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Thursday 8 February 2018 | 22 Jumada 1 I 1439 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 22 | Number 7431 | 2 Riyals

8 new schools to Qatar to promote ties with Ingushetia be opened in next academic year H H the Emir holds talks with the President of Russian THE PENINSULA Republic of Ingushetia. DOHA: The Ministry of The visiting President handed H H the Emir a written Education and Higher Education yesterday message from Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that eight new inviting H H the Emir to visit Russia. schools will be opened in the next academic year. Also, efforts are in QNA Ingushetia in wider fields and progress to fill vacancies in invited the Emir to visit the new schools and provide DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Tamim Republic. The two sides also them with educational cadres bin Hamad Al Thani met the Pres- reviewed aspects of cooperation of expertise and competence. ident of the Russian Republic of between the two countries and The academic year will also Ingushetia Yunus-bek Yevkurov, means of enhancing them in a witness the opening of Qatar yesterday. number of fields, especially School of Science and Tech- At the beginning of the agriculture. nology on STEM system in meeting, the visiting President They exchanged views on a September. handed the Emir a written message number of regional and interna- The Qatar School of from Russian President Vladimir tional issues of common concern Science and Technology is a Putin, including an invitation to His and the latest developments in the secondary school for boys Highness to visit Russia. The Emir region. A number of their Excel- from the ninth to twelfth welcomed the President, hoping lences the Ministers attended the grades and its students were that the visit would further enhance meeting. Members of the official selected from preparatory bilateral relations. The Emir also delegation accompanying the Pres- schools’ eighth grade stu- welcomed the Russian President’s ident also attended the meeting. dents, who excelled in the invitation. Later, the Emir hosted a Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met with the President of the Russian Republic of Ingushetia, subjects of science and The visiting President luncheon banquet in honour of the Yunus-bek Yevkurov, at the Emiri Diwan yesterday. The two sides reviewed aspects of cooperation mathematics. expressed hope that the visit will President and his accompanying between the two countries and means of enhancing them in a number of fields, especially agriculture. enhance ties between Qatar and delegation. → SEE ALSO PAGE 2 →CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 Real estate transactions increase QCB warns against SACHIN KUMAR yesterday. pipeline and not a result of the almost doubling the supply from Bitcoin trading THE PENINSULA “Qatar (real estate) market ongoing blockade,” said the 2014,” Archer told The has shown considerable resil- report. Peninsula. SATISH KANADY the country. DOHA: Showing resilience, the ience as compared to other The total hospitality The recent lifting of visa THE PENINSULA Bitcoin is very volatile and real estate transactions in Qatar markets in the region. For inventory is approaching restrictions to the Nationalities indulging in its transaction is very have increased during the last example, Abu Dhabi seeing res- 25,000 keys and whilst 70 of 80 countries has yet to filter DOHA: Qatar Central Bank risky, the circular said. The com- quarter of 2017 despite the idential rents fall by 13 percent percent of properties are 4 and down into any quantifiable (QCB) has issued a circular modity is subjected to electronic unjust siege imposed on the and Bahrain by 16.2 percent 5 star, there have been some impact on retail performance, warning against any form of hacking. There is no guaranty for country. during 2017,” he said, while new 3 star entries, including the however, DTZ believes that this trading or exchanging of its value as an asset class, the reg- The transaction volume has releasing a report on real estate Holiday Inn and Premiere Inn. will be very much dependent Bitcoin in the country. The ulator said.The central bank will shown an increase of 8 percent sector. A further 10,000 hotel on the country of origin of the circular sent to banks, a copy impose penalties in accordance and 12 percent in October and Prime residential rents have rooms and 2,000 serviced visitors. of which is available with The with the provisions of the Qatar November last year respectively softened by up to 10 percent apartments are at various stages “Expectation that measures Peninsula, noted that the banks Central Bank law and regulation compared to corresponding over the past 12-month period of planning and construction, taken to expand and diversify operating in the country are not of financial institutions issued by months in 2016. but the secondary market has the report stated. the economy will begin to take allowed to deal in any way or Law No. (13) for the year 2012 in “Total sales value in October shown more resilience over the Tawar Mall, Doha Mall, La hold, and increase real estate fashion with this currency. the event of any violation of this was QR6.52bn. This was the past year with Ezdan Oasis Gallaria and Katara Mall are demand,” said Archer. The virtual currency should circular. It’s not clear whether highest monthly total since July setting the benchmark in terms likely to open this year, added The impact of enabling visa not be used for opening bank the regulator’s warnings has 2015,” said Johny Archer, Asso- of newly built middle-income the report. on arrival / visa free access to accounts or making any other come in the wake of a brisk ciate Director, Consulting and apartments, noted the report. “Total organised retail Qatar for visitors from 80 coun- transactions for buying or ‘cryptocurrency trading’ busi- Research, DTZ Qatar, a real “Whilst there continues to supply in Qatar is almost 1.3 tries will be more quantifiable selling the virtual currency, the nesses going on unauthorised estate consultancy company, be a softening in the residential million square metre (sqm), dis- during 2018 as travellers are central bank circular said. It online trading platforms in while addressing a seminar and commercial rental market, tributed amongst the country’s able to incorporate Qatar in noted that the transactions of Qatar. organised at Hilton Hotel this has been driven by supply 20 principal shopping malls, their travel plans. Bitcoin has no legal tender in →CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 Kahramaa signs QR1.9bn contracts for power cables supply

SANAULLAH ATAULLAH transformers, switchgears, pipes, International Cables Company He said that Qatar is self-suf- THE PENINSULA water pumps and other various (QICC) for two years at a total cost ficient in the production of equipment,” said Eng Essa bin of QR1.9bn, yesterday. Under the medium and low voltage cables DOHA: Qatar General Electricity Hilal Al Kuwari. He said that call-off agreement, the supplier adding that self-sufficiency in and Water Corporation electric sector is growing and will provide materials to Kah- high voltage cables is yet to be (Kahramaa) yesterday Kahramaa is trying to attract ramaa within two days of the achieved as local companies announced business opportu- more investors to invest in this order. The ceremony was have promised to bring the tech- nities worth about QR7bn to local field. attended by Eng Essa bin Hilal Al nology from next year for the companies for manufacturing “Kahramaa gives priority to Kuwari, Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim production of high voltage basic materials and equipment national products as per the pri- Al Thani, Chairman of Doha cables. required for infrastructure devel- ority rules and provides technical Cables, Sheikh Fahd bin Hamad “Many manufactures have opment projects during the next support to local factories to help Al Thani of QICC, and a number joined this business and soon we five years (2018- 2023), said them meet the standards of Kahramaa officials and will be covering 100 percent Kahramaa Chief. required from suppliers.” He said suppliers. requirements of all types of cables Eng Essa bin Hilal Al Kuwari, that Kahramaa is working to The value of the contract Kahramaa President Eng Essa bin Hilal Al Kuwari (centre), Sheikh in local market and we will be President of Kahramaa, was diversify its sources of importers Kahramaa signed with Doha Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani (right) and Sheikh Fahd bin Hamad Al looking for export the surplus speaking at a ceremony held and local suppliers to bring inno- Cables exceeds QR1.24bn while Thani during the ceremony. production,” Sheikh Faisal bin here to sign contracts with two vation in the economy and it the contract with QICC values Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of local companies - Doha Cables encourages local companies by QR640m. The total cost for the tender in August 2017, and providing electricity connection Doha Cables Company said. and Qatar International Cables giving them priorities as per the two contracts is QR1.88bn. The awarded in January 2018. The to the plots of land allotted to the “Kahramaa had made similar Company - for manufacturing state strategy to promote local total length of the cables is two companies were selected as citizens for housing purpose, contract with local companies for and supplying of electric cables sector. 10,000km. The agreements aim the best offers. new industrial areas and other supplying medium voltage cables for a stretch of 10,000 kilometre Kahramaa signed two call- at meeting Kahramaa’s needs of “The cables to be supplied projects,” said Al Kuwari. “The during past five year,” Ahmed at a total cost of about QR1.9bn. off agreements for supply of LV, cables under the high electricity by two companies will be used annual growth in the demand of Nasser M Al Naser, Director of “The business opportunities 11 KV & pilot power cables with demand and the development of in coming phase of infrastructure cables in local market is recorded Technical Affairs Department at include manufacturing cables, Doha Cables and Qatar Qatar. Kahramaa floated the development especially in 12 percent,” he added. Kahramaa said. 02 HOME THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2018 Emir receives President of Ingushetia Cabinet welcomes Qatar-US dialogue

THE PENINSULA The Cabinet expressed justice system. The cabinet also appreciation for the American examined the recommendations DOHA: The Cabinet which met side’s praise during the dialogue of the Advisory Council on a yesterday with Prime Minister for the humanitarian role of the total of seven draft laws. The and Interior Minister H E Sheikh State of Qatar throughout the first draft law was amending Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa world and its cooperation in some provisions of the law on Al Thani in the chair, approved combating terrorism and judicial authority, no. 10 for the extension of rent contracts in extremism in all its forms, as 2003. The second draft law was some areas for purposes beside well as the US assertion on its amending some provisions of residence related to Law No. 4 of readiness to work jointly with Law No. 13 of 1990 known as the 2008 for two more years starting the State of Qatar to deter and Civil and Commercial Procedure February 15. counter the external threats to Law. The third draft law was Minister of Justice and Acting the territorial integrity of Qatar amending some provisions of Minister of State for Cabinet that is inconsistent with the Law No. 12 of 2005 on Non- Affairs H E Dr Hassan bin United Nations Charter. penal Cassation Appeals. The Lahdan Saqr Al Mohannadi said Meanwhile, the Cabinet fourth draft law was amending that at the outset of the meeting, praised the active and distin- some provisions of Law No. 19 the Cabinet welcomed the guished participation of the del- of 2008 on determining Diya in outcome of the first strategic egation of the State of Qatar in manslaughter. The fifth is a draft dialogue between the State of the 48th session of the World law amending some provisions Qatar and the United States of Economic Forum, held in Davos, of Law No. 10 of 2002 regarding America, which was held in Switzerland, from January 23 to the Public Prosecution. The sixth Washington at the end of 26, where the delegation, was a draft law amending some January with a high level partic- through its sessions and bilateral provisions of the criminal pro- ipation from the two sides and meetings, presented Qatar’s cedures. The seventh draft law in a friendly, positive and con- vision with clarity and trans- was regarding conciliation in Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani with the President of the Russian Republic of Ingushetia, structive atmosphere reflected parency towards various civil and commercial disputes. Yunus-bek Yevkurov, at the Emiri Diwan yesterday. the depth and strength of the political, economic and security The second decision was relationship between the two issues. approving the extension of rent friendly countries and their The Cabinet expressed sat- contracts in some areas for pur- common understanding, trust, isfaction with the understanding poses beside residence related mutual respect and joint and support of the State of Qatar to Law No. 4 of 2008 for two keenness on developing and in this important international more years starting February 15. expanding the relations in forum, especially with regard to The third decision was various fields. the unjust siege imposed on the approving a total of four agree- The Cabinet underlined that country for more than eight ments. The first was a draft the discussions that took place months, without justification agreement signed with the gov- during the dialogue, the agree- and without respect for the prin- ernment of the Republic of Par- ments and the memorandums of ciples of good neighbourliness, aguay on encouraging and pro- understanding that were signed in a clear violation of interna- tecting investments. The second within it and the joint statement tional laws, religion teachings was a draft agreement for cul- issued at the end of it, establish a and humanitarian norms. tural cooperation signed with new stage in the bilateral relations Afterwards, the Cabinet dis- Hungary. and open wider horizons for the cussed the subjects on its The third draft agreement interests of the people of both schedule and took the following was on aerial services, signed countries and the interest of peace decisions. with the Kingdom of Lesotho. and stability in the region. The first decision was to take The fourth approval was for a The Cabinet valued what the the necessary measures to issue Memorandum of Understanding joint statement contained about the several draft laws proposed by (MoU) on financial investigation Gulf crisis and the need to resolve the Ministry of Justice, Supreme between Qatar Financial Infor- it in a way that respects the sover- Judiciary Council, and the public mation Unit and its counterpart eignty of the State of Qatar. prosecution to enhance the in South Africa. THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2018 HOME 03 PM meets President of Ingushetia Australia Day celebrated in Doha

RAYNALD C RIVERA for more Qatari students to avail of “Australia and Qatar are working THE PENINSULA Australia’s high quality education together to counter-terrorism, through system, which makes Australia the the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIL and DOHA: The Australian Embassy yesterday world’s third most popular destina- Qatar’s hosting of the Al Udeid Air Base. celebrated an auspicious occasion tion for foreign students. At the start of this year, Australia joined marking the first-ever Australia Day in He said Qatar is home to about the Human Rights Council, providing Qatar with Australian food and music at 3300 Australians working in diverse another avenue for cooperation. We value Shangri-La Hotel Doha. sectors. and continue to seek the views of Qatar Speaking at the event, Australian There are about 30 Australian on regional and global challenges,” he said. Ambassador Dr Axel Wabenhorst companies in Qatar, the biggest of Amid the challenges brought about underlined the vast potential of fur- which are in the engineering and con- by the ongoing blockade, he lauded ther bolstering bilateral ties between struction field, participating in the Qatar’s welcoming attitude towards all Qatar and Australia in many fields construction of Hamad Port and the residents, including Australians, such as education, food security, Qatar State Mosque, the hydrocarbon stressing Australia supports the medi- tourism and trade and investment. sector, the expansion of Khalifa Sta- ation by Kuwait to resolve the dispute. He underscored Australia Day as a dium and shopping centres. He reaffirmed Australia’s support significant occasion when “Australians “Official visitors to Qatar from Aus- for Qatar as it moves forward in its come together and celebrate our nation.” tralia included the Minister for Foreign efforts towards self-sufficiency. Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa “Australia is a diverse country, and the Affairs, who opened our Embassy, the “Looking to the future, Qatar has Al Thani met with President of the Russian Republic of Ingushetia, Yunus-bek most successful multicultural society in Minister for Defence, a parliamentary embarked on a comprehensive program Yevkurov, on the occasion of his visit to the country, at his residence yesterday. They the world. Through this diversity, Austral- delegation, and the South Australian of development through its National Vision discussed cooperation between the two countries and regional and international ians are united by our values of freedom, Minister for Investment and Trade 2030. And due to the GCC dispute, self-suf- democracy and the rule of law. We rec- accompanied by senior government ficiency has become more important. Aus- developments. ognise the complexities and challenges of officials. University professors, tralia is already contributing to Qatar our history,” said the envoy. researchers and student groups further reaching these goals, through the expertise As Qatar Airways further spreads helped develop links. We will build on of its citizens and the work of its companies its wings launching Canberra as its fifth these visits in the coming year,” he said. in Qatar, and through our strength in agri- destination to Australia next week, The ambassador was of the view culture. There is scope to expand these areas Ambassador Wabenhorst was optimistic that global challenges such as climate of cooperation in future,” he said. it would further strengthen bilateral change, terrorism and human trafficking “Australia is the world’s driest conti- Ooredoo official sponsor relations in the field of tourism. can only be resolved through interna- nent. As a result, Australians have become He also underlined the potential tional cooperation. experts in dryland farming. As food secu- rity becomes a higher priority for Qatar of Al Khor Fly-In event because of the regional dispute, Australia is well-placed to support Qatar to grow THE PENINSULA will host a booth at the event, offering more of its own food,” he said. information and services, such as He added: “The investment of DOHA: Ooredoo announced yesterday Mobile Money, Hala Top-Ups and Hassad Food in Australian farms, worth that it will be the official sponsor of the more. approximately A$450m has benefited 2018 Al Khor Fly-In event. Talking about the event, Manar Kha- both countries by improving the pro- The popular event, which is now in its lifa Al Muraikhi, Director of PR and Cor- ductive capacity of the farms, and con- 10th year, is designed to encourage aviation porate Communications, Ooredoo Qatar, tributing to Qatar’s food security.” enthusiasts and families from across the said: “The Al Khor Fly-In is a great family “Qatar has other investments in region to visit Qatar, and see the range of day out and a perfect way to interest your Australia, including in electricity distri- planes and aviation technology available. young ones in the field of aviation. bution infrastructure and real estate. This year, the event will take place “As well as a host of aircraft on dis- Both countries benefit from this rela- from February 9 to 10 2018, and is play, you’ll be able to interact with the tionship, and I hope to see even more expected to draw large crowds from pilots and find out more about the pos- Qatari investment in future,” he said out. across Qatar, due to its family-friendly sibilities of learning to fly in Qatar. We’re He said total trade between Qatar activities. The Al Khor Fly-In will take proud to once again be supporting such and Australia is A$1.77bn per year and place at Al Khor Airport and visitors can a diverse community event and hope eve- the new shipping line between the two see a range of light aircraft on display, as ryone enjoys it”. countries can further facilitate trade. H E Mohamed bin Abdullah Al Rumaihi, Minister of Municipality and Environment well as interact with the pilots. This is the latest in a line of commu- In the field of education, Australia (second right) cutting a cake with Dr Axel Wabenhorst (second left), Australian The event will be open to the public nity events Ooredoo will support in 2018, is working with Qatar on school curric- from 8am to 5.30pm and entrance will as the company continues to invest in Ambassador to Qatar; and H E Ibrahim Yousif Abdullah Fakhro, Ministry of ulum design, including via provision of be free of charge. keeping Qatar’s traditional and cultural Foreign Affairs’ Chief of Protocol (right) during the reception on Australia Day a vocational finance course in two As part of its sponsorship, Ooredoo events alive. celebration in Doha yesterday. PIC: ABDUL BASIT/THE PENINSULA Qatari high schools. 04 HOME THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2018

Defence Minister attends ‘Meqdam’ Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs H E Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah attended the tactical exercise “Meqdam” for the National Service recruits at “Jao Al Salama” Camp. The camp was organised by National Service Authority at the Ministry of Defence. Head of the National Service Authority Brigadier Saeed Hamad Al Nuaimi said that the exercise is part of a series of professional military exercises aimed at developing physical fitness and combat efficiency for all recruits of the National Service. 62 entities to participate in Sport Day activities at Katara

IRFAN BUKHARI The 7th edition of the beach for young and adults of all nation- THE PENINSULA NSD at Katara focuses on alities to play their favourite games. The 7th edition of the NSD at Katara community participation focuses on community participation DOHA: The Katara Cultural Village is which allows participation which allows participation of all seg- set to receive thousands of visitors on of all segments of society ments of society whether general public, Tuesday who will attend the seventh whether general public, athletes, children, women or persons edition of the National Sport Day (NSD) with special needs. in which around 62 public and private athletes, children, women He said that it was in line with Katara’s sector organisations will participate. or persons with special efforts to spread sports awareness, Along thousands of people, a needs. promote healthy lifestyles and achieve number of Ministries, sports federations, Qatar National Vision 2030, which has public and private institutions and com- made sport a vital part of the lives of every panies will participate in Sport Day individual living in Qatar. For public there Abdul Rahman Jassim Al Tamimi (left) and Ahmed Al Sayed and at the press conference. activities at Katara. of the Organising Committee for the will arrangements for medical examina- A total 62 entities including 10 sports Sport Day Events, Katara; Abdul Rahman tions and health advices. important annual event at Katara and He pointed out that there were many federations, 11 Ministries, 14 health insti- Jassim Al Tamimi, Vice-Chairman of the For his part, Abdul Rahman Jassim enjoy all kinds of physical activity and ministries, government bodies, com- tutions and 10 food companies will take Organising Committee for the Sport Day Al Tamimi said: “The number of partic- sports, in a healthy and entertaining panies and institutions which would hold part in the activities. Events, Katara and Director of Pro- ipants in the events of the 7th edition of atmosphere. their activities and provide various sports The details of Sport Day at Katara curement Department. the Sports Day has reached 62 including Al Tamimi further said that 10 sports opportunities suitable for all ages, in were shared in a press conference held Addressing to media, Ahmed Al Sayed both public and private sector entities.” federations including boxing, wrestling, addition to the participation of 24 health yesterday and addressed by Ahmed Al said that Katara’s preparations for the He said that health and wellness tennis, volleyball, table tennis, rugby, and food institutions and companies Sayed, Deputy General Manager of Sport Day were complete and Katara facilities would attract thousands of cit- kayaking etc would participate in Sport which would provide free counseling and Operations, Katara and Vice-Chairman would open its playgrounds, facilities and izens and residents to participate in this Day activities at Katara. other services to the visitors. 300 schoolchildren to take part in ‘Fun Run’ at Aspire Park today

AMNA PERVAIZ RAO bronze medals. There is professional athletes, Qatari Pakistan NOC in December 7th THE PENINSULA friendship, team spirit and cama- Artists are invited to participate 2017.The 18th Asian Games will raderie, all qualities that are in in this special event which take plan from August 18 to Sep- DOHA: Team Qatar united 300 evidence at our Asian Games Fun includes two running competi- tember 2, 2018 with ten thousand schoolchildren to participate in Runs around the continent.” tions, one for 2kms for the stu- athletes from 45 countries in 40 an inspirational ‘Fun Run’ today “Starting from August 18 to dents, and the other for 1 km for sports and 462 events. at Aspire Park at 9.30am. September 2, 2018, some 10,000 the rest of the participants,” said Doha’s Fun Run will be the The event organised by the athletes from 45 National Director of the QOC Sport Affairs fourth to be hosted so far fol- Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) Olympic Committees will be Dept, Khaleel Al Jaber. lowing events in Lahore, Dhakar in coordination with the Olympic competing in 40 sports and 462 On Qatar’s preparations for and Dubai.Team Qatar athletes Council of Asia (OCA) is part of events in the co-host cities of the Asian Games in Indonesia he to compete at the Asian Games an official Asian Games Fun Run Jakarta and Palembang, Indo- said:”The National Sport Feder- also joined the schoolchildren programme being held across nesia. Qatar has played its role ations have already started last today for the run. Asia to promote the continent’s by participating in Asian Games year to prepare very well for the Al Musallam thanked H.E biggest sporting event. Officials during a press conference. Fun Run,” he added. Games. 500 female and male Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani During a press conference, In addition to 300 school athletes are expected to partic- for hosting this important event to QOC Secretary General Jassim will participate in the event, global sport hub,” he added. children, QOC employees, Qatari ipate in the upcoming edition. the Olympic Council of Asia to help Al Buenain said: “As directed by joined by our own Team Qatar In a message from the OCA team athletes, OCA rep. Director Qatar have achieved 10 gold promote for the 18th Asian Games HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al champions” President, Sheikh Ahmad Al General Husain Al Musallam will medals in the 2014 Asian Games which will take place from 18th Thani, the QOC President, we are “We carry beautiful mem- Fahad Al Sabah said: “Asian attended the Fun Run. and the QOC is working closely August to the 2 September. delighted to support the Olympic ories from the 2006 Asian Games Games promotes Fun and “Jointly, teams from the with its sport federations to Al Musallam said: “Qatar Council of Asia in its promotional which were hosted in Qatar and Friendship around the continent. Qatar Olympic Committee and achieve more in this year’s hosting this event reminds us of campaign for the 18th Asian we are very proud of the legacy 18th Asian Games will be taking the Olympic Council of Asia pre- event.” hosting the 15th Asian Games in Games which will be held this it left for us. This legacy had a place in Indonesia in August pared are working together to The series of runs are 2006 in Doha which had a great year in Indonesia by organising great impact on the development 2018,but the fun starts in Doha. organise the promotional event organised to raise awareness of positive impact on the sport the Fun Run event tomorrow at of the sport movement in the There is much more to the Asian “Fun Run” for the 18th Asian the Asian Games.The first Fun movement not only in Qatar, but Aspire Park. 300 schoolchildren country that has now become a Games than just gold, silver and Games. 300 schoolchildren, Run event was hosted by in the Middle East.”

QCB warns against Bitcoin trading Continued from page 1 Media campaign on PISA test rules launched An online research shows that a section of traders THE PENINSULA Khalid Al Harqan, Director of the are busy doing business online. For instance, an online Evaluation Authority at the Ministry domain yesterday put ‘the current floating price’ of DOHA: The Ministry of Education of Education and Higher Education, Bitcoin at QR35,937.42 for a piece. They said the trade and Higher Education launched said that more than 15,000 students value is limited between QR500-QR60,000. yesterday a media campaign on the from 188 public and private schools The meeting point of the traders and pro- timing and details of 2018 PISA tests, will take part in the PISA tests, which spective investors are mainly shopping Malls. “Please which will be held on March 5. are conducted every three years. make request only when you can complete the PISA is the largest international Al Hargan pointed out that Qatar payment within 12 hours,” reads an instruction comparative study which was has made significant progress in PISA posted on another domain. It also claims that it sells developed to monitor the outcomes TESTS, where in 2006 received a Ethereium, Ripple XRT, Litcoin etc. The trader of the educational systems and stu- score of 312 points in reading test and claims that the money can be transferred through dents achievement according to an in 2015 achieved 402 points. banks and money exchanges. agreed intentionally framework. Qatar also scored 318 points in Assistant Under-secretary for Edu- 2006 at the level of mathematics and cation Affairs Fawzia Abdulaziz Al 402 points in 2015, while the rate of Khater stressed the importance of stu- achievement in the level of science dents’ participation in the PISA tests in 2006 is 349 points and 418 points which reflect the development of edu- in 2015. cation in Qatar and its international Hassan Abdullah Al Mohammadi, status, saying that the participation in Director of Public Relations and this international tests is important to Communication at the Ministry of Hassan Abdullah Al Mohammadi (left), Fawzia Abdulaziz Al Khater (centre) assess skills of students from both Education, spoke about the media and Khalid Al Harqan during a press conference. Qatar public and private schools. campaign for these tests and its logo, Al Khater said the PISA tests assess and reviewed many messages students at the age of 15 years old and challenges of today’s societies. They and non-Qatari parents to cooperate addressed to parents and students who are therefore approaching the end assess the students’ knowledge in with the Ministry of Education and to participate seriously in these tests, of compulsory schooling in most coun- Science, Math and reading, she said. Higher Education, urging students to which will be performed in the name tries and are prepared to meet the She stressed the need for Qatari participate in the contests. of Qatar. THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2018 HOME 05 Graduation of new recruits QM launches 2nd phase of marine archaeology survey

THE PENINSULA the awareness and interest of Qataris in DOHA: Qatar Museums (QM) has the sunken monu- launched the second phase of an ments and marine advanced marine archaeology survey heritage, while at that is set to make a major contribu- the same time; tion to the preservation and celebra- enhance the tour- tion of the country’s cultural heritage. istic experience in The project is based on an inno- Qatar through cre- vative partnership with leading fig- ating open marine ures from the University of York, who museums. In addi- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs H E Dr Khalid bin have worked closely with a team of tion, the United Mohamed Al Attiyah attended the Colleges and Institutes Authority Graduation of experts from QM’s archaeology Nations Educational, new recruits. The Chief of Colleges and Institutes Authority, Major General Hamad division Scientific and Cul- bin Ahmed Al Nuaimi, and senior officers of the Armed Forces were also present. The second phase of the project A team conducting maritime archaeology survey. tural Organization The institute celebrated the graduation of 941 students who attended the 88th focuses on surveying areas near the (Unesco) encour- founding course. The Commander of Recruits Training Institute, Brigadier Rashid beach of the Unesco World Heritage ages States to focus bin Nasser Ali Al Fuhaid Al Hajri, said the course has availed training for the new site at Al Zubarah. The site was an highlighting Qatar’s heritage and the studies on submerged monuments and recruits and focused on discipline, obedience to orders, equipping with knowledge important point of contact for people customs, behaviours, and architectural the significant implications that they and fighting skills, and put emphasis on endurance, fitness and archery. both inside and outside the Arabian characteristics of the country’s tradi- show about ancient people and Gulf, which has made it a significant tional coastal habitats. This will instill settlements. archaeological, historical and eco- a sense of national belonging for the Describing the survey, QM’s Dr Ali nomic point of reference. The second people of Qatar, promote general Al Kubaisi, said: “Qatar’s rich and phase of the survey was carried out knowledge, and provide a chance for extensive maritime past is an impor- using remote sensing technology, audiences to discover Qatar’s culture tant feature of our country’s progress which helped select sites best suited and archaeology,” said QM’s Acting and development. This maritime MoI tips to avoid fire accidents for exploration. Chief Archaeology Officer Dr Ali archaeology survey will shed new light The archaeologically rich area Jassim Al Kubaisi. on key aspects of our cultural heritage. THE PENINSULA choose one with good it further says. may potentially contain shipwreck During the first phase of the It is the latest example of the steps we quality and make sure the During the camping remains and other historical artefacts project which was launched last May, are taking to preserve and protect DOHA: With the aim of quality of its electrical trip, setting the fire inside linked to the trade routes used in the the team conducted surveys of known Qatar’s proud history, and celebrate raising awareness among fittings. the tent or the mobile past. The area also provides a rich submerged marine archaeological and share it as widely as possible with community and mini- Also to avoid over- accommodation unit for source of information on ancient living heritage sites, identifying a number of the local community.” mising fire accidents loading of the heater than the purpose of heating is environments as well as the sea levels shipwrecks in many areas using state- Archaeological projects of this during the winter as many its capacity, said the state- one of the reasons of fire of the Gulf from prehistory to the of-the-art technologies on board the nature fulfil QM’s aim to manage, con- people use electric heaters ment from the Ministry of incidents. present time. RV Janan vessel. The results included serve, protect and enhance a wide or wood and coal for Interior. For this reasons, the “The submerged landscapes and discovering shipwrecks in the north range of sites of historical significance heating purposes which Do not place the Ministry of Interior has shipwrecks around Qatar represent of Qatar which were recorded and across the country. They also support may lead to fire breakout, heater in the corridors, advised people to not an unexplored cultural resource and documented on 3D high resolution QM’s vision to turn heritage sites into the Ministry of Interior has near quick flammable leave the source of fire require specialised scientific studies images. an inspiration for future generations issued some safety tips materials, or at easy reach turned on while sleeping and research to study further. These results contribute to the by allowing them to re-visit their past, and requirements. of the children, and do not in the tent and the need to Exploring them will help establish his- enhancement of marine archaeolog- and helping them remember their During a purchase of leave the heater switched take all necessary fire pre- torical and archaeological resources ical sites both in Qatar and across the ancestors’ skills, wisdom and a heater, people should on when you go to sleep, vention measures. about marine life in Qatar, as well as region. Additionally, they help increase heritage. Six jewellery pieces crafted by Qataris to be auctioned at DJWE RAYNALD C RIVERA scene in Doha so to partner with Starting bid for each sapphires. “Qatar,” is Nouf Jew- THE PENINSULA DJWE for this charity auction and piece is QR30,000 and ellery’s item for the auction, a working with the Young Qatari Qatari flag inspired white gold designers fit so well with our cul- all proceeds will go to hinged-bracelet with 2.05 carat DOHA: Six bespoke jewellery tural mission,” said Bishop. Education Above All round-cut diamonds and 11.80 pieces crafted by young Qatari Asked on the choice of (EAA) foundation. carat rubies, totalling 684 stones designers will be auctioned at the charity to benefit from the auc- set in 36.85 grams of white gold. upcoming 15th Doha Jewellery tion, Bishop said: “Education Hairaat’s “Sleeping Beauty,” is a and Watches Exhibition (DJWE) Above All was selected because wall. The first word in the Holy pair of drop earrings each in partnership with AlBahie DJWE and Al Bahie share the Qur’an is ‘iqra’ which means designed as tops of oval-cut nat- Auction House, organisers same mission of education, to ‘read’ and all of the proceeds of ural turquoise framed by round- announced yesterday. start nurturing creative talents the auction will be going to edu- cut diamonds suspending a Starting bid for each piece is at a young age and helping them cation,” said Hissa Al Mannai, single Tahitian pearl. And finally, QR30,000 and all proceeds will establish themselves on the who together with her sister Ghada Al Buainain Jewellery has go to Education Above All (EAA) international market. All of us Jawaher will be joining YQDs for designed “Pipe in Gold,” a white foundation, Jennifer Bishop, involved share that commitment the first time. gold necklace erupting in a spec- Director of AlBahie Auction to education,” she explained. Al Ghla Jewellery will present tacular cluster of pearls and House, told reporters at a press One of the interesting pieces, “Tiara” as their signature piece, diamonds. briefing yesterday at AlBahie which will be auctioned, is a pair set in yellow gold with the out- The Young Qatari Designers FROM LEFT: Nada Al Sulaiti, Leila Abu Issa, Hissa Al Mannai and Auction House. of earrings by Ghand Jewellery line of the State of Qatar in initiative is patroned by Prime Ghada Al Buainain. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA This is the first time AlBahie called “Mihrab”, which is mother of pearl amongst star- Minister and Interior Minister is taking part at DJWE through inspired by the Qibla wall. The bursts of rubies. Leila Issam Fine H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser the charity auction to be held on diamond and white gold earrings Jewellery will showcase bin Khalifa Al Thani, and returns Nada Al Sulaiti (Hairaat); Nouf from February 21 to 26 at Doha February 25 as a way of sup- were designed as tops of curving “Ombres”, a pair of white gold to DJWE 2018 as part of its com- Al Meer (Nouf Jewellery); Ghada Exhibition and Convention porting the six participants of the archways with suspending lines diamond and pink sapphire ear- mitment to nurturing young Al Buainain; Leila Abu Issa (Leila Center (DECC), featuring more Young Qatari Designers (YQDs) of baguette and round-cut dia- rings each designed as tops of talent and creativity. Issam Fine Jewellery); Shikha than 400 brands from over 10 initiative which is now on its monds set in 8.61 grams of white round and petal-shaped sap- The YQDs eagerly awaiting Mohamed (Al Ghla Jewellery); countries bringing an extensive second year. gold with 2.74 carat white phires with yellow diamonds their opportunity to shine along- and Jawaher & Hissa display of classic and contem- “One of Al Bahie’s main cul- diamonds. suspending a line of white dia- side exclusive pieces from the Mohammed Al Mannai (Ghand porary luxury collections by tural missions is to contribute to “This piece is called ‘Mihrab’ monds and terminating in world’s most prestigious jewel- Jewellery). internationally-recognised education and to the cultural because it is inspired by the Qibla round- and petal-shaped pink lery and watch brands include DJWE 2018 will take place brands and designers.

HMC cautions public on heating practices

THE PENINSULA They can sustain severe scald burns within a few seconds, and in recent weeks we have seen an DOHA: Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has increase in the number of infants seeking treat- cautioned the public on heating practices to help ment for scald burns.” them stay warm and safe, during the cold The HIPP recommends some precautions weather. when using electrical or space heaters, including “With the cold weather, some residents have to purchase an electrical or space heater from a begun using additional means to stay warmer at reputable store and check it is ‘UL’ certified or home and at bath time. Unfortunately, this may equivalent to ensure it meets international stand- lead to a rise in the number of patients with inju- ards for safety. ries from their heating systems. These include Plug only one heat-producing appliance (such scald injuries, electrical or contact burns from as a space heater or portable radiator) into one fire or gas heaters and even serious flame burns electrical outlet at a time; electrical heaters are from house fires,” said Dr Rafael Consunji, high-power devices that must be plugged directly Director of the Hamad Injury Prevention Pro- into a wall outlet. Plugging them into an exten- gram (HIPP), which is the community outreach sion cord can cause the fuse to blow, or worse, arm of the Hamad Trauma Center. overheat and melt devices or wiring, which can According to Dr Consunji, electrical burns lead to a house fire. and fires are more likely to happen with the Have a one-meter wide designated ‘kid-free incorrect use of electrical appliances for heating, zone’ around open fires and space heaters and while scald burns most often happen when make sure that automatic timers on heaters are bathing or cooking with hot liquids. He said, “Most working properly and remember to always turn victims of scald burns are very young or the eld- portable heaters off when leaving any room or erly, because they are unable to physically before going to bed. Dr Consunji also says that remove themselves from the scalding liquid’s parents and caregivers should avoid carrying a path, and because their skin is generally much child and a hot beverage at the same time to avoid thinner and more sensitive to high temperatures. scald burns. 06 HOME THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2018 Ashghal launches campaign for External Road Network

THE PENINSULA The campaign aims to introduce to road users the new well as the travel time. I can thank Wukair road 1 to Al Kharrara, and I options for mobility and high traffic flow as well as Ashghal for Wukair road 1 enhancement, found that the new layout helped a lot DOHA: The Public Works Authority, as currently our trucks can transfer the in saving our time by reducing the travel ‘Ashghal’ in cooperation with the shortening the journey times from one area to another. segments in shorter time and safer trip.” time and distance as well, there is a great Ministry of Interior has launched an The network will eliminate the need to pass through Another resident Samir Sabry said: improvement in all the safety conditions educational campaign for the new the internal roads of Doha through providing additional “I stay in Ezdan Al Wukair, I am an on the road with making the new layout completed External Road Network. option to travel between the southern and northern areas engineer in Hamad Port, I travel daily 2 lanes instead of 1 lane as well as pro- The campaign aims to introduce to using Mesaieed road heading to Hamad viding it with enough street lighting for road users the new options for mobility in Qatar. Port, the new entrances to the port saved optimum vision during the night, we are and high traffic flow as well as short- our time and cars, before it was only one waiting for the remaining part of the ening the journey times from one area reduce the journey times between dif- that are yet to be executed, to ensure entrance and uneven road, we used to road. I have also got a positive response to another. The network will eliminate ferent areas. the precision of the written names and access in a long queue of cars and waste from my camps’ managers in Al Wukair the need to pass through the internal Ashghal aims to encourage the use locations of signs and the importance our time, but the new layout of 4 lanes regarding the new layout, because it roads of Doha through providing addi- of new roads to travel between the of signage and destinations written on in each direction eases the traffic flow saved the time of the labours to reach tional option to travel between the southern and northern areas in the the signs. to the Port, it is a real positive their camps safely as well.” southern and northern areas in Qatar. country. The Orbital Highway act as one Positive feedback received from improvement and change, I see it will Engineer George Samy, a resident This awareness campaign aims to of the most important routes in this road users regarding shortening the help Hamad Port to achieve its goal.” of South Wukair Ezdan compounds said: promote and encourage road users to network with the high traffic flow, direct journey times, enhancing traffic flow, “I work in Qatar Petroleum and I use “The new established project of the identify alternative new routes to their access to vital destinations, and link with road safety level has been shared by Hamad Port road on daily basis to reach southern part of Doha Highway is ben- usual destinations and to experience the most of expressways within the network Ashghal in which commuters are com- our farm, I would like to thank you for efiting all the south Al Wukair area res- new developed roads, said a statement. in addition to reducing the journey times mending the External Road Network. that new constructed road because we idents. Ezdan compound residents are The external expressway road significantly. Engineer Azizi said: “I use the New used to drive through the desert to reach waiting for the full opening of IC-11A network, opened over the past year, is Ashghal is currently working to Orbital Highway daily to reach the the farm in the darkness, Hamad Port Exit towards Al Wakra. This opening will witnessing an increase in the traffic increase the efforts on the directional precast yard I manage which is located road provided us 4 lanes in each enable road users to have smooth access volumes, especially with the roads in signs, which will facilitate access to the on Wukair road 1, I found a great direction and enough street lighting and to South Al Wakra area.” Doha undergoing extensive construction new external expressways and thus to improvement in the new layout (Wukair guardrails for safe driving, now we reach Abdullah Ismail from Al Waseef work recently such as Umm Lekhba the desired destinations. This will be Road 1) as it is wider and safer as well our farm safely and faster,” said Salem management of Barwa Village said: “The Intersection (Landmark). implemented through a new committee since it became 2 lanes in each direction Al Marri. Public Works Authority Ashghal played This will ease the pressure on these formed by Ashghal in coordination with instead of 1 lane with proper street Sheikh Abdul Rahman Bin Jassim Al a pivotal role at improving traffic flow roads within Doha, especially during the other concerned parties. lighting, I used to drive through Al- Thani said: “I stay in Al Wukair, I was and connectivity from Barwa village to coming period, which will witness an The committee will review all the Wukair road old layout at 5:00 pm and not using Al Wukair road to reach Al the old airport area and F-Ring Road as increase in the pace of implementation directional signs installed in the com- there was always heavy traffic con- Kharrara, I would like to say that we can well as to the southern area of Wakra. of the construction work in order to pleted and ongoing road projects as well gestion before, but after the new layout, feel and touch a great positive change The signs and direction for all accesses improve the traffic flow within Doha and as the planned signs for future projects the congestion was really reduced as in the road network, I recently used Al from and to Barwa village are clear.”

Qatar, Vietnam celebrate Music takes 25 years of ties centre stage at QNL RAYNALD C RIVERA of celebration of 25th anniversary THE PENINSULA of the establishment diplomatic relations between Vietnam and this month Qatar,” said Vietnamese Ambas- DOHA: Critically acclaimed sador Nguyen Dinh Thao. THE PENINSULA Vietnamese film “Yellow Flowers Addressing the audience on the Green Grass” was including Katara General DOHA: Qatar National Library screened on Tuesday at the Manager, Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim (QNL), a member of Qatar Cultural Village Foundation – Al Sulaiti, representatives of dip- Foundation (QF), has a full Katara to kick off the year-round lomatic missions and members schedule of events planned celebration of the 25th anni- of the community, the envoy throughout the month of versary of the establishment of outlined the various events February, including an evening diplomatic relations between planned out throughout the of classical music with the Vietnam and Qatar. year-long celebration. Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. Vietnam’s entry to last year’s “As part of the 25th year cel- The Qatar Philharmonic Oscars, the 2015 film directed by ebrations, a wide variety of cul- Orchestra is also a member of Victor Vu was based on a on the tural activities including movie QF and flutist Aleksandr award winning and best- selling screening, photo exhibitions, Haskin, along with an novel “I See Yellow Flowers on Vietnamese cultural and cuisine Vietnamese Ambassador Nguyen Dinh Thao (third left), Katara General Manager Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim ensemble of string players, will the Green Grass” by Nguyen Nhat Festival, cultural performances Al Sulaiti (fourth left) and other officials at the screening of “Yellow Flowers on the Green Grass” at perform a variety of music Anh. Set on a breathtaking Viet- will be organised throughout of Katara on Tuesday. including tangos, flute show- namese countryside village, this the year to promote cultural pieces, and Michel Legrand’s coming-of-age film tells the diversity and artistic collabo- that he looks forward to more Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al for bilateral cooperation in exquisite song ‘You Must story of love, friendship and ration between the two countries. further steps in time to come. Thani in 2012 and the official many fields such as politics, Believe in Spring’ at QNL’s brotherhood. “On February 8, On this occasion, allow me to He cited important high visit to Qatar in 2014 of Nguyen economic, investment, labour, special events area on February 1993, the Socialist Republic of extend my sincere thanks to level exchange visits which had Xuan Phuc, Deputy Prime Min- and education. With the 15. The concert is part of the Vietnam and the State of Qatar Katara for supporting us in been instrumental in further ister, who is now the Prime Min- attention of leaders of the two ‘Philharmonic at the Library’ established diplomatic relations. organising these events,” he said. strengthening the relationship ister of Vietnam. countries, the relations between series. Today, the screening of “Yellow He stressed that bilateral ties between Vietnam and Qatar “A number of agreements Vietnam and Qatar will be more “We are delighted to be Flowers on the Green Grass” is had made significant improve- including the official visit to and MoU have been signed developed and strengthened in partnering with the Qatar Phil- the first activity to open the year ments in the last 25 years and Vietnam of Father Emir H H which have created framework the coming years,” he added. harmonic Orchestra to give the community an opportunity to hear the music of some of the greatest composers in history, Eight schools to be opened played by Doha’s world-class Discover Qatar and QTA musicians,” said Dr Nouf Khashman, Outreach and in next academic year Community Engagement Manager, QNL. enhance city & desert tours Aspiring musicians can also CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 activate the service centres rais- take advantage of QNL’s ‘Intro- THE PENINSULA and the vibrant city of Doha, The announcement came in ing their number to five centres duction to the Music Studio’ before connecting to one of more a meeting chaired by Assistant and would also issue a direc- course on February 24, which DOHA: Discover Qatar, the desti- than 150 destinations that we Undersecretary for Educational tory of inquiries concerning the will offer QNL members the nation management subsidiary serve on our expanding global Affairs Fawzia Abdulaziz Al transfer and registration of stu- chance to play musical instru- arm of Qatar Airways, has network.” Khater with the principals of dents and their dissemination ments, and make use of the announced a new selection of Qatar Airways passengers middle and high schools on the to schools. recording equipment and pre-bookable city and desert who wish to take the advantage occasion of the start of the sec- Director of Teacher Affairs, software at the library’s ‘Inno- tours for passengers transiting of the Discover Qatar Transit ond semester of the academic Ahmed Jumaa Jassimani, said vation Station’. On February 9, through Qatar, making it one of Tours can pre-book on Discover year and preparation for the that the administration is work- young musical talent from the world’s leading inbound Qatar’s web-site: http://discover- next academic year. ing to fill the teaching positions, Qatar Music Academy will tourism providers for transit qatar.qatarairways.com/transit- Al Khater explained that stu- which remained vacant for vari- perform at QNL, showcasing passengers. An image of the promotion. tours or visit the Discover Qatar dents who are candidates for ous reasons such as the opening their skills in both Western and The Discover Qatar Transit Transit Tours desk at Hamad Qatar Science and Technology of new schools or the resigna- Arabic music. Tours allow all passengers with a Qatar Airways Group Chief International Airport with their School will be qualified through tion of a number of teachers, or In addition to the music- transit time at Hamad Interna- Executive, Akbar Al Baker, said: valid passports and boarding a programme that includes reaching retirement age, termi- themed events, QNL will con- tional Airport (HIA) of five–12 “As the national carrier of the passes for their onward travel. studying English in the Brit- nation or transfer of the services tinue to advance its mission to hours to choose from a range of State of Qatar, we are very proud Hassan Al Ibrahim, Acting ish Council, then improving of some teachers for poor per- expand librarianship across activities to help them experience to be playing our part in the Chairman of QTA, said: “Our their performance in science formance and other reasons. Qatar when it hosts several Qatar during their stopover. growth of Qatar’s tourism partnership with Qatar Airways and mathematics and sending Director of Special Edu- workshops for elementary and The renowned city tours, ini- industry, in partnership with to introduce these transit tours, them to the United States to visit cation and Gifted Students secondary school librarians. tially launched in 2015, have been Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA). as well as the 96-hour free transit Thomas Jefferson School as one Department, Hanadi Al Khater, The courses will help school hugely popular with passengers With our new and enhanced pre- visa which was brought into of the outstanding schools in spoke about a number of librarians acquire new skills to transiting through HIA. In a move bookable Discover Qatar Transit effect last year, all come as part STEM system. developments in the area of better assist students and to provide more options, Discover Tours, Qatar now offers one of of our efforts to diversify and Director of School Affairs competence management and advance their careers. On Feb- Qatar has revamped and the finest transit packages glo- grow Qatar’s visitor source Department at the Ministry, the addition of 13 schools to the ruary 23, QNL will also host a enhanced its transit tours, offering bally to suit every traveller’s markets. New developments Khalifa Al Durham, said that existing 50 schools. public forum exploring the role a wide variety of new exciting taste”. such as these are guided by the an electronic system, which Al Khater noted that the of public libraries in facilitating excursions. They now include the “The city and desert tours next chapter of the Qatar will be adopted as a new service registration of students with environmental-related sus- popular Doha City Tour, in will allow our passengers to National Tourism Sector Strategy for parents and schools and the disabilities, according to the tainable development goals in addition to a ‘Monster Bus Desert enjoy every step of their journey 2017-2023, which is focused on system will introduce the pres- regularization of their proce- Qatar. In this regard, QNL Experience,’ Private Desert Safari, with us, and we hope to see more enhancing the end-to-end expe- ence and absence of students dures is issued annually by the recently signed a Memo- Stop & Shop and chauffeur of our passengers booking and rience for travellers who are on the National Student Infor- Department of Schools Affairs randum of Understanding with services for passengers who wish taking part in these tours, to either en route to another mation System (NSIS) starting as well as the completion of the the Joaan Bin Jassim Joint to explore Qatar at their own experience Qatar’s renowned country or have chosen Qatar as from the second semester. He organisation of school support Command and Staff College pace. hospitality, culture and heritage, their destination”. said the ministry would also teams. Library. THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2018 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 07 Saudi, UAE betrayed Yemen: Nobel laureate REUTERS “The Saudi-Emirati occupation ... betrayed DUBAI: Yemeni Nobel Peace the Yemenis and sold laureate Tawakkol Karman called for an end to what she says is a mili- them out, exploiting tary occupation of her country by the coup of the Houthi Saudi Arabia and the United Arab militia backed by Iran Emirates (UAE), powerful Arab on the legitimate states she accuses of repressing government, to democratic change in the region. exercise an ugly An outspoken rights advo- cate and activist with Yemen’s occupation and main Islamist party, Karman Nobel Peace Prize winner greater influence”, won the prize in 2011 after Tawakkol Karman Karman said in an camping out in a tent for months interview from her in pro-democracy protests that by Riyadh and prevented from base in Istanbul. eventually forced Yemen’s vet- governing on the ground in order eran autocrat Ali Abdullah Saleh to preserve Saudi and UAE A man runs after an airstrike in the besieged town of Douma in eastern Ghouta in Damascus, Syria, to step down. influence. to deny any political advantage yesterday. As in other lands shaken by Officials from the Saudi-led to the Muslim Brotherhood, a Arab Spring uprisings that year coalition and the UAE did not Sunni Islamist party with like Syria and Libya, Yemen immediately respond to requests branches across the Arab world Chemical weapons watchdog descended into a war which drew for comment. A Yemeni govern- they had designated as a terrorist in foreign powers, seeming to ment official denied her charges. organisation. dash the dreams of progress by The coalition says their cam- Karman was a top official of voices concern over Syria the thousands who took to paign was launched at Hadi’s the Islah party, seen as Yemen’s Sanaa’s makeshift “Change request and aims at restoring his branch of the Brotherhood, until ANATOLIA the characteristics of any sam- to terrorise innocent civilians, Square.” A Saudi-led military coa- rule and Yemen’s future as a uni- her public break with the coali- ples obtained by the mission, it this time in Idlib province near lition, backed by US weapons and fied state in line with UN resolu- tion in a speech on Friday led it THE HAGUE: An international said. Saraqib,” it said in a intelligence, joined the Yemen tions. But Karman says Saudi to freeze her membership. chemical weapons watchdog OPCW Director-General statement. conflict after Iran-aligned Houthis Arabia and the UAE, monarchies “Who’s freezing whom?” she expressed “grave concern” Ahmet Uzumcu said: “Any use Emphasizing that the attack seized much of the country in late where the state and ruling fami- asked. “The vast majority of our yesterday over the alleged use of of chemical weapons is a viola- is the sixth reported instance in 2014 and eventually drove the lies are intertwined, seek to seek people agree with me.” Perhaps such prohibited weapons in Syria. tion of the Chemical Weapons the past 30 days in Syria, the government into exile in Saudi to turn back the clock on political paradoxically, however, Yemen’s In a statement, the Organi- Convention and the hard-won State Department urged the Arabia. progress in Yemen and abroad. Islamist Islah is the Saudi-led coa- zation for the Prohibition of international norm prohibiting international community to “The Saudi-Emirati occupa- “They regard the Arab Spring lition’s main ally in the war Chemical Weapons (OPCW) said these weapons. “Those respon- demand Syria cease using tion ... betrayed the Yemenis and as their first enemy and this is a against the Houthi movement, in the agency’s fact-finding mis- sible for their use must be held chemical weapons. sold them out, exploiting the coup strategic error they have fallen a conflict which has laid bare sion would continue investi- accountable. These abhorrent Located in northern Syria of the Houthi militia backed by into ... I call on the two countries some of the region’s most knotted gating “all credible allegations weapons have no place in the near the Turkish border, Idlib Iran on the legitimate govern- to reconcile with the Arab Spring, struggles over ideas and geopol- and provide reports” over the world today,” Uzumcu added. was declared a de-escalation ment, to exercise an ugly occu- not to clash with it, because the itics. Karman has in recent years alleged used of chemical On Monday, the US State zone, according to a cease-fire pation and greater influence”, future is a future of change, and lived in Qatar and now in Turkey. weapons in Syria. Department said it is “gravely agreement last May reached in Karman said by phone in an inter- the wheel of history does not roll Politics at home may be even The mission’s report will alarmed” over reports of chem- Kazakhstan’s capital Astana. view from her base in Istanbul. backward.” more vexing than the struggles take into account corroboration ical attacks by the Syrian The Syrian regime, however, She alleged that the President, Brooking little public dissent abroad, however, as deadly between interviewee testimo- regime.“The United States is has repeatedly violated the deal Abdrabuh Mansour Hadi, along at home, the two Gulf countries clashes divided the Saudi-led coa- nies, open-source research, gravely alarmed by continued and has targeted residential with other top officials, were watched the region’s upheavals lition’s main Yemeni allies against medical reports and other rel- allegations of the use of chlo- areas in opposition-held, no- being kept under “house arrest” in 2011 with concern and sought the Houthis this week. evant documentation as well as rine gas by the Syrian regime tension zones like Idlib.

Palestinian martyred in Kenya’s chief justice warns West Bank knife attack government to respect the law NAIROBI: Kenya’s chief justice yesterday criticised the ANATOLIA with Israeli troops — that government’s recent defiance of a series of court orders have left at least 25 Pales- — actions that he said “threaten the rule of law.” In a rare HEBRON: A Palestinian tinians dead. public statement, David Maraga — who rose to interna- was martyred by Israeli Meanwhile, Israeli tional attention last September when he annulled Kenya’s forces after an alleged forces rounded up 17 Pal- presidential election -- warned that government’s refusal stabbing attack in the estinians in overnight raids to comply with various court orders over the last week Israeli-occupied West in the Israeli-occupied undermined the constitution. “In the last few days there Bank yesterday, according West Bank, according to a have been worrying developments in the administration to Palestinian Health Palestinian NGO. of justice that threaten the rule of law,” Maraga said. “The Ministry. Seven people were recent disregard of court orders is an act that is not only Hamzah Zamara, 19, arrested by Israeli forces inimical to the rule of law but is also completely at odds was martyred after he was after raiding their homes in with Kenya’s constitutional outlook.” “Compliance with shot dead by Israeli sol- the West Bank cities of court orders is not an option for any individual or insti- diers near the southern Ramallah and Bethlehem, tution. Neither is it a favour to be doled out to the Judi- West bank city of Hebron, the Palestinian Prisoners ciary. Rather, it is a crucial matter of constitutional and the ministry said in a Society said in a civic obligation,” he said. Maraga did not specify the orders statement. statement. Seeking travel permit that have been defied. But since opposition leader Raila The Israeli army, for its “Ten others were Odinga had himself sworn-in as “people’s president” A Palestinian man cries as he asks for a permit to cross into Egypt through the Rafah part, said the Palestinian detained in raids on their during a mock inauguration ceremony on January 30 the border crossing after it was opened by Egyptian authorities for humanitarian cases, was killed after he stabbed homes in the northern government has ignored court orders on media freedom and lightly wounded a West Bank cities of Nablus, in the southern Gaza Strip, yesterday. and the arrest of an opposition figure. security guard in the com- Jenin and Tulkarem, it munity of Karmei Tzur in added. Hebron. The Palestinian The Israeli army fre- Endgame looms for Jacob Zuma territories have remained quently carries out wide- dogged by tension since US ranging arrest campaigns JOHANNESBURG: African National Congress (ANC) leader President Donald Trump in the West Bank on the Turkish police arrest 58 FETO suspects Cyril Ramaphosa said yesterday that he was holding direct recognized Jerusalem as pretext of searching for talks with Jacob Zuma over a transition of power, the Israel’s capital on “wanted” Palestinians. ANTALYA: At least 58 people were arrested for suspected links to the Fetullah Terrorist strongest indication to date that the South African pres- December 6. According to Pales- Organization (FETO) in counter-terror operations across the country, police sources ident will step down after years of scandal. Zuma, in power The move has trig- tinian official figures, more said. FETO and its US-based leader Fetullah Gulen orchestrated the defeated coup of since 2009 and beset by corruption allegations, has been gered world outcry and than 6,400 Palestinians July 15, 2016, which left 250 people martyred and nearly 2,200 injured, according to in a weakened position since Deputy President Ramaphosa sparked angry protests in are currently held in the Turkish government. replaced him as ANC leader in December. Ramaphosa the Palestinian territories detention facilities In southern province of Antalya, police arrested 25 suspects as part of a probe has talked of a transition of power since he took over as — and multiple clashes throughout Israel. into FETO by Antalya Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office. leader of the ANC. The 75-year-old Zuma has been South Africa’s most controversial president since the end of white-minority rule in 1994, overseeing a tumultuous nine years marked by economic decline and numerous allegations of corruption. In a statement, Ramaphosa said Nigeria to send troops to restive central states he and Zuma began the talks on Tuesday night and hoped to conclude their discussions and report back to country The operation will also target and show of force as well as gerous as the Boko Haram insur- “in coming days” - the first official confirmation of the AFP “armed banditry, kidnapping and humanitarian activities”. gency in the northeast”. talks between the two leaders. Ramaphosa said the process cattle rustling” in Kaduna and Amnesty International said last Political opponents of Presi- was an opportunity to conclude the matter without causing ABUJA: Nigeria’s army yesterday Niger, plus other crimes in Kogi, week that 168 people had been dent Muhammadu Buhari have discord in the country. said it would send troops into the he added. killed in communal violence seized on the issue because of his country’s volatile central states to Ahmadu, who is the army’s between herders and farmers this perceived inaction towards the Turkey okays extended force in Gulf of Aden quell violence between farmers head of training and operations, year alone, with about a hundred violence -- and his own ethnicity. and herders that has killed said criminal activities had “con- in Benue state. Like the herders, Buhari is an ANKARA: Turkey’s parliament yesterday okayed the hundreds in recent weeks. tinued unabatedly in these states The global watchdog warned ethnic Fulani from the mainly extension of Turkish forces serving in the Gulf of Aden, Major General David Ahmadu despite the efforts by sister secu- the violence was “spiralling” out Muslim north, while the farming Somalia, and the Arabian Sea. Parliament ratified a motion said the deployment from February rity agencies to curb them”. There of control. The International Crisis communities are in the largely extending authorisation of the deployment through Feb. 15 would crack down on was no immediate indication of the Group warned in a report pub- Christian south. 10, 2019. Since it was first approved by parliament in 2008, “herdsmen/farmers clashes and number of troops involved. lished last September said some The police have also been the Prime Ministry motion for the deployment has been attacks on innocent members of But Ahmadu said operations 2,500 people were killed on both accused of not doing enough to end extended 10 times. The Gulf of Aden — near Yemen and our communities, particularly in would include “raids, cordon and sides in 2016. the violence, which has seen tit- close to the world’s fourth-biggest chokepoint for oil Benue, Taraba and Nasarawa state search operations, anti-kidnapping It warned the conflict was for-tat attacks between farmers transit, the Bab el-Mandab strait — is a strategic energy by armed militias”. drills, road blocks, check points becoming “as potentially dan- and herders. route for Middle Eastern crude oil. 08 VIEWS THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2018 ‘Fake news’ and the Trumpian ESTABLISHED IN 1996 threat to democracy CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI [email protected] ISHAAN THAROOR THE WASHINGTON POST ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED hen President Donald [email protected] Trump addressed the World Economic Forum in Davos Wlast month, his jabs at the “nasty,” “vicious,” “fake” media earned him audible groans and hisses - even from some non-American reporters in the room. It may have been a new experience EDITORIAL for them, but journalists in the United States have become rather depressingly that consumed or shared this fake news cause. In Italy, Facebook has contracted a inured to Trump’s diatribes. between November 2017 and January team of independent fact checkers to That wasn’t always the case. 2018. monitor and debunk fake news ahead of But, starting early in his presidency, What they found was a profound elections next month. On Tuesday, Face- Resilient real estate Trump seized upon the words “fake news” imbalance. book agreed to a similar arrangement with and shaped them into a cudgel he inces- “Analysis showed that the distribution Mexico’s National Electoral Institute. he real estate sector in Qatar is gaining santly wields. He has routinely tweeted of junk news content was unevenly spread But while social media may help rein- momentum. The approval of a draft law against the “fake news” media when it has across the ideological spectrum,” the insti- force tribal divisions, the “fake news” that allows non-Qataris to own real estate the temerity to fact-check a multitude of tute said in a news release. “On Twitter, a moment reflects a deeper, intensifying as well as the entry of a large number of erroneous claims he has made; doled out network of Trump supporters shared the polarisation in the United States and else- Tcitizens from foreign countries has helped boost “fake news” awards to outlets whose cov- widest range of junk news sources and where, one that predates Trump’s political the sector in a huge way. Qatar’s real estate sector erage he thinks is helplessly biased against accounted for the highest volume of junk rise or even the era of social media as a witnessed a high growth rate, both in terms of value him; and looked on as a series of autocrats news sharing in the sample, closely fol- prime vehicle for delivering information. and numbers last year despite the unjust blockade and strongmen abroad aped his rhetoric, lowed by the conservative media group. As Vox’s Matt Yglesias noted in a gloomy imposed since June last year. The blockade has invoking “fake news” to argue away docu- On Facebook, extreme hard right pages essay on the prospect of a looming crisis in helped Qatar undergo an economic transformation mented reports of ethnic cleansing, torture shared more junk news than all the other American democracy — written well which resulted the state establishing the and war crimes. audience groups put together.” Right-wing before Trump was elected — the country’s foundations of a flexible, independent and open Trump tweeted “So much Fake News critics of mainstream media in the United political system is being fundamentally economy. is being reported. They don’t even try to States would likely recoil at this character- weakened by intensifying ideological divi- Leading real estate developer SAK Holding get it right, or correct it when they are ization and point to what they see as sions. Those gaps have made compromise Group noted in a report that the FIFA 2022-related wrong. They promote the Fake Book of a anti-Trump hysteria in mainstream or lib- more difficult and emboldened presidents projects are progressing according to the original mentally deranged author, who know- eral outlets. But the study shows there is to expand their executive powers. schedule. The report said the market is expecting ingly writes false information. The no symmetrical equivalence. “Over the past 25 years, it’s set Amer- an increase in the inflow of investments into the Mainstream Media is crazed that WE won “We find that the political landscape is ica on a course of paralysis and crisis real estate sector, especially housing. The activities the election!” Trump tweeted “I will be strikingly divided across ideological lines — government shutdowns, impeachment, in the construction sector will witness a peak during announcing THE MOST DISHONEST & when it comes to who is sharing junk debt ceiling crises, and constitutional the second half of this year. Continued demand for CORRUPT MEDIA AWARDS OF THE YEAR news,” said Oxford researcher Lisa-Maria hardball,” Yglesias wrote. “Voters, under- real estate units is still considered by a large on Monday at 5:00 o’clock. Subjects will Neudert in a statement. “We find that standably, are increasingly dissatisfied segment of investors and savers as a safe haven cover Dishonesty & Bad Reporting in vari- Trump supporters, hard conservatives and with the results and confidence in Ameri- because it is an investment capable of protecting ous categories from the Fake News Media. right-wing groups are circulating more can institutions has been generally low initial investment value of assets. Stay tuned!” Trump tweeted “FAKE NEWS junk news than other groups.” The phe- and falling. But rather than leading to Moreover, construction works for the first phase — A TOTAL POLITICAL WITCH HUNT!” A nomenon is not limited to the United States. change, the dissatisfaction has tended to of Al Mutahidah Towers at The Pearl Qatar has new study, though, restores a bit of clarity Late last year, a team of German research- yield wild electoral swings that exacerbate been completed and to what “fake news” actually represents. ers at Hoffenheim University created a fake the sense of permanent crisis.” United Development Researchers at Oxford University’s Inter- far-right news site that shared fabricated, In this climate, the proliferation of “fake Company, the master net Institute spent 18 months identifying 91 sensationalist stories on Facebook about news” — and the arguments over it — are a developer of The Pearl sources of propaganda from across the refugees and immigrants. These pieces mark of a dangerous political degradation. Qatar, has already started political spectrum on social media, which reached thousands of far-right supporters For Trump, it serves as an extension of the selling out the apartments spread what they deemed “junk news” in Germany, many of whom recirculated same demagogic mind-set that saw him The establishment and retail spaces at the that was the stories. It reflected the willingness of labeling Democrats who did not clap dur- of 14,639 new iconic towers. Al deliberately people in ideological echo chambers to ing his speech as “un-American” and companies in Mutahidah Towers project misleading believe what they want to believe rather “treasonous.” Analysts point to how such Qatar last year consists of 450 high-end or masquer- than check or evaluate sources. unravelings led to coups and chaos in apartments and retail ading as It also exposed a problem with social- countries as disparate as Chile and Turkey. will increase the space, which is located at While social media may authentic media sites such as Facebook and Twitter, “Some polarisation is healthy, even demand for a Viva Bahriya. Currently, reporting. which critics have lambasted as not doing necessary, for democracy. But extreme the number of residents in help reinforce tribal They then enough to curb the scourge of fraudulent polarisation can kill it. When societies variety of units divisions, the “fake and areas of The Pearl Qatar is between did a deep content and “bots” that amplify fake news. divide into partisan camps with pro- 25,000 and 30,000, which news” moment reflects analysis of “It was striking that our Facebook profile foundly different worldviews, and when land, particularly include expatriate a deeper, intensifying three months was never questioned — not by Facebook, those differences are viewed as existential commercial. communities from 54 polarisation in the United of social that is, the institution itself, nor by other and irreconcilable, political rivalry can countries. The number of States and elsewhere, media activ- users,” said Wolfgang Schweiger, the lead devolve into partisan hatred,” wrote Har- residents is growing every ity in the researcher in the project, to the BBC. vard political scientists Steven Levitsky month with the completion one that predates United Studies like this and the Oxford Inter- and Daniel Ziblatt, authors of the new of new projects. Trump’s political rise States, stud- net Institute investigation may add to the book “How Democracies Die.” “Parties Citing a series of positive macroeconomic or even the era of ying 13,477 pressure on tech companies to do better at come to view each other not as legitimate indicators, the report by SAK Holding Group noted social media as a prime Twitter users fighting misinformation spread through rivals but as dangerous enemies. Losing that there is a 13.4 percent growth in the number vehicle for delivering and 47,719 their platforms. Facebook and other com- ceases to be an accepted part of the politi- of companies established in Qatar last year. The information. public Face- panies are working to better identify fake cal process and instead becomes a establishment of 14,639 new companies last year book pages accounts and stem the damage they might catastrophe.” will increase the demand for a variety of units and areas of land, particularly commercial. The post- blockade period witnessed registration of 27 foreign companies. With large number of commercial complexes in various areas nearing completion, The unlawful crackdown in Kenya growth in commercial areas and retail trade business by about 70 percent is expected. enyan President free and fair vote, and when a court ordered the sta- among Odinga’s supporters in The real estate sector has weathered the Uhuru Kenyatta could defeated Odinga again. tions reopened, the the Luo community. It risks blockade. The market is giving enough signals that Khave presided over a Instead, he embarked on a government did not respond. reigniting ethnic violence that it has overcome the impact of the siege. Investors landmark consolidation of vindictive campaign, sponsor- Only on Monday, four days killed more than 1,000 people have reposed their faith in Qatari economy. The democracy last year that ing legislation to prevent the after the court order, were following a 2007 presidential sector, supported by a series of policy-driven would have positioned Kenya supreme court from censur- two of the stations allowed election. That tragedy led to decisions, is staging a turnaround with residential for political leadership in ing future elections and back on the air, and there important constitutional and properties expected to increase in the years ahead. Africa. Instead, he is leading intimidating electoral officials, were reports that they had other democratic reforms that the country back toward the one of whom fled the country. been forced to agree to cover- Kenyatta is disregarding. autocracy it thought it had left Odinga and his supporters age restrictions. Kenya’s African neighbors behind. By shutting down ended up boycotting the elec- Kenyatta meanwhile and Western donors ought to media, ignoring court orders tion, depriving Kenyatta of a launched a campaign against be demanding that the presi- and charging peaceful oppo- convincing mandate. key supporters of Odinga. Law- dent reverse course before it is QUOTE OF THE DAY nents with treason, he is The situation deteriorated yer Miguna Migunawas too late. Last week the State dangerously raising tensions further last week when arrested in his home on Friday Department issued a statement in an already polarized soci- Odinga elected to stage a and held incommunicado over criticising both Mr Odinga’s I want us to open ety and inviting ostracism for demonstration in which he the weekend even after a court auto-inauguration and the a new chapter of his government. swore himself in as the “peo- ordered his release. On Tues- shutdown of television our history. I want Kenyatta appeared to ple’s president.” day he was brought before a stations. everyone in the handily win a presidential It was a political stunt court outside Nairobi and It urged Kenya’s leaders to election last August against that, had Kenyatta ignored it, charged with the crime of begin “a national conversa- (French) Republic longtime opponent Raila would have served only to attending Odinga’s mock inau- tion” about “long-standing to be able to claim Odinga, but then accepted a discredit Odinga. Instead, the guration, which was issues.” That’s a good idea, but their identity, their ruling by the supreme court president warned Kenyan tel- characterised as “a capital it can’t happen if Kenyatta con- specificity. invalidating the vote because evision stations not to cover offense, namely treason.” The tinues his unlawful crackdown. of procedural irregularities. So the event, then shut down passports of 14 other opposi- The Trump administration far, so good: Kenyatta could four of them when they did. tion leaders were suspended. should warn him of US puni- Emmanuel Macron have fixed the problems with That was a clear violation of The wave of repression tive actions, including French President the voting process, ensured a the country’s constitution, and has prompted demonstrations sanctions, if he does not stop. THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2018 OPINION 09 Managing Ethiopia’s political crisis

GOITOM GEBRELUEL & quagmire that the Ethiopian model, on the other hand, has decentralisation that is more guaranteed through the perpetua- BINIAM BEDASSO state finds itself in. The ethnon- been characterised by rigid responsive to changing political tion of a discourse of AL JAZEERA ational federation is also not long-term planning and cen- economy conditions. “ethnic-interests” and fear of other the primary source of the prob- tralised policy-making. Its The regional states currently groups. Both conflicts within the THIOPIA has been lem, and its abolishment is primary purpose has been the have virtually no capacity in tax EPRDF and with opposition parties experiencing recurrent neither desirable nor a realistic pursuit of a structural transfor- legislation. The federal govern- are increasingly becoming devoid mass protests, riots and proposition. mation of the economy from an ment should work with the of substantive policy and ideologi- ethnic conflicts over The government’s response agriculture-dominated to one regional states to remove legal, cal differences and revolve around E wherein industry holds a sub- administrative and political con- ethnic group privileges. Sustaina- the past two years that have to the problem has also been claimed the lives of thousands inadequate. It has primarily stantial share. straints that have prevented the ble economic development and a and displaced hundreds of attributed this to corruption The contradiction between regions from fully exploiting functioning democratic and federal thousands. and a stalled democratic proc- the developmental state and their powers of taxation. This governance arrangement will be These events have led ess. Based on this diagnosis it federalism has resulted in the policy would also contribute to difficult to achieve in the current observers and members of the has taken important yet inade- objectives of the latter being holding the leaderships in the ethnicised framework of political ruling Ethiopian People’s Revo- quate measures such as compromised. regional states more accounta- competition. lutionary Democratic Front releasing political prisoners, Regardless of the great ble by their own constituencies. The way forward must, there- (EPRDF) to conclude that the initiating dialogue with opposi- lengths to which the Ethiopian Competition for power and fore, involve a de-ethnicisation of very survival of the Ethiopian tion groups and demoted constitution goes to grant resources at the federal level competition for resources at the state is at stake. officials. regional states access to a has taken place along ethnic federal level. This is difficult but not State collapse is so far an Managing Ethiopia’s current number of tax instruments, the lines and much of the violence impossible. The first and most extreme and unlikely scenario political crisis requires going revenue generating capacity of that shook the country has been important step in this direction given that the conflicting par- beyond democratic reform and the regional states has been tied to disputes between groups must be to reorganise the ruling ties are internal actors in the instead thinking about the consistently low due to the cen- within the ruling party. This EPRDF from a front composed of system and have a vested inter- political economy and institu- tralising tendencies of the political elite competition is not four ethnonational organisations est in its survival. A more likely tions that shape elite developmental state. an inescapable function of the into a cross-ethnic and unitary but still dangerous scenario is a competition along ethnic lines. This has led the regions to federal structure, but rather, an party. long-term vicious cycle of The two most important reform heavily rely on subsidies from outcome of the nature of politi- The EPRDF had in its origins an political conflict and economic measures that should be the federal government to cal party organisation and extensively formulated class-based stagnation that cripples state embarked upon immediately in finance public goods. Moreover, practice. ideology, which explicitly priori- and society. this regard are devolving more through its many parastatals, State rents tied to political tised the interests of Ethiopia’s Ethnic politics is Much of Ethiopia’s appeal to power to the regional states in the government is encroaching and bureaucratic appointments peasantry. Over the last decade, its not a necessary global investors lies in the high- accordance with the Constitu- upon what could have been the have, particularly after the con- ideological commitment has weak- evil that Ethiopia level political commitment to tion and de-ethnicising elite tax jurisdiction of the regional troversial 2005 parliamentary ened, and it has transformed into a economic growth. Political competition at the federal level. states. elections, been an important party that tries to cater to various must live with instability risks eroding the Ethiopia is suffering from a Regional officials accused incentive for increasing the and contradictory interests. This - it is rather hard-won economic gains it political economy crisis at the the federal government of membership of the ruling party first step will necessitate a different an existential has registered over the past heart of which is the contradic- denying them the right to par- from around 700,000 in 2005 resource and power distribution decade. tion between the EPRDF’s ticipate in devising an urban to seven million in 2015. mechanism within the EPRDF, threat. And now, Analysts and the interna- developmental state model and development plan that had eco- Given that the four consti- which will encourage new patron- more than ever, tional community have often the constitutional ethnona- nomic implications. This tutive parties of the front are age structures and alignments it is the time attributed the current crisis tional federation. The dispute sparked the protests, organised along ethnic lines, within the party that cut across eth- to think about either to Ethiopia’s ethnona- Constitution grants the regional which eventually led to a the distribution of economic nic lines. tional federal system or the states extensive rights to self- u-turn on the plan by the gov- and political resources have It will thus tame communal con- the possible near total curtailment of politi- determination in economic, ernment, but only after a great also taken place through eth- flicts caused by competition between institutional cal space since the disputed cultural and political matters human, political and economic nic-based patronage structures party officials and it will encourage mechanisms that parliamentary elections in even to the extent of secession. cost had been incurred. (this includes both the legal dis- the formation of opposition to the can contribute 2005. In terms of fiscal autonomy, A combination of a lack of tribution of official posts in the EPRDF that is cross-ethnic and based While political liberalism is it provides them with the power transparency and corruption government, as well as the on a different ideological platform to transforming a moral imperative on its own to levy a wide range of taxes on scandals has led to an increas- illicit benefits accrued through than nationalism. politics away accord - and long overdue - it economic activities occurring ing feeling that Ethiopia’s some of these positions). from it. is, nevertheless, an insufficient within their territories. wealth is not fairly distributed The distribution of power solution to the political The EPRDF’s governance or properly managed at the and resources in everything federal level. from seats in the cabinet to In pursuing a highly cen- leadership positions in univer- tralised development sities are often based on an D-RING ROAD policy-making process, the informal ethnic quota system. POST BOX: 3488 EPRDF has underestimated the Any form of inequality that potential consequences of emerges in access to adminis- DOHA - QATAR resistance from the general trative positions, state rents and [email protected] population and officials in illicit benefits, therefore, regional states that feel disen- assume a communal ethnic EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE franchised by particular character. TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 policies. Ethnic politics have in gen- FAX: +974 4455 7758 The current quagmire eral also come at the expense of shows that there is a need to meritocracy and economic effi- MANAGING EDITOR balance economic ambitions ciency. Most importantly, it has TEL: 4462 7505 with political realities. Ethiopia also provided the four EPRDF needs to devise a more parties with ethnic constituen- DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR dynamic approach to cies whose support are almost TEL: 4455 7769

LOCAL NEWS SECTION TEL: 4455 7743 HEN Lenin Moreno won Ecuadoreans might have expected from Yet don’t hold your breath for an out- the presidential election in Moreno, who is as understated and concil- burst of Morenismo, a Thermidor of BUSINESS NEWS SECTION Ecuador last April, no one iatory as Correa was volcanic and brash. ideological counter-reform. While Moreno TEL: 4462 7535 expected a political But Ecuadoreans like what they’ve seen so has eased tensions with the markets and W SPORT NEWS SECTION miracle. The former vice president to far. international lenders, he is no counterrev- Rafael Correa, he won by a narrow Just 10 months into his term, Moreno olutionary. Rather he’s more of a TEL: 4455 7745 margin and seemed to harbor no has reached out to business leaders and soft-spoken left-winger, who saw an open- ambitions beyond warming the throne opposition parties, ended the feud with ing and moved quickly to gather power and ONLINE SECTION MAC MARGOLIS for his jefe’s presumptive return to the media, and cracked down on corrupt offi- void Correa’s stranglehold on national TEL: 4462 7501 BLOOMBERG palace in 2021. cials. Tellingly, he did nothing to protect institutions. [email protected] Vice President Jorge Glas, a Correa confi- Morenismo has improved Ecuador’s dant, who was convicted in December for political outlook, upgraded from a “hybrid PUBLIC RELATIONS allowing bribes from the ubiquitous Bra- regime” to a “flawed democracy” on the TEL: 4455 7613 zilian contractor Odebrecht -- an Economist Intelligence Unit’s annual [email protected] unmistakable flag to the ethically chal- Democracy Index. Yet no one is touting Ecuador strikes a blow lenged political establishment. Moreno to order public-sector layoffs or ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT “The Glas case was a signal to every- aggressive public spending cuts, despite TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 one else that they can expect no quarter or a gaping fiscal deficit amounting to 5.9 FAX: 4455 7870 for common sense special treatment under Moreno,” Aristo- percent of gross domestic product, Fitch [email protected] dimos Iliopulos, an analyst at the Economist Ratings reported in a client note. Indeed, Intelligence Unit, told me. “Moreno has by pumping up the national debt, adding CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT shown he’s a brilliant politician. No one another $3 billion just last month, Moreno TEL: 4455 7857 expected him to do what he’s done as signaled he has no plans to sacrifice the [email protected] quickly as he has.” The referendum gave timid economic recovery to fiscal What Ecuador got instead was an insur- Ecuadoreans the opportunity not only to retrenchment, according to Eurasia SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION rection. Just ask Correa: Having done pretty reset term limits but also to reverse key Group. TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 much as he pleased with the impoverished mileposts of the Bolivarian socialism -- the With national debt rising to half of gross FAX: 44557819 Andean nation for the last decade, the cash- late Hugo Chavez’s them-against-us, domestic product and $8.25 billion in new [email protected] Moreno has shown iered caudillo has since watched his protege gringo-thrashing political brand -- that financing needed through 2018, Ecuador he’s a brilliant pick apart his “Citizens Revolution,” reform enchanted Andean populists even as it poi- arguably needs more than gradualism. Yet politician. No one by reform. soned politics and corroded national Ecuador’s creditors should bear in mind All thoughts and views expected him to do The assault deepened on Sunday, when institutions. Voters signed onto provisions that Moreno also is struggling against a for- voters weighed in on a multi-question bal- barring mining and oil drilling in protected midable political deficit, and he knows that expressed in these what he’s done as lot to alter key articles of the constitution, zones, blocking officials facing corruption more aggressive adjustment could threaten columns are those of the quickly as he has.” on matters from mining to corruption. The charges from seeking office and curbing the fair-weather political alliance he’s writers, not of the The referendum centerpiece of the referendum? Restora- the power of the Correa-friendly Citizen relied upon to change course and keep Cor- newspaper. gave Ecuadoreans tion of the term limits that Correa, in the Participation Council. rea’s camp at bay. tradition of Latin American strongmen, had Moreno’s victory on all counts suggests “Moreno took office as a weak presi- the opportunity engineered away in a referendum of his how badly his predecessor’s cachet has dent sitting atop two very strong factions All correspondence not only to reset own in 2015. Partial returns Monday morn- faded. Correa once famously answered of hardcore Correa supporters, both of regarding Views and term limits but ing confirmed polls that renewed term rumored death threats by tearing open his whom want power and independence,” Opinion pages should be limits were set to pass by a landslide, effec- shirt to offer his chest on a balcony; last Andres Mejia Acosta, a political analyst at also to reverse key tively barring Correa from the presidency month he ducked behind umbrellas as King’s College, London, told me. “He’ll have send to editor-in-chief mileposts of the for life. protestors pelted his anti-referendum cam- to work hard to avoid becoming a hostage.” office or mailed to the Bolivarian socialism. Apostasy was the last thing paign swing with eggs. Just don’t call him a placeholder. [email protected] 10 ASIA THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2018 ‘Congress-free India was Gandhi’s idea’ IANS ‘big tree’ fell? Do you need India Modi also took digs of the time when the culprit of NEW DELHI: Prime Minister at the Congress thousands of deaths was pro- Narendra Modi yesterday party over various vided an airplane to fly out of launched a bitter attack on the country (after Bhopal gas Congress party in the Rajya alleged scams tragedy)?” Modi said, in an Sabha, saying those opposing of distant and attacking mode. the dream of ‘New India by recent past and for The “big tree” jibe was a 2022’ want to live with their reference to former Prime Min- baggage of the past, and added blocking the triple ister Rajiv Gandhi’s remarks in a taunt that even he wanted talaq legislation in who, reacting to the anti-Sikh an India of Mahatma Gandhi’s Parliament. violence in Delhi in the wake dreams who had envisaged a of then Prime Minister Indira “Congress-free India”. Gandhi’s assassination by her Bathing a giant Modi also took digs at the Sikh bodyguards on October 31, Congress party over various 1984, reportedly said that when A mahout bathes his elephant in the River Yamuna in New Delhi, yesterday. alleged scams of distant and because Gandhi said after Inde- a “big tree falls”, the ground recent past and for blocking the pendence that now there is no beneath was bound to shake. triple talaq legislation in need of the Congress party and “Is this why you don’t need New Parliament. it should be dissolved. India?” Modi said. “The President has spoken “Congress-mukt Bharat He said his government was Quack held of a New India in his address. Gandhi ka vichar hai hamara being labelled as “name PM’s wife injured in road Swami Vivekananda also nahi (Congress-free India is the changer not game changer”, but dreamt of a New India. idea of Gandhi not ours). We are actually it was an “aim chaser” accident; one kin dead for infecting Mahatma Gandhi would also only trying to walk in his foot- government that works hard speak of a Young India. I don’t steps,” Modi said in sarcasm, and mobilizes resources to ANI place while she was returning 46 with HIV know what is the (Congress amid thumping of desks and achieve its targets in a given to Gujarat after visiting her rel- party’s) problem with the New laughter by the treasury timeframe. Rajasthan: Prime Minister atives in Baran district. AFP India. They say ‘we don’t need members. Raking up the triple talaq Narendra Modi’s wife Jashod- According to the police, “The New India. We want our older “If not New India, do you Bill that is pending in the Rajya aben, got injured in an accident accident took place at around NEW Delhi: Indian police India’,” Modi said as he started need India of army jeep scam, Sabha, Modi said that the Con- after her car collided with a 10am near Katunda area in yesterday arrested an unli- his reply to the debate on the of submarine scam, of Bofors gress now wants changes in the truck in Rajasthan’s Chittorgarh Chittorgarh district. There were censed doctor accused of Motion of Thanks on the Pres- scam, of (Agusta) helicopter Bill but it never brought such district yesterday. Jashodaben’s seven people in the car, most infecting at least 46 people ident’s address. scam, of Emergency when the legislation while in govern- relative Basant Bhai Modi, 67, of them were believed to be her with HIV by re-using a “They say ‘we need Gandhi country was turned into a jail? ment. “You now want changes died on the spot. Jashodaben relatives.”Congress leader syringe. wala Bharat’ (India of Mahatma Do you need India of the time in Bill. You had got an oppor- was rushed to the hospital, Ashok Gehlot said, “Sad to learn Police in Uttar Pradesh Gandhi’s dreams). Even I want when thousands of innocent tunity to bring this legislations where her condition was said about the road accident near tracked down Rajendra Bharat of Gandhi’s dreams, Sikhs were massacred after a 30 years ago,” Modi said. to be stable. The accident took Chittorgarh, Rajasthan.” Yadav, who provided cheap door-to-door medical serv- ices to poor villagers, after a filing a criminal case against him over the spread of the India ‘not occupiers, but liberators’: Nasheed infection in the northern state’s Unnao district. “He was arrested on a tip- IANS resolved the crisis, and left. They “On behalf of Maldivian court in a ruling last Thursday politically motivated. This dis- off and is being questioned were not occupiers but libera- people we humbly request: 1. ordered the release of nine polit- graceful, illegal arrest must be about his role in the case,” MALE: In a rebuff to China for tors. This is why Maldivians look India to send envoy, backed by ical prisoners, including reversed and he must be imme- Unnao police chief Pushpan- warning India to keep off from to India now.” The tweet by its military, to release judges and Nasheed, and the reinstatement diately freed,” Nasheed posted. jali Devi said. Yadav is facing interfering in the Maldives, the Nasheed, a friend of India, came political detainees including of 12 legislators who were Turmoil in the Indian Ocean initial criminal charges of Indian Ocean nation’s exiled as China, in apparent reference President Gayoom. We request unseated for defecting from the archipelago nation began when impersonation and endan- ex-President Mohamed Nasheed to India, on Wednesday cau- a physical presence. 2. The US to ruling party and annulled the President Yameen refused to gering human lives, the yesterday reiterated his appeal tioned against outside interfer- stop all financial transactions of apex court’s previous ban on release Nasheed along with officer said. to India to intervene, saying his ence in the Maldives’ internal Maldives regime leaders going floor-crossing. other nine high-profile political Medical instruments were countrymen view New Delhi’s affairs, saying it would “compli- through US banks,” he had In more tweets on dissidents, in defiance of a Feb- recovered from his posses- role “positively” and during the cate” the situation. tweeted on Tuesday. Wednesday, Nasheed said: ruary 1 apex court order, sion are being sent for 1988 crisis India were “not occu- On Tuesday, Nasheed, who India had in a strong state- “President Gayoom and the sparking protests. forensic tests. piers but liberators”. lives in self-exile in Britain, had ment said that it is “disturbed” Judges must be released imme- On Monday, Yameen India has only limited Nasheed said in a tweet: asked India to intervene mili- by the situation in the Maldives diately. I am told President declared a 15-day state of emer- public healthcare services “Saying ‘resolve things internally’ tarily to help resolve the bur- where the Supreme Court Chief Gayoom is not taking food, while gency, giving sweeping powers and that, combined with a is akin to asking us to escalate geoning crisis in his archipelago Justice and another senior judge (jailed Supreme Court) Justice Ali to troops to arrest and detain lack of regulation, has the revolt, which can lead to nation which is under a state of has been jailed and emergency Hameed has been ill treated.” He individuals while curtailing the allowed unlicensed doctors chaos. Maldivians see India’s role Emergency clamped by Presi- clamped. Yameen clamped said “Hon Qasim’s son, Ibrahim, powers of the judiciary and the to thrive, particularly in rural positively: in ‘88 they came, dent Abdulla Yameen. emergency days after the apex has been arrested. This is clearly legislature areas. Taiwan quake: Seven dead, 67 missing Bangladesh oppn leader claims innocence REUTERS

TAIWAN: Rescuers combed ahead of graft verdict through the rubble of collapsed buildings yesterday, in a search AFP said. “I am ready to face all out- for 67 people missing after a comes. I am not afraid of jail or strong earthquake which killed DHAKA: Bangladesh opposi- punishment. I am not going to at least seven near Taiwan’s tion leader Khaleda Zia bow down my head.” popular tourist city of Hualien. yesterday proclaimed her inno- Her party’s spokesman The magnitude 6.4 quake, cence on the eve of a verdict Rizvi Ahmed told AFP that which hit near the coastal city that authorities fear could spark “approximately 3,500” oppo- just before midnight on Tuesday, violence if the former prime sition activists and officials had injured 260 people and caused minister is jailed for corruption. been arrested in a sweep by four buildings to collapse, offi- Police have banned street police and other security forces. cials said. protests and rounded up what A former minister has been Hualien Mayor Fu Kun-chi opposition figures say is thou- detained and a senior official said the number of people sands of their supporters in a has vanished, raising fears that missing was now close to 70, crackdown ahead of today’s security forces could be “dis- although an exact figure was not court ruling in the capital appearing” key opposition fig- provided. As many as 150 were Dhaka. ures in the lead-up to the ver- initially feared missing. A guilty verdict could pre- dict. The national police chief Many of the missing were vent Zia, a former ally turned described the arrests as “rou- believed to be still trapped inside arch-nemesis of Prime Minister tine work”. buildings, some of which tilted Sheikh Hasina, from contesting Political demonstrations by precariously, after the quake a general election slated for Zia’s centre-right BNP and its Rescue workers are seen by a damaged building after an earthquake hits Hualien, Taiwan, yesterday. struck about 22km northeast of December. Islamist allies in 2014 and 2015 Hualien on Taiwan’s east coast. Prosecutors are seeking life left nearly 200 people dead. At the city’s Marshal Hotel, building topple over. Also, it was blocks. Hualien is home to about building was wedged into the imprisonment for Zia — a two- The BNP boycotted 2014 rescuers trying to free two constantly shaking, so everyone 100,000 people. ground at a roughly 40-degree time former prime minister and polls in which Hasina was re- trapped Taiwanese pulled one was really scared, we ran to Its streets were buckled by angle. Rescuers worked their head of the Bangladesh Nation- elected but is expected to con- out alive, but the other person empty open spaces to avoid it.” the force of the quake, with way around and through the alist Party — for allegedly test the upcoming general elec- was declared dead, the govern- Aftershocks with a magni- around 40,000 homes left building while residents looked embezzling 21 million taka tion. Zia faces dozens of ment said. Mainland Chinese, tude of at least 5.0 could rock without water and around 1,900 on from behind cordoned-off ($252,000) through a charity separate charges related to vio- Czech, Japanese, Singaporean the island in the next two weeks, without power. Water supply roads. Others spoke of the panic trust fund. lence and corruption. Her son and South Korean nationals the government said. Smaller had returned to nearly 5,000 when the earthquake struck. On the eve of the verdict Tarique Rahman, who is in exile were among the injured. tremors rattled nervous resi- homes by noon, while power “We were still open when it the 72-year-old decried the in London, is a co-defendant in “This is the worst earthquake dents throughout the day. was restored to around 1,700 happened,” said Lin Ching-wen, charges as “false” and insisted the case. He was convicted of in the history of Hualien, or at Residents waited and households. who operates a restaurant near “not a penny” had been stolen. money-laundering in 2016. least over the past 40 years that watched anxiously as emergency Emergency workers sur- a damaged military hospital. “This is an attempt to use Last month prosecutors sought I’ve been alive,” said volunteer workers dressed in fluorescent rounded a badly damaged “I grabbed my wife and chil- the court against me, in an the death penalty for Rahman Yang Hsi Hua. orange and red suits and 12-storey residential building, a dren and we ran out and tried to effort to sideline me from pol- over his alleged role in a deadly “We’ve never had anything wearing helmets searched for major focus of the rescue effort. rescue people,” he said. A video itics and elections and to iso- 2004 grenade attack that like this, we’ve never had a residents trapped in apartment Windows had collapsed and the showed large cracks in the road. late me from the people,” Zia injured Hasina. THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2018 ASIA 11 31 convicted in Pakistan over lynching of student

REUTERS settle scores. At least 67 people Aimal Khan, told reporters he whether to challenge the court death and his two sisters have have been killed over unproven was not happy about the acquit- decision. Khan’s family say they had to drop out of school while PESHAWAR: A Pakistani court blasphemy allegations since tals and his family would decide have been threatened since his police guard his grave. yesterday convicted 31 people 1990, according to human rights over the campus lynching of a One of the 31 accused groups. university student who was had been sentenced In 2011, a bodyguard assas- falsely accused of blasphemy, to death, 5 were jailed sinated Punjab provincial gov- and sentenced one of them to ernor Salman Taseer after he death, a defence lawyer said. for life & the other 25 called for the blasphemy laws to The killing of student Mashal were jailed for 4 years. be reformed. His killer, Mumtaz Khan, 23, last year sparked an Qadri, who was executed last outcry and raised fresh questions year, has been hailed as a martyr about the misuse of a blasphemy They all pleaded not guilty in by religious circles. law, which carries a death sen- the trial conducted at a high- A political party founded in tence for insulting Islam or the security prison due to threats to Qadri’s honour has made blas- Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). defence lawyers and government phemy its central issue in the Barrister Ameerullah Cham- prosecutors, Chamkani said. run-up to a general election later kani said one of the 31 accused Khan was known as an intel- this year. had been sentenced to death, five lectually curious and religious The party last year forced the were jailed for life and the other student who liked to debate con- government to retract within a 25 were jailed for four years. troversial social, political and day a change in electoral laws The court acquitted 26 others religious issues. that it deemed blasphemous. out of a total of 57 people He was attacked and killed Party supporters also indicted by a court late last year. by a mob on the campus on April blocked the main road into Chamkani said one of the 13 after a dormitory debate about Islamabad for nearly three weeks convicts, Imran Ali, had been religion. last year in a protest against a sentenced to death because he Blasphemy is a highly sensi- law minister they accused of had shot Mashal three times. tive issue in Pakistan, where blasphemy. The government The accused were students, insulting Islam’s Prophet is pun- eventually gave in, agreeing to teachers and some officials of ishable by death. Even a rumour an army-brokered deal that Abdul Wali Khan University of blasphemy can spark mob vio- included the resignation of the named after a political leader in lence and there have been cases minister. Journalists take images of the court verdict against suspects accused in a blasphemy lynching case northwest Pakistan. of people misusing the law to Khan’s younger brother, outside the central jail in Haripur district yesterday. Duterte again slams EU after criticism of drug war US strikes AFP Europe has been vocal in its person then, so why change your confirmed yesterday that Duterte told you that I would visit your kill 25 Daesh criticism of Duterte’s hallmark assessment?’” He continued: “So had been ‘invited like other place? What is there to see?” he MANILA: Philippines President policy, which has left nearly you get to insult me? I will use leaders from Asia and Europe’ added. militants in Rodrigo Duterte has angrily 4,000 drug suspects dead and that talk on you too. Don’t ever to the summit, but declined to Duterte has branded Trump’s turned down an invitation to an seen human rights groups claim do that to me.” Despite wide- comment on the president’s predecessor Barack Obama with Afghanistan Asia-Europe summit in Brussels he was responsible for a crime spread criticism over alleged latest outburst. Duterte said he names for criticising his drugs as he again lashed out at the EU against humanity. ‘extrajudicial killings’ in the was “not like other presidents” campaign, but enjoys a better ANATOLIA and accused the bloc of insulting Duterte hit out after saying drugs war, Duterte has vowed to and would not take perceived rapport with the current Amer- him over his deadly war on European Council President pursue the campaign until the slights in his stride, adding he ican leader who also has a rep- KABUL: At least 25 suspected drugs. Donald Tusk had invited him to end of his six-year term. also disliked travelling. utation for being outspoken. Daesh fighters were killed in The maverick leader labelled the biennial Asia-Europe The issue had risked threat- He recalled an invitation Trump declared at a Manila US air strikes in Afghanistan’s the 28-country European Union meeting in October. ening the duty-free privileges of from President Donald Trump summit in November he had a northern Jawzjan province - the Philippines’ second most “I’ve been invited by the EU, billions of dollars in annual Phil- to visit the United States, which ‘great relationship’ with his Phil- bordering Turkmenistan, offi- important trading partner - that stupid organisation,” ippine exports to the EU, but he said provoked a threat from ippine counterpart. cials said yesterday. ‘stupid’ and warned he would not Duterte told government Brussels announced last month American senators to protest if However, Duterte also said Mohammad Reza, stay silent in the face of Western workers late Tuesday. Manila will retain the trade he stepped foot on US soil. Tuesday he preferred not to visit spokesman for the provincial condemnation of his anti-crime “I said, ‘For what? You perks. “I said, you know guys, you places where he would be criti- government in Jawzjan, told crackdown. thought of me as that kind of The EU mission in Manila are too presumptuous. Whoever cised as ‘sexist’ for speaking out. this news agency, hideouts of Daesh militants in Darzaab district of the province were targeted. “Twenty-five [Daesh] US vows new North militants were killed. They included Uzbek, Chechen and Arab militants,” he said, Korea sanctions adding there were no civilian casualties. REUTERS Korean President Moon Jae-in The strikes were carried could struggle to conceal at the out by Boeing B-52 Stratofor- SEOUL: US Vice President Mike Olympics. tress, an American subsonic Pence vowed tough new sanc- Pence has voiced scepti- bomber aircraft. tions against North Korea and cism that the North, which is This is the second called it the world’s most tyran- participating in the Games, will northern province targeted nical regime yesterday, two use the event for crude propa- by the US Forces Afghanistan days before he is due to attend ganda. As his guest at the (USFOR-A) with this mighty the Winter Olympics, along opening ceremony, he is taking bomber this week. with two of the North’s most the father of Otto Warmbier, an The campaign has been senior officials. American student who died last dubbed as “expansion of the Speaking in Tokyo on his year after being imprisoned in US air campaign to the North” way to South Korea, which is North Korea for 17 months. by Nato. hosting the Games over the next Sitting in the same stadium The bomber has also been three weeks, Pence said he as VIP guests will be Kim Yo used to hit the Taliban’s would soon announce the Jong, 28-year-old sister of alleged poppy processing fac- stepped-up sanctions in an North Korean leader Kim Jong tories in Helmand province. effort to pressure the North to Un, and Kim Yong Nam, the Child’s suspected murderer in custody Besides the eastern Nan- abandon its nuclear and mis- North’s nominal head of state. garhar province bordering Pakistani police and commandos escort a suspect (centre) who is accused of raping and murdering a sile programmes. Japan’s Abe, whose nation Pakistan’s restive tribal belt, minor girl, as they leave an anti-terrorist court in Lahore yesterday, after the case hearing. Pakistani The Games, being staged 80 has been within range of North Jawzjan has recently emerged  km from the heavily militarised Korean missiles for decades, police on January arrested a key suspect accused of raping and murdering Zainab Fatima Ameen as a second strong bastion of border between the two Koreas, will also attend the ceremony. in a case that enraged the country. pro-Daesh militants in is set for an awkward political Kim Yo Jong would be the Afghanistan. encounter, with Pence as well first member of the Kim family as the North Korean leader’s to cross the border to the South. younger sister attending Fri- She is a propaganda official and day’s opening ceremony. was blacklisted last year by the South Korea wants to use US Treasury Department over Canada sells 16 helicopters to Philippines the event to re-engage with the alleged human rights abuses North and pave the way for and censorship. AFP deliveries set to start in nine “These (helicopters) are a three months after Duterte and talks to resolve a political crisis “It shows the North’s months, ministry spokesman real benefit to Filipinos,” Cana- Trudeau clashed. widely regarded as one of the resolve to defuse tension on the MANILA: The Philippines has Arsenio Andolong said. dian ambassador John Holmes Trudeau said during the world’s most dangerous, with Korean peninsula,” Blue House bought 16 new Bell helicopters “These are multi-purpose said on the mission’s Facebook November summit that he US President Donald Trump spokesman Kim Eui-kyeom from Canada for about $235m aircraft for anti-terrorism as page, adding it would boost called out Duterte over “human and Pyongyang swapping told a news briefing. to strengthen its fight against well as HADR,” he said, using Manila’s “search and rescue and rights, the rule of law, and spe- nuclear threats. Pence has not ruled out the Islamic militants and other military lingo that refers to dis- disaster relief capabilities”. cifically extrajudicial killings”. “I’m announcing today the prospect of meeting North domestic insurgencies, defence aster response and humani- The Philippine defence Duterte, who has overseen a United States of America will Korean officials during the officials said yesterday. tarian missions. department acquired eight of crackdown that has left nearly soon unveil the toughest and Olympics but President Trump The two governments Philippine troops and the same Bell aircraft model in 4,000 drug suspects dead at the most aggressive round of eco- has cast doubt on US negotia- announced the deal less than police, beset by Islamist and 2015, which it said went mostly hands of the police, later nomic sanctions on North tions with Pyongyang any time three months after Canadian communist insurgencies, fought to an air force unit assigned described Trudeau’s comments Korea ever,” Pence said after soon. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau a five-month battle last year with providing air transport for as “a personal and official meeting Japanese Prime Min- “We will not allow North clashed with host President against IS group supporters in the Philippine president. insult”, adding he would only ister Shinzo Abe. “We will con- Korea to hide behind the Rodrigo Duterte over Philippine the southern city of Marawi. The Filipino military also answer to his Filipino tinue to isolate North Korea Olympic banner the reality that drug war killings, on the side- It is also faced with rising uses derivations of the Bell-UH- electorate. until it abandons its nuclear and they enslave their people and lines of a Manila summit. tensions over rival territorial 1H helicopter, which first saw The Philippine government ballistic missile program once threaten the wider region,” The Philippine defence claims in the South China Sea service for the US military in says police only shot the sus- and for all.” Washington is Pence said. The White House department signed the 12bn and has been upgrading its the Vietnam War in the early pects in self-defence and rejects taking a much tougher line on has also cautioned against peso ($234.8m) Bell 412EPI deal navy and air force in recent 1960s. human rights monitors’ the North than its allies in Seoul, reading too much into remarks with the state-run Canadian years. The country is also reg- The two governments description of the crackdown exposing tensions that South Pence made en route to Japan. Commercial Corp, with ularly battered by typhoons. announced the deal less than as a crime against humanity. 12 EUROPE THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2018 German parties reach deal on coalition

AFP The parties ironed out and environment remits. their final differences Media reports said Schulz, a BERLIN: German Chancellor former European Parliament Angela Merkel’s conservatives and were ready to chief, was now set to take over and the Social Democrats sealed sign an agreement for the foreign ministry and would a deal yesterday on a new coali- Merkel’s fourth term, give up the party chairmanship tion, officials said, potentially acting finance minister in return. ending four months of political Meanwhile, the finance job deadlock in Europe’s top Peter Altmaier said. could go to the popular mayor economy. of northern port city Hamburg, The parties ironed out their Germany has been stuck in pro-business centrist Olaf Scholz, final differences and were ready political limbo since September’s who has often been eyed as a to sign an agreement for Mer- inconclusive general election potential SPD chancellor kel’s fourth term, her chief of saw mainstream parties bleed candidate. staff and acting finance minister support to the far-right AfD, The change could mean a Peter Altmaier said, calling it a which tapped into anger over mild shift away from the aus- “good day for our country”. Merkel’s liberal refugee policy. terity imposed at home and “We have a coalition agree- Merkel, in power for over 12 abroad by former finance min- ment that will do a lot of positive years, at first tried to cobble ister Wolfgang Schaeuble, things for a lot of citizens,” Alt- together a novel three-way coa- although the parties have agreed maier said after he emerged from lition with the Greens and the on sticking to a balanced budget more than 24 hours of conten- liberal Free Democrats, but those policy. tious talks. efforts collapsed in November. Merkel’s fate now lies in the The breakthrough will come Faced with snap elections hands of the SPD, as Schulz has as a relief to Germany’s EU part- that could further boost the AfD promised to give his party’s ners as the bloc faces tough or the prospect of heading an 460,000 members the final say Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader and German Chancellor Angela Merkel (centre), Christian negotiations on migration and unstable minority government, on whether to accept the coali- Social Union (CSU) leader Horst Seehofer and Social Democratic Party (SPD) leader Martin Schulz Brexit. she opted to woo back the SPD . tion pact. (right), giving statement after coalition talks, in Berlin, yesterday. Merkel, Europe’s most expe- SPD leader Martin Schulz Observers expect the refer- rienced leader, has seen her then abandoned his post-elec- endum to be tight, with the SPD’s the country headed for fresh support Macron’s reform drive ministry. standing at home and abroad tion vow to renew the party in left and youth wings fiercely elections or leave Merkel and tentatively backed his idea The SPD however won weakened by the longest stretch opposition -- a U-turn that opposed to another four years heading a minority government of a eurozone investment budget. assurances that family reunifi- of coalition-building in the coun- angered many. governing in Merkel’s shadow. -- a prospect she has baulked at. On the hot-button topic of cations for refugees would try’s postwar history. But a copy of the coalition The yes-or-no referendum Schulz put a fairer Europe at migration, the two camps said resume in August, restricted to But before she can be sworn agreement indicated that he was will be held by postal ballot, with the heart of his negotiating they would aim to limit the 1,000 people a month. in, a final hurdle looms: the hard- able to extract major concessions the result expected to be efforts, insisting that Berlin must annual intake to 180,000- An SPD push to overhaul the fought “grand coalition” pact from the conservatives in the announced around March 4. join French President Emmanuel 220,000 people, a key CSU two-tier healthcare system also between her CDU/CSU bloc and final round of talks including A green light could see a new Macron’s push to deepen euro- demand. yielded results, with a new com- the Social Democratic Party must control of the powerful finance Merkel-led government in place zone integration. CSU leader Horst Seehofer is mission set to examine levelling still be approved by the SPD’s and foreign ministries, as well as by the end of next month. According to the coalition also set to take control of a out doctor pay under statutory sceptical rank-and-file . the labour, family affairs, justice A thumbs-down could see deal, the parties agreed to revamped homeland security and private insurance schemes.

Dutch judges refer UK expats Macron offers Corsica case to EU court constitutional recognition AFP REUTERS THE HAGUE: Dutch judges yesterday referred a land- BASTIA: French President mark case brought by British Emmanuel Macron (pictured) expats over their rights as said yesterday he was open to European citizens after Brexit adding a specific mention of to the EU’s top court. Corsica in the French Constitu- “We refer the questions tion but rejected several other to the European Court of Jus- demands for autonomy made tice,” judge Floris Bakels said by the island’s nationalist in a written verdict issued by leaders. the Amsterdam District Court. Corsica’s relationship with The judges are referring mainland France has long trou- two preliminary questions to bled French presidents. For 40 the Luxembourg-based ECJ for years, separatists waged a mil- Macron said an answer about the group’s itant campaign, blowing up mentioning Corsica in rights as EU citizens after Close-up police stations and mansions Brexit, their lawyer Christiaan owned by mainlanders and car- France’s supreme law Alberdingk Thijm said. A zoo keeper poses with penguins during the annual stock take at the ZSL London Zoo, in central rying out assassinations, before would both recognise The questions are: “Does London, yesterday. laying down their arms in the its identity and Brexit mean that Britons year 2014. automatically lose their Euro- During his first visit to the anchor it within the pean citizenship or do they island since his election last French Republic. maintain their rights, and if year, Macron attempted to so, under what conditions?” tread a middle ground, con- Tuesday that there would be no Thijm said. demning in strong terms past amnesty. Five British expats and UK House renovation a step closer acts of militancy while playing He said mentioning Corsica two expat organisations last up the need for close coopera- in France’s supreme law would month took the Dutch gov- AFP clock tower housing the Big Ben compared to a spend of £3.5bn tion between the island and the both recognise its identity and ernment to court, arguing bell. over six years if lawmakers mainland. anchor it within the French they have independent rights LONDON: Major renovation of Complaints within the cor- move out. He offered the unexpected, Republic. as EU citizens, over and above the Houses of Parliament came ridors of power include every- There have been various symbolic move of a recognition He added that further talks being citizens of any specific a step closer as Britain’s upper thing from mice infestations to proposals for a temporary home, in the Constitution while saying would determine what the EU member country. chamber backed plans for poli- sewage problems and fire haz- with opposition Labour peer the Corsican language would move would entail. The group insist their ticians to move out of their ards, but politicians have for Meghnad Desai suggesting the not be given official status and “Corsica is at the heart of legal rights as EU citizens historic home while the work is years struggled to agree on how politicians move to Buckingham said local authorities would not the (French) Republic,” Macron should therefore remain and done. to move forward with the major Palace. “It’s the only building be allowed to veto property- said on a podium flanked by the be protected by The Nether- The House of Lords agreed works. large enough to contain all the buying by non-residents. French and EU flags, but not the lands even after Britain with- without a vote to a “fully and Speaking during the House facilities we have with room to Corsica’s nationalist leaders Corsican one, while adding that draws from the 28-member timely decant” from the Palace of Lords debate, Baroness Tina spare.” have demanded a special status he was nevertheless willing to body on March 29, 2019. of Westminster, throwing their Stowell likened the refurbish- He was followed by Lord for the island in the constitu- show some flexibility. They asked the Dutch weight behind a similar decision ment to “major surgery to fun- William Inglewood, who joked tion but also greater autonomy, That would include not only judges to refer the matter to by MPs last week. damental organs” and said doing they could instead transfer to as well as equal status for the mentioning it in the Constitu- the European court for clar- Politicians’ support for the the work in stages was France’s Palace of Versailles. French and Corsican languages tion but also prolonging an ification “as to what exactly move paves the way for a multi- unfeasible. The next stage in the resto- and amnesty for Corsicans investment plan and looking being a European citizen billion-pound renovation of the One estimate for a gradual ration project is the establish- jailed for pro-independence into simplifying construction means,” said one of the plain- complex, which includes the project found it would take 32 ment of bodies to start making violence. rules on the Mediterranean tiffs, Stephen Huyton. Houses of Parliament and the years to complete and cost $8bn, more detailed plans. Macron already said on island, he said. Skiers swish down snow-covered Paris streets AFP The icy roads of Paris were unusu- for schoolchildren as well as a gaggle of of the “Montmartre Ski Club”, bearing ally quiet as police urged people to leave skiers and snowboarders who gathered a sweatshirt with the club’s logo and alti- PARIS: Skiers swished down the hilly their cars at home after 12 centimetres at the Sacre-Coeur basilica at the top of tude -- 130 metres above sea level. streets of Montmartre in Paris yesterday, was dumped on the French capital over- Montmartre, the hill in the north of the Tourists in the City of Lights found taking advantage of heavy snowfall that night, with up to 20 cm reported in city. the Eiffel Tower closed for a second day, otherwise spelled misery for thousands nearby suburbs and rural areas. They managed to get in about an while the capital’s airports were hit with of travellers. The snow played havoc with public hour of runs in the morning on the steep delays and cancellations. Nearly 2,000 people in the Paris transport, halting almost all buses in the slopes of the park that descends from On the outskirts of Paris, rescuers region had to spend Tuesday night in their capital along with some tram and com- the church before being chased off by worked to evacuate nearly 2,000 people cars, according to police, after the snow muter rail lines, while heavy goods vehi- the police. who were stranded overnight on the caused traffic jams that stretched a record cles were banned from major roads due “The snow is good, a little powdery, N118 highway, prompting anger from Children playing in the snow-covered 740km and left hundreds of others stuck to the high risk of an accident. not as great as in 2010 but 2010 was his- drivers who said the route should have Palais Royal garden, in Paris, yesterday. at airports and train stations. But the wintry weather was a delight toric,” said Gilles Prunevielle, founder been closed off. THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2018 AMERICAS 13

Brazilian minister hopeful on pension US passes budget; avoids shutdown reform amendment AFP The bipartisan budget deal would lift caps on The expectation is that the ning as early as next week. REUTERS military and non-military spending. It would agreement’s language would Before the deal was WASHINGTON: US Senate also ensure funding for domestic priorities like accompany a stopgap spending announced, the House had BRASILIA: Brazilian leaders said yesterday they had disaster relief, infrastructure, and fighting a measure to fund government for passed a partisan bill that would minister in charge of polit- reached a bipartisan budget deal the next six weeks, allowing fed- fund government for six weeks ical affairs said yesterday for 2018 and 2019 -- a move surging opioid epidemic. eral appropriators to work up the -- but fund the military through that the government believes which, if approved by Congress, official budget language. the remainder of fiscal year 2018. recent amendments to a would avert a looming govern- But the compromise could The Senate is now expected pension reform bill will ment shutdown. if lawmakers do not pass a tem- extensive negotiations between face stiff blowback in the House, to rewrite that measure, pass it result in 314 members of the The agreement, months in porary spending bill. both parties and the White where fiscal conservatives may and send it back for House lower house voting in favour the making, was a major “The compromise we’ve House. balk at greenlighting what is approval today. of it, five more than required achievement for both the ruling reached will ensure that, for the “Later this week, let’s pass reported to be some $200bn or But President Donald to pass it. Republicans and opposition first time in years, our armed this budget into law alongside an more in new federal spending. Trump’s provocative outburst Brazil’s Minister of the Democrats in a deeply divided forces will have more of the extension of government Liberal stalwarts might also that he would “love to see a shut- Government Secretariat Congress. resources they need to keep funding,” Schumer said. “I hope revolt, over the sensitive issue of down” if he did not get his way Carlos Marun told reporters It would lift caps on military America safe,” Senate Majority the House will follow suit and immigration. on immigration -- just as law- yesterday that the measure and non-military spending that Mitch McConnell said on the President Trump will sign it.” Lawmakers and the White makers sought to reach an should be voted on this were congressionally mandated Senate floor. The White House reacted House have negotiated at length understanding that would keep month and head to the back in 2011, and which both It would also ensure funding positively to the news from Cap- over the fate of millions of the lights on in Washington -- Senate, where he forecast a parties warned were ham- for domestic priorities like dis- itol Hill. undocumented migrants, but the sent aides scrambling to down- vote in March. stringing the US military. aster relief, infrastructure, and “We’re certainly happy with immigration issue is not in the play his remarks. The Brazilian government The elusive deal comes on fighting a surging opioid the direction that it’s moving,” latest compromise agreement. “We are not advocating for under Michel Temer’s admin- the eve of a Thursday deadline epidemic. press secretary Sarah Sanders Instead, McConnell has the shutdown,” insisted Sanders. istration is pressing hard to for federal spending, with the McConnell and top Senate said, adding that the White pledged to allow an open debate “The president wants a long- trim social security to rein in government hours away from Democrat Chuck Schumer said House would need to see the on possible immigration solu- term deal, and he wants to get a surging public debt. tumbling into another shutdown the deal was the product of final components. tions on the Senate floor, begin- deal on immigration. Trump’s military parade plan sparks backlash

AFP Trump’s parade would be a Months after that meeting, showcase of American muscle, Trump publicly remarked: “So WASHINGTON: President but would also undoubtedly we’re actually thinking about Donald Trump’s dream of focus on his own role as Fourth of July, Pennsylvania hosting a military parade in commander-in-chief. Avenue, having a really great Washington was met with Since taking office, Trump parade to show our military almost universal derision has frequently touted his sup- strength.” yesterday, with critics seeing port for the US military and Press Secretary Sarah evidence of creeping authori- placed high ranking generals in Sanders said Trump’s intention tarianism. top White House and cabinet was rather to have “a celebra- White House and military posts. tion” of the military. officials confirmed that planning Even before being president Still, Trump’s request imme- for the event was already he had mulled the possibility of diately fueled comparisons to underway, but a date had not a parade for his inauguration in similar events in more auto- yet been decided. January 2017, but the plan was cratic countries. Support for the idea scrapped. Democratic Congressman appeared to be thin on the The idea appears to have Keith Ellison described it as “the ground, even from Trump’s erst- been rekindled when Trump Exalted Leader’s latest idiot (and War on drugs while supporters. visited Paris last July for Bastille authoritarian) idea.” Suspects are detained and handcuffed by Rio’s Civil Police during a joint operation, in Rio de Janeiro, Meanwhile, Democratic Day, when the 45th president “We have a Napoleon in the Brazil, yesterday. More than 3,000 soldiers were deployed yesterday to provide backup to Rio’s lawmakers described it as made no secret of his awe for making here,” said Congress- police during an operation to search and arrest suspects related to drug trafficking activities. “authoritarian” idea from a the pomp and ceremony of the woman Jackie Speier. “Napoleon in the making.” occasion. Trump has already prompted Top Trump ally Republican Sitting on the Champs- fears about his respect for dem- Congressman Jim Jordan sug- Elysees, Trump marveled at the ocratic freedoms once this week gested further deliberation was Republican Guard on horseback, by suggesting Democrats were needed. jets flying overhead, and warmly “un-American” and “treasonous” Former Honduras “We’ll have that debate,” he greeted President Emmanuel for not applauding his State of 36 indicted in global said. “Our focus is making sure Macron, who arrived in an the Union address. officer faces our military gets what it needs open-topped camouflaged mil- The White House claimed to defend this great country.” itary jeep. Trump was joking. cybercrime ring five-year jail term “Whether we need a parade or not, I’ll leave that up the BLOOMBERG “Today’s indictment and REUTERS commander-in-chief.” arrests mark one of the largest In a sign of possible tensions WASHINGTON: The US cyberfraud enterprise prosecu- NEW YORK: A former between Trump and his own charged 36 people in a take- tions ever undertaken by the Honduran police officer was staff, White House officials down of an international cyber- Department of Justice,” said sentenced to five years in stressed the parade was still a crime ring that prosecutors say Acting Assistant Attorney Gen- prison after he pleaded guilty “discussion.” used the slogan “In Fraud We eral John Cronan. “Infraud to conspiring to import As commander-in-chief, Trust” and stole $530m with the operated like a business to cocaine into the United States. Trump could order the military help of pilfered identities and facilitate cyberfraud on a global Victor Oswaldo Lopez to carry out the parade without malware. scale.” Flores, 45, was sentenced by any further debate. The Justice Department Prosecutors in the case, US District Judge Lorna The last major military announced the racketeering which was unsealed in Nevada, Schofield in Manhattan. The parade in Washington took conspiracy along with the arrest allege that the group was cre- judge said the sentence was place in 1991 after the Gulf War, of 13 people, eight of whom the ated in October 2010 by Svyat- the minimum allowed under with missiles and tanks rolling government will seek to extra- oslav Bondarenko, a Ukranian federal law. through the streets of the A file photo of US President Donald Trump and US First Lady dite from Australia, the UK, who sought to create “the pre- “It makes me very sad and capital. Melania Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron and wife France, Italy, Kosovo and Serbia. mier destination” for purchasing it is very difficult for me to be Americans enthusiastically Five members of the group, retail items on the internet with standing on this side of the Brigitte Macron, as they attend the annual Bastille Day military attended, but Bush was pilloried known as the Infraud Organi- counterfeit or stolen credit card law,” Lopez Flores said in parade on the Champs-Elysees Avenue, in Paris. by Democrats for the move. zation, were arrested in the US. information. court before he was sen- tenced. “I am very sorry for having committed this action.” Lopez Flores was one of six members of the Honduran National Police who were Los Angeles Times sold to local billionaire indicted on US drug charges in July 2016. Two of the others, AFP unionise the journalists. Angeles Times, The San Diego Mario Guillermo Mejia Vargas “We are pleased to transi- Union-Tribune and the other and Carlos Jose Zavala LOS ANGELES: Billionaire tion leadership of the Los California News Group titles.” Velasquez, also pleaded guilty. physician and investor Patrick Angeles Times and The San The LA Times, like many Lopez Flores pleaded Soon-Shiong agreed yesterday Diego Union-Tribune to local newspapers, has been down- guilty to one count of con- to buy the Los Angeles Times, in ownership, and we are certain sizing its staff as readers turn spiracy in April 2017. He a move aimed at reviving the that the journalistic excellence away from print to online news admitted that in 2014, he met fortunes of the newspaper amid in Southern California will con- platforms. The Los Angeles daily with two people representing recent turmoil. tinue long into the future,” said was family-owned for more than themselves as Mexican drug Publishing group Tronc Inc. Justin Dearborn, chief executive a century before being sold to the traffickers and showed them said it reached a deal to sell the of Tronc, the name adopted for Chicago-based Tribune Co. in a map of possible police LA Times and San Diego Union- the group previously known as 2000. checkpoints on a road in Tribune to Soon-Shiong’s Nant Tribune Publishing. Tribune Co, which split off Honduras in order to help Capital for $500m plus the Soon-Shiong, a surgeon its broadcast division and them transport cocaine. assumption of $90m in pension whose biotech investments have renamed its publishing arm Pedestrians walk past the Los Angeles Times office building in Los Prosecutors have said that liabilities. boosted his net worth to some Tronc (, will continue to own the Angeles, California, yesterday. Lopez Flores was promised The move comes after $7.8bn, said in a statement: “We Chicago Tribune, Orlando Sen- about $100,000 for his assist- months of newsroom unrest at look forward to continuing the tinel, South Florida Sun-Sentinel, recently won the right to repre- who can help us preserve The ance, and that the two pur- the storied Los Angeles daily that great tradition of award-winning Baltimore Sun and the New York sent employees, welcomed the Times as a guardian of our com- ported drug traffickers were has seen three editors in the past journalism carried out by the Daily News. news, saying it “looks forward munity and as the voice of the in fact undercover informants six months, and a vote to reporters and editors of the Los The LA Times Guild, which to working with a local owner American West.” working for US authorities. 14 HOME THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2018 Banana Island Resort Doha offers Italian culinary arts classes THE PENINSULA Anantara hotels and resorts. in the marina and soaking up and unique concepts such as the Doha’s only island sanctuary an Italian Riviera atmosphere. Salt Guru will offer guests addi- DOHA: Banana Island Resort now invites its guests to Guests can also enjoy tional insight into the fasci- Doha by Anantara is offering indulge in a unique experience authentic homely lunches of nating world of Italian cuisine. its valued guests culinary arts of Italian cooking. Guests can delicious pastas and salads. The Spice Spoons School is classes in the Italian cuisine roll up their sleeves and cook Italian cuisine is noted for a novel concept initiated by through its program - ‘Spice their favourites in a step by its regional diversity, abun- Anantara to offer its guests a Spoons School’. Following the step class at Riva the Italian dance of different flavors, and unique experience to hone their huge success of its Thai cuisine inspired restaurant, and then known to be one of the most culinary skills. cooking classes, Anantara now savour the creations. Learn the popular cuisines of the world. Anantara now brings this invites its patrons to learn the tricks of crafting a perfect More than a meal, Italian food experience to Italian cooking. art of authentic Italian pizza from the very basic. is an event, and is not only about Nestled amidst a relaxing beach cooking. Master the art of dough pastas and pizzas. environment, accented with Commenting on this occa- making and pair tantalising Gourmet dinners at Riva ocean blues and sandy beaches, sion, Area General Manager toppings from classic ingredi- begin with antipasti delights, guests can enjoy a delicious for Qatar, Thomas Fehlbier ents in Riva restaurant.” leading into scrumptious fresh array of palate-tantalising said: Also, relish the handmade seafood and meat dishes, fol- dishes from the heart of Italy, “Anantara is passionate authentic Italian dish al fresco lowed by imported cheeses and while spending a laid-back about sharing its love of food on the balcony of Riva restau- irresistible desserts. The range night with their family and with guests staying at rant overlooking luxury yachts and quality of food, beverages friends.

Teenagers take part in Division H Inter-Gavels Contests by Toastmasters

THE PENINSULA choice of topics, language usage guidance from Div H Director, and delivery by the gaveliers left Joseph Stanley. Div E Director, DOHA: The gavel clubs wing of the judges impressed. It was a HPS Bhullar and Div J Director, Toastmasters Division H, daunting task for even such Venkatesan Kulandaivelu also recently organised the Annual experienced toastmasters to graced the occasion. Inter-Gavels Contest. Contests pick three winners out of eight Ali Bin Ali and Homes R Us were held in four categories: contestants in each of the four supported the event with gifts Humorous Speech, Inspirational categories. and goodies. Sampath Balaji, Speech, Table Topics The event was organised by General Manager-Finance, Ali (Impromptu Speech) and Speech chief counselors Aparna Ranish, Bin Ali FMCG Business was the Evaluation. The jury consisted Prathibha Ramesh and Surya guest of honor and addressed ‘Safe Rider’ awareness program of veteran toastmasters and star Narayanan under the leadership the gathering. Susan Mathews, speakers from various toast- of Div H Special Programs Special Programs Officer, Div H held at Pak Shamaa School master clubs in Qatar. The Officer, Susan Mathews and with delivered the vote of thanks.

THE PENINSULA opportunity to use elevators and amongst young children to elim- escalators in places like office inate preventable accidents and DOHA: Mitsubishi Elevators & buildings, schools, hospitals, air- injuries caused by misuse. Escalators recently carried out a ports and shopping malls. More- The awareness program was ‘Safe Rider’ awareness program over, people are moving from well received by the students and at the Pak Shamaa School, Doha independent houses to apart- included series of video presen- for primary school students with ments in Doha. With the growing tations apart from interactive ses- an aim to help children under- usage of elevators in schools and sions by ETA-MELCO staff. Also, stand basic safety rules while other public places, ETA-MELCO, illustrative handouts were given using elevators and escalators. the local representatives of Mit- to the children to remember and The current lifestyle in Qatar subishi Elevators felt the need to share the safety awareness with allows more people than ever the create awareness especially their parents and guardians. CROSSWORD NOVO Pearl Qatar ROYAL PLAZA VILLAGGIO & CITY CENTER 2:30, 8:45 & 11:30pm The 15.17 To Paris (2D/Drama) 10:00am, 12:00noon, 2:00, 4:00, 6:00, 8:00, Pad Man (2D/Hindi) 10:00pm & 12:00midnight Throne of Elves (2D/Animation) 2:30 & 5:00pm Den of Thieves (2D/Action) 10:30am, 1:00, 2:00, 3:30, 6:00, 7:00, 8:30, Daivame Kaithozham K Kumarakanam (2D/Malayalam) 11:00pm & 12:00midnight Winchester(2D/Horror) 10:00, 11:45am, 2:15pm Maze Runner: The Death Cure (2D/Action) 4:30pm 12:00noon, 2:00, 4:00, 4:45, 6:00, 8:00, 9:45, 10:00pm &12:00midnight Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle (2D/Action) 5:00pm All The Money In The World (2D/Drama) 10:00am, 3:30 & 9:00pm Den of Thieves (2D/Action) 7:30pm Maze Runner: The Death Curve (2D/Action) 12:45, 6:15 & 11:45pm The 15.17 To Paris (2D/Drama) 9:45pm Pad Man (2D/Hindi) 11:00am, 2:00, 5:00, 8:00 & 11:00pm Braven (Action) 7:00 & 11:30pm Winchester (Horror) 7:00 Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle(2D/Action)10:00am, 2:15,6:30&10:45pm & 11:45pm Kalakalappu 2 (2D/Tamil) 9:00pm Space Chicken (2D) 12:15, 4:30 & 8:45pm Phantom Thread (2D) 11:00am, 3:45 & 8:30pm The Post (2D/Biography) 1:30, 6:15 & 11:00pm ASIAN TOWN Braven (2D/Action) 10:00am, 12:00noon, 2:00, 4:00, 6:00, 8:00, 10:00pm & 12:00midnight Pad Man (Hindi) 1:00, 3:45, 6:30, 9:15pm & 12:00midnight Maze Runner: The Death Cure (2D IMAX/Action) 10:15am, 1:00, 3:45, 6:30, Toli Prema (Telugu) 12:30pm 9:15pm & 12:00midnight Kalakalappu 2 (Tamil) 3:15, 6:15, 915pm & 12:15am Carbon (Malayalam) 12:30, 6:00 & 11:30pm Queen (Malayalam) 3:15, 8:45pm & 02:00am MALL Daivame (Malayalam) 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 10:00pm & 01:00am Throne of Elves (2D/Animation) 2:30 & 5:15pm Maze Runner: The Death Cure (2D/Action) 2:30 & 8:45pm AL KHOR Pad Man (2D/Hindi) 3:00, 9:00 & 11:30pm Pad Man (Hindi) 11:30am, 2:30, 5:30, 8:30 & 11:00pm Daivame Kaithozham K Kumarakanam (2D/Malayalam) Kalakalappu (Tamil) 11:15am, 2:15, 5:15, 8:15 & 11:15pm 4:30pm Braven (Action) 7:15pm Winchester (Horror) 11:00am, 3:15, 7:30 & 11:45pm Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle (2D/Action) 5:30pm Braven (Action) 1:15, 5:30 & 9:45pm Winchester (Horror) 7:00 & 11:30pm The 15.17 To Paris (2D/Drama) 7:30pm ROXY Den of Thieves (2D/Action) 9:15pm Kalakalappu 2 (2D/Tamil) 11:30pm Throne of Elves (Animation) 10:30am, 12:30, 2:30, 4:30 & 6:30pm Aadhi (Thriller) 10:30am, 1:30, 4:30, 7:30 & 10:30pm The 15:17 Paris (Action) 1:20, 3:20, 7:20 & 9:20pm LANDMARK Pad Man (Hindi) 10:30am, 1:20, 4:20, 7:20, 8:30,10:20 & 11:20pm Pad Man (2D/Hindi) 2:30, 6:00 & 11:00pm Braven (2D/Comedy) 10:30am, 5:20 & 11:20pm

Throne of Elves (2D/Animation) 2:30 & 4:15pm Note: Programme is subject to change without prior notice. Daivame Kaithozham K Kumarakanam (2D/Malayalam) 3:00pm Winchester (Horror) 7:30 & 9:15pm PADMAN Maze Runner: The Death Cure (2D/Action) 5:00 & 8:30pm Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle (2D/Action) 6:00pm The 15.17 To Paris (2D/Drama) 8:00pm Braven (Action) 9:45pm Kalakalappu 2 (2D/Tamil) 11:00pm Den of Thieves (Action)11:30pm

Upon realising the extent to which women are affected, a man sets out to create a sanitary pad machine and to provide inexpensive sanitary pads to the women of rural India. THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2018 HOME 15 16 MORNING BREAK THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2018

PRAYER TIMINGS Millions of FAJR 04.56am ‘African Mona Lisa’ mesmerises SHOROOK 06.14 am viruses fall ZUHR 11.48 am MAGHRIB 05.25pm after surprise rediscovery from sky ASR 02.59 pm ISHA 06.55pm AFP daily: Study WEATHER TODAY LONDON: “I think of it as the African IANS Mona Lisa,” said award-winning novelist Ben Okri, gazing at the long-lost portrait TORONTO: Millions of of a Nigerian princess which recently viruses daily circle around the turned up in a London flat. Earth’s atmosphere as well as Ben Enwonwu’s 1974 painting of get deposited on the planet’s Adetutu “Tutu” Ademiluyi, daughter of surface, a team of interna- a Yoruba king, has taken on almost tional scientists have discov- mythical status in the painter’s native ered. Nigeria. The study has for the first It was last seen in 1975 but is now time quantified the viruses up for sale after its surprise being swept up from the rediscovery. Earth’s surface into the free “It has been a legendary painting for troposphere, the layer of 40 years, everybody keeps talking about atmosphere beyond Earth’s Tutu, saying ‘where is Tutu?’,” the Booker weather systems but below Prize-winning writer Okri said. the stratosphere where jet As a prominent Nigerian cultural airplanes fly. figure on the world stage, Okri viewed These viruses can also be the painting at prestigious London auc- carried thousands of kilome- Nigerian author Ben Okri poses with a work of art by Nigerian painter and sculptor tion house Bonhams, where the work tres there before being depos- Ben Enwonwu entitled ‘Tutu’ expected to realise 200,000-300,000 GBP (278000- will be sold on February 28. ited back onto the Earth’s “He wasn’t just painting the girl, he 417,000 USD) at an auction in Bonhams Auction House in London, yesterday. surface. was painting the whole tradition. It’s a “Every day, more than symbol of hope and regeneration to “Tutu”, the locations of all of which had lost. That all creates an awful lot of mys- 800 million viruses are o o Nigeria, it’s a symbol of the phoenix been a mystery until the recent tery.” The rediscovered painting was deposited per square metre rising,” he said. discovery. last displayed at the Italian embassy in above the planetary boundary 14 C 25 C “I spent hours looking at it, making The works became symbols of peace Lagos in 1975, and was bought by the layer — that’s 25 viruses for Minimum Maximum up for the time that we hadn’t seen it. following the clash of ethnic groups in father of the north London family during each person in Canada,” said Hazy to misty / foggy at places at first It’s been a work of rumour, but here it the Nigerian-Biafran conflict of the late a business trip. Curtis Suttle, virologist at the becomes fine with some clouds, is, crystallised.” The work was uncov- 1960s. “The sitter is Yoruba and Ben “It was pretty much regarded as his University of British Columbia cold by night. ered by Giles Peppiatt, Director of Enwonwu was Ibo, so they were of dif- prize work,” explained Peppiatt. in Canada. Modern African Art at Bonhams, after a ferent ethnic tribes,” said Eliza Sawyer, “I think he was secretly in love with The researchers also north London family contacted him fol- specialist in Bonhams’ African Art the sitter. She is a very pretty lady. found the majority of the

HIGH TIDE 09:45 – 00:00 LOW TIDE 04:15 – 17:15 lowing lucrative recent sales of Nigerian department. “It’s pretty audacious, with the light viruses carried signatures COURTESY: Qatar Meteorology Department artworks. “It was an important symbol of rec- under the chin, which focuses you on indicating they had been “It was quite remarkable when I onciliation.” Enwonwu was from a polit- the head. As a bit of painting it stands on swept up into the air from sea walked into this flat in north London and ically-connected Ibo family and his its own anyway, without any of the other spray. This may explain why saw it hanging on the wall, it was about father was a traditional sculptor. The stories,” he added. scientists, from 20 years ago, the last thing I expected to see,” he painter stumbled upon his most famous The painting is expected to sell for began finding genetically explained. muse by accident. around £250,000 ($347,000, ¤282,000) similar viruses occurring in “As soon as I saw it I knew it was “He would go around local villages when it goes on sale jointly in London very different environments authentic, but I couldn’t say that at the and sketch local scenes and figures, and and Lagos on February 28, but Okri around the globe. “This pre- time to the owners because you can’t he encountered this young woman argued that its worth was more than ponderance of long-residence just blurt that out.” whom he thought was just entrancing financial. viruses travelling the atmos- After confirming the search for and requested to paint her, not knowing “It gives us a glimpse of an impor- phere likely explains why — “Tutu” was over, the family “were, not her stature,” explained Sawyer. tant African reconfiguration of the art of it’s quite conceivable to have surprisingly, pretty astounded,” he “She was a little taken back by the portraiture,” he said. a virus swept up into the revealed. “It’s a missing masterpiece.” request,” she added. “It’s going to start a fire, start a atmosphere on one continent Enwonwu, who died in 1994, is “It is the peak of the artist’s career, debate. Never have they given proper and deposited on another,” considered the father of Nigerian mod- there’s also the sitter’s status as a prin- due to African painters. This is the per- Suttle said, in a paper detailed ernism. He made three paintings of cess and thirdly the painting had been fect work to start” to ask why, he added. in the ISME Journal.