the market people to restore their normal kind invitation to us to partic- It has been proven that no and global trade. On this life that they miss since the out- ipate in this Forum and for o o country can alone confront a occasion, I commend Russia’s break of the pandemic. It will choosing the State of Qatar as His Highness praised the 34 C 47 C international Minimum Maximum catastrophe of the magnitude of role in producing and distrib- also support our health institu- the guest State at the Forum, this pandemic, and that uting vaccines.” tions, scientific research and hoping that it will achieve its cooperation in the Hot to very hot daytime and slight investing in research to fight it H H the Amir said: “On the make vaccination possible for desired goals, and wishing our manufacture and dust to blowing dust at places and prevent similar outbreaks other hand, strengthening the all inhabitants of this planet. In two countries more fruitful distribution of vaccines, during afternoon. in the future must be an inter- economy, investment and the this context, we call on the cooperation.” The main session W ALRUWAIS : 32o → 35o national effort, and that the values of innovation, work and private sector in Russia and the of the Forum in St. Petersburg calling for the need to W ALKHOR : 31o → 45o international community must production, together with pro- world to explore the promising was attended by a number of facilitate the arrival of work hard and diligently to moting common human values, Qatari business environment in their excellencies ministers, W DUKHAN : 29o → 40o vaccines to all parts of make vaccines and treatment is the means to build the nec- many projects and in various ranking political and economy W WAKRAH : 28o → 48o the world to eliminate accessible to all, especially the essary potentials to fight the fields.” officials, experts, and executives the pandemic. W MESAIEED : 28o → 48o poor peoples or those who face pandemic and overcome other “In conclusion, I reiterate my of companies from Qatar, Russia, W ABUSAMRA : 28o → 42o upheavals and wars, for it is not global problems such as climate thanks to His Excellency and the world.

HIGH TIDE 15:51–0:05 FM: SPIEF opens new scope of cooperation with Russia LOW TIDE 8:35 – 19:52 FROM PAGE 1 The Deputy Prime Minister in an Arabic language compe- Qatar is a guest state. management for providing the Deputy Prime Minister and added that this explains why they tition organised by the Qatari The Deputy Prime Minister opportunity to organise the Minister of Foreign Affairs H E encourage the exchange of stu- embassy. and Minister of Foreign Affairs reception during the forum with Action against 54 Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul- dents, highlighting that it was for He said he expects to see pos- expressed his pride to address the the participation of the high-level rahman Al Thani added that the first time in the history of itive outcomes soon that will participants at the Russian Eth- Qatari delegation that represents companies work is ongoing not only to Qatari-Russian ties when dozens contribute to enhancing bilateral nographic Museum, which main- dozens of public and private deepen economic cooperation of Qatari students study the cooperation and economic, cul- tains the long history of Russians Qatari companies. violating summer with Russia, but also cultural, sci- Russian language at Russian uni- tural, and academic ties. who are renowned for their rich Concluding his speech, he entific, and academic ties which versities. He added that they He also welcomed in his culture and great literary work wished the participants well in break decision helps build bridges of friendship were happy to welcome Russian speech the participants in the by some distinguished writers achieving their desired outcomes, and trust, adding that it also plays students who came to Russia to reception hosted by the State of such as Alexander Pushkin and and for enhancing cooperation THE PENINSULA — DOHA a role in creating new partner- study for free for a full year at Qatar in honour of the partici- Leo Tolstoy. between the State of Qatar and ships and joint economic projects. Qatar University, after they won pants in the forum, in which He thanked the museum’s the Russian Federation. The Ministry of Administrative Development, Labor and Social Affairs has said that 54 companies violated the decision Qatar, Russia discuss cooperation in IT, communication about banning work in open places during the summer. THE PENINSULA — DOHA two friendly to enhance and develop eco- The ministry, in a statement, countries. nomic relation ties and part- said that legal measures have Minister of Transport and The Min- nership with the Russian Feder- been taken against companies Communications H E Jassim Saif istry of ation, in addition to highlighting for violating the provisions of Ahmed Al Sulaiti met yesterday Transport and the investment opportunities that the decision. with Minister of Digital Devel- Communica- the country provides in the fields The erring companies are opment, Communications and tions (MOTC) is of transportation and information working in the contracting, Mass Media of the Russian Feder- participating in and communication technology, building maintenance, gardens, ation Maxut Igorevich Shadayev the St. something which can contribute decoration sectors in Al Wakra, at the sidelines of the activities of Petersburg to attracting more foreign direct Al Wukair, Um Bashar, Al the St. Petersburg International International investments and boosting the Khraitiyat, Umm Qarn, Lusail, Economic Forum (SPIEF) which Economic State of Qatar’s competitive Rawdat Al Hamama, Al Khor, runs in the period from June 2 to Forum (SPIEF) standing in the region and outside Unayzah, Umm Salal, Zakhira June 5. as part of the of it. and Doha. The meeting discussed State of Qatar’s The Smart Qatar Program The Ministry represented by aspects of cooperation between Pavilion at the (TASMU), the Qatar Railways the Labor Inspection the two friendly countries in the Forum. Company (Qatar Rail), Qatar Department conducted field of communication and MOTC’s Navigation (Milaha), Mwani intensive inspection campaigns information technology and participation in Qatar, the Qatar Aeronautical during the period from June 1 to means of further enhancing Minister of Transport and Communications H E Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti meets the Pavilion Academy and Hamad Interna- 3, 2021 in order to ensure that them. The two officials also dis- with Minister of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media of the Russian comes within tional Airport are participating in companies comply with Minis- cussed a number of matters of Federation, Maxut Igorevich Shadayev, on the sidelines of the activities of the St. the framework the Forum under the umbrella of terial Decision No. 17 of 2021, common interest between the Petersburg International Economic Forum. of its keenness the Ministry. regarding the necessary precau- tions to protect workers from heat stress in open work sites MoPH reports 183 during summer. Qatar showcases World Cup preparations at SPIEF The decision determines the new cases, 248 working hours for work per- THE PENINSULA — DOHA support Qatar’s compact tour- formed under the sun or in open nament plans. The longest dis- more recoveries workplaces and in places other The Supreme Committee for tance between stadiums will be than shaded and ventilated Delivery & Legacy (SC) is show- just 75km in 2022, while fans THE PENINSULA — DOHA workplaces, during the period casing Qatar’s FIFA World Cup will have the chance to attend from June 1 to September 15 of preparations at the St. more than one match a day The Ministry of Public Health each year, so that work should Petersburg International during the early stages of the (MoPH) yesterday announced not be carried out from 10am to Economic Forum (SPIEF) in tournament. Players will fly into the registration of 183 new 3pm. Russia. one airport and stay in one confirmed cases of COVID-19. People can report about the The SC is part of a signif- accommodation, helping them Among them 78 are from trav- violations through the hotline icant delegation from Qatar, to remain in peak condition ellers returning from abroad. 16008 of the Ministry or by which is the special guest throughout the event, which Also, 248 people recovered accessing the unified complaint country at this year’s forum. will kick off on November 21, from the virus bringing the platform at https://acmsidentity. SPIEF brings together industry 2022. total number of cases adlsa.gov.qa/ar. experts and government offi- Al Nuaimi stated that Qatar recovered in Qatar to 214,625. cials to discuss key economic SC’s Communications Executive Director, Fatma Al Nuaimi, participating 2022 has the potential to unite Besides, the Ministry Four arrested for issues related to Russia, in a panel session at St. Petersburg International Economic Forum billions of people after the announced two new deaths, emerging markets, and the hardships caused by the aged 65 and 73. Both had a in Russia. violation of home world. The SC’s booth in the COVID-19 pandemic. history of chronic disease and Qatari pavilion highlights infor- “Sport – and particularly were receiving the necessary quarantine rules mation about Qatar 2022, “From the very beginning, “We believe Qatar 2022 will set football – unites everyone. I am medical care. including the stadiums, legacy it has been our intention to new benchmarks for human, delighted to say that we are well Meanwhile, 2,643,573 THE PENINSULA — DOHA programmes, and tournament position Qatar 2022 as a mega- social, environmental, and eco- on track with our preparations, COVID-19 vaccine doses have infrastructure. event which can build cultural nomic development. Thanks to with infrastructure projects been administered since the The authorities arrested four Meanwhile, Fatma Al bridges between our region and our legacy programmes and reaching 95% completion. We start of National COVID-19 people who violated the Nuaimi, the SC’s Communica- the rest of the world,” said Al other projects, we are already hope our tournament is the light Vaccination Program. And requirements of the home tions Executive Director, par- Nuaimi. seeing the positive impact of at the end of the tunnel for 21,288 COVID-19 vaccine quarantine. The violators, who ticipated in a panel session “Football’s power to unite hosting the tournament.” Qatar many people after the pan- doses were administered in are currently being referred to titled, ‘The macro-economic is unmatched, and we are has built seven stadiums from demic. We look forward to wel- the past 24 hours. the designate prosecution, are and social impact of sport.’ determined to leverage that fact scratch for the tournament and coming the world in 2022 and According to Ministry’s Mouneer Hussein Sona Mayah, During the discussion, Al when we host the biggest brought forward the con- putting on a show that fans will data, 66.1% of the eligible pop- Massoud Alam, Nasr Al Din Nuaimi outlined the socio-eco- single-sport event in the world struction of new metro and fondly remember for decades ulation has now received at Dahoubi, Neeva Nisar. nomic impact of Qatar 2022. in 2022.” Al Nuaimi continued: numerous expressways. All will to come.” least one dose of the vaccine. SATURDAY 5 JUNE 2021 HOME 03

MME to develop national strategy Govts, businesspeople need to unite to for green growth: Minister restore investor confidence: Al Kuwari QNA — DOHA

THE PENINSULA — DOHA Minister of Munici- pality and Envi- Governments and businesspeople ronment H E Abdullah need to unite and provide solu- bin Abdulaziz bin tions that will contribute to Turki Al Subaie restoring investor confidence, as affirmed that Qatar, well as to open prospects for under the wise lead- building a better future for all ership of Amir H H peoples as economies recover Sheikh Tamim bin from the COVID-19 pandemic, H Hamad Al Thani, has E Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, attached great impor- Minister of Commerce and tance to the envi- Industry and Acting Minister of ronment and Finance has said in his speech sustainable devel- during the opening ceremony of opment. Minister of Municipality and Environment the 24th edition of the St. The Minister said H E Eng. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Petersburg International that preparations are Al Subaie Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2021. being made to study Minister Al Kuwari partici- green growth opportunities in many plans and strategies that pated in the opening ceremony Minister of Commerce and Industry and Acting Minister of Finance H E Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari preparation for the devel- focus on preserving the Qatari of the SPIEF 2021, in the presence addressing 24th edition of St. Petersburg International Economic Forum 2021 in Russia. opment of a national strategy land, protecting endangered and with the participation of a for green growth for the State trees, planting many Qatari wild group of international dignitaries, of Qatar, taking into account trees, and working to multiply including H E Andrey Belousov, expected to have vaccinated 75 meetings with H E Maxim Reshet- sustainable development, in endangered animals such as the First Deputy Prime Minister of the percent of its population by the nikov, Minister of Economic cooperation with the Global Arabian Oryx and Re’em, as well Russian Federation, H E Edouard Al Kuwari went on to call end of next month. Development in the Russian Fed- Green Growth Institute via its as preserving aquatic eco- Ngirente, Prime Minister of the on governments and Al Kuwari also spoke of the eration, Ivan Glasenberg, CEO of office in Doha. systems through a national Republic of Rwanda, as well as the businesspeople to unite quality of Qatar’s healthcare Glencore and Andrey Kostin, In his speech on the network for continuous moni- President of the World Bank and provide solutions system, which has contributed to President and Chairman of VTB occasion of the World Envi- toring of the state of the marine Group, David Malpass, and making the death rate caused by Bank Management Board. During ronment Day, which falls on environment, and programs to Chairman of the Vietnamese Party that contribute to COVID-19 in the State of Qatar the meeting, there was an June 5 every year, the Minister examine the quality of soil and Central Committee’s Economic restoring investor among the lowest in the world. exchange of views on several eco- expressed Qatar’s pleasure to coastal waters in the country by Commission, Tran Tuan Anh. confidence, as well as to Qatar has sought to back the nomic and investment issues and participate in the celebration of collecting samples at different Speaking on the prospects for open prospects for private sector by providing developments of common the 2021 World Environment depths, stressing that these the global economy in the future building a better future financial incentives amounting to interest, in addition to looking into Day under the theme ‘Eco- efforts aim to achieve a during the event, Al Kuwari QR75bn, Al Kuwari said, referring means to enhance cooperation system Restoration’, which quantum leap in the country’s explained that the pandemic had for all peoples. to the new support plans and coordination with the Russian comes within the context of the environmental systems in its shown the fragility of devel- approved by the Council of Min- Federation in facing the repercus- urgent need to take ambitious various forms. opment systems prevalent around isters in April 2021, which consti- sions of the pandemic. measures to develop a clear He explained that Qatar has the world. He called in this regard contribute to restoring investor tuted an important addition to the Qatar is participating in the framework for preserving eco- attached great importance to for devising a comprehensive confidence, as well as to open private sector funding package. 24th edition of the prestigious St. systems and environmental climate change, by ratifying the approach based on international prospects for building a better In this context, the Minister Petersburg International Eco- diversity in the world in a way Paris Agreement on Climate cooperation and solidarity. future for all peoples. referred to the initiative to extend nomic Forum 2021 with a pavilion that contributes to achieving a Change, to contribute to doing He said the next stage will not During the session, Al Kuwari the Qatar Development Bank’s that includes several government sustainable environment for what is necessary to reduce the be easy economically and finan- also spoke about Qatar’s achieve- National Guarantee Program until agencies, as well as national future generations. effects of climate change with cially for any of the countries ments during the global economic the end of September 2021. bodies and institutions, which is He explained that the Min- the countries of the whole involved in the global economy, recovery, pointing to the success The opening ceremony of the aimed at shining a spotlight at istry interest in the 2021 World world. especially since the desired of the proactive and rapid St. Petersburg International Eco- Qatar and its leading economic Environment Day comes as an The Minister called on all financial recovery can only be measures taken by the State to nomic Forum 2021 featured position regionally and interna- affirmation of the importance civil society organisations and achieved by opening broader reduce the repercussions of the showing speeches by several State tionally. Qatar’s participation also of the environments important all segments of society to join horizons for cooperation between COVID-19 pandemic. The Min- leaders and official figures, seeks to introduce the attractive role in providing a healthy life efforts to preserve the eco- nations and peoples at all levels. ister highlighted the progress of including H E Alexander Beglov, investment environment that the for everyone living in Qatar. systems in the Qatari envi- He went on to call on govern- the vaccination campaigns, as Governor of St. Petersburg. State provides to businesspeople The Minister pointed out ronment, as it is part of the ments and businesspeople to Qatar has surpassed the 2.6 On the sidelines of SPIEF, and investors from all over the that the Ministry has under- natural heritage and legacy for unite and provide solutions that million dose mark, and it is Minister Al Kuwari, held separate world. taken, at the national level, future generations. Ooredoo shares knowledge Qatar Airways Group highlights environmental sustainability initiatives FROM PAGE 1 less overall demand as it has a developing India’s renewable to optimise food that is carried and expertise at SPIEF Qatar Airways Group Chief variety of aircraft it can select energy capacity. The project cur- on each aircraft to minimise Executive, H E Akbar Al Baker, from, to offer the right capacity rently supports 54 turbines waste and reduce emissions from THE PENINSULA — DOHA said: “It is our ambition as an in each market. Due to COV- across two districts in Madhya additional weight carried on the airline to minimise our impact ID-19’s impact on travel demand, Pradesh: Dewas and Ujjain. With aircraft. Qatar’s leading telecommuni- on the environment, and facil- the airline has taken the decision a combined power rating of over Water conservation and opti- cations company, which is itate continued global travel and to ground its fleet of Airbus 108 Mega Watts, these turbines misation: Qatar Airways was the currently part of a delegation commerce while limiting carbon A380s as it is not commercially displace over 210,000 tonnes of first airline in the world to use of companies representing emissions. As we work in collab- or environmentally justifiable to carbon emissions from the Indian General Electric’s (GE) ‘360 Foam Qatar at the St. Petersburg oration with the aviation industry operate such a large aircraft in Electricity Grid each year. To put Wash’ technology on its aircraft, International Economic Forum to reconnect the world, we rec- the current market. Qatar this into perspective, one tonne replacing traditional water wash (SPIEF), has taken part in a key ognise sustainability as a strategy Airways’ fleet of 53 Airbus A350 of CO2 is the average emission methods on GE engines. In panel discussion at the event. to build resilience post COVID-19. and 37 Boeing 787 are the ideal of one passenger on a return- addition, recycled wastewater is Ooredoo’s Executive We must act boldly and deci- mix for the most strategically flight from Paris to New York. It used in irrigation for Hamad Director Business, Thani Al sively to make necessary important long-haul routes to is also the amount of CO2 pro- International Airport’s land- Malki, joined a panel discussion changes, acknowledging that it Africa, the Americas, Europe and duced by driving 6,000 km with scaping features and condensate on the Digital Transformation is innovation which will drive the Asia-Pacific regions. a diesel car. water from the building air con- Ooredoo’s Executive Director of Business. The panel dis- industry forward for a sus- Aircraft Fuel & CO2 Emission Reducing waste and applying ditioners is used in commercial Business, Thani Al Malki cussion — a joint panel session tainable future.” Reduction Initiatives: Qatar the principles of a circular offices for cleaning activities, with Qatar Financial Centre In February 2020, at the Airways continually strives to economy across our businesses: replacing potable water use. and Business Russia — featured CAPA Qatar Aviation, Aeropo- improve fuel efficiency through In 2019, Qatar Airways launched Supporting the Wildlife: As input from a number of senior litical & Regulatory Summit, the its fuel optimisation program. its Quisine on-board dining an inaugural signatory to the representatives from both Thani Al Malki provided ‘Doha Declaration’ highlighted From managing the weight of fit- experience, with an increased Buckingham Palace Declaration Qatari and Russian entities. valuable insights into the growing need for sustainable tings and other items on our air- focus on reducing single-use in March 2016 and a founding Thani Al Malki provided Ooredoo’s approach to operations and engaging stake- craft, to optimising flight paths plastics. This includes removing member of the United for valuable insights into Oore- digitalisation, its holders to act collectively to to ensure the minimum distance the plastic that was used to wrap Wildlife Transport Taskforce, doo’s approach to digitali- strategy, its successes so address climate change and is travelled wherever possible. cutlery and replacing plastic Qatar Airways has a zero tol- sation, its strategy, its successes promote sustainability in the avi- Other initiatives also include spoons that compliment all hot erance policy towards the trans- so far and the effects of the far and the effects of the ation industry. The declaration reduction of potable water uplift, beverages with wooden stirrers. portation of illegal wildlife and COVID-19 pandemic on the COVID-19 pandemic on states that it is essential for the removal of inflight duty free With the introduction of Quisine, their products. progress of the digital journey. the progress of the travel and tourism industry to offerings and footrests, as well as there has been an 80 per cent Qatar Airways Cargo in 2020 Thani Al Malki, Executive digital journey. engage collectively to reduce digitization of inflight magazines increase in recyclable and bio- launched a new chapter of its Director Business at Ooredoo, emissions and secure environ- and menu, all resulting to the degradable products being used, sustainability programme said: “We were delighted to mental sustainability for future reduction weight on board the and 80 per cent of the tray items WeQare: Rewild the Planet, have the opportunity to share the organisers of SPIEF for the generations. In line with this, aircraft. comply with the ban on single- focused on transporting endan- our experience, expertise and opportunity to join the panel Qatar Airways has a range of Voluntary Carbon Offset Pro- use plastics. gered animals back to their insights at this high-profile discussion, and look forward ongoing and recent initiatives gramme for Passengers: Pas- Food waste reduction: Qatar natural habitat, free of charge. international event. As a to other such sessions that promote sustainability. sengers now have the oppor- Aircraft Catering Company has In May 2021, Qatar Airways leading telecommunications throughout the remaining days Modern, fuel-efficient fleet tunity to voluntarily offset the been working on recovery of Cargo has helped rehome seven operator, digital transformation of the event.” of aircraft: Qatar Airways carbon emissions associated with unconsumed whole and safe rescued lions from Ukraine to is at the heart of our company, A delegation of Ooredoo’s operates one of the youngest their journey at the point of food items for charity. The airline South Africa. The cargo carrier’s and participating in valuable executive senior management fleets in the sky. The airline’s mix booking. Qatar Airways is a actively reduces food waste by initiative to preserve wildlife is discussion with other major is attending SPIEF, repre- of modern fuel-efficient aircraft proud member of the IATA donating up to 300kg of surplus consistent with the airline’s com- entities in Russia was of senting Ooredoo and Qatar. helped it to develop a sustainable carbon offset programme, con- food daily from its on-board mitment to fight wildlife traf- immense value to Ooredoo. The event is running from June and adapted solution, allowing tributing to the Fatanpur Wind dining facilities. It is also proac- ficking and illegal trade of wild “We extend our thanks to 2 to 5 in St Petersburg in Russia. it to continue flying routes with Farm project, which invests in tively looking for opportunities animals. Mandarin Oriental, Doha delights guests with new menu at signature restaurants

THE PENINSULA — DOHA live cooking stations, reminiscent China and South East Asia, Tatin dessert to share amongst of traditional street markets, topped off with a selection of family and friends. Mandarin Oriental, Doha has showcase talented chefs creating tempting desserts and sweets. Mosaic is open daily for announced the launch of the delights designed for sampling IZU restaurant welcomes breakfast from 6:30am to 11am, much-anticipated new menu at and sharing among friends and guests for refined experiences for lunch and dinner from 9am Mosaic restaurant. To add to family. ideal for a pleasant evening to to 11pm. The restaurant is this excitement, the hotel is also The menu celebrates dis- share dishes in a refined and located on the 8th floor of the welcoming guests to IZU tinctive flavours prepared by congenial ambience. Served à hotel with indoor and outdoor restaurant offering an elegant our chefs in the nine live la carte, the menu is curated by seating, offering panoramic setting for a refined dining cooking stations lead by Exec- Chef Izu and combines tradi- views of Barahat Msheireb town experience. utive Chef Kim. With favourites tional flavours, fresh ingre- square, Corniche and West Bay. Mosaic restaurant provides like Japanese sushi, sashimi and dients and the essence of IZU is open daily from 9am to guests with an experiential ‘Silk robatayaki, Arabic mezze and French Mediterranean cooking. 11pm. Route’ dining experience based grilled meats, sizzling hot Chef Stavros, the Chef de Gnocchi alla Sorrentina and sig- Gnocchi and Truffled Butter, The Mezzanine level offers on the culinary flavours from Tandoor oven bread and exotic Cuisine at IZU restaurant nature dishes that include Whole Roasted Chicken with an exclusive view of Barahat exotic destinations in Asia, Middle curries from India, delicate dim presents Chef Izu’s creations, Quinoa Salad with Confit Duck, Foie Gras and Truffle Sauce and Msheireb for an ambient dining East and Europe, while the nine sum and wok fried dishes from with favourites like the famous Seared Langoustine with a finally delightful Apple Tart experience. 04 GULF / MIDDLE EAST SATURDAY 5 JUNE 2021 Iran’s election watchdog may review barring of candidates REUTERS — TEHRAN were accused of untrue things Yesterday, however, that were unfortunately Iran’s election watchdog the Khamenei said some of spread throughout the internet Guardian Council said yesterday the disqualified too. Protecting people’s that it may reconsider the candidates had been honour is one of the most barring of candidates from this treated unfairly. “In the important issues. I call on the month’s presidential election responsible bodies to restore after the Supreme Leader said vetting process some their honour,” he said in a tel- some of them had been candidates were wronged. evised speech. wronged. They were accused of Mehdi Fazaeli, an official “The orders of the Supreme untrue things that were close to Khamenei, said on Leader are final and his ruling unfortunately spread Twitter that the leader’s crit- must be obeyed. The Guardian icism was not directed at the Council will soon announce its throughout the internet Guardian Council and would opinion, acknowledging that it too. Protecting people’s not affect its decision. is not immune to error,” council honour is one of the most It was unclear if the Council spokesman Abbas Ali Kad- important issues. I call on may consider reinstating khodaei tweeted. the responsible bodies to rejected candidates or just Supreme Leader Ayatollah counter rumours about the Ali Khamenei, who has the final restore their honour,” he vetting of them. Social media Posters of presidential candidate Ebrahim Raisi are seen at a campaign center in Tehran, Iran, yesterday. say on Iran’s affairs, last month said in a televised speech. posts have said candidates endorsed the council’s rejection faced hostile questions about of several prominent moderate clerical rulers’ hopes of a high overseas relatives’ possible dual Khamenei’s statement, one hardliners and two low-key revive their 2015 nuclear deal and conservative candidates for turnout amid discontent over citizenship, which Iran does not leading moderate candidate — moderates — in the election. Washington exited three years the June 18 vote, including an economy crippled by US recognise. former central bank governor Pragmatist incumbent Pres- ago. former parliament speaker Ali sanctions. Several of the rejected can- Abdolnaser Hemmati — tweeted ident Hassan Rouhani is Allies of Khamenei have Larijani. Yesterday, however, didates had faced attacks that he hoped some of the legally barred to run for a third placed the responsibility for The prohibitions have Khamenei said some of the dis- online, with some social media rejected politicians would now term. Iran’s economic problems boosted the prospects of qualified candidates had been posters accusing them of having be reinstated. The election is likely to rein- squarely on the government hardline judiciary chief Ebrahim treated unfairly. close relatives living in “hostile” As it stands, Iranian voters force Khamenei’s authority at and said that Washington Raisi, an ally of Khamenei, “In the vetting process some Western countries. will have a choice between home at a time when Tehran cannot be trusted to fulfil any though it may also dent the candidates were wronged. They Immediately after seven candidates — five and six powers are trying to accord.

UAE, Bahrain make Egypt sends building Pfizer/BioNTech equipment to begin shot available to those who got Gaza reconstruction Sinopharm vaccine

REUTERS — CAIRO/GAZA Egyptian truck driver Mahmoud REUTERS — DUBAI Ismail said in Gaza. Egypt has sent a convoy of engi- Eleven days of conflict The United Arab Emirates and neers and building equipment between Israel and Hamas, the Bahrain have made the Pfizer/ to Gaza to begin reconstruction Palestinian Islamist rulers of BioNTech coronavirus vaccine in the Palestinian enclave after Gaza, erupted on May 10. More available as a booster shot to the recent Israeli-Palestinian than 250 Palestinians were those initially immunised with conflict, Egyptian state tele- killed in hundreds of Israeli air a vaccine developed by the vision reported yesterday. strikes in Gaza. Rockets fired by China National Pharmaceu- Dozens of bulldozers, Gaza fighters killed 13 people tical Group (Sinopharm). cranes and trucks flying in Israel. Egypt played a major The Gulf states, which have Egyptian flags lined up along role in brokering a ceasefire vaccinated large portions of the border to begin crossing into between both sides and has said their populations, initially the Gaza Strip, television pic- it would allocate $500m to fund started inoculating residents tures showed. Palestinians lined the rebuilding of devastated and citizens with the the street on the Gaza side of areas in Gaza. Sinopharm COVID-19 shot the Rafah crossing to welcome Hamas spokesman Hazem before later introducing other the convoy as it rumbled into Qassem yesterday reiterated vaccines. the small coastal enclave. A Pal- the group’s appreciation of Building equipment, sent by Egypt for Palestinians, arrive in the southern Gaza Strip, yesterday. Bahrain is currently estinian border official said 50 Egyptian contributions to the fighting its biggest wave of vehicles had crossed. rebuilding efforts. infections, while the UAE is “We rushed with all our Gaza’s housing ministry said damage. A ministry official put following talks in Cairo. Strip, controlled by Hamas, is recording nearly twice as money, equipment, and what we 1,500 housing units were the cost of rebuilding at $150m. It had previously been home to around 2 million Pal- many COVID-19 cases as it was owned to join the Palestinians in destroyed during the fighting, Egypt in February opened opening the crossing for only a estinians. An Israeli-led seven months ago. In Abu the rebuilding. Every Muslim and another 1,500 housing units had the Rafah crossing until further few days at a time to allow blockade has put restrictions on Dhabi, the UAE capital, a every Egyptian wishes to take been damaged beyond repair notice after Palestinian factions stranded travellers to pass. The the movement of people and booster shot is available six part in [the reconstruction],” and 17,000 suffered partial moved towards reconciliation 365-sq km (141-sq mile) Gaza goods for years. months after the second shot had been administered, said a representative of Mubadala Western powers avoid resolution against Iran at IAEA board: Diplomats Health, part of the state fund. Saudi reports 16 REUTERS — VIENNA/PARIS Vienna, where the atomic predating the deal - failed to tries on the board. compliance with the deal will watchdog is also based. produce new explanations, the “There need to be strong resume next week, with an COVID-19 deaths Britain, France, Germany and At the last quarterly meeting IAEA reported on Monday. statements,” said one diplomat election on June 18 likely to the United States will not push of the International Atomic That raised the question of from a country that backed a usher in a more hard-line AGENCIES — RIYADH for a resolution against Iran at Energy Agency’s 35-nation whether the resolution would resolution at the last board Iranian president. Saudi Arabia announced 16 next week’s meeting of the UN Board of Governors, the three be revived. meeting. “They (Iran) have obli- “No progress has been made deaths from COVID-19 and nuclear watchdog’s board European powers, with US “The May 31 report can’t be gations and they need to fulfil in the dialogue between Iran 1,201 new infections yesterday. despite Tehran’s failure to backing, prepared a draft res- ignored just because the JCPOA them.” and the agency with respect to The total number of recov- explain uranium traces found olution criticising Iran but did talks are ongoing, but a reso- It remains unclear whether providing substantiated eries in the Kingdom increased at three sites, diplomats said not formally submit it as IAEA lution is not likely now,” one a resolution would have had the answers to the IAEA’s ques- to 438,206 after 1,322 more yesterday. chief Rafael Grossi announced diplomat said, referring to the necessary support to be adopted tions,” a French foreign ministry patients recovered from the A resolution could have new talks. 2015 deal by its official name, by the board, the IAEA’s main spokeswoman said, expressing virus. A total of 7,424 people prompted an escalation Those talks - aimed at the Joint Comprehensive Plan decision-making body that “great concern” at the IAEA’s have succumbed to the virus in between Tehran and the West breathing new life into efforts of Action. meets more than once a year. report on Monday. the Kingdom so far. Over 14.6 that would have jeopardised to get Iran to explain the origin Five other diplomats said Indirect talks between Iran “We strongly urge Iran to million doses of a coronavirus talks on reviving the 2015 of the traces, which are believed there would not be a resolution and the United States on both provide such answers as swiftly vaccine have been administered nuclear deal taking place in to be linked to activities long but simply statements by coun- countries returning to full as possible,” she added. in the Kingdom to date. Jordanian ICU ward COVID-19 survivor recalls nightmare struggle

REUTERS — AMMAN hospitalised COVID-19 patients, national centre for mental Bashiti, a businessman, was health, said the ministry had set Jordanian COVID-19 survivor more concerned with getting up a 24-hour hotline to give Abdullah Bashiti still suffers back to work than taking care mental health support. disturbing flashbacks from his of his mental wellbeing. Psychiatrists are seeing time in intensive care. Jordan’s psychiatrists report more patients among previously One of the most vivid is a COVID survivors suffering from hospitalised COVID-19 sur- vision of his doctors holding anxiety, panic attacks, vivors on top of those being their hands in prayer as he depression and post traumatic treated for the impact of months regained consciousness after stress disorders that they fear of lockdown, Sarhan said. a sudden critical oxygen lapse. may never go away. “People get exposed to The 38-year-old father of “It is not enough to count instances of unusual terror in four recalls the hallucinations the number of cases and the ICU,” he said in a clinic in and delirium — from images deaths every day. Against Amman overflowing with of doomsday to a nightmare every case and death there are patients waiting to see him. of a war zone — that beset him thousands of psychiatric cases “A person who gets compli- as he struggled for life during that they (governments) do not cations and needs extreme 37 days in the ICU ward of a mention, count nor see. They measures to be saved, sees private hospital in Amman. are just abandoning people to death in his eyes, it does not After he regained con- Abdullah Bashiti, a 38-year old father of four, who recovered from coronavirus, sits with his family fend for themselves,” said differ a lot from having a sciousness one day, five doctors at home in Amman, Jordan. Walid Sarhan, a leading building collapse on someone were at his bedside saying: psychiatrist. or getting his house hit by a “Abdullah say amen, Abdullah to his closest friend, urging him message said. Bashiti was hos- Authorities scrambled to The health minister could rocket,” Sarhan added. say dear God.” to take care of his family and pitalised during a second wave add hospital beds for fear of a not immediately be reached for Jordan has had 9,500 “I really felt like I was ensure a burial washing cer- of infections that has now ebbed collapse in the health sector as comment, but officials say a COVID-19 deaths, some after fighting for my life,” Bashiti said, emony according to Muslim but which saw hundreds of ICU wards were fully occupied scramble to add hospital beds spending time in ICU wards. surrounded by his family. tradition. deaths every week, shocking and hospitals in many areas meant a lack of extra resources Total confirmed cases are In a moment of desperation “Tell my family to wash my close-knit Jordanian were close to capacity. for mental wellbeing. around 738,000 out a popu- in January, he sent a message body very, very well,” the communities. Like many of Jordan’s Nael Adwan, head of the lation of 10 million. SATURDAY 5 JUNE 2021 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 05 Syrians face ‘senseless cruelty’ if border is shut: US envoy

AP — ANKARA “In my engagement with US Ambassador Linda (the Russian ambassador to the The closure of a final humani- Thomas-Greenfield made UN), I will share with him what tarian border crossing into Syrian the comments at the end I saw on the border, the con- could cause “senseless cruelty” of a three-day visit to cerns that people have, the to millions of Syrians, the US Turkey, which included a worry that they have that this ambassador to the United one lifeline that they have for Nations said yesterday, renewing trip to the Bab Al Hawa the community and assistance a call for the UN Security Council border crossing - the sole might be closed,” she said. to extend authorization for the remaining access point Thomas-Greenfield met with delivery of cross-border human- for humanitarian aid to Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut itarian assistance. enter conflict-ravaged Cavusoglu and Ibrahim Kalin, the US Ambassador Linda presidential spokesman and top Thomas-Greenfield made the Syria. aide to President Recep Tayyip comments at the end of a three- Erdogan, during her stay in day visit to Turkey, which Turkey, which hosts some 4 included a trip to the Bab Al Security Council mandate for million Syrian refugees. Hawa border crossing - the sole humanitarian aid deliveries Ankara and Washington remaining access point for expires on July 10. There is strong once considered each other humanitarian aid to enter con- support in the 15-member strategic partners, but ties flict-ravaged Syria. council for maintaining and even steadily deteriorated in recent Tunisian President in Brussels Russia, which is Syria’s adding border crossings, but years over differences on Syria, Tunisian President Kais Saied is welcomed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen closest ally, has limited cross- Russia holds the key. Turkey’s cooperation with border transfers of humani- “We call on the rest of the Russia, and Turkish naval inter- prior to their meeting at the European Commission headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, yesterday. tarian aid in recent years, Security Council to renew this ventions in the eastern Medi- insisting that the Syrian gov- mandate so that we can stop the terranean that US officials have ernment should control all suffering and help those in des- described as destabilizing. assistance to the millions of perate need,” she said. “We “We have a nuanced, stra- Nigeria suspends Twitter two days Syrians in need. International want the UN to bring food to tegic relationship with our Nato crossing points were reduced starving children and pro- ally, Turkey. We agree on some at Russia’s insistence to the tection to homeless families. areas and we disagree on after President’s post removed single border station leading We want the UN to be able to others. Maintaining humani- from Turkey to Syria’s rebel- deliver vaccines in the middle tarian cross-border access into REUTERS — ABUJA government made the move Nigeria yesterday. held northwest. “If this border of a global pandemic.” Syria is one place where our because of “the persistent use A spokesperson for Twitter crossing is closed, it will cause Thomas-Greenfield said she values are completely aligned.” Nigeria said yesterday it had of the platform for activities did not immediately respond to senseless cruelty,” Thomas- would meet with her Russian Thomas-Greenfield said. indefinitely suspended Twitter’s that are capable of under- a request for comment on the Greenfield told reporters. counterpart and other members At Bab Al Hawa on activities, two days after the mining Nigeria’s corporate suspension. “Without this border crossing, of the Security Council to press Thursday, Thomas-Greenfield social media giant removed a existence”. Buhari’s post threatening to (Syrians) would die.” for the extended access and the announced nearly $240m in post from President He did not spell out what punish groups blamed for The United States is seeking reopening of other border additional US humanitarian Muhammadu Buhari that form the suspension would take attacks on government the reauthorization of UN crossings. US Secretary of State funding through the US Agency threatened to punish regional or give more details on the buildings was removed for vio- access at Bab al-Hawa and the Antony Blinken also plans to for International Development secessionists. undermining activities. lating Twitter’s “abusive reopening of other border discuss the issue with the Russian to support Syrians and coun- Information Minister Lai However, Twitter’s website behaviour” policy, the company crossings before the current UN foreign minister, she said. tries hosting Syrian refugees. Mohammed said the and app continued to work in said on Wednesday.

Turkish court South Africa health minister considers quitting over scandal issues 1,000-year BLOOMBERG — JOHANNESBURG matter. The third option is that the presidency. There has been Department awarded a 150m- against those responsible. While jail terms in Mkhize quit, the person said. speculation for the past year rand ($11m) contract to Digital describing public outrage as South African Health Minister Mkhize didn’t answer calls that a cabinet change is Vibes, a company controlled by “justified,” he denied playing Fenerbahce case Zweli Mkhize is considering or respond to a request for imminent. Ramaphosa said on two of Mkhize’s former aides, any role in the contract award resigning over an investigation comment sent by mobile phone. Thursday he would make an to help communicate the gov- or that he was friends with the REUTERS — ANKARA into a tendering scandal, Health Ministry spokeswoman announcement only when he ernment’s response to the coro- people working there. according to two people Lwazi Manzi didn’t respond to sees fit. navirus pandemic. The SIU plans to complete A Turkish court yesterday familiar with the matter. requests for comment sent by Gwen Ramokgopa, who is The money was largely its investigation this month, sentenced a media executive President Cyril Ramaphosa text message, and presidency in charge of health in the wasted and proper pro- state broadcaster SABC and a former police chief to discussed with Mkhize three spokesman Tyrone Seale Gauteng provincial gov- curement processes weren’t fol- reported on Thursday. more than 1,000 years each in options, including that he be declined to comment. ernment, is a favourite to lowed, news website Daily Mav- Mkhize is a political heavy- prison for conspiring to bring moved out of cabinet in a The departure of Mkhize, succeed Mkhize as minister, the erick reported. weight in South Africa; he match-fixing charges against reshuffle or that he voluntarily who’s name has been men- people said. An ally of Ram- South Africa’s Special Inves- served as treasurer-general of top soccer club Fenerbahce. step aside temporarily while the tioned as a potential successor aphosa, Ramokgopa was last tigative Unit was appointed to the ruling African National Con- Fenerbahce’s president probe continues, said one of the to Ramaphosa, would leave the month elected to the ruling probe the matter, and on May gress prior to becoming health was jailed for match-fixing a people who asked not to be president with two crucial party’s executive body. 26 Mkhize told reporters the minister and ran for the party decade ago and the club was identified because they’re not vacancies in his cabinet, the Mkhize has been under deal was irregular and disci- leadership in 2017, a contest barred from playing in authorized to speak about the other being that of minister in scrutiny after the Health plinary action would be taken that was won by Ramaphosa. European competitions for two seasons, but the case was reopened after prosecutors said it was founded on a con- Rights group urges abolition spiracy. The 2011 match-fixing charges were made by prose- of restrictive NGO law in Libya cutors linked to Fethullah Gulen, a US-based cleric who AP — CAIRO charge of authorizing new Turkey says staged an organizations, and controlling attempted coup in 2016, an A leading rights group urged their funding and activities. It accusation Gulen denies. Libya’s transitional authorities also allows the agency to Turkish soccer at the time yesterday to revoke or amend revoke their licenses based on was beset by allegations of legislation that imposes a set of vague violations. match-fixing, which Fener- sweeping restrictions on civil Libyans still live under an bahce was accused of spear- society. labyrinth of oppressive laws heading. Fenerbahce’s former Human Rights Watch issued that date back to the era of president Aziz Yildirim was a statement condemning a 2019 longtime dictator Moammar sentenced to six years in prison decree that includes “bur- Gadhafi, who was toppled and after being charged with densome registration require- killed following a Nato-backed match-fixing and forming an ments and stringent regulations uprising in 2011. The legislation illegal organisation. He spent on funding” of non-govern- continues “to instill fear and seri- a year behind bars. mental organizations in the ously impede freedom of asso- At his trial, he denied the North African country, which is ciation,” HRW added. For charges and said the case was A man receives a certificate after being vaccinated against the coronavirus at Wilkins Hospital in holding general elections in example, Libyans may face the specifically designed to Harare, Zimbabwe, in this picture taken on March 24, 2021. December. A Libyan government death penalty if they are con- undermine the Istanbul club spokesman could not be imme- demned of establishing which has won Turkey’s diately reached for comment. “unlawful” associations - a crime domestic championship 19 Zimbabwe says ‘don’t panic’ as some “This decree unjustifiably that the penal code fails to define. times. In 2016, an Istanbul restricts and muzzles civic Oil-rich Libya has experi- prosecutor’s indictment centres run out of COVID-19 vaccines organizations working in Libya enced years of conflict and alleged the 2011 match-fixing and is particularly worrisome chaos since Gadhafi’s fall. Until charges were a plot by Gulen REUTERS — HARARE just over 1.735 million doses far and that those needing in view of the need for a robust October, it had been split supporters, who had infiltrated from Sinopharm, Sinovac and second shots would get them. civil society ahead of planned between a U.N.-supported gov- the Turkish judiciary and Zimbabwe’s government said Covaxin. Some 684,164 people Mahomva said centres that elections in December,” Hanan ernment in Tripoli, and rival police, to frame the club and yesterday citizens should not have received a first dose of the were vaccinating faster than Salah, Libya director at HRW authorities based in the coun- topple its executives. panic because it had enough COVID-19 vaccine while others, especially in Harare and said in the statement. “Libyan try’s east, each backed by The court yesterday sen- COVID-19 vaccines for those another 364,240 got their second biggest city Bulawayo, authorities should urgently armed groups and foreign tenced Hidayet Karaca, who needing a second shot after some second shot. had run out vaccines. come up with regulations that governments. was the head of Samanyolu centres ran out of doses this Agnes Mahomva, the “So what the ministry is accord with Libya’s obligation A UN brokered a cease-fire media group— later shut down week and turned people away. national coordinator on gov- doing is redistributing vac- to protect freedom of that has since stopped most of by the government—to 1,406 The southern African ernment’s response to cines,” Mahomva said. “The association.” the violence also stipulates that years in jail. Karaca was nation, which aims to vaccinate COVID-19, told state broad- message that I want to bring out The decree put a gov- all foreign mercenaries should accused of instigating the 10 million people by the end of caster ZBC that just over a to the public is ‘please don’t ernment agency known as the leave, which still has not taken tapping of phone calls and the year, has to date received million doses had been used so panic’.” Commission on Civil Society in place. forging of documents. Former police chief Nazmi Ardic was sentenced to 2,170 years on charges including SA researchers hope to deter rhino poachers with radioactive markers forging documents and con- spiring against the club. The court REUTERS — JOHANNESBURG world’s largest rhino popu- properties and are also a symbol our whole aim is to find an the first to have trace amounts handed down jail sentences to at lation but has battled poaching of wealth. The study, a collab- appropriate quantity of radio- of non-radioactive, stable iso- least 25 other defendants, state- Researchers in South Africa are for decades. The rhino horn is oration between the University active material which will not topes inserted in a hole made owned news agency Anadolu working on a potentially new one of the most expensive of Witwatersrand and a global harm the animal,” said James in their horns. said. Fenerbahce Chairman Ali method to deter rhino poachers commodities in the world by team of scientists and funded Larkin, director at the radiation The study will gather Koc told reporters that yester- and smugglers by using radio- weight, fetching tens of thou- by Russia’s nuclear agency and health physics unit at the samples from the animals over day's court decision proved the active markers to make sands of dollars per Rosatom, is not using radio- University of Witwatersrand in the next three months to under- club had been the innocent victim smuggled horns detectable at kilogram. active material on the animals Johannesburg. stand how the isotope interacts of a plot against it by Gulen’s global ports of entry and less Demand is mainly from Asia yet, but hopes to if proven safe. Rhinos Igor and Denver at within the horn while assessing network. He vowed to pursue desirable to buyers. where rhino horns are believed “We are doing our the Buffalo Kloof Private Game the animals’ behaviour and legal avenues for “financial and South Africa is home to the to have potent medicinal homework at the moment and Reserve in the Eastern Cape are health, Larkin said. moral” compensation. 06 ASIA SATURDAY 5 JUNE 2021 Global response needed to contain virus variant: Indian panel REUTERS — NEW DELHI infections... and partial vacci- infections among its population and Modi’s home state of outbreaks, potentially with nation are insufficient imped- of more than 1.3 billion people. Gujarat are gradually loosening more contagious variants.” The coronavirus variant first iments to its spread, as seen in Dubbed the “delta Under fire for a slow restrictions. India yesterday reported identified in India is highly Delhi, and strong public health variant” by the World vaccine roll-out, Prime Min- In Gujarat, authorities 132,364 new coronavirus infec- infectious and can be caught response will be needed glo- Health Organization, it is ister Narendra Modi’s gov- allowed shops and other com- tions over the last 24 hours, by people who have already bally for its containment.” ernment has been in talks with mercial establishments to while deaths rose by 2,713 - the had the disease or been only The variant has spread to estimated to be 50% major foreign vaccine pro- remain open for longer hours lowest in over a month. partially vaccinated, a panel of over 50 countries, including more transmissible than ducers to boost supplies even from yesterday, the Gujarat The tally of infections stood Indian government scientists the Britain, where Prime Min- the coronavirus variant as domestic manufacturers government announced. at 28.6 million, the second said in a report published ister Boris Johnson has warned first found in Britain, scramble to boost output. “With states showing highest in the world, and the yesterday. that its rapid spread could researchers at Indian Yesterday, the United restraint in reopening, the death toll at 340,702, the health Dubbed the “delta variant” affect the reopening of the States laid out a plan to share economic recovery from this ministry said. by the World Health Organi- economy. SARS-CoV-2 Genetics 25 million surplus COVID-19 virus wave will be more Experts believe the actual zation, it is estimated to be 50% India’s new cases have Consortium and the vaccine doses with countries gradual than last year,” said numbers are far higher, as the more transmissible than the steadily declined in large cities National Centre for including India. Darren Aw, Asia Economist at official count only registers coronavirus variant first found over the past few weeks, but Disease Control said. Experts and government Capital Economics in cases where people have been in Britain, researchers at Indian rural areas remain in the grip officials have said vaccinations Singapore. tested for the virus, and in India SARS-CoV-2 Genetics Con- of a disastrous second wave of are key to opening up parts of “But the slow vaccine many people have not been sortium and the National infections. the country that have been rollout means that rapid reo- tested, especially in the rural Centre for Disease Control said. Experts have warned that the pace of vaccinations to under lockdown for weeks. pening would increase the areas, where some two-thirds They warned that “prior the country needs to ramp up avoid future surges in Some states such as Delhi threat of renewed virus of Indians live. Nepal worries Taiwan’s vaccine stocks more virus wave may than doubled by Japan donation hit children hard REUTERS — TOKYO/TAIPEI he was “extremely thankful” the REUTERS — KATHMANDU shots had arrived at a tense Japan delivered to Taiwan 1.24 moment in the island’s fight Nepal asked its hospitals million doses of AstraZeneca against the pandemic, as he yesterday to reserve beds for PLC’s coronavirus vaccine reported another 472 new children for fear another surge yesterday for free, in a gesture infections. in coronavirus infections will that will more than double the “I believe it will be very hit them hard, something offi- amount of shots the island has helpful in overall pandemic pre- cials in neighbouring India are received to date. vention,” he added. also preparing for. Taiwan is battling a spike in The donation is a triumph for Prime Minister K.P. domestic infections and has vac- Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen, Sharma Oli’s government has cinated only about 3% of its pop- who has faced public anger about been criticised by experts for ulation. Japan has agreed to the slow arrival of vaccines and its handling of the ongoing procure more than 300 million small protests by the main oppo- second wave in Nepal, which doses of coronavirus vaccines sition party, the Kuomintang, has led to an acute shortage of from Pfizer Inc, Moderna Inc and outside her offices. oxygen, hospital beds and AstraZeneca, more than enough In a live online broadcast A nurse administers a dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine against coronavirus disease during a vaccination medicines. to cover its entire population. from her office, Tsai called on session for healthcare workers in Taipei, Taiwan. “Hospitals and medical “At the time of the great east people to understand that it was institutions must set aside at Japan earthquake 10 years ago, not only Taiwan facing chal- least 20% of beds for children, people in Taiwan sent us a lot of lenges getting vaccines now, with spokesman Wang Wenbin told States to share 25 million surplus providing its COVID-19 vaccine who are likely to suffer the donations quickly. I believe that global supplies tight. reporters in Beijing that despite COVID-19 vaccine doses with the to the island since last year, but most in the potential third and is etched vividly in the minds of “Taiwan’s international situ- China’s goodwill offer of shots, world. Taiwan has received only gave no details. fourth waves of coronavirus,” Japanese people,” Foreign Min- ation is very difficult. Even before Taiwan had “lied that the about 860,000 doses so far, The J&J vaccine requires a the Ministry of Health and ister Toshimitsu Motegi said, vaccines are loaded onto the air- mainland obstructed the pro- mainly AstraZeneca shots, but single dose, rather than the two- Population said in a statement. announcing the vaccine craft, there may be variables.” vision of vaccines” to the island. also a smaller number from shot regimen of most other “Hospitals must also donation. China, which claims the island as “The Taiwan authorities for Moderna. It has ordered more COVID-19 vaccines. ensure the availability of “Such an important part- its own territory, has offered vac- their own selfish political gains than 20 million doses from Astra- Japan approved Astra- enough oxygen.” nership and friendship with cines, but Taiwan has repeatedly have engaged in political manip- Zeneca and Moderna and is also Zeneca’s vaccine last month and Daily infections in the Taiwan is reflected in this offer.” expressed concern about their ulation on vaccine issues,” he developing its own vaccines. has contracted to buy 120 million Himalayan nation are hov- The vaccines landed at Taipei’s safety and accused China of added. Though Taiwan’s share In an emailed statement to doses. But there are no imme- ering around 5,000 after main international airport early trying to block Taiwan’s vaccine has not been announced, the Reuters, Johnson & Johnson said diate plans to use the shots, amid hitting a peak of more than in the afternoon. Taiwan Health purchases internationally. island will also get shots under a that it had been in “confidential lingering concerns raised inter- 9,000 in early May. Minister Chen Shih-chung said Chinese Foreign Ministry White House plan for the United discussions” with Taiwan about nationally over blood clots. Australia finds highly Rohingya refugee boat lands in infectious Delta variant Indonesia after

REUTERS — SYDNEY neighbouring New South Wales 113 day voyage (NSW) two weeks ago while Australia’s Victoria state likely infectious and visited REUTERS — DHAKA authorities said yesterday they several popular tourist loca- had detected the highly infec- tions in the state’s south. A boat carrying dozens of tious Delta COVID-19 virus Sutton said it was “within Rohingya refugees that set sail variant for the first time in the the bounds of possibility” that in February but had been adrift latest outbreak in Melbourne, the cases could have contracted in the Andaman Sea with stoking concerns of a major the Delta variant in NSW but engine failure has landed on an spike in cases. that more tests would be Indonesian island after a The Delta variant, which needed. voyage of more than 100 days, has been classified by the NSW, Australia’s most pop- a human rights official said World Health Organisation ulous state, has not reported yesterday. (WHO) as among the four any locally acquired cases in a The vessel sailed on Feb- COVID-19 variants of concern month. ruary 11 from Cox’s Bazar in due to evidence that they Victoria, Australia’s Bangladesh carrying 90 spread more easily, likely second-most populous state, is Rohingya refugees, most of caused the latest devastating battling to contain its latest out- them women and children, outbreak in India. break — 64 cases since May 24 with the hope of reaching “It is a variant of significant — after more than three Malaysia. concern,” Victoria state Chief months of no cases, placing But the boat’s engine failed A medical worker collects a swab sample from a woman to be tested for the coronavirus disease in Health Officer Brett Sutton told tough restrictions on four days after leaving Cox’s Cyberjaya, Malaysia reporters in Melbourne. movement of people and Bazar, where refugee camps “The fact that it is a variant shutting down large parts of its house hundreds of thousands different to other cases it economy. The government has of Rohingya Muslims who have Malaysia warns of rising number of means it is not related, in terms linked all the cases to a single fled neighbouring Myanmar. of transmission, with these traveller released from quar- “We have learnt that the 81 COVID-19 deaths, cases among children cases.” Sutton said the new antine after testing negative. (refugees) were fine, they variant had not been linked to Melbourne is into a second landed on Idaman Island in REUTERS — KUALA LUMPUR Monday, Malaysian Health Min- any sequenced COVID-19 week of hard lockdown after it Aceh (Indonesia),” said Chris Malaysian Health Minister ister Adham Baba said a total of infections across Australia from was extended for another week Lewa, director of the Arakan Malaysian health authorities 82,341 children had been hotel quarantine or until June 10, but some curbs Project, a group that monitors have raised concerns about a Adham Baba has said a infected with the coronavirus elsewhere. elsewhere were eased in the the Rohingya crisis. growing number of coronavirus total of 82,341 children between January last year and “It is a concern that it is not state from Thursday night. “They are not 100% safe deaths and serious cases had been infected with May 30 this year. linked to other cases but we are Authorities blamed the there yet. We hope they will not involving children, after a surge the coronavirus between Malaysia’s total caseload chasing down all those primary extension of tough curbs in be pushed back,” Lewa said. in overall infections forced the January last year and May shot past 600,000 yesterday, case contacts... and looking into Melbourne on the Kappa Of the 90 people who set Southeast Asian nation into a the third highest total in the where it might have been variant, first detected in India, out on the voyage, eight were strict lockdown. 30 this year. region behind Indonesia and the acquired,” Sutton said. which they described as a con- found dead by Indian Coast Prime Minister Muhyiddin Philippines. The Delta variant was tagious strain, although new Guards who had tracked and Yassin declared a two-week It saw a record daily rise in detected in two members in a cases have remained in single later repaired the vessel in “total lockdown” from June 1-14, virus, up from eight cases last cases of 9,020 on Saturday, and family who travelled to digits for eight days in a row. February. as daily COVID-19 cases and year. its highest daily death toll of 126 deaths hit record numbers, with “The health ministry hopes on Wednesday. the government warning the all parties, especially parents The government may con- outbreak may be linked to more and guardians, play an sider making vaccination man- Philippine policemen to wear body cameras contagious variants. important part in protecting datory to ensure a target of REUTERS — MANILA activists who say police brutality killing. Valdez was laid to rest at Malaysia recorded the those with low immunity, such inoculating 80% of Malaysia’s has become systematic under a ceremony yesterday. deaths of three children aged as babies and children, from 32 million people is met and Hundreds of police in the Philip- President Rodrigo Duterte and his Philippine police have been below five due to the corona- COVID-19,” Noor Hisham said legal action might be taken pines will start wearing body bloody war on drugs. accused of executing suspects virus in the first five months of in a statement. against anti-vaxxers, state cameras during operations, its The shooting of Lilibeth then staging crime scenes and this year, the same number Noor Hisham did not say newswire Bernama cited the police chief said yesterday, Valdez, 52, was recorded on a fabricating reports, emboldened recorded over the whole of how many children had been prime minister as saying. heeding demands from human mobile phone and shared on by what activists say is a culture 2020, according to Health Min- tested for COVID-19 or if “I hope we can speed up rights groups for accountability social media. Policeman Hensie of impunity under Duterte. Police istry director-general Noor authorities planned to ramp up vaccinations. What is important after thousands of killings and Zinampan was seen in the video and government reject that. Hisham Abdullah. testing among minors. is not to have people saying allegations of cover-ups. pulling Valdez’s hair before he Police chief Guillermo Eleazar A total of 27 children, Neighbouring Singapore don’t get vaccinated,” he said. The announcement came shot her in the neck. Adminis- said to combat police abuses and including 19 below the age of also warned last month that new About 2.2 million people after public outrage over the fatal trative and criminal charges have erase doubts about the legitimacy five, also had to be treated in coronavirus variants, such as the had received at least one shooting on Monday of a woman been filed against him. of operations, more than 600 intensive care between January one first detected in India, were vaccine dose as of yesterday, by an off-duty policeman, which The Commission on Human officers would be using body- and May after contracting the affecting more children. On the health ministry said. led to condemnation from Rights said it was investigating the worn cameras yesterday. SATURDAY 5 JUNE 2021 ASIA / EUROPE 07 Pakistan seeks Afghan settlement before foreign troop pullout, says PM

REUTERS — ISLAMABAD/ WASHINGTON “There is a lot of fear decades-long policy of pushing right now in Pakistan for “strategic depth” in Afghan- Prime Minister Imran Khan said istan to ensure that there was a Pakistan is pushing for a political and I assure you friendly government there. settlement in Afghanistan before that we are trying “Any Afghan government foreign troops leave later this our level best that chosen by the people is who year, to reduce the risk of civil Pakistan should deal with,” war in its western neighbour. there is some sort of Khan said, adding that Pakistan The United States has said political settlement “should not try to do any it will withdraw all its troops before the Americans manipulation in Afghanistan”. from Afghanistan on September Khan said a lot depended on 11 after a two-decade presence. leave,” Imran Khan US special envoy Zalmay Kha- More than 20 allied coun- said. lilzad, with Pakistan’s and tries plan to follow suit. “There Afghanistan’s help, to carve out Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan speaks during an interview with Reuters in Islamabad, yesterday. is a lot of fear right now in a settlement to avoid more Pakistan and I assure you that Americans gave a date, of when bloodshed. restore Taliban rule two engaged through our full dip- internally displaced, 115,000 of we are trying our level best that they were going to leave In Washington, meanwhile, decades after the Islamists were lomatic, economic, and whom have been driven from there is some sort of political Afghanistan... the Taliban feel the United States yesterday driven from power. assistance toolkit to support the their homes by fighting this year settlement before the Amer- they have won the war,” Khan announced more than $266m Officials of the adminis- peaceful, stable future the alone, it said. icans leave,” Khan told Reuters said, adding it was not going to in new humanitarian aid for tration of US President Joe Afghan people want and The funds, it continued, will yesterday at his official resi- be easy to get concessions from Afghanistan as part of what it Biden have vowed to continue deserve,” the State Department go to providing shelter, job dence in Islamabad. the Taliban after the US called an enduring US com- US military and civilian aid to said in a statement. opportunities, basic healthcare, Violence in Afghanistan has decision. Khan said Pakistan mitment to the war-torn Kabul. But they warned it could The $266m in new emergency food, water, sani- risen sharply since the troop would suffer the most, after country. be suspended if there is back- assistance brings to nearly tation, and hygienic services in withdrawal announcement, Afghanistan itself, if there was The announcement comes tracking on progress made in $3.9bn the total amount of such response to the COVID-19 pan- with the insurgent Taliban civil war and a refugee crisis. amid unrelenting violence and human rights, especially those aid provided by the United demic. It also will support pro- resisting pressure from Wash- “And then there would be a stalled peace process that are of women and girls. States since 2002, the statement tection programs for “the most ington and its allies to agree to pressure on us to jump in and fueling fears that the departure “As the United States with- said. The funds will help support vulnerable Afghans”, including a political understanding become a part of it,” Khan said. of US-led international forces draws military forces from some of the estimated 18 million women and girls “facing par- leading to a peace deal. He said his government had is putting Afghanistan on a path Afghanistan, our enduring com- Afghans in need, including more ticular risks, including gender- “Since the moment the changed Pakistan’s to all-out civil war that could mitment is clear. We remain than 4.8 million who are based violence”, it said.

Rich states haven’t done enough for UK to protect population the environment, before donating vaccines says Pakistan PM abroad, says minister REUTERS — ISLAMABAD REUTERS — OXFORD clinical trials, as well as support The world’s richest countries for vaccine donations when have not done enough to Britain’s Health Secretary Matt domestic circumstances allowed. combat global warming, Hancock said yesterday that US President Joe Biden out- Pakistan Prime Minister Imran vaccinating children in the lined plans to share 25 million Khan said yesterday, adding United Kingdom against surplus vaccines globally on his country had done more COVID-19 would take priority Thursday, while France also than any other in the world to over donating vaccine doses to said it would donate doses to combat rising emissions other countries around the Senegal. But although Britain relative to its economic means. world. has given a first COVID-19 Pakistan, this year’s host Britain’s medicine regulator vaccine to three-quarters of of the United Nations’ annual yesterday approved Pfizer/ adults, and fully vaccinated half World Environment Day on BioNTech’s vaccine for use in the adult population, Hancock June 5, is among the countries 12-15 year olds, but global said the country was not yet in worst affected by climate health bodies warn that if rich a position to donate doses. change, having been regularly Hundreds gather near HK park countries prioritise low-risk Britain has ordered over hit by devastating floods in members of their own popula- 500 million doses of COVID-19 People flash lights from their mobile phones, as they walk on the road outside Victoria Park in Hong recent years, displacing hun- tions over broadening access vaccine for its population of 67 Kong, China, yesterday. Hundreds of people gathered near the despite a ban on an annual candlelight dreds of thousands of people globally, they risk disaster. million, most of which are two- and destroying swathes of vigil to remember China’s crackdown in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, and the arrest earlier in the Asked he would prioritise shot vaccines. agricultural land. day of an organiser of previous vigils. Hong Kong police banned the vigil for a second straight year, vaccinating teenagers over “As and when the UK has “Has the developed world citing coronavirus social distancing restrictions. more vulnerable people glo- excess doses of vaccine, then, done enough: The answer is no,” bally, Hancock said “my first if we don’t need them, we’ll Khan said in an interview with duty as health secretary for the make sure they’re available to Reuters. “Emissions are from UK is to make sure that the UK others,” Hancock said. “But at the rich countries. And I think MH17 plane crash families prepare is protected and safe". the moment we don’t have any they know they haven’t done "Whilst thankfully children excess doses, because as soon enough.” This year’s World are very rarely badly affected as the doses are available for Environment Day will serve as for critical trial phase on Monday by COVID themselves, they can the UK, we get them injected the launch of the UN Decade on still pass on the disease, and so into British arms.” Ecosystem Restoration, calling REUTERS — AMSTERDAM of them Dutch nationals. a team of international inves- that is my first duty,” Hancock Hancock said Britain had for urgent action to revive Dutch judges overseeing the tigators concluded in May 2018 said after a meeting of G7 already taken a huge step by damaged ecosystems. Families of people who died in murder trial of three Russians that the missile launcher used healthcare ministers in Oxford, making the Oxford/Astra- Under Khan, Pakistan has the 2014 downing of Malaysia and a Ukrainian man accused to shoot down the aircraft central England. Zeneca shot available at cost, undertaken a number of res- Airlines flight MH17 said they of having responsibility for the belonged to Russia’s 53rd Anti- “Alongside that I’m working citing how half a billion doses toration projects, including a were preparing to hear painful downing will summarise evi- Aircraft Missile Brigade. with my international col- of the vaccine had already been 10 billion tree-planting drive. details when a critical stage of dence at the hearing in a high- The Dutch government leagues to make sure that delivered globally. This week Khan planted the a trial over the crash starts on security courtroom next to holds Moscow responsible. people can get access to the “The truth is you don’t need billionth tree in that drive. Monday. Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport. Russia denies any involvement. vaccine around the world.” an IP waiver in order to deliver The UN Environment Pro- MH17 was flying from “On the one hand we want Prosecutors will present evi- Hancock had hosted health vaccines, without any charge gramme (UNEP) said in a Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur to know exactly what hap- dence and may call witnesses. ministers from the Group of for the intellectual property report released yesterday that when it was shot down by a pened, why it happened and None of the defendants are in Seven (G7) rich countries met at rights, you can just get on and over the last five years missile fired from territory held who was responsible, but the custody. One, Russian Oleg the University of Oxford, where do it,” Hancock said. “It doesn’t Pakistan had experienced an by pro-Russian rebels during price you pay for that is that there Pulatov, is represented in the AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine need us to change the intel- environmental turnaround fighting with Ukrainian gov- is also information released that proceedings and has said he was invented, ahead of a G7 lectual property rules because after years of decline in its ernment troops, international could be shocking,” Piet Ploeg, a had no involvement in the leaders’ meeting next week. they are important rules for natural capital, but added investigators say. All 298 people spokesman for the relatives, said. crash. The other three are being The ministers agreed a new future investment in future more needed to be done. on board were killed, two-thirds After years of collecting evidence, tried in absentia. set of standards to improve vaccines.” More cyclones than usual Pakistan produces CanSinoBio vaccine, brands it PakVac forecast for East Asia REUTERS — ISLAMABAD Ikram said the transfer of technology could help Pakistan to eventually manufacture REUTERS — SINGAPORE Vietnam, and the Philippines, Pakistan has started producing the single the vaccine. said weather forecasters at the dose Chinese CanSinoBio COVID-19 vaccine To be more cost effective, 10 doses of Half of the roughly 20 tropical City University of Hong Kong, to be able to deliver 3 million doses a PakVac will be filled into one vial. According cyclones expected to form in while Japan and Korea may month, health officials said. to the officials, PakVac will save around 25% the western Pacific Ocean only experience two. Branded PakVac, an initial batch of on vaccine cost, which according to gov- through September this year That total exceeds the 118,000 doses of the vaccine is ready to be ernment figures amounts to $250m so far. are predicted to hit land in East region’s 30-year average of 13.5 delivered to the government soon, the Pakistan, which has a population of 220 Asian nations, forecasters said cyclones in the months from National Institute of Health (NIH) said two million people, faced initial vaccination yesterday, making for a season April to September, according to days after the inauguration of the pro- hesitancy and a shortage of vaccine sup- that is busier than usual. the forecast. “The number of duction plant in Islamabad. plies, but last week started mass vaccination Tropical cyclones, also tropical cyclones predicted to Pakistan signed a deal with CansinoBio for all adults. It has so far relied heavily on known as typhoons and hurri- form between April 1 and Sep- in late March to import a concentrate of the its ally China in vaccine procurement and canes, can pack wind speeds tember 3 is near- to above- vaccine in bulk to process and package the of the six vaccines approved for use in ranging from 63kph to 250kph, normal,” the university’s Guy vaccine locally. “This is a co-production Pakistan, three — Sinopharm, SinoVac and and the accompanying rain and Carpenter Asia-Pacific Climate along with CanSino in Pakistan,” professor CanSinoBio — are from China. storm surges can devastate Impact Center said in its forecast. Aamer Ikram, the NIH’s executive director, A vial and a pack of PakVac COVID-19 vaccine, The government says it has procured coastal regions. Such storms Global warming is increas- said. which is being produced locally, is seen at over 18 million vaccine doses via purchases have wrought havoc running ingly making storms more fero- Ikram said the Chinese firm was sup- the National Institute of Health (NIH) in or donations from China and allocations into damages of more than cious, atmospheric scientists plying a vaccine concentrate which the Islamabad, Pakistan, on Thursday. from the World Health Organisation and $175bn across Asia in the past warn, even if their total number plant then formulated, processed and the GAVI Vaccine Alliance. decade, international disaster is expected to remain the same packaged. CanSinBio had transferred some said. The plant will start producing 3 million The inoculation programme has admin- database EM-DAT shows. or decrease in future. Rising air of its production technology to Pakistan doses a month starting July, he said. istered 8.5 million doses of coronavirus vac- Five storms each are and sea surface temperatures and is supervising operations, he said. At the plant’s inauguration on Tuesday, cines so far, according to official figures. forecast to hit land in the help fuel stronger storms, with Quality control was being carried out Health Minister Faisal Sultan described the Pakistan reported more than 928,000 coro- regions of Eastern China and the potential for faster wind by Pakistan. “We’ve acquired technology local production a “milestone in the journey navirus infections and 21,105 deaths, with Taiwan, southern China and speeds and heavier rain. and expertise to ensure quality control,” he to achieve to self-reliance”. Both him and 1,893 cases and 83 fatalities yesterday. 08 VIEWS SATURDAY 5 JUNE 2021 Spread cheers. Happiness is greatest! Established in 1996

CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI

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

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected] DR. YOUSUF ALI AL MULLA

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR Nowadays you will see MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI yourself and even people [email protected] around you overwhelmed with reasons to be anxious and angry about issues bigger or smaller. There is so much suffering in the world and it EDITORIAL looks that COVID-19 pandemic has made this clear file photo of nurses and medical workers reacting as police officers and pedestrians cheer them to even the most oblivious outside Lenox Hill Hospital, in New York. Cementing Qatar-Russia ties among us. I believe that we all are happier disposition on its remarkable issues with this there is an opportunity to THE participation of the State of Qatar in St. Petersburg familiar with what some own think might lead to framing. You agree with me improve things through International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2021 as a guest people doing, meaning greater well-being. In turn, that unhappy behavior social change, you are more country reflects the strength of Qatar-Russia laughing on the outside and being forced to act happily leads to real unhappiness. likely to achieve it if you are relations. crying on the inside. Where can have serious conse- Hence, when you describe motivated, such a goal in life. A number of Qatari ministries and public sector quences, from depression to yourself as depressed can The point is not that you have organisations are participating in the forum to highlight Showing joy in our cardiovascular disease. The lead you to think negatively to pretend that the status is Qatar’s robust economy and country’s leading position implications are fairly about yourself and suffer okay, but that optimism at regional and international levels. hearts and sharing straightforward: act the way from depression. Likewise, about positive change is the Through this participation, Qatari officials are also high- it with others will you want to feel, but don’t acting angrily can make you best way to make people lighting country’s attractive investment environment and ask others to act the way you even angrier. Second, being want to join you in that growing IT sector. No doubt, Qatar’s participation in SPIEF improve our lives. want them to feel. unhappy, angry, or changes. 2021 will also open new vistas of cooperation between And if the state of the The opposite of that you depressed about the At end, showing joy in our two friendly states taking existing ties to new heights. life around you has will see that some people problems of the world will hearts and sharing it with Yesterday, Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al crying on the outside and not make it any better. Con- others will improve our lives. Thani participated in the main and discussion sessions really pushed you into laughing on the inside may versely, research has long And if the state of the life via videoconferencing of the St. Petersburg Interna- the worse climate, have some limited benefits found that our facial around you has really pushed tional Economic Forum (SPIEF 2021) with the partici- .Can I say that, there is some expressions and emotions, you into the worse climate, pation of President of the Russian Federation, H E remember that finding evidence that displaying neg- including negativity, are remember that finding and Vladimir Putin; President of the Argentine Republic, H and spreading joy in ative emotions such as highly contagious. spreading joy in an imperfect E Alberto Fernandez; President of the Federative sadness and anger can help us So for instance, if you find world will make life better for Republic of Brazil, H E Jair Bolsonaro, and Chancellor an imperfect world gain more empathy from yourself chronically angry or you. of the Republic of Austria, H E Sebastian Kurz. will make life better others and even make us constantly complaining Dr.Yousuf Ali Al Mulla. a H H the Amir said that the State of Qatar is one of more attractive. But it almost about the people around you, physician, medical inno- the largest foreign investors in Russia, with diversified for you. certainly won’t make us any you may actually be unhappy vator and writer .For any investments amounting to more than $13bn, looking happier. about aspects of your life. If queries regarding the con- forward to doubling them in the future and stressing However, what I would so, work on understanding tents of article can be con- the State of Qatar’s confidence in the Russian economy. like to emphasis in my your feelings by sitting down tacted at: dryusufalmulla@ Meanwhile on Thursday, during official reception of article that, there are two with them. If you believe gmail.com the State of Qatar at SPIEF 2021, Deputy Prime Min- ister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said that the participation of Qatar in SPIEF 2021 is a great oppor- Central banks finally grasp the need for daring climate action tunity to enhance Qatari-Russian ties, which have grown Kate Mackenzie central banks started consid- for most of them is to Committee discussed climate greatly in recent years under the wise leadership of Amir KATE MACKENZIE ering global warming seri- maintain price and financial for the first time. H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and President BLOOMBERG ously about five years ago. stability, which is directly At the conference, Bun- of the Russian Federation H E Vladimir Putin. The logic goes like this: threatened by global desbank President Jens Wei- Separately during the inauguration of the Qatari- If there's any topic that might climate-related financial risks warming. Oman and dmann also acknowledged Russian Business Dialogue, Minister of Commerce & get staid central bankers to are largely due to a lack of Svartzman point out that if the ECB may have to even- Industry and Acting Minister of Finance, H E Ali bin Ahmed feel justified in ditching their information, so all regulators central banks limit them- tually limit purchases of Al Kuwari, said the volume of trade exchange between carefully calibrated language, have to do is mandate the selves to modeling scenarios bonds from certain sectors or the State of Qatar and the Russian Federation has it would be a conference on right disclosures. Once that and developing stress tests, issuers for climate-related increased by 47 percent during the past two years, to global warming. Almost all of data is available, the market while waiting for potentially reasons. It was a striking reach $296m in 2020, compared to $201.16m in 2019. them agree it's a grave naturally prices in the risk stronger policy action from statement for the ECB board Investment Promotion Agency of Qatar (IPA Qatar) problem. and adjusts appropriately. It's others, climate-related member, who only six months has also signed three memoranda of understanding with At a Bank for International up to politicians to impose threats to financial stability ago argued that such pur- each of BI.ZONE, a cybersecurity company; Accord Pitch Settlements summit this policies such as a carbon price will only grow. chases should adhere to the Doha, a Russian transportation and hospitality service week, the most high-profile or a ban on fossil-fuel invest- There are ways for principle of "market neu- provider; and WadiWater, an innovative agricultural and climate event so far to bring ments. If that doesn't happen, central banks to take an trality." Sarah Bloom Raskin, water technology company, at the national pavilion of together top central bank offi- it's not up to monetary policy active role in reducing a former Federal Reserve the State of Qatar participating SPIEF 2021. The value cials, we got the most strident officials to go beyond devel- climate risks while staying official, challenged the of investments of the signed agreements is expected to remarks yet acknowledging oping scenarios and stress within their mandate. A assumption of central banks amount to more than QR145m, as these agreements will the nature of the crisis and the tests. January 2020 paper pub- and market regulators that support Russian investments in various sectors. need for preventive action. The insistence on more lished by BIS has a few sug- the current settings of their While there was little talk of data and analysis is at odds gestions: coordinating with tools are adequate for the vast thorny issues, such as the with the dangers we face. The fiscal and prudential author- and costly changes afoot. need to immediately halt implications of heat-trapping ities, supporting reforms to Climate change is dif- fossil-fuel developments, gases accruing in the atmos- safeguard the climate in the ferent from any of the D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR some speakers expressed a phere don't allow for half- international financial drivers of past financial system and making changes crises. When both the EMAIL: [email protected] willingness to use bond pur- measures, even within strictly chases and other monetary defined parameters of safe- to accounting rules. Such economy and the atmos- policy tools to prod the world guarding financial stability. actions will "no doubt be dif- phere are changing simulta- EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 ficult to take," the authors neously, we have to rethink FAX: +974 4455 7758 toward lower emissions. How do you measure the Could it mark a turning impact of a marginal ton of say, but are essential to pre- risk management and MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 point? Central bankers are carbon dioxide released when serving financial and mon- market neutrality. Central loath to overstep their bound- some scientists believe we're etary stability. bankers who've delved into DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 aries, and critics are quick to already close to dangerous There are encouraging the issue invariably find pounce when they appear to. tipping points? signs central bankers are themselves questioning if LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 Former U.S. Treasury Sec- A paper published last realizing that the unprece- the usual approach is BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 retary Lawrence Summers month by William Oman, an dented nature of the climate sufficient. said as much last month, International Monetary Fund problem means they have to There is a coherent case SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 when he argued that central economist, and Romain take action, rather than just for them to take stronger banks are focusing too much Svartzman, who works at the monitor data and respond. action. Officials don't have to ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 on the risks of climate change French central bank, con- Last year, European shirk their climate responsi- email: [email protected] "in order to be relevant" cludes that it's "inherently dif- Central Bank executive board bilities over accusations of pandering, mandate limits or PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 instead of preparing for future ficult" to measure the social, member Isabel Schnabel said email: [email protected] pandemics. Summers is a paid economic and financial that central banks "should not demands for unfeasibly Bloomberg contributor. impacts of climate-induced contribute" to the problem of precise analysis. The Larry MARKETING: TEL: 4455 7657 At the BIS's Green Swan mass migrations and conflicts. climate change, suggesting Summers of the world might email: [email protected] conference, climate has so far "Even if climate-related the ECB has a responsibility never get it. Conservative pol- mostly been treated like just financial risks could be not just to respond to climate iticians, even less so. Fortu- ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 857 another risk. All we need is measured, it is not clear that it change, but to mitigate it as nately, that doesn't matter. FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] new analytical methods and would be possible to manage well. The Bank of England is Kate Mackenzie writes the CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 data and perhaps some them," they wrote. planning to "green" its cor- Stranded Assets column for email: [email protected] tweaks to financial regulation Politicians who say com- porate bond purchases and its Bloomberg Green. She advises to standardize and mandate bating climate change isn't a governor, Andrew Bailey, said organizations working to SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 risk disclosure. That's been job for central banks are at the BIS conference this limit climate change to the FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected] the prevailing view since wrong. A core responsibility week that its Monetary Policy Paris agreement goals.

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar UNHCR strongly opposes efforts that seek to externalise or outsource asylum and /Peninsula_Qatar international protection obligations to other /ThePeninsulaNewspaper countries.

+974 6698 6188 Filippo Grandi, UN High Commissioner for Refugees SATURDAY 5 JUNE 2021 EUROPE 09 Putin says he wants better ties with Biden

BLOOMBERG & AP — MOSCOW Putin yesterday again the safest and most efficient” urged the Russians to and emphasizing that there Russian President Vladimir have been no fatalities linked Putin said he hopes a summit move more quickly to to their use. Putin invited with his US counterpart Joe get the shots, noting foreign nationals to visit Russia Biden this month in Geneva will to get the coronavirus shots, help to improve fraught ties, that the Russia- saying he would instruct the though he accused Washington designed vaccines government to move quickly to of trying to keep his country have been “proven facilitate that. down. In his speech, Putin also “We must try to find a way to be the safest and emphasized the need to to resolve these relations, most efficient” and strengthen the international they’re at rock bottom today,” response to climate change, Putin said at the St. Petersburg emphasizing that there noting that melting permafrost International Economic Forum have been no fatalities has mounted a major challenge yesterday. “We don’t have any to Russia’s Arctic regions. “We issues with the US,” Putin said. linked to their use. have entire cities built on per- The main problem is that Mos- mafrost,” he said. “What will cow’s former Cold War rival happen if it all starts melting?” “wants to hold back our devel- neighbouring countries and his Putin also deplored what opment and they talk about this treatment of political opponents he described as the US use of publicly,” he added. have led to a series of US sanc- the dollar as a political The two leaders plan to tions against Russia. Accusations weapon, saying that “its use as discuss issues ranging from dis- of interference in the 2016 US an instrument of competition armament to global conflicts, election have continued to cast a and political struggle has hurt terrorism and the fight against cloud on the relationship. Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers a speech during a session of the St. Petersburg International its role as the world reserve the coronavirus pandemic, he The Russian President Economic Forum (SPIEF) in St. Petersburg, Russia, yesterday. currency.” said. The meeting planned for rejected criticism of a crackdown Russia announced on June 16 in the Swiss city marks on critics in his country, saying pandemic and called for a Last year, Russia boasted of whether Russia will be able to Thursday that it will completely the first time the Russian and that the demonstrators who stronger global response to being the first in the world to meet the government’s target remove the US dollar from its US leaders will see each other stormed the US Capitol on global warming as he sought to authorize a coronavirus vaccine, of vaccinating more than 30 National Wealth Fund and turn face to face since Biden came January 6 to protest Biden’s bolster Russia’s international but it has since moved slowly in million of the country’s 146 the dollar-denominated assets to office in January. election had political demands standing. getting its population immunized. million people by mid-June, and into euros, yuan and gold. Despite escalating tensions, but are facing criminal charges. Addressing the forum, Putin The slack pace of vaccination has nearly 69 million by August. Russia long has moved to both sides have shown an “This is double standards, we lauded the efficiency of Russian- been partly attributed to public Putin yesterday again urged reduce the dollar’s share in its interest in reducing the level of have to get rid of that,” he said. designed vaccines and bemoaned skepticism about the vaccines the Russians to move more hard currency reserves as it has confrontation and negotiating Speaking on other issues, what he described as “politically- amid controversial signals from quickly to get the shots, noting faced waves of US sanctions a new nuclear arms pact. Putin praised his country’s motivated bans” in some coun- the authorities. that the Russia-designed vac- amid tensions with Washington Putin’s aggression toward response to the COVID-19 tries on their purchase. Experts have questioned cines have been “proven to be and its allies. EU bans Belarus airlines; oppn urges G7 sanctions New virus spread raises

REUTERS — BRUSSELS/WARSAW take off from or overfly their Pratasevich and his girlfriend 2020, said that Group of Seven territories to any aircraft amounted to state piracy and countries should work together concerns over England’s Belarus carriers will be banned operated by Belarusian air car- must not be tolerated. to impose new sanctions. from flying over European Union riers,” EU governments said. Belarus President Alexander Leaders of Canada, France, June 21 unlocking territory or having access to its The ban also includes mar- Lukashenko has said Prata- Germany, Italy, Japan, Britain airports effective yesterday, the keting carriers, which sell seats sevich was plotting a rebellion, and the United States are REUTERS — OXFORD Britain reported 6,238 bloc said, as the country’s exiled on planes operated by another and accused the West of waging expected to discuss Belarus on new coronavirus opposition leader called for more airline as part of a code-share a hybrid war against him. June 11, but host Britain has not The prevalence of COVID-19 joint Western sanctions. agreement. On Wednesday, the National carrier Belavia flies yet accepted a French call to infections in England almost infections yesterday, The EU decision is part of European Union Aviation Safety to some 20 airports in Europe invite the Belarusian opposition doubled in the last week of the highest number planned punitive measures Agency issued a safety directive including in Germany, France, to the event. May and the estimated repro- against Belarus in response to saying all EU aircraft should Italy and Austria. Enforcement “Pressure is more powerful duction “R” number crept up since late March and Minsk scrambling a warplane also avoid Belarus air space of the ban on Belarus carriers will when these countries are acting as the “Delta” variant became up from 5,274 on to force the landing on May 23 unless in an emergency. fall to national EU governments, jointly and we are calling on the more widespread, raising Thursday. of a Ryanair flight carrying an Global airline industry body many of whom are also members UK, the USA, the European worries about the country’s opposition journalist, who was IATA criticised the decision, of Nato, who can scramble fighter Union and Ukraine,” Tsikha- unlocking plans. then arrested. which will make flights to Asia jets to protect their air space. nouskaya said. EU govern- COVID-19 restrictions in central England, yesterday. The move is due to take longer and more costly. Speaking in Poland, oppo- ments say they are looking at England are due to end on June “That link has been broken effect at midnight Central However, the EU and Nato sition leader Sviatlana Tsikha- targeting sectors that play a 21, but the swift spread of the by the vaccine, but it hasn’t European Time (2200 GMT), believe the forced landing of the nouskaya, who fled Belarus for central role in Belarus’ Delta variant first detected in been completely severed yet, and requires EU member states flight from Athens to Vilnius to Lithuania following disputed economy, to inflict real pun- India is now threatening the and that’s one of the things that “to deny permission to land in, arrest journalist Raman presidential elections in August ishment on Lukashenko. timetable. British Prime Min- we’re watching very carefully.” ister Boris Johnson said on He said that until data had been Wednesday that he would be assessed, it was too early to say Switzerland to cautious in lifting restrictions what the decision would be on but there was nothing in the final easing of lockdown. launch COVID-19 current data to suggest a delay. Britain as a whole reported But yesterday, the Office for 6,238 new coronavirus infec- certificates to National Statistics said an esti- tions yesterday, the highest ease travel mated 1 in 640 people in England number since late March and had COVID-19 in the week up from 5,274 on Thursday, REUTERS — ZURICH ending May 29, compared to 1 in government data showed. The 1,120 a week earlier, marking the number of deaths remained rel- Switzerland will start distrib- highest proportion since the first atively low, however, with 11 uting “COVID-19 certificates” half of April. Britain’s health min- more reported, reflecting the next week to people who have istry estimated that the repro- impact of a vaccination cam- been vaccinated, tested negative duction “R” number in England paign that has delivered one or recovered from infection as was 1.0 to 1.2 — the second week dose to three-quarters of adults a way to ease travel in Europe, it has been over 1 — and the epi- and two to just over half. the government said yesterday. demic could be growing by as Last month, Public Health It was still working out much as 3% each day. England said two shots of details of when a certificate — Asked if the data was COVID-19 vaccine were almost available in hard copy and moving in the wrong direction, as effective against the Delta electronic format — must be Health Secretary Matt Hancock variant as they were against the presented domestically and said the rise in cases was not UK variant. The Delta variant, which restrictions may be unexpected given the easing of which is now dominant in lifted for bearers including restrictions in recent months. Britain according to Public those seeking to attend events. “The critical thing is the Health England, is thought to “The goal of the certificate impact on the number of spread more rapidly than the is clear: It should create Migrants' woes people who end up in hospital previously dominant UK freedom of movement by for any given number of cases,” variant, although experts say An aerial view of the destroyed Moria camp for refugees and migrants on the island of Lesbos, Greece, showing one has been vacci- he told Reuters after a meeting that vaccines still offer pro- on Thursday. Picture taken with a drone. nated, recovered or tested. In of G7 ministers in Oxford, tection against severe disease. particular it will make travel in the Schengen area simpler,” Finance Minister Ueli Maurer Spain to vaccinate school kids said in Bern, referring to the WHO warns of ‘failure’ unless rich 26-member passport-free zone in Europe that includes two weeks before term starts Switzerland. nations speed up vaccine sharing The EU reached a deal in REUTERS — MADRID age groups and is now focusing May on similar COVID-19 cer- on people aged 50-59, with REUTERS — GENEVA available in the short-term in vaccine export disruptions and tificates, with its scheme to be Spain plans to start vaccinating some regions making a start on June, July and August when they delays in getting other vaccines ready by July 1. An ordinance children between 12 and 17 years 40-49 year olds. Wealthy countries need to give can make a difference in online meant that the COVAX creating the legal foundation old around two weeks before the “The idea we have is...that more COVID-19 vaccines and slowing the pace of infections sharing scheme had a gap of for launching the Swiss system academic year starts in before the start of the school follow the United States in in the global pandemic. around 200 million doses. takes effect on Monday, when September, the health minister year approximately... two making doses available imme- “We are going to need twice India’s Serum Institute has the first certificates will start said yesterday, as the country weeks before, to be able to start diately to cover a 200 million that much and it’s got to be diverted AstraZeneca supplies to roll out. They will be neared a milestone of fully inoc- this inoculation of our ado- dose gap caused by Indian brought forward,” he said, to the domestic market amid a available to the general public ulating 10 million people. lescent boys and girls,” Health supply disruptions and manu- referring to the size of wealthy devastating second wave in by the end of June at the latest. Last week, the European Minister Carolina Darias said. facturing delays, a WHO senior country donations so far as G7 India and is expected to lift Switzerland’s certificates Commission authorized Pfizer The proposal must be rat- adviser said yesterday. health ministers meet in Oxford. those restrictions in the fourth are designed to protect indi- and BioNTech’s vaccine to be ified by her ministry’s public Warning of a “two-track “We don’t have enough quarter when other products viduals’ privacy and includes used in children as young as 12 health commission. Authorities recovery”, the World Health confirmed doses from enough earmarked for COVAX are also apps for storing and checking but left decisions on when to were on track to meet a target Organization is urging wealthy countries early enough to get due online. the certificates that will be roll out the shots up to member of immunizing 70% of the pop- countries to donate their the world on track to get out of “All of that is going to arrive available free of charge in states. Germany announced ulation by mid-August. surplus doses to poorer coun- this...,” he said. “We are setting at the same time,” said Aylward. Google and Apple app stores. plans to begin vaccinating Spain plans to reopen to tries instead of giving them to up for failure if we don’t get Even after a summit this Swiss officials said the system youngsters from June 7, while international tourism on less vulnerable groups, such as early doses.” week that secured an additional was compatible with European Italy said it would soon extend Monday, letting in leisure trav- children. They have so far He praised a US plan $2.4bn in pledges, a nearly Union norms. Switzerland’s its campaign to include children. ellers from any country as long donated 150 million doses via announced on Thursday to $17bn funding gap for the rising vaccinations and falling Unlike those two countries, as they have received a full the COVAX sharing scheme. quickly share 25 million doses WHO’s “ACT Accelerator” to infections have prompted the which have opened up vaccines course of a World Health However, Bruce Aylward and encouraged other wealthy back COVID-19 vaccines, treat- nation to accelerate its eco- to all adults, Spain is progres- Organisation-approved vaccine said yesterday that only a small countries to follow suit. ments and diagnostics remains, nomic re-opening. sively working its way through two weeks before arrival. portion of those doses will be Aylward estimated that Indian he said. 10 AMERICAS SATURDAY 5 JUNE 2021 Facebook suspends Trump for 2 years

REUTERS — WASHINGTON Facebook said the suspension, which will last until at least January 2023 from January Facebook Inc yesterday suspended former President 7 when Trump was initially blocked after the Donald Trump from its platform Capitol riot, will only be lifted if the risk to until at least January 2023 and public safety has receded. Trump has been announced changes to how it will treat rule-breaking world permanently banned by Twitter and remains leaders in the future. suspended by Alphabet’s YouTube after the Facebook said the sus- riot. The former president, who this week shut pension, which will last at least two years from January 7 when down his recently-launched blog, has teased he was initially blocked after plans to launch his own platform but his team the Capitol riot, will only be lifted if the risk to public safety has given little detail. has receded. Trump called the Facebook suspension “an insult” to Americans who voted enforced because the guidelines. Facebook and Twitter for him. company said his posts were Inc have long held that world Biden in Maryland This new timeline denies inciting violence. However, leaders, politicians and elected US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden are greeted as they arrive at Joint Base Andrews, Trump a major social media the board ruled it was wrong officials should be given greater Maryland, US, yesterday. megaphone ahead of the to make the ban indefinite and latitude on their platforms than November 2022 national called for a “proportionate ordinary users. midterm elections, when his response”. In a major reversal, Facebook party will be competing for Trump said in a statement said yesterday that it would end Congressional seats. However, yesterday, “Facebook’s ruling its policy that shields politicians US govt finds no evidence aerial it means he may be able to is an insult to the record-setting from some content moderation return to Facebook well before 75M people, plus many others, rules because their content is the next presidential election who voted for us in the 2020 considered “newsworthy”. It will sightings were alien spacecraft in late 2024. Rigged Presidential Election. also disclose when it does use Trump has been perma- They shouldn’t be allowed to this exemption. REUTERS — NEW YORK Pentagon task force were stoked in recent weeks by the nently banned by Twitter and get away with this censoring However, a Facebook reported by US Navy personnel, forthcoming report, with UFO remains suspended by Alpha- and silencing, and ultimately, spokesman confirmed that pol- US intelligence officials found while some involved foreign mil- enthusiasts anticipating reve- bet’s YouTube after the riot. we will win. Our Country can’t iticians’ posts would still be no evidence that unidentified itaries, according to the Times. lations about unexplained The former president, who take this abuse anymore!” exempt from third-party fact- aerial phenomena observed by The newspaper said US sightings many believe the gov- this week shut down his Facebook said it would checking. Some of these policy Navy aviators in recent years intelligence officials believe ernment has sought to discredit recently-launched blog, has work with experts to decide changes were originally reported were alien spacecraft, but the experimental technology of a or cover up for decades. teased plans to launch his own when the public safety risk had by The Verge. sightings remain unexplained rival power could account for But senior US officials cited platform but his team has subsided for Trump to be Facebook has come under in a highly anticipated at least some of the aerial phe- in the Times article said the given little detail. restored to its platforms. It said fire from those who think it government report, the New nomena in question. report’s ambiguity meant the “Given the gravity of the cir- it would evaluate factors should abandon its hands-off York Times said on Thursday. One senior US official government was unable to cumstances that led to Trump’s including instances of violence, approach to political speech. The report also found the briefed on the report said there definitively rule out theories suspension, we believe his restrictions on peaceful But it has also been criticized vast majority of incidents doc- was concern among American that the unidentified phe- actions constituted a severe assembly and other markers of by those, including Republican umented over the past two intelligence and military offi- nomena might have been extra- violation of our rules which civil unrest. lawmakers and some free- decades did not originate from cials that China or Russia could terrestrial in nature. The gov- merit the highest penalty It also said there would be expression advocates, who saw any American military or other be experimenting with hyper- ernment’s Unidentified Aerial available under the new a set of escalating sanctions that the Trump ban as a disturbing advanced US government tech- sonic technology. Phenomena (UAP) Task Force enforcement protocols,” Face- would be triggered if Trump act of censorship. nology, the Times said, citing An unclassified version of was created following a spate book’s head of global affairs broke further rules that could The announcements came senior administration officials the report expected to be sub- of observations by military Nick Clegg said in the post. lead to his permanent removal. on the same day as Europe and briefed on the report headed to mitted to Congress by June 25 pilots of unknown aerial objects Facebook’s independent Social media companies Britain launched formal anti- Congress this month. will present few other conclu- exhibiting exotic speeds and oversight board in May upheld have grappled in recent years trust investigations into Many of the 120-plus sions, the newspaper said. maneuverability that seemingly the company’s unprecedented with how to handle world leaders whether Facebook misuses its sightings reviewed in the clas- Public fascination with uni- defied the limits of known tech- block on Trump, which was and politicians who violate their vast trove of customer data. sified intelligence study from a dentified flying objects has been nology and laws of physics. FBI investigating California draws 15 winners about 100 types of $50,000 vaccine prizes of ransomware AP — SACRAMENTO vaccinations were given in the REUTERS — WASHINGTON past week, she said. Next week, California Governor Gavin another 15 people will win FBI Director Christopher Wray Newsom played gameshow $50,000 and on June 15 there told the Wall Street Journal host yesterday in a drawing for will be 10 grand prize winners that the agency is investigating 15 winners of $50,000 prizes who will get $1.5m each — the about 100 different types of for getting vaccinated against largest of any vaccination prize ransomware, many of which the coronavirus. in the country. trace back to actors in Russia. “We’ve got a lot of work to The winners will remain In the interview published do and that’s really the spirit anonymous unless they give the yesterday, Wray singled out that brings us here today,” state permission to share their Russia as harboring many of Newsom said at the California names, and they have 96 hours the known users of ran- State Lottery headquarters, to claim their prizes before the somware. Each of the 100 dif- where he was flanked by a state draws alternate winners. ferent malicious software var- machine used to randomly The state will contact winners. iants are responsible for mul- choose winners and a Wheel Additionally, the state has tiple ransomware attacks in of Fortune-style coloured started providing $50 gift cards the United States, Wray said. wheel for show. to people who get shots. More The Kremlin said yesterday Actor Tom Cruise is seen on the set of “Mission: Impossible 7” while filming in Rome, Italy, in this It was the first in a series than 340,000 cards have been that the FBI director’s remark October 6, 2020 picture. of drawings for $16.5m in given out so far and the state that Russia was a haven for prize money aimed at encour- plans to distribute 2 million, hackers was “emotional”, RIA aging Californians to get their which are worth a total of reported. Wray’s remarks come ‘Mission: Impossible 7’ set shut shots ahead of June 15, when $100m. days after a cyberattack dis- the state plans to lift almost Newsom acknowledged rupted much of meatpacker JBS all virus-related restrictions. that with California’s virus SA’s North American and Aus- down again due to COVID-19 So far, 67% of eligible people cases at record lows and the tralian operations. The White 12 and older have received at reopening looming it will be House linked the attack to a REUTERS — LOS ANGELES to positive coronavirus test “Mission: Impossible” is one least one dose of the vaccine. hard to convince the unvac- Russia-based group. results during routine testing. of the biggest franchises in Hol- The state’s goal is to fully vac- cinated to finally get their Ransom software works by Filming in Britain on the latest We are following all safety pro- lywood. The seventh film in the cinate at least 75% of people. shots. “Moving from 70% of encrypting victims’ data. Typ- “Mission: Impossible” movie tocols and will continue to series was one of the first movies Newsom announced the adults to 75% and beyond, ically hackers will offer the has been shut down for two monitor the situation,” Para- to shut down production because prize money last week, warning that’s stubborn, that’s difficult victim a key in return for weeks after some people mount said in a statement. of the pandemic when it aban- the state’s vaccination rates work,” he said. cryptocurrency payments that working on the movie tested The Sun newspaper, citing doned filming in Venice, Italy in were about to go off a cliff Populous counties can run into thousands or even positive for the coronavirus, unnamed sources, said 14 February 2020. without an intervention. State accounted for most of the millions of dollars. Paramount Pictures said. members of the production Shooting resumed last year officials said vaccine rates had winners — three each came The movie studio did not tested positive after shooting a in countries including Norway, dropped at the time by 18% from Los Angeles, San Diego Chicago to reopen say who or how many people scene, and that Cruise, like Italy and Britain. Cruise was from the week before. and Santa Clara and two from had tested positive but Britain’s other people working on the caught on audio tape last In the week since Califor- San Francisco. Alameda, fully on June 11 Sun newspaper said star Tom set, would have to self-isolate December yelling at the crew nians became eligible to win Orange, Mendocino and San Cruise was not among them. for 14 days. A spokesperson for over breaches in COVID safety money, vaccinations were down Luis Obispo counties had one REUTERS — ILLINOIS “We have temporarily Cruise, who is also a producer protocols. “Mission: Impossible 4% from the prior week, each. More than 21 million halted production on Mission: on the action film, did not 7” is due to be released in May Newsom spokeswoman Erin people are eligible to win Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said Impossible 7 until June 14, due return a call for comment. 2022. Mellon said. One million $50,000 prizes. that she has moved up the city’s timetable for a full reopening from virus restrictions to match the rest of the state of Illinois. Unrest erupts after man dies in Minneapolis arrest attempt Lightfoot’s earlier plan was to allow clubs, restaurants, AP — MINNEAPOLIS crowd gathered in the neigh- state warrant for being a felon their weapons. A spokeswoman was treated for minor injuries hotels and sports stadiums to borhood where the man was in possession of a firearm. with the US Marshals said the due to glass debris. The Minne- open to full capacity on July 4. Crowds vandalized buildings shot, shouting expletives at The man, who was in a US Marshals leads the task apolis Police Department said it However, she said that the city and stole from businesses in police. Later in the night, people parked car, didn’t comply with force, which is comprised of was not involved in the shooting. was ready to join the rest of the Minneapolis’ Uptown neigh- vandalized “numerous” law enforcement and “pro- several agencies. Other agencies The city has been on edge state in lifting all capacity bourhood after officials said a buildings and looted some, Min- duced a handgun resulting in with personnel on the scene at since the deaths of George restrictions on June 11. man wanted for illegally neapolis police spokesman John task force members firing the time of the shooting include Floyd, a Black man who died “Because you’ve masked up, possessing a gun was fatally Elder said yesterday. A upon the subject”, the US Mar- sheriff’s offices from Hennepin, last year after he was pinned to socially distanced and got vac- shot by authorities who were dumpster was burned and shals said. Task force members Anoka and Ramsey counties, the ground by Minneapolis cinated, we’re now moving to part of a task force trying to windows were smashed. attempted life-saving the Minnesota Department of officers, and Daunte Wright, a Phase 5 on Friday, June 11 in arrest him that included US Little is known about Thurs- measures, but he died at the Corrections and the Department Black motorist who was fatally alignment with the state. This Marshals. day’s shooting. The US Marshals scene, they said. of Homeland Security. shot in April by an officer in the means Chicago is scheduled to Following the Thursday Service said a task force was It was not clear how many The US Marshals said a nearby suburb of Brooklyn fully reopen”, she said on Twitter. afternoon shooting, a small trying to arrest the man on a law enforcement officers fired female who was in the vehicle Center.