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Wednesday 1 May 2019 | 26 Sha'baan 1440 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 2244| | NumberNb 78787878 | 22Ri Riyalsl New Ooredoo tv
Play like a pro Google, Android, Android TV, Chromecast and other related marks and logos are trademarks of Google LLC. Qatar details its WTO Amir meets participants of ACD Meeting challenge to Saudi Arabia's failure to stop copyright piracy
QNA intellectual property rights, generally, DOHA and the global sports and media industries, in particular. In a global The Ministry of Commerce and economy whose growth depends on Industry announced yesterday that innovation and creativity now more it has filed and published its First than ever, strong intellectual Written Submission in the State of property protection is critical. Qatar’s challenge to the Saudi Of particular concern, a sophis- Arabia’s failure to protect intel- ticated Saudi-based broadcast pirate lectual property in accordance with named “beoutQ” has been pirating its international obligations as a copyrighted media content of a Member of the World Trade Organ- Qatari company - beIN Media Group ization (WTO). LLP - in Saudi Arabia and beyond, The dispute is currently being including through the sale of beoutQ Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met at the Amiri Diwan yesterday evening with Their Excellencies the heads of considered by a WTO Panel, which subscriptions and set-top decoder the delegations taking part in the 16th Ministerial Meeting of the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD), on the occasion of their will evaluate the multiple claims boxes at numerous retail outlets meeting in Doha. H H the Amir hosted a dinner banquet in honour of the heads of the delegations. `P2 brought by Qatar under the WTO’s across Saudi Arabia. Agreement on Trade-related Aspects In addition to beINs propri- of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS etary and licensed content, the Ministry issues Agreement). beoutQ boxes allow access to Sheikha Moza meets Malaysian PM As detailed in Qatar’s 112-page thousands of pirated movies, TV decision on submission (and supported by 178 shows, and TV channels from exhibits), Saudi Arabia has taken around the globe. forming Joint actions that represent not only vio- Contrary to its obligations under Labor Committees lations of its obligations to protect the TRIPS Agreement, Saudi Arabia intellectual property rights of Qatari has, among other things, refused to QNA/DOHA nationals, but also the rights of take any effective action against nationals from other trading beoutQ; restricted or otherwise frus- partners, including (among many trated beINs ability to pursue civil The Ministry of Administrative others) the United States and the actions before the Saudi courts; Development, Labor and Social European Union. denounced beINs requests to inves- Affairs announced the issuance Qatar explains how Saudi Arabia tigate and prevent the pirates unau- of ministerial decision No. 21 of has actively and aggressively violated thorized broadcasts; and sponsored 2019 on “Joint Labor its obligations under the TRIPS public gatherings with beoutQ Committees” within establish- Agreement. More generally, the sub- screenings. ments subject to the provisions mission explains how such violations Qatar’s Ministry of Commerce of the Labor Law. have exposed deep-seated and fun- and Industry has stressed that Saudi The Ministry said in a press damental flaws in Saudi Arabia’s Arabia’s actions constitute a fla- release that the decision was commitment to providing grant violation of Saudis interna- issued in accordance with the enforcement procedures consistent tional and moral obligations, a provisions of Chapter 13 of the with the TRIPS Agreement. position that Qatar will further Labor Law promulgated by Law In publishing this submission, demonstrate in the coming months No. 14 of 2004 on joint labor Qatar aims to better inform rights during two oral hearings in Geneva, H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Education Above All and UN Sustainable committees in establishments holders and countries around the Switzerland, before the WTO Panel, Development Goals (SDG) Advocate, met yesterday with the Prime Minister of Malaysia, subject to the provisions of the Dr Mahatir Mohammed. They discussed the efforts of Education Above All in supporting world of the threat that this as well as in additional written `P3 Labor Law, whereby employers unchecked piracy creates for submissions. refugee children in Malaysia. and workers choose their representatives. The establishing of these committees will play an Qatar pledges full support for Asia Cooperation Dialogue Session important role in creating an environment conducive to pro- THE PENINSULA officials of Member States of the sincere thanks and appreciation efforts to coordinate among Al Hammadi stressed Qatar’s duction, which will bring many DOHA Asian Cooperation Dialogue to the Islamic Republic of Iran Member States. full support for the proposals of benefits to the Qatari labor (ACD) which began yesterday to for its efforts in presiding over “The 16th ACD ministerial the Member States to encourage market, and contribute signifi- The Secretary-General of the prepare for the 16th ministerial the ACD last year, while meeting is taking place at a time cooperation in the six main areas cantly to raising the level of Ministry of Foreign Affairs, H E Dr meeting of the ACD Member States expressing confidence that the when Asian countries are still facing that have resulted from the 20 work and thus increasing pro- Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi, due to be held today under the success will continue when many challenges that have ham- projects of cooperation, including duction within companies, espe- said that Asian Cooperation chairmanship of the State of Qatar. Republic of Turkey takes over pered progress in development energy, poverty alleviation, agri- cially big companies with large Dialogue (ACD) meeting is aimed He stressed that Qatar will work the presidency next year. paths. Asian societies have been culture, transportation, biotech- numbers of workers. `P5 at continuing cooperation and to ensure that the outcome of its Dr Al Hammadi also thanked facing increasing challenges in all nology, environment, tourism and deepening ties to promote the chair of the ACD Session this year ACD Secretary-General Bundit areas, which requires us to intensify other development projects, which objectives of the ACD. encourages the process of joint Limschoon as well as the Asian collective action to realise the aim to intensify the process of pos- FUEL PRICES IN MAY The Secretary-General was action among Member States. working group of the dialogue aspirations of all peoples of the con- itive interaction and competi- `P4 addressing the meeting of senior Al Hammadi expressed his committee for their dedicated tinent,” he added. tiveness of the continent. The prices of super and premium petrol and diesel have increased according to the new price list issued Focus to reduce fatalities in accident-prone areas by Qatar Petroleum. SIDI MOHAMED accidents in the five geographic traffic areas THE PENINSULA that contain more than 90 percent of deaths QR2.00 identified by the National Office. Qatar is leader in the field of “traffic safety Another recommendation is to support Price of super grade management” in the Middle East and the the National Office for the implementation petrol for a litre. YESTERDAY'S RESULT third world countries as the rate of arrival of the FIFA 2022 plan and to ensure its timely Ajax 1-0 of ambulances to accident sites in Doha is implementation, and emphasise the imple- seven minutes while it is eight minutes for mentation of pedestrians projects on time QR1.95 Tottenham Hotspur outside Doha, in 91 percent of cases. and to reduce pedestrians mortality from 32 This came yesterday during the 7th Road percent in 2016 to 17 percent by 2022. The event Price of premium grade Safety Forum of the Coordinators concerned was under the patronage of Prime Minister and petrol for a litre. TODAY'S FIXTURE: SEMI-FINAL 1ST LEG in the implementation of the National Road Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser (KICKOFF 10:00PM QATAR TIME) Safety Strategy which was held at Sheraton Major General Mohamed Saad Al Kharji, Director bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairman of the National Hotel under the slogan “Forum of Extraor- General of Traffic Department, addressing Traffic Safety Committee, and in the presence of Barcelona vs Liverpool dinary Plans”. The forum made several rec- the 7th Road Safety Forum at the Sheraton Minister of Transport and Communications H E QR2.00 ommendations regarding traffic safety. One Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel in Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti, who is also the First Vice- Price of diesel for a litre. of the recommendations is to focus on reducing Doha. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA Chairman of the Committee. `P4 02 HOME WEDNESDAY 1 MAY 2019
OFFICIAL NEWS Amir meets participants of Asia Cooperation Dialogue meeting Amir condoles with President of Mozambique DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Deputy Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani sent yesterday cables of con- dolences to the President of the Republic of Mozam- bique, Filipe Jacinto Nyusi, on the victims of Cyclone Kenneth that struck Mozambique’s northern coast, wishing the injured a speedy recovery. Prime Minister and Interior Min- ister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani also sent a cable of condolences to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Mozambique, Carlos Ago- stinho do Rosario, on the victims of Cyclone Kenneth that struck Mozambique’s northern coast, wishing the injured a speedy recov- Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met at the Amiri Diwan yesterday with Their Excellencies the heads of the delegations taking part in the 16th Ministerial ery. QNA Meeting of the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD), on the occasion of convening their meeting in Doha. H H the Amir hosted a dinner banquet in honour of the heads of the delegations participating in the ACD meeting. Qatar attends GCC Ministers, Civil Service bodies heads meet Message from President of Guinea FM meets Malaysian, Indonesian counterparts
MUSCAT: The State of Qatar has participated in the 16th meeting of the GCC Ministers and heads of Civil Service bodies which was held yesterday in the Sultan- ate of Oman. The delegation of the State of Qatar was led by Minister of Administra- tive Development, Labour and Social Affairs H E Yousef bin Mohammed Al Othman Fakhro. The meeting dis- cussed topics related to the Civil Service in the GCC coun- tries and took appropriate decisions in this regard. The Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani has received a written message from the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohamed bin ministerial meeting was President Alpha Conde of the Republic of Guinea, pertaining to bilateral relations and Abdulrahman Al Thani met separately yesterday with Minister of Foreign Affairs preceded by a meeting of means of boosting them. The message was received by Deputy Prime Minister and of Malaysia, Saifuddin Abdullah (pictured), and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the undersecretaries of minis- Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, during a Republic of Indonesia, Retno Marsudi, on the sidelines of the 16th Ministerial Meeting ters on Monday. QNA meeting with the Ambassador of the Republic of Guinea to Qatar, Al Hassan Suare. of the ACD. Discussions dealt with bilateral relations and ways of boosting them. WEDNESDAY 1 MAY 2019 HOME 03 Sheikha Moza meets Deputy PM of Malaysia Ashghal implements road safety programmes at 335 schools
THE PENINSULA traffic safety, Ashghal has also reduced speeds, giving priority to DOHA completed installation of 15 pedestrian crossing facilities dynamic signs on important through bridges, especially at The Public Works Authority highways and main roads such as accident prone areas and near (Ashghal) is implementing its Al Corniche St., 22 February St., sport facilities being built for FIFA programme to enhance traffic C-Ring Road, Khalifa Avenue, World Cup 2022. safety in the school premises to Dukhan Road and Salwa Road. Through a field survey project ensure safety of students, parents The mechanism in activating designed for Street Assets and Ele- and staff, especially at the entry these billboards involves con- ments in Qatar, Ashghal has estab- and exit points of schools. tinuous road monitoring process lished an integrated database of This programme includes 495 in the control room connected more than 22,000km of road schools across the country, and so with smart cameras in various routes, which included more than far 335 of them have been com- locations on roads to identify 800,000 originals and around pleted representing 68 percent of traffic congestions, traffic diver- 20,000km of longitudinal assets the targeted schools. As for the sions and accidents. such as safety barriers, and more achievements of the Road Main- In addition, Ashghal com- than 68 sqkm of surface tenance Department in road pleted implementation of con- pavement. safety, Ashghal completed main- gestion management plan consti- Ashghal’s five-year plan for tenance and pavement of roads tuting an accident response team the period (2018-2022) includes along nearly 200km in 2018, said in close cooperation with other implementation of 25 action plans H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation (QF) and Education Above All (EAA), Eng Yousef Abdulrahman Al emergency support services to for road safety assessment and met yesterday in Kuala Lumpur with the Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia and the Minister of Emadi, Projects Affairs Director attend accident sites throughout follow-up. This plan also involves Women, Family and Community Development, Dr Wan Azizah Ismail. The meeting discussed areas at Ashghal. Qatar. He added that Ashghal has an emergency response team for of cooperation in education with QF, as well as potential collaboration with Qatar Social Work on Al Emadi was speaking at also completed implementation urgent maintenance work, study projects of mutual interest, and EAA’s efforts in successfully educating refugee children in Malaysia. ‘Seventh Forum of the Stakeholder one of the road safety-engineering of signages, ensure pedestrian The meeting was attended by representatives from QF, Qatar Social Work and EAA and their Malaysian Coordinators of the National Road plan. It includes development of safety, and traffic congestion Safety Strategy’.He said that as a pilot project for best road prac- management during hosting of government counterparts. part of its strategy to enhance tices in terms of implementing FIFA World Cup 2022. Sheikha Hind attends Awsaj Academy’s graduation event
THE PENINSULA included Buthaina A Al Nuaimi, degree. You should continue to DOHA President of PUE, QF; members pursue knowledge and acquire of PUE management and the skills at various levels, and in dif- H E Sheikha Hind bint Hamad board of governors; distin- ferent fields, throughout your Al Thani, Vice-Chairperson and guished guests; parents; staff; life. It is necessary that you CEO of Qatar Foundation (QF), faculty members; and other benefit from what you have yesterday attended the 14th members of the QF learned during your time at graduation ceremony of Awsaj community. Awsaj Academy, not only to Academy, part of QF’s Pre- Al Nuaimi, as the keynote build your futures, but also as University Education (PUE). speaker, encouraged students to citizens who seek to secure a In the biggest graduating invest the knowledge they bright future for the coming class to date, 47 students were acquired during their time at generations.” honoured in the ceremony that Awsaj Academy to contribute to Fahad Al Subaiey, Chairman took place at the Awsaj Academy the vision of Qatar, while forging of Awsaj Academy Board of Gov- auditorium in Education City, a path for themselves in their ernors; Mark Hughes, Director, bringing the total number of careers: Awsaj Academy; and William graduates up to 206 since its “Remember that the journey Vue, Principal, High School, establishment. of learning does not end with awarded the diplomas and the H E Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice-Chairperson and CEO of QF, at the graduation ceremony. Additional attendees receiving a certificate or a students. 04 HOME WEDNESDAY 1 MAY 2019 Qatar, Singapore discuss ways to enhance relations Third phase of land allocation for private schools launched QNA Department at the Ministry related to the affairs of private DOHA explained the third phase in a schools. presentation that six plots of land The Head of Purchasing The Ministry of Education and were allocated in the first phase Section at the Ministry’s Higher Education has launched and three others were allocated Administrative and Financial the third phase of land allocation in the second phase, while the Affairs Department, Arifah under the BOT system, within third phase will include the allo- Aqab, also spoke in the the framework of stimulating the cation of two government- workshop and explained the participation of the private owned land lots for the private procedures for submitting sector in the economic devel- sector to design, build and tenders and their conditions opment projects dedicated to the operate the buildings as private and requirements. national curriculum. schools. For her part, Sarah Al Salem This came during an intro- Al Hajri explained to the from the Private School ductory workshop on the investors the general adminis- Licensing Department, spoke project, attended by a large trative structure of the Ministry about the mechanism of opening number of investors, owners of which includes departments for a private establishment, while private schools and senior offi- private education concerned Eng. Fathi Abdul Qader Ali cials of the Ministry of Education with granting and renewing Ibrahim, the Chief Architect at and Higher Education. private school licenses and the Ministry, shed light on the At the outset of the determining tuition fees, in architecture drawings, workshop, Khalid Al Hajri, addition to their role in moni- standards, specifications and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, H E Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah, Director of the General Services toring and supervising all aspects conditions. met with the Senior Minister of State for Defence and Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Singapore, Dr Mohamad Maliki bin Osman. The meeting discussed the relations between the two countries and ways of enhancing them. The meeting was attended by the Commander of the Amiri Air Force, Major General (Pilot) H E Mubarak Mohammed Al Kumait Al Khayareen, and senior officers of the Qatari Armed Forces. Iftar programmes in 12 areas to benefit over 358,000 people Transport Minister meets COO of MSC SANAULLAH ATAULLAH Management Department, and prayer places at the minis- THE PENINSULA Mohamad bin Hamad Al Kuwari, tries and government organisa- said that all mosques across the tions to lead the prayers The Ministry of Awqaf and country are ready to receive the including ‘Tarawih’ during Islamic Affairs has announced faithful during Ramadan. Ramadan,” said Al Kuwari. He to implement Iftar programmes “The Department received said that Department has a total in 12 areas which are expected 88 new mosques from the of 147 Qatari Imams, 906 non- to benefit over 358,000 fasting beginning of 2018 to April 2019,” Qatari Imams, 1,631 Muazins and people during forthcoming holy said Al Kuwari, adding that 67 72 orators. month of Ramadan. plots of lands were allotted by “The Ministry awarded a The announcement was the government to build new tender to clean 1,091 mosques made in a press conference held mosques. He said that the at a cost of QR115m,” said Al yesterday at Imam Muhammad Department also received 104 Kuwari. Head of General Ibn Abdul Wahhab Mosque on new houses for Imams and four Department, Dr Sheikh Khalid preparations of the Ministry for centres for learning the Holy bin Mohamad Al Thani, said that Ramadan. Quran. with the support of endowment A number of heads of the “The Department assigned fund, Iftar programmes will be departments concerned 50 Imams from expatriate com- implemented in 12 areas with the attended the press conference. munity under a plan to provide capacity of 358,000 fasting Minister of Transport and Communications, H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti, met yesterday with the Chief The Head of the Mosques Imams to 100 private mosques people. Operating Officer of the Munich Security Conference (MSC), Dr Benedikt Franke. The meeting discussed means of boosting relations between the State of Qatar and the MSC in the field of cybersecurity and regional security. The meeting also reviewed the joint coordination between the two parties on the MSC Cyber Security Summit that Doha will host this October. Qatar stresses full support for ACD Session FROM PAGE 1 importance of ACD meeting Ministers for adoption. Meanwhile, Secretary- saying that it is an important The head of economic affairs General of the Asian Cooperation occasion to realize what has sector at the Ministry of Foreign Dialogue (ACD) Bundit Lim- been lost during the past period Affairs of Oman Yahya Abdullah schoon praised the role played and to solve some of the Al Arimi said that the conference by the State of Qatar in reviving problems in the ACD process. serves as a platform for dialogue the Asian Cooperation He said that the State of among Asian countries to FROM LEFT: Jassim Mohammed Al Kubaisi, Director of Zakat Fund; Dr Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed Al Dialogue. Qatar is carrying out important enhance and deepen cooper- Thani, the Director-General of Awqaf Public Administration; Mohamad bin Hamad Al Kuwari, Head of In his speech at the start of activities in support of the Asian ation in six different areas that the preparatory meetings for the dialogue, and it is not surprising have been approved in advance. the Mosques Management Department; Mal Allah Abdulrahman Al Jaber, Director of the Department of 16th Asian Ministerial Meeting that Qatar has undertaken these He added that the Secretariat is Dawah and Religious Guidance; and Fahad Ahmed Al Mohammed, Head of the Department of Definition of the Asian Cooperation Dia- effective diplomatic initiatives working to achieve these goals, of Islam, during a press conference held at Grand Mosque yesterday. PIC: BAHER AMIN / THE PENINSULA logue (ACD), he said that the to support the process of coop- and we expect that Doha endeavor launched by the State eration among Asian countries. meeting in its sixteenth edition of Qatar to revive this dialogue He said that the meeting will will produce tangible results that aims to rebuild and establish the also discuss the Doha Decla- serve the countries and peoples Qatar a leader in traffic safety management FROM PAGE 1 confidence and morale of ration, which will be issued of the region. Committee and Head of the Task Health Department at the Ministry Member States, especially after today. The Director General for Addressing the event, Major Force for the following up the of Public Health, said that eve- the postponement of the meeting On the appointment of a new Economic Affairs of the Turkish General Mohamed Saad Al Kharji, implementation of the strategy, ryone has the right to take pride for the third time, which has Secretary-General of ACD in Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Director General of Traffic, Second stressed the importance of con- in what has been achieved by all negatively affected the confi- August, he stressed the need to that the meeting of senior offi- Deputy Chairman of the National certed efforts of ministries and sectors in the country to improve dence and morale of the Member develop a road map for this cials prior to the 16th ACD min- Traffic Safety Committee, said that concerned parties in achieving the traffic safety. He pointed out that States and led to confusion and matter, pointing to a meeting in isterial meeting was very pro- “Qatar is currently the leader in national strategy for traffic safety, the response time for emergency uncertainty regarding the future Thailand next July to discuss the ductive, giving great hope to the field of “traffic safety man- pointing out that the National calls has been improved to five of this meeting. mechanism of selection. He wel- further cooperation in Asia. “We agement” in the Middle East and Committee formed a subcom- seconds or less. The department Talking to media on the side- comed the accession of the State will see what can be done in the the third world countries.” mittee to follow up the plans of is also working for the devel- lines of the preparatory meeting of Palestine to the Asian Coop- future, especially as Turkey will Dr. Ibrahim Al Naimi, Under- ministries and concerned bodies opment and expansion of com- Kuwaiti Assistant Foreign Min- eration Dialogue, pointing out assume the chair of the Asian secretary of the Ministry of Edu- at national level. munity initiatives to provide care ister for Asian Affairs Ali that the accession decision will Cooperation Dialogue at the next cation and Higher Education, Dr Mohammed bin Hamad Al for the patient in the home after Sulaiman Al Saeed stressed the be submitted to the Excellencies session.” member of the National Thani, Director of the Public receiving treatment. Ooredoo announces sponsorship of Amir Cup SACHIN KUMAR responsibility strategy. We’re Khalid Mubarak Al Kuwari, THE PENINSULA looking forward to some Director of Marketing and awesome football from Communication, Qatar Ooredoo announced Qatar’s top teams, and wish Football Association (QFA). yesterday to be Official Tele- them all the best of luck in the “Our presence today communications Sponsor of competition,” he added. reflects the importance of the the popular Amir Cup for the Ooredoo is set to host two ongoing co-operation tenth year in a row. activations during the event; between the two entities, and The Amir Cup – one of a Shop On Wheels at the final we are looking forward to Qatar’s most popular sporting match at Al Wakra stadium, extending the scope of our events – pits Qatari football and a giant screen at Katara joint work, especially with the teams from the first and showing all the matches of services Ooredoo is providing second divisions of the Qatari the event. There will be a during this even, which will football league against one Khaled Al Kuwari (left), Director, Marketing and Communication, drive-through food festival – add value to the tournament another, in a tournament Qatar Football Association; and Mustafa Al Qatami, Senior Ghabka Ramadan – along from a commercial, mar- being held from April 11 to Director, Marketing and Communication, Ooredoo; at a press with the giant screen, also keting and media perspective. May 16. conference yesterday. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA sponsored by Ooredoo. We are delighted to be con- “We’re delighted to be “There is no doubt that tinuing this partnership, and sponsoring the Emir Cup for Qatami, Senior Director Mar- “Supporting sporting the partnership between are looking forward to yet another year, and proud keting Communication at events that promote a Ooredoo and the Amir Cup is working with Ooredoo, not to be associated with the Ooredoo, addressing the healthy, active lifestyle and a long-standing, mutually only for the Amir Cup but also event as Official Telecommu- press conference held at benefit the communities in beneficial partnership, with for other local tournaments nications Sponsor for 2019,” Ooredoo’s Headquarters in which we operate is a key this being our 10th year of and our national team as said Mustafa Jameel Al West Bay. part of our corporate social working together,” said well,” he added. WEDNESDAY 1 MAY 2019 HOME 05 Minister of Culture meets Charge d’Affaires MME organises workshop on of Ukrainian Embassy Green Growth potential in Qatar
THE PENINSULA The Director of the advises Member States to identify DOHA Climate Change the paths of green growth, and Department, Abdul thus achieve the required balance The Ministry of Municipality and between development and the Environment (MME), repre- Hadi Nasser Al Marri, environment. The workshop also sented by the Climate Change said Qatar was among aimed at exploring opportunities Department in cooperation with the first signatory for achieving green growth by the Global Green Growth countries to Paris developing Qatar’s national con- Institute, organised a technical tributions in the field of climate workshop to assess the potential Agreement on Climate change, as part of the require- of green growth in Qatar, aiming Change, and has made ments of the Paris Agreement on at promoting economic growth many contributions Climate Change, Al Marri added. and development while and national efforts in He said that Qatar was preserving the continuity of among the first signatory coun- natural resources and ensuring this regard. tries to this agreement, which their sustainability, protecting requires developing a plan of the environment and dealing State of Qatar is one of its action for each country. In this with the effects of climate founding countries, noting that regard, Qatar has made many change. the workshop aims at developing contributions and national efforts Director of the Climate the strategy of green growth in in the field of climate change. Al Change Department at the Min- the State, especially as the Marri added that the Department Minister of Culture and Sports, H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali met yesterday with Charge d’Affaires of the istry, Abdul Hadi Nasser Al Marri, Institute is a global organisation is currently working with the Ukrainian Embassy in the State of Qatar, Vasyl Bodnar. During the meeting, they discussed aspects of said the workshop, in cooper- dedicated to sustainability in Institute to develop this plan with cooperation between the two countries in cultural and sports fields. ation with the Global Green general and environmental sus- the participation of the relevant Growth Institute, comes as the tainability in particular. It also national authorities.
Ministry issues Qatar marks ‘International Workers Day’ today decision on Joint THE PENINSULA new legislation issued by the State The conference is important chapters dealing with compre- Labour DOHA of Qatar recently”. because it is held in the light of a hensive information about Committees Houtan Homayounpour, Head wide international appreciation Qatar’s contributions through the Qatar marks today ‘International of the ILO Project Office in Qatar; of what Qatar has achieved in the labour law and the specific FROM PAGE 1 Workers Day’, under the theme Fahad Zafer Al Dosari, Director field of protecting workers ‘rights. measures taken in this field. “Qatar’s Contributions to Protect of Labour Relations Department Qatar has become a model for The book documents local The joint committees Rights of Workers” and the at the Ministry of Administrative ensuring the rights of workers and trends and actions taken over the will work to strengthen centenary of the International Development, Labour and Social adopting the best standards for past year, as well as reports from the atmosphere of coop- Labour Organisation (ILO). Affairs; and Major Abdullah workers’ care based on a series of government and private com- eration, improve working The event will be held at Khalifa Al Mohannadi, Director of legislation and laws issued in panies and institutions on their relationships and increase Sheraton Doha in the presence of the Visa Support Services recent months. efforts regarding the rights of organisational efficiency Minister of Administrative Devel- Department at the Ministry of Sheikh Dr Thani bin Ali Al expat workers. within companies, as well opment, Labour and Social Affairs, Interior, among others will speak Thani, Chairman of the Com- It also highlights the role of as the expected role of H E Yousef bin Mohammed Al at the session. The ceremony will mittee of the International the National Human Rights Com- addressing complaints Othman Fakhro, and participation witness the announcement of the Minister of Administrative Workers’ Day said that a book mittee as an independent mon- internally without of a number of Ministries and winners of the awards. The award Development, Labour and Social titled ‘Qatar’s Contributions to itoring entity to protect workers’ resorting to other public and private sector committee includes the Ministry Affairs, H E Yousef bin Mohammed Protect Rights of Workers’ will rights as well as the commitment mechanisms. institutions. of Administrative Development, Al Othman Fakhro also be launched today. The book of most companies to the prin- Moreover, the joint Sheikh Dr Thani bin Ali Al Labour and Social Affairs; Min- is considered an important doc- ciple of social responsibility to committees will play an Thani, Chairman of the Com- istry of Interior; Public Works Personality Award, Best umentation for the development protect workers’ rights. important role in the mittee of the ‘International Authority; Qatar Chamber; Qatar Company, Best Civil Society of legislation and the great efforts Moreover, it deals with agree- awareness raising process Workers Day’ announced that the Foundation; Hamad Medical Cor- Organisation, Best Worker exerted by Qatar to provide the ments signed with Labour- and the delivery of mes- event will start with a discussion poration and Supreme Committee Welfare Project - Asian City, Best best work environment to exporting countries, which guar- sages and guidance to entitled: “Modern practices for for Delivery & Legacy (SC). Community Award, Best Study workers. antee the highest standards for workers in companies protecting workers’ rights and The awards include Best and Scientific Research Award. It comprises a number of the protection of workers’ rights. and enterprises.
H E Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al Sada (right), H E Dr Hessa Al Jaber (second left) being briefed about research project demonstrations showcasing the work of students and faculty. National survey on reuse of treated industrial water launched FAZEENA SALEEM of Ministry of development THE PENINSULA Planning and Statistics. CSE’s Annual Research Open A national survey on public Day aimed to nurture scientific perception on reuse of treated research while creating an inte- industrial water was launched grated ecosystem that encourages during the Annual Research Open the exchange of innovative work, Day 2019 of Hamad Bin Khalifa at Multaqa (Education City University (HBKU)’s College of Student Center). Science and Engineering (CSE), The event’s eight research yesterday. pillars of artificial intelligence and The survey will be rolled out data analytics; cybersecurity; soon with the support of the energy and resources; health and Abdullah Bin Hamad Al Attiyah human-centered technologies; Dr Amine Bermak PIC: BAHER International Foundation for logistics and supply chain man- AMIN / THE PENINSULA Energy and Sustainable agement; nanotechnology; Development. sensing, communication, and net- The event was held in the Sustainable Development and working; and water, food, and presence of H E Dr Mohammed Programmes, who was joined by environment were introduced by bin Saleh Al Sada; Dr Hessa Al Howard Bevan, Director Energy Dr Amine Bermak, Professor and Jaber, Member of the Shura Affairs at Abdullah Bin Hamad Al Associate Dean. Council; Dr Richard O’Kennedy, Attiyah International Foundation “The purpose of the Annual Vice President for Research, for Energy and Sustainable Devel- Research Open Day is to Development, and Innovation at opment. “Based on the outcome showcase our research, share our Qatar Foundation and HBKU Vice of the survey, hopefully we mission and vision and outreach President for Research; Dr Mounir identify some areas of awareness to the community. Also to get Hamdi of CSE; and others. and policy development,” they feedback and to see how to con- “It is a very important survey told The Peninsula. tribute to the community,” he and it supports one of the sus- The survey will be conducted said. tainable development goals to in two phases. Initially data will The event also featured a ensure availability and sus- be collected and then in the panel discussion on ‘University tainable management of water second phase it will be analyzed. Research: Successful Paths to and sanitation for all by 2030,” It will be conducted by PHD stu- Technology Transfer, Licensing, said Dr Jhon Lilani, Director, dents at HBKU’s CSE with the help and Commercialisation.’ 06 HOME WEDNESDAY 1 MAY 2019
Qatar Audit Bureau, Iraq’s Federal Board of Supreme Audit sign MoU in supervision field
QNA DOHA
The Chairman of the Audit Bureau, Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Thani met yesterday with the President of the Federal Board of Supreme Audit of the Republic of Iraq, Dr Salah Nuri Khalaf, and his accompanying delegation. During the meeting, the two sides discussed bilateral relations and means of enhancing cooper- ation in the field of supervision and coordination of positions in regional and international forums. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) in the field of supervision was also signed between the Qatar Audit Bureau and the Federal Board of Supreme Audit of the The President of the Italian Senate, Maria Elisabetta Alberti Casellati, with other officials at the Republic of Iraq. opening ceremony of Project Qatar 2019. Katara conference debates importance of President of Italian Senate participates governance standards in cultural institutions in opening ceremony of Project Qatar THE PENINSULA cultural institutions. the culture of governance, prin- THE PENINSULA related industries for the Qatari business platform,” said Giosafat DOHA In his opening remarks, ciples of governance and in DOHA market,” the Ambassador added. Riganò, Director of the Italian General Manager of Katara Dr helping cultural institutions The Ambassador further Trade Agency in Doha. Katara Conference on Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti understand the principles of The President of the Italian said, “While looking for new The Italian companies par- Governance in Cultural Institu- said the conference’s discussion governance and realise their Senate, Maria Elisabetta Alberti opportunities of business and ticipating in the 2019 edition of tions, organised by the Cultural on the issue of governance in importance in management in Casellati, participated in the strengthening commercial ties Project Qatar specialise in par- Village Foundation (Katara) in the cultural sector and its order to make the right decisions opening ceremony of Project between our countries, the ticular in natural stones, cooperation with the Qatar Asso- impact on activating cultural to achieve comprehensive and Qatar and visited the exhibition Italian companies represent marbles, industrial equipment, ciation of Certified Public institutions was in line with sustainable development. along with the Minister of solid and stable partners to back fit-out, wooden parquet and Accountants, discussed the achieving the aspirations of Chairman of Qatar Association Commerce and Industry, H E Ali the full achievement of the thermal/acoustic insulation of importance of activating and Qatar’s second National Devel- of Certified Public Accountants bin Ahmed Al Kuwari. objectives established by the glass. implementing the standards of opment Strategy (2018-2022), Dr Hashim Al Sayed said the “Italy is taking part in Project Qatar National Vision 2030 and The exhibition has registered governance in cultural institu- which aims at keeping pace growing agreement on the link Qatar with 20 companies, the in view of the FIFA World Cup also the participation - for the tions. with developments in good between development policies biggest European presence this in 2022. The visit of the President second time - of Trentino Svi- The conference was held for governance at national, and cultural policies brought year ”, said Ambassador of Italy of the Italian Senate further con- luppo Spa, a company estab- the first time in Qatar under the regional and international the responsibility for the gov- to Qatar Pasquale Salzano in a firms the support of Italy to the lished by the Autonomous auspices of the Administrative levels that have become a nec- ernance of the cultural sector, statement. economic growth of Qatar”. Province of Trento in Italy in Control and Transparency essary requirement for con- stressing governance was a tool “The participation of Pres- “Project Qatar is the inter- order to foster the sustainable Authority and the Regulatory temporary cultural institutions for organising the work and a ident Alberti Casellati has greatly national exhibition of top-level growth and internationalisation Authority for Charitable Activ- based on the principle of insti- monitoring and guidance contributed to draw attention to construction and infrastructure of this specific local productive ities, with the participation of tutional participation, trans- system at the institutional level the high-quality solutions and solutions. This is why every year system by developing actions experts in the field of gov- parency and accountability. that defines the responsibilities, products offered by the Italian Italian companies choose to and services aimed at supporting ernance and its applications, He added the conference rights and relations between all companies of the sectors of con- showcase ‘100% Made in Italy’ the creation of new entrepre- along with representatives of was important as it would spread groups concerned. struction, infrastructures and products on such an impressive neurial and innovation projects. Qatar Airways celebrates World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2019 THE PENINSULA DOHA
Qatar Airways celebrated World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2019, a global event sponsored by The Ambassador of India, P Kumaran , with the performers. the International Labour Organ- isation (ILO) to help mark its centenary, and supported by the airline to underline its ‘Amrapali Repertory’ showcases richness, commitment to health and safety as its first priority. variety of dance forms of North-East India Qatar Airways emphasised Qatar Airways officials during an event to mark theorld W Day for throughout the day the key sec- Safety and Health at Work. THE PENINSULA Bhagawati and Jayanta Bhagawati, the mood of songs. Geet Bahaar tions of their Group Occupational DOHA were presented during the event. is a perfect blend of traditional Health and Safety and Fire Safety choose positive actions, safe International Airport (HIA) held Shankh Naad is a musical songs (Tokari Geet) of Assam. Policy under the theme “A safe behaviours and strive to be safety an airport’s safety week campaign Under the ongoing Festival of welcome to the performance ren- Jhumur is the folk dance tra- and healthy future of work”. The leaders.” as part of a Qatar Airways Group India in Qatar as a part of India- dition with the Khol (drum) and dition of the tea garden com- key message of the day was “Take Qatar Airways Senior Vice Initiative in which they conducted Qatar Year of Culture-2019, a Taal (cymbals) traditionally munity in Assam. The performers 5 for a safe and healthy future.” President, Group Safety and multiple training sessions for 14-member Indian cultural troupe known as Gayan Bayan of Assam, hold hands and tap their feet In a new internal video Security, Ashish Jain, said: “At Qatar stakeholders and agencies oper- ‘Amrapali Repertory’, showcased followed by the Bhortaal Nritya together in a beautiful melodious launched to support the event, Airways, we consider safety to be ating at the airport, attended by the richness and variety of dance (dance performed with the performance. Albela Sajan is an Qatar Airways Group Chief Exec- our number one priority. We are over 10,000 staff. forms of North-East India. cymbals) of Assam. abhinaya-(expression) based utive, Akbar Al Baker, said: “Our happy to celebrate this important In 2018, the national carrier In an event organised by the Nritya Darpan is an effort to composition, exhibiting wel- safety culture grows stronger event with the International Labour of the State of Qatar was recog- Embassy of India, the troupe pre- put together some of the Indian coming gestures together with because of the full participation Organisation, one of the most nised for its outstanding safety sented an exquisite rendition of classical dances onto a common expressions of joy and ecstasy of all staff in choosing safe behav- respected global bodies working performance record at the Inter- folklores and dances of North-East platform. The varied classical through dance. Purvayu is a pres- iours. This ensures our continued to ensure safety in the workplace. national Air Transport Association India on April 25, in the audi- forms presented are Kathak, entation consisting of folk songs health and safety and that of our Our continuous efforts throughout (IATA) Safety and Flight Opera- torium of DPS-Modern Indian Bharatnatyam, Sattriya and and colorful folk dances of Assam. colleagues. I am proud of our the year to promote safety dem- tions Conference held in Montreal, School Doha, and on April 26 at Manipuri dances. Geet Bahaar The music flows like a river whilst achievements in improving health onstrates our dedication towards Canada. Qatar Airways has a long Al Khor Community. songs bring peace and happiness changing its course from one folk and safety standards. As we look a safe working environment.” history of commitment to safety The performances, composed and with different phases of time, tradition to another, like Goalporia forward, we must all continue to In January 2019, Hamad going back decades. and choreographed by Pranaame a varied flavour generated with dance. Qatar pavilion draws crowds at Beijing Horticultural Expo QNA Qatar’s pavilion at the expo attached great importance to children BEIJING also held various special through the organisation of special activities, which is in line with the The second day of Qatar pavilion at activities for children, State of Qatar’s sponsorship and Beijing International Horticultural Expo which attracted attention of interest in education and learning in 2019, which opened on Monday, a large number of families all fields and in the environmental field witnessed a high turnout of visitors of and children at the expo. in particular. all nationalities and ages who were Due to the children’s activities impressed by the activities and events organised by the pavilion, the Qatari organised by the Pavilion. pavilion received wide attention from The pavilion offered visitors an preparation committee of the exhi- the families and their children. opportunity not only to learn about bition gave importance to this aspect, The Future section, one of the Qatar’s experience in the field of gar- as they presented an explanation to pavilion’s sections, has also provided dening and agriculture, but also to look visitors about this unique tree and its visitors with an opportunity to learn closely at the heritage and history of characteristics. A corner of the about the country’s experience in the Qatar, expressing their admiration for pavilion was also dedicated to dis- urban development and to discover Qatar’s heritage and traditional Qatari playing some of the products derived the engineering designs of the sta- The members of the Qatar pavilion at the Beijing International Horticultural Expo clothing worn by men, women and . from the Sidr tree, as well as a number diums that will host Qatar 2022 FIFA children. of products such as soap, shampoo World Cup, through the presentation A number of visitors expressed tree, which opened up a wider horizon Sidr tree. and other products extracted from the of mini-models of stadiums, reflecting their admiration for the unique design to learn about the trees and plants in The Ministry of Municipality and Sidr trees. the determination that characterise of the pavilion inspired by the Sidr the Qatari environment, including the Environment and the organising and Qatar’s pavilion at the expo also the Qatar government and people. WEDNESDAY 1 MAY 2019 HOME 07 Katara Hospitality, QREC ink pact for Clubhouse operation
THE PENINSULA As per the agreement, Katara Hospitality will DOHA manage and operate the QREC Clubhouse. The partnership reflects the two organisations’ The Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club (QREC) and one of Katara wish to use this agreement for the optimum Hospitality operating units have operation of the facility. recently concluded an agreement under which Katara Hospitality will manage and and enjoy a range of facilities. reasons. operate the QREC Clubhouse. The structural works are The existing QREC Board of The partnership reflects the scheduled to be completed at Directors reached agreement two organisations’ wish to use QREC’s premises early next with Katara Hospitality, given this agreement for the optimum year. Then, the procedures its extensive experience in this operation of the facility. related to the start of the oper- field, and signed the recent The QREC Clubhouse will be ation will commence according Agreement, which is related to a significant hospitality desti- to the schedule to be developed the outfitting and operation of nation in Qatar in terms of the by one of Katara Hospitality’s the facility in order to achieve services provided at the Club- operating units. the goals, which QREC looks house through a host of facil- It is worth mentioning that forward to in the coming years. ities making it the ideal desti- the operation of the Clubhouse Following the signing of the nation for those wishing to has been delayed over the pre- agreement, Issa bin Mohammed The officials of Katara Hospitality and QREC during the agreement signing event. benefit from this partnership vious years due to technical Al Mohannadi, QREC Chairman, said: “This agreement for the outfitting and operation of the investment and maximised Katara Hospitality, said: “We plans by investing in peerless QREC Clubhouse will contribute offerings of this facility. The are honoured with this part- hotels in Qatar while growing to the realisation of one of our public will certainly have their nership; The Club House at the its collection of iconic prop- key objectives by providing share of these benefits as the Qatar Racing and Equestrian erties in key international alternative financial resources. Clubhouse goers will have first- Club will be managed through markets. This will partly enhance QREC’s hand experience of the eques- one of Katara Hospitality’s The QREC Clubhouse com- efforts to develop Qatar’s trian sport in Qatar and role operating units to highlight and prises several sports and enter- equestrian sport and partly played by QREC in this area, enhance this facility offerings, tainment features and facilities, lessen the burdens of the gov- particularly as the QREC Club- which will be set this project as including a multi-purpose two- ernment towards QREC, which house exists at the sole race- one of the major and unique lounge banquet hall with the is an ultimate goal for us at course in the country. The Club- destinations in Qatar.” two lounges accommodating QREC.” house will generate revenues, Katara Hospitality is a 400 and 700 individuals “The agreement further mainly through the rental of the global hotel owner, developer respectively. fosters QREC’s efforts to be a facility, membership fees, the and operator, based in Qatar. In addition, there are global equestrian leader, not spa and the other facilities,” he With more than 45 years of reception halls, entrances, only in terms of horseracing and added. experience in the industry, kitchens and four superior technical aspects, but also Hamad Abdulla Al Mulla, Katara Hospitality actively suites and each suite is divided QREC Clubhouse. through the optimum Chief Executive Officer of pursues its strategic expansion into two separate sections. Msheireb Downtown Doha AI Hackfest open for govt, semi-govt to have innovative entities: MOTC THE PENINSULA theme park for children DOHA
The Ministry of Transport and Communica- tions (MOTC) said yesterday that its Artificial Intelligence (AI) Hackfest is now open for government and semi-government entities from April 30 to May 2 as part of its endeavours to empowering digital transfor- mation with AI. Experts during Qatar Artificial Intelligence event. MOTC aims to contribute to boosting sus- tainable economic diversification and improving quality of life and public services. for at least three more months to transform at MOTC, aim to keep up with all techno- This came during the Qatar Artificial them into actual applicable business models. logical advancements to achieve Qatar Intelligence Event held under the theme: The event hosted several AI experts who National Vision 2030 goals toward a “Empowering Digital Transformation with exchanged viewpoints and insight on how knowledge-based economy.” AI” at Marsa Malaz Kempinski. It was to use AI to accelerate business development, Country Manager of Microsoft Qatar Lana attended by more than 300 decision makers increase customer interaction and Khalaf said that Microsoft is committed to and interested companies. engagement and improve products and empowering organisations by providing them During the AI Hackfest, the Qatar Digital services quality, particularly in the five pri- with AI tools and solutions and this helps Government Training Program (QDGTP) will ority sectors of Smart Qatar Program TASMU, boost their business, empower their work- train work teams from government and namely transportation, logistics, envi- force and increase productivity. The officials during the agreement signing event. semi-government entities over three days ronment, healthcare and sports. She said that they are looking forward to to develop solutions for 10 pilot projects that MOTC’s Assistant Under-Secretary, continuing their support to MOTC on its ini- THE PENINSULA With over 50 are hoped to help address some of the chal- Digital Society Development Affairs, Reem tiatives to raise awareness of AI and its pos- DOHA attractions and lenges those entities encounter. Al Mansoori, said that technology plays a key itive impacts on all industries across the rides, this world-first Work on these solutions is to continue role in the Qatari leadership’s vision and “we, country. Msheireb Downtown Doha will edutainment park be home of Juniverse, an inno- vative theme park for children will engage youth in QAK concludes that will be the first city in space. exciting, futuristic HIA recognises employees’ achievements student-led Autism The announcement was missions necessary to made during an agreement Awareness Month signing between Msheireb Prop- keep society safe and erties, the national real estate sustainable. campaign developer and a subsidiary of THE PENINSULA/DOHA Qatar Foundation, and Talal Bin located at the Galleria, an Mohammed Trading (TBMT) the enclosed air-conditioned Qatar Academy Al Khor (QAK), ground-breaking location-based shopping mall, making Msheireb part of Qatar Foundation’s Pre- entertainment company oper- Downtown Doha a family and University Education, has ating in Qatar. tourist destination in Qatar with concluded its Autism Awareness Juniverse will offer an unique experiences that are not Month campaign titled ‘You are engaging and dynamic learning available anywhere else. We are Not Alone’. experience to inspire, educate, very happy with this collaboration QAK’s campaign, created by and entertain children aged 4-17 with TBMT and we look forward Grade 6 student Fatima Al years. With over 50 attractions to the opening soon.” Mahanadi in collaboration with and rides, this world-first Ali bin Mohammed Al Attia, the QAK Librarian Islam El- edutainment park will engage Deputy CEO of TBMT, said: “We Shahidi, ran through April, and youth in exciting, futuristic mis- are excited to enter a unique included a diverse range of edu- sions necessary to keep society venture with Msheireb Properties cational opportunities, awareness- safe and sustainable. by bringing a cutting-edge raising events, and activities The officials of Hamad International Airport during the employee appreciation event. Children will learn to perform edutainment centre to the heart involving teachers, students, and a variety of challenging role- of Doha.” parents. playing activities such as growing We believe in the importance THE PENINSULA excitement and engagement values highlight the role of As part of the campaign, a and harvesting their own food and of innovating experiences that DOHA among staff members, and people as the main drivers of the banner was hung on the school’s conducting medical surgeries and develop youth skills, instil joy and winners were nominated by airport success, which is facade highlighting the theme, many others. In addition, adults create lasting impressions. Hamad International Airport Executive Chefs along with vol- reflected through every aspect and students and parents could will enjoy team building activities Through creativity, inno- (HIA) organised an employee unteers from the HIA staff. of HIA’s corporate values and use a QR code to view a video of and programmes. vation, game and design thinking, appreciation event celebrating Abdulaziz Al Mass, Vice- initiatives. students expressing the theme in The park will include multiple we believe we can revolutionise staff’s hard work and recognising President of Marketing and Cor- Qatar’s young and ambitious seven different languages. Poster food and beverages outlets, retail family entertainment and build employees’ contributions to the porate Communications at airport excels in harnessing the and video competitions were run stores, and various attractions, world-class tourism destinations successful growth journey of the Hamad International Airport, power of teamwork to achieve throughout the month, too, while utilising leading-edge technology that are in line with Qatar world’s fastest growing airport stated: “At HIA, we strongly the common shared customer- badges were worn by students to completely revolutionise enter- National Tourism Strategy 2030. recognised as “Best Airport Staff believe in our organisational centric vision. and staff alike, helping in tainment for young people. We share our vision with in Middle East” by Skytrax 2019. capabilities. Just prior to these celebra- increasing awareness and pro- Ali Al Kuwari, Acting CEO of Msheireb Properties who have As part of the fun-filled We would not be here today tions, HIA has retained its top moting acceptance. Msheireb Properties, said: revived the city centre and occasion, HIA’s Bus Pavilion without our talented people who position as the best airport in the Additionally, autism “Opening a first-in-the-world created a smart city district for the Garden hosted food trucks place the wellbeing of pas- Middle East for the fifth consec- awareness assemblies were held theme park such as Juniverse future. We are excited to be part- offering Doha’s famous street sengers and staff first and epit- utive year and ranked as the at QAK’s elementary and sec- aligns with our promise to create nering with Msheireb Properties food and entertainment. omise our culture of excellence fourth best airport in the world ondary schools, where Fatima a city of firsts at the heart of Doha. and look forward to future Cupcake and khanfaroush bake and experiences.” at the Skytrax World Airport told the story of her journey with The edutainment centre will be successes.” off competitions brought HIA’s core organisational Awards 2019. a sibling with autism. 08 VIEWS WEDNESDAY 1 MAY 2019
Qatar urges UN Security Council to take decisive
ESTABLISHED IN 1996 action to deter military escalation in western Libya
QNA NEW YORK CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI he State of Qatar has urged the UN Security Council to take decisive action to deter those EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tresponsible for the military DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI escalation in western Libya and [email protected] warned against further slide into chaos and insecurity in western Libya. This came in a statement delivered ACTING MANAGING EDITOR by H E Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED Thani, Permanent Representative of [email protected] the State of Qatar to the United Nations, at the regular meeting of the UN Security Council on “The situation in DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR the Middle East, including the Pales- MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI tinian question”. [email protected] Her Excellency expressed Qatar’s deep concern at the military escalation in western Libya, and said: “The State of Qatar is following with great concern and resolving disputes through dia- Qatar’s firm position of principle that the military escalation in western Libya logue and peaceful means. the Golan Heights are occupied Arab that preceded the convening of the “In light of the tensions in our land and that Israel’s imposition of its Libyan National Congress, which region, this fabricated, open-ended laws, jurisdiction and administration EDITORIAL threatens to undermine the path of the crisis not only harms the state of Qatar on the Golan was null and void and political solution sponsored by the and the region of the world’s vital Gulf, without any legal effect. United Nations. The State of Qatar but also creates a dangerous precedent Her Excellency expressed the State warns of sliding back into chaos and in international relations by legiti- of Qatar’s rejection of any attempts to Saving energy insecurity in western Libya, which will mizing illegal actions and human rights undermine the status of the city of Jeru- have serious repercussions on the violations,” and undermines the efforts salem, especially the Al Aqsa Mosque, atar always aligns with the global efforts to preserve political track and the ability of institu- of the Security Council in the main- which is under constant attempts to the natural resources and focuses on the importance tions in those areas to protect citizens taining international peace and break into the Israeli occupation forces. Qof the environment and sustainable development. and run their affairs on the one hand, security, Her Excellency added. “This is a clear violation of interna- Under the generous patronage of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim and to contain the problem of illegal H E Ambassador Sheikha Alya said: tional agreements and legitimacy,” she bin Hamad Al Thani, Qatar General Electricity & Water Cor- immigration and human trafficking on “The Gulf crisis has demonstrated the said. poration (Kahramaa) held the seventh anniversary of its the other.” soundness of the legal position of the H E Ambassador Sheikha Alya said ongoing Tarsheed programme recently under the slogan Her Excellency noted that the State of Qatar, represented by an order that the State of Qatar, in coordination ‘Towards Sustainability’’. Kahramaa’s Tarsheed programme critical situation in Libya as a result of issued by the International Court of with the United Nations and the parties has made a financial savings of QR1.75bn in 2018 by reducing the dangerous escalation and the attack Justice in July 2018, which clearly dem- concerned, continues to work towards the consumption of electricity, water and gas. It’s a signif- on Tripoli, and its reflection on the onstrated the keenness of the State of calm and provide an environment con- icant feat for any organisation and even for a country. It’s unity of Libya and the future of the Qatar to resort to mechanisms pro- ducive to the prospects for advancing also well noted that Kahramaa has saved QR5bn under its political solution, required the Security vided by international law to settle dis- the peace process and alleviating the Tarsheed programme until April 2018. Council to take decisive action to deter putes.” She added that the nearly two humanitarian situation of the Pales- Kahramaa’s President and Chairman of the Steering those responsible for this escalation years of the blockade and the unjust tinians, especially in the Gaza Strip. Committee of Tarsheed, Eng. Essa bin Hilal Al Kuwari, said: and to implement Security Council campaign against the State of Qatar In this context, she referred to “Tarsheed programme in 2018 has significantly resulted in resolutions. had revealed the status of the State of the directives of the Amir H H reduction of electricity consumption of 6,295 GWh, water H E Ambas- Qatar at the international level and its Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, consumption of 33.22 million m3 and natural gas con- sador Sheikha valuable contribution to enhancing for urgent assistance worth $150m sumption of 60,642MCF (million cubic feet), representing a Alya also international cooperation in respect of to address the difficult humani- financial saving of QR1.75bn, despite the challenges faced expressed the international law and maintaining tarian situation. She also noted the by Qatar since the illegal blockade.” full support of international peace and security, Qatari assistance which contributed The aim of the Tarsheed pro- “The State of Qatar the State of stressing that the State of Qatar will to securing the fuel needed to gen- gramme is to reduce per capita reaffirms its efforts Qatar to the continue this approach, which is appre- erate electricity in the Gaza Strip electricity consumption by six to defuse crises legitimate and ciated by the United Nations and the during the past period , pointing percent, water by 10 percent, and in the region and interna- world, and reflects its international also to the support and projects that harmful carbon emissions seven tionally recog- partnerships in the face of common have been implemented over the percent by 2022. In the country, achieve lasting and nized Gov- challenges. past years. Kahramaa’s the Tarsheed programme has comprehensive ernment of Her Excellency reiterated Qatar’s On the Syrian crisis, HE Ambassador Tarsheed helped reduce over 10.6 million peace in the National Rec- support and appreciation for the Sheikha Alia said that “the position of the programme is a tonnes of carbon emission during region,” said onciliation in sincere mediation of the Amir of the State of Qatar continues to emphasize leading example the last six years. accordance State of Kuwait, H H Sheikh Sabah Al that the end of the Syrian crisis will only Kahramaa has recognised Ambassador with Security Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, expressing be achieved through reaching a political in the region as internationally for its achieve- H E Sheikha Council reso- the appreciation of the State of Qatar solution that meets the aspirations of the well as all over ments. Kahramaa won two Alya Ahmed bin lutions and to for the friendly countries that sup- Syrian people in all its aspects, according to the Geneva Declaration and Security the world for the prominent awards in two dif- Saif Al Thani, the efforts of ported this mediation. best practices in ferent categories of Global Good the UN envoy With regard to the Palestinian issue, Council resolutions, including Resolution Governance Awards, constituted the Permanent Ghassan H E Ambassador Sheikha Alia reit- 2254, in a way that preserves Syria’s the conservation by Cambridge IFA, among over Representative Salama, to erated that the Palestinian issue is the national and regional unity, sovereignty of energy and 28 countries with more than 76 of the State of reach a just biggest challenge, stressing that a just, and independence. “The State of Qatar sustainable representations participated in political comprehensive and sustainable will continue to cooperate with the the process of award Qatar to the United solution to the solution to the Middle East issue is the United Nations and international development. declaration. Nations. Libyan people. two-state solution, Palestine and Israel, partners to achieve a political solution It is a well-recognised fact With calling for the establishment of an based on international and legal refer- that Kahramaa is doing everything possible to inculcate and regard to the unjust blockade on the independent Palestinian state on the ences, she underlined. create an awareness of conservation and energy efficiency State of Qatar, H E the Ambassador 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its “The State of Qatar reaffirms its in all sectors to reduce the per capita consumption of water reiterated that the unjust blockade capital , in accordance with the rel- efforts to defuse crises in the region and electricity and carbon emissions in the country. imposed on the State of Qatar nearly evant Security Council resolutions, the and achieve lasting and comprehensive Kahramaa’s plan to create an awareness about conser- two years ago constitutes a flagrant Arab Peace Initiative and the end of the peace in the region,” concluded vation and energy efficiency in all sectors and all walks of violation of the Charter of the United Israeli occupation of the occupied Arab Ambassador H E Sheikha Alya Ahmed lives to reduce the harmful impact of carbon emissions is Nations and the principles of friendly territories, including the Syrian Golan bin Saif Al Thani, the Permanent Rep- also commendable. Especially targeting young children and relations between States, which obliges and the occupied Lebanese territories. resentative of the State of Qatar to the inculcating a sense of responsibility among them is very States to refrain from fuelling conflicts She also reiterated the State of United Nations. much appreciated. The SMS initiative — launched in July 2016 under Tar- sheed — has emerged as most the effective tool to deter the wastage of electricity and water and the initiative has helped to increase the awareness about 60 percent among the users What Macron is doing right as it was noted that majority of the violations were com- mitted due to lack of knowledge about the law and punish- BLOOMBERG citizen participation in economic Macron will have to truly transform the ments. This effort itself has made a savings worth QR45m decision-making, decentralized public French economy. Nearly halfway into by reducing 850.43 MCF natural gas consumption and the mmanuel Macron is trying to services, and lower barriers to holding his five-year term, he has accom- uses of electricity by over 84 Gwh. be something new in French referendums. At the same time, Macron plished some notable changes, espe- Kahramaa’s Tarsheed programme is a leading example politics - a president who rightly refused to restore the punitive cially by removing some rigid controls in the region as well as all over the world for the best prac- responds to public concerns wealth tax he had eliminated, or to give on the labor market. But the hard part E lies ahead. tices in the conservation of energy and sustainable without dropping his reforms at the the Yellow Vests the citizens’ initiative development. first sign of trouble. Instead he has tried referendums they’ve demanded. Macron has a couple of small steps to air public grievances and react It’s easy to be dismissive of in mind. He’s pledged to scrap the without caving into protesters’ Macron’s “Great National Debate.” All famed Ecole Nationale demands. For this he deserves credit. politicians go on occasional listening d’Administration, France’s ultra-elite To pull France out of the economic tours. But it was highly unusual for such training academy for civil servants (and QUOTE OF THE DAY troubles that have created the protests, an exercise to be undertaken by a Macron’s alma mater). But this will do however, he’s going to need to double leader not facing an election, and hard nothing to pare down or decentralize The UN is deeply down on his reforms. Macron’s first to think of a precedent on the scale of France’s oversized, money-hungry civil disturbed by three response to the protests - a 10 billion- Macron’s exercise. service. Similarly, Macron has separate reported euro ($11.2 billion) package of handouts, To be sure, it’s a sign that his situ- promised to reduce classroom size for attacks on hospitals including a minimum wage hike - ation is desperate. France’s traditional the youngest students to no more than failed to end them or to pull his popu- social contract - under which the state 24. But this alone won’t reduce ine- and health facilities larity rating out of the low 30s. So he has levied high taxes and delivered all- quality in French education. in northwestern Syria, sent public officials out to listen to the encompassing services and social pro- Macron said he has instructed the depriving thousands of people, and did a lot of talking and lis- tection - is broken. The French gov- government of Prime Minister Edouard tening himself. Thousands of conversa- ernment taxes more of GDP than other Philippe to draw up plans for further people of their basic tions were conducted around the advanced countries do, and unem- reforms. That might buy the president a right of health. country over two months, and there ployment remains at nearly 9 percent little time and help him spread were nearly 2 million online responses. (youth unemployment is especially accountability. But having listened David Swanson To demonstrate that his gov- high); moreover, many French feel that carefully to the French people, Macron Public Information Officer at ernment had paid attention, a humbler life is getting worse. surely must realize that significant the Syria Crisis UN Office president last week announced 5 billion To address these problems and action cannot be indefinitely euros ($5.6 billion) worth of tax cuts, meet his goal of full employment, postponed. WEDNESDAY 1 MAY 2019 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 09 Libya fighters press on in battle for Tripoli AGENCIES Russian President conflict-hit areas of Tripoli, the ESPIAA, LIBYA Vladimir Putin and his capital, in a statement Tuesday. Turkish counterpart She also expressed concerns Plumes of smoke rise from the Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in about some 3,350 migrants and plain south of Libya’s capital as refugees held in detention centers troops loyal to the UN-recognised a phone call yesterday, near the conflict zones. She government battle to fend off an called for a ceasefire in pointed to reports of food and assault on Tripoli. Libya and renewal of a water shortages that some face. On the roof of an abandoned political process under Bachelet called for efforts to clinic, a fighter surveyed the dry the aegis of the United allow trapped civilians to leave landscape dotted with palm trees Nations. conflict areas, and urged an some 40km from the capital. immediate ceasefire and a “Over there’s the airport,” he resumption of political talks. said, barefoot and dressed in Russian President Vladimir A coalition of Tripoli militias shorts and a black t-shirt. Putin and his Turkish counterpart and armed groups from western Tripoli’s international airport Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in a phone towns have since April 20 been was heavily damaged in 2014 call yesterday, called for a slowly repelling Haftar’s self- clashes and has since been out of ceasefire in Libya and renewal of styled Libyan National Army. A fighter loyal to the internationally-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) stands on a use, but nonetheless remains a a political process under the aegis Around Espiaa, which they rooftop as smoke rises in the distance during clashes with forces loyal to strongman Khalifa Haftar, strategic site in the battle for of the United Nations, the Kremlin are fighting to control, the air control of the capital. said in a statement. echoed with the sound of rocket in Espiaa, about 40km south of Libyan capital Tripoli, yesterday. “And there, is Espiaa” village, The UN human rights chief fire and the incessant barrage of he added, after putting down a says thousands of lives are at risk gunfire. Plumes of white and black night, there are foreign planes, been killed and 1,652 wounded from Misrata, east of Tripoli, rocket-launcher on the rooftop in parts of conflict-ridden Libya, smoke rose across the horizon, they’re more advanced, more in the Tripoli offensive so far, claims to have 700 fighters and strewn with bullet cartridges. decrying an escalation of attacks marking out where strikes had set precise,” he said. according to the World Health took part in the battle that ousted Men loyal to the Government in residential areas with artillery, the dry landscape ablaze. The GNA accuses foreign Organization. “But the planes the Islamic State group from the of National Accord (GNA) have rockets and airstrikes. “There!” shouted one of the powers—the United Arab can’t stop the fighting on the city of Sirte in 2016. The are now been trying to take ground from Michelle Bachelet’s office fighters, as the engine of a plane Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Egypt ground. And it’s fighting on the trying to prevent Haftar from forces of commander Khalifa highlighted her “grave concern” is heard overhead and the men among others — of providing ground that can stop a war,” said “establishing a new military dic- Haftar, who launched an about thousands of civilian men, momentarily freeze. “During the Haftar with military support. Abdulhamid, one of the leaders of tatorship”, according to offensive on Tripoli on April 4. women and children stuck in day, there are Libyan planes. At At least 345 people have Battalion 166. The armed group Abdulhamid.
UN condemns attacks on Syria Israel cuts Gaza health facilities fishing limit AFP/HBEIT, SYRIA AFP between Israel and Hamas. JERUSALEM But the source underlined Shelling of areas in north- that the evidence Islamic Jihad western Syria in the past three Israel reduced the offshore had fired the rocket would not days has damaged a medical fishing limit it imposes for affect Israel’s longstanding centre and put two hospitals out vessels operating out of Gaza policy of holding Hamas respon- of service, the United Nations from yesterday following rocket sible as Gaza’s de facto ruler. said yesterday. fire from the territory by Pales- “We still consider Hamas “The UN is deeply dis- tinian fighters, officials said. responsible for whatever turbed by three separate A number of fishing boats happens in the (Gaza) Strip,” the reported attacks on hospitals came under Israeli naval fire source said. Zakaria Bakr, an and health facilities in north- early yesterday, the fishermen’s official on the fishing union in western Syria, depriving thou- union said, after the military said Gaza, confirmed the reduction sands of people of their basic they breached the fishing and accused Israel of attacking right of health,” said David boundaries. The union statement several boats in recent days, Swanson of the UN Office for did not report any casualties. including yesterday morning. the Coordination of Humani- Gaza fishermen will now be “A number of boats were Sudanese protesters flash victory sign as they man a makeshif barricade during a sit-in outside the tarian Affairs. able to operate no more than six sunk along with their fishing Army Headquarters in the capital Khartoum, yesterday. “Such violence is com- nautical miles into the Mediter- nets after being shot,” he said in pletely unacceptable,” he said. ranean, down from up to 15 nau- a statement, accusing Israel of The UN did not specify who tical miles Israel had allowed breaching the terms of a recent was behind the attacks but the Sudan protesters call for since April 1. truce agreement. It was not Britain-based Syrian Observ- COGAT, the Israeli defence immediately possible to confirm atory for Human Rights blamed ministry unit that oversees civil the claim. the Syrian government and its mass rally as tensions rise matters in the Palestinian terri- An Israeli army spokes- ally Russia. tories, said the new limit would woman said that a number of Yesterday, a medical AF took power after the army of demonstrators, a top Sudanese be in force “until further notice.” boats “deviated from the desig- centre in the town of Hbeit in KHARTOUM ousted veteran president Omar general announced Tuesday that A COGAT spokeswoman nated fishing zone” and the navy the south of jihadist-held Idlib Hassan Al Bashir on April 11 in the new body would be headed said the decision was taken in used “standard operating pro- province was “severely Sudan’s leading protest group the face of mass protests against by current military ruler General light of a rocket launch from cedures” to push them back, damaged” in artillery shelling, called yesterday for a mass rally, his three-decade rule. Abdel Fattah Al Burhan. Gaza late on Monday. without giving further details. Swanson said. as tensions mounted over the But the two sides are at odds Protesters have called the A military spokeswoman Israel had extended the Regime shelling blew a makeup of a new joint civilian- over its composition, with the military council headed by said the rocket fell into the Med- fishing limit to 15 nautical miles crater into the walls of the military council to run the military pushing for a Burhan “a copy cat of the toppled iterranean, a few kilometres in some areas from April 1 as centre, said a correspondent country. 10-member council including regime”. (couple of miles) off the Israeli part of a package of measures who visited the facility. Demonstrators reinforced seven military representatives They want a majority of coast. An army source said that intended to calm a flare-up of their barricades outside the army and three civilians. civilians on a 15-member joint the rocket was fired by Gaza’s violence with Hamas ahead of Iran arrests 32 over headquarters in Khartoum after The disagreements council with seven military second largest militant group, the April 9 Israeli general support for cleric’s the two sides failed to agree on prompted the Alliance for representatives. Islamic Jihad, an ally of the ter- election. The Gaza fishermen’s the number of council seats for Freedom and Change to Adding to the deepening ritory’s Islamist rulers Hamas. union said the limit was then set alleged killer civilian and military announce a “million-strong discord, the military council said The source alleged that in at 15 nautical miles in the south representatives. march on May 2 to assert our that six security personnel were recent weeks Islamic Jihad had near the Egyptian border, at 12 AFP/TEHRAN The joint council is supposed main demand, which is for killed in clashes with protesters been “taking steps to harm” off central Gaza and at six in the to replace the military body that civilian rule”. Risking the anger across the country on Monday. efforts to maintain a ceasefire north near the Israeli border. Iran has arrested 32 people who had expressed support online for a man accused of murdering a cleric, semi-official news Iraqi premier warns IS Heavy rains disrupt aid for agency Isna reported. Behrouz Hajilouyi allegedly weakened, not defeated shot Mostafa Ghasemi on Sat- Mozambique cyclone survivors urday outside the seminary AFP where the Shiite cleric worked BERLIN AP/PEMBA in the western Hamedan MOZAMBIQUE province. He had confessed to Iraqi Premier Adil Abdul Mahdi said yesterday the Islamic State (IS) the crime in a now-deleted post group had been militarily weakened but not defeated as the recent Rains pounded parts of northern on his Instagram account, Fars deadly Sri Lanka bombings had shown. Mozambique yesterday, several news agency reported. An IS propaganda video released on Monday with a purported days after Cyclone Kenneth “Thirty-two people who appearance by the jihadist group’s elusive supremo Abu Bakr Al struck the southern African had left messages of support for Baghdadi showed him in what appeared to be a “very simple and nation, while the UN said aid Behrouz Hajilouyi on his per- isolated” location, Mahdi said on a visit to Berlin. workers faced difficulties in sonal (Instagram) page were “One and a half years ago Daesh controlled large areas in Iraq reaching thousands of survivors identified and arrested,” and Syria, and now Baghdadi appears in an isolated, unknown and the death toll rose to 41, the Hamedan police chief location,” he said about the world’s most wanted man, using another government said. Bakhshali Kamrani told Isna. name for IS. “He did not seem to be among his followers like the The rains and flooding kept Aid is loaded onto a World Food Programme (WFP) helicopter to Hajilouyi’s Instagram first time in Mosul”, he said, referring to a 2014 video in which needed supplies from arriving in be delivered to Ibo Island and Quissanga in northern Mozambique, account shows photos of him Baghdadi announced the birth of IS’s much-feared “caliphate” across the main city of Pemba on Monday posing with pistols, shotguns swathes of Iraq and Syria. After losing its last remaining territory and will be a challenge in the days yesterday. and automatic rifles. in the Syrian town of Baghouz in March, “IS has not completely dis- ahead as more wet weather is He was shot dead in a fire- appeared but suffered painful blows”, the Iraqi premier said at a forecast, said UN humanitarian just six weeks after Cyclone Idai Up to three inches of rain was fight with police on Sunday joint press conference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel. spokeswoman Gemma Connell in tore into central Mozambique. forecast for the next 24 hours, and after his car was tracked, Mahdi cautioned that IS “will try to rebuild trust among its an interview. The government It was the first time two rivers were expected to reach according to Kamrani who has fighters, will try to launch further operations” like the Sri Lanka again urged residents of Pemba to cyclones have struck the country flood stage by tomorrow, the UN not put forward a motive for the April 21 attacks which killed more than 250 people. flee to higher ground. More than a single season, and Kenneth humanitarian office said, citing a cleric’s killing. Murders of “Daesh was broken, but if little cells are left, it could reactivate 22 inches (55 centimeters) of rain was the first cyclone recorded UK aid analysis. It is the end of the clerics have been rare in the and resurface and commit painful attacks,” he added, according to have fallen in Pemba since so far north in Mozambique in rainy season and rivers already Islamic republic in recent years. interpreted remarks. Kenneth made landfall on April 25, the era of satellite imaging. were running high. 10 ASIA WEDNESDAY 1 MAY 2019 Rahul put on notice over alleged British nationality
IANS British company named Backops Swamy in his representation NEW DELHI Ltd. The Ministry sought the before the Home Ministry Congress President’s response alleged that Gandhi served as The Ministry of Home Affairs over the issue within 14 days. one of the Directors and Sec- (MHA) has issued a notice to “You are requested to retary of the British firm Backops Congress President Rahul intimate the factual position in Ltd, which is registered in the UK Gandhi to clarify his nationality the matter to this Ministry within since 2003, with address 51 within a fortnight after Bharatiya a fortnight of the receipt of this Southgate Street, Winchester, Janata Party (BJP) MP Subra- communication,” the letter read. Hampshire. manian Swamy alleged that he The BJP had raised the issue “It has been further brought was a British national. earlier in April, citing the British out in the complaint that in the The MHA in a letter dated company’s document to allege company’s annual returns filed April 29, said that Rahul had that Rahul was a British national. on October 10, 2005 and October declared his nationality as British BJP MP Swamy cited the same 31, 2006, your (Rahul Gandhi) in an annual return filed by a British company document. date of birth has been given as June 19, 1970 and that you had declared your nationality as SC gives Rahul third chance British,” the letter wrote. The Congress, however, has to rectify ‘chowkidar’ remark rejected the BJP’s allegations that Elephant in the city Rahul was a British national and IANS President filed a reply to the asserted that he was an Indian Civilians along with forest and police personnel try to chase away a wild male elephant on the GS NEW DELHI apex court’s notice on the issue, citizen. road in Guwahati, India, yesterday. The elephant came down from Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary in in which he had only expressed Besides, the Congress search of food and later forest official tranquillised it. The Supreme Court yesterday regret for the remark. In his announced to give a “befitting pulled up Congress President affidavit, Rahul said he had reply” to the Home Ministry for Rahul Gandhi’s counsel even made the remark in the “heat issuing a notice to Rahul on “fake after he verbally apologised for of campaigning” and that his allegations to divert agendas like Modi did not violate model code: EC incorrectly attributing to the comment was not meant to unemployment”. IANS top court his “chowkidar chor scandalise the court in any “Rahul Gandhi is an Indian obtained a detailed report from Apparently targeting Con- NEW DELHI hai” remark. The apex court manner. citizen... We will give a befitting Chief Electoral Officer Mahar- gress President Rahul Gandhi for allowed the counsel to file a The CJI queried Rahul’s reply to the MHA which issued ashtra following a complaint deciding to contest from new affidavit by Monday. counsel: “What is the meaning notice to Rahul Gandhi on fake The Election Commission (EC) against Modi. Wayanad in addition to Amethi, The counsel told the court of expressing regret within allegations aimed at diverting has said that no violation of The sources said the matter Modi had said that leaders of that that his client would apologise brackets...and you take the agenda of unemployment Model Code of Conduct (MCC) was examined in accordance Congress were now scared of for attributing the remark to 22-page affidavit to express and many more,” said Congress had been done by Prime Minister with the provisions concerning contesting from constituencies the top court. A bench headed regret...” During the hearing, spokesperson Randeep Narendra Modi during his speech MCC and the report of the CEO “dominated by the majority by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi Gandhi’s counsel made several Surjewala. at Wardha earlier this month in Maharashtra. population”. observed that it was extending attempts to defend the affi- He cited a certificate of which he had accused Congress The commission, they said, Earlier yesterday, The a third opportunity to the Con- davit, and informed the court incorporation of the UK firm of using the term ‘Hindu terror’. was “of considered view that in Supreme Court issued notice to gress President. he would file a fresh Backops, in which Rahul worked Sources said the poll panel, this matter, no such violation the EC on the Congress’ plea Gandhi’s counsel Abhishek affidavit. as a director, to support his which had received a complaint was noticed”. seeking direction to the poll Manu Singhvi offered the The court, on May 6, will claim. Citing the document, Sur- from Congress about Modi’s In his speech, Modi had said panel to take action on com- apology on behalf of his client consider the admissibility of jewala said its “page four clearly speech on April 1, has given a that Congress used the term plaints of alleged violation of a day after the Congress the new affidavit. records that Rahul Gandhi is an clean chit to Modi. ‘Hindu terror’ and accused the MCC by Modi and BJP President Indian by birth”. They said the poll panel had party of insulting Hindus. Amit Shah. CJI Case: Woman pulls out of inquiry SC acquits nine convicted in IANS The woman said during the statements before the NEW DELHI committee hearing on April 26, committee. 1984 riots case the judges on the panel had told “Further, the committee IANS/NEW DELHI The former employee of the her that this was neither an in- declined my request for video Supreme Court, who accused house committee proceeding, recording of the committee pro- The Supreme Court (SC) Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi of nor a proceeding under the ceedings. I was also clearly told yesterday acquitted nine sexual harassment, yesterday Vishakha Guidelines and that it that no lawyer/support person persons convicted in the 1984 pulled out from the in-house was an informal proceeding. could be present with me during anti-Sikh riots case, giving them inquiry set up by the apex court “I was asked to narrate my the committee hearing,” said the benefit of doubt for lack of to probe the charges against the account which I did to the best woman in her statement for boy- evidence. Those acquitted were CJI. of my ability even though I felt cotting the in-house inquiry. convicted for fuelling riots in In a statement to the media, quite intimidated and nervous She said the committee East Delhi’s Trilok Puri area. In she said: “I felt I was not likely in the presence of three Hon’ble instructed her orally not to dis- November last year, the Delhi to get justice from this com- Judges of the Supreme Court and close the proceedings of the High Court had upheld its mittee and so I am no longer without having a lawyer or committee to the media and not verdict in the case following participating in the 3-judge com- support person with me,” said to share the proceedings with my which the convicted persons ‘Yeti’ footprints mittee proceedings.” the woman. lawyer Vrinda Grover. appealed in the SC. “There was Expressing serious reserva- The woman had pointed out Last week, Justice NV no evidence against these The Indian Army has claimed that its expedition team sighted tions about the in-house com- to the committee that she had Ramana, who was on the com- people and even eyewitnesses the “mysterious footprints of mythical beast ‘Yeti’” at the Makalu mittee comprising Justices SA lost hearing in one ear com- mittee initially, had withdrawn did not identify them directly,” Base Camp in the Himalayas. Bobde, Indu Malhotra and Indira pletely due to stress and that she after the woman complained the court said. Banerjee, the woman said: “The was undergoing daily treatment. that he was a family friend of the Those acquitted include the committee was an in-house As a consequence, she was Chief Justice and sought the Ganshenan, Ved Prakash, Tara committee of sitting judges unable to hear sometimes the inclusion of a second woman Chand, Surendra Singh (Kalyan ‘Fani’ to become ‘extremely junior to the CJI and not an instructions that were being dic- judge. The three-member com- Puri), Habib, Ram Shiromani, external committee as I had tated by Justice Bobde to the mittee was recast after her Brahm Singh, Subbar Singh and severe’; troops on standby requested.” court official as a record of my objections. Surendra Murti.
IANS keep ready essential supplies NEW DELHI including food, drinking water and medicines. Sri Lanka lifts social media ban imposed after attacks The cyclonic storm “Fani” was “He also advised all con- AP expected to aggravate further to cerned to make adequate prep- COLOMBO statement on Monday that Riyas “extremely severe” by yesterday arations to ensure maintenance A, also known as Riyas Aboo- mid-night, causing light to heavy of essential services such as backer, was plotting a similar rainfall in Andhra Pradesh, West power and telecommunications Sri Lanka yesterday lifted a suicide attack in the southern Bengal and Odisha till tomorrow, in the event of damages caused social media ban that was Indian state of Kerala. Three the Indian Meteorological to them,” said the statement. imposed after the Islamic State- other people were brought in for Department (IMD) cautioned Indian Coast Guard and claimed Easter bombings, a sign questioning about suspected yesterday evening. Navy have deployed ships and of security easing even as a links to IS, according to the It warned that the cyclone is helicopters for relief and rescue Cabinet minister said he and statement. During a search of likely to cause damage to operations, while the Army and others had received intelligence their homes, digital devices houses, communication and Air Force units in the these states that they could be targeted by the including mobile phones, SIM power networks, and rail and have also been put on standby. same group in possible new cards, memory cards, pen drives, road infrastructure. The National Disaster attacks. diaries with handwritten notes Extensive damages to Response Force (NDRF) has President Maithripala in Arabic and Malayalam and standing crops, plantations and deployed total 41 teams - eight Sirisena ended the blocking of untitled DVDs and CDs with reli- blowing down of coconut and in Andhra Pradesh, 28 in Odisha Facebook, WhatsApp, YouTube gious speeches were seized, the palm trees is also feared besides and five in West Bengal. and other popular sites, but statement said. The digital chances of ships and large boats In addition, the NDRF has asked the public to “act in a material was being forensically Sri Lankan Navy personnel stand guard at a blocked road in Colombo, getting torn from the mooring. kept on standby 13 teams in responsible manner” on social examined. yesterday. Security remains on high alert across Sri Lanka. The IMD has advised fish- West Bengal and 10 in Andhra media, according to a gov- Investigators did not provide ermen not to venture into deep Pradesh. ernment statement. any details about Aboobacker’s sea areas of Bay of Bengal and “Fani”, which is lying over The government had said it government ministers had been Lanka’s South Asian neighbours alleged plot but said he admitted the Indian Ocean. southwest and adjoining was seeking to curb the spread identified by intelligence officials investigated possible activities during questioning that he had Cabinet Secretary PK Sinha southeast Bay of Bengal, moved of misinformation when it as targets of possible additional in their countries inspired by the followed Zahran’s vitriolic online held a National Crisis Man- northwestwards with a speed of blocked social media in the wake suicide attacks this week, by the Easter attack. speeches and videos for more agement Committee (NCMC) about 21 kmph yesterday of the April 21 bombings at same Islamic State-linked group In India, the country’s than a year. meeting again yesterday to take evening. It is expected to recurve churches and luxury hotels that of Sri Lankan militants. National Investigative Agency Authorities initially blamed stock of the situation, and north-northeastwards by today killed 253 people. Senarathna said he stayed at said it had arrested a 29-year- the Easter attacks on Zahran and reviewed the preparedness in evening and to cross Odisha Sri Lankan officials have home on Sunday and Monday old Indian man who identified his followers. Then the Islamic the affected states, according to coast to the south of Puri warned that suspects linked to upon the officials’ request. He himself as a follower of State group on April 23 released an official statement. tomorrow afternoon with the bombings are still at large, declined to provide additional Mohammed Zahran, the Sri images of Zahran and others Sinha directed that all nec- maximum sustained wind speed and yesterday, Sri Lanka’s Health information about the source or Lankan militant who officials say pledging their loyalty to Abu essary measures be taken to of speed 175-185 kmph gusting Minister, Rajitha Senarathna, type of intelligence. led the Easter attacks. Bakr al-Baghdadi, the group’s prevent any loss of life and to to 205 kmph. said he and seven other At the same time, some of Sri Investigators said in a shadowy leader. WEDNESDAY 1 MAY 2019 ASIA 11 Qureshi: Pakistan End of an era as Japan’s Emperor abdicates
AFP Yamamoto, a 24-year-old TOKYO company employee sheltering working sincerely under an umbrella on the A new era dawned in Japan crossing. today as Naruhito officially However, not everything was for Afghan peace became Emperor at midnight beautiful and harmonious as following his father’s historic minor scuffles broke out near INTERNEWS abdication from the Chrysan- Shinjuku, the world’s busiest ISLAMABAD themum Throne, the world’s station, with right-wingers oldest monarchy. briefly clashing with anti-mon- Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Over 50,000 Afghans The 59-year-old Naruhito archy protesters. Mehmood Qureshi yesterday will formally take possession of Naruhito will formally said Islamabad was making have studied in the sacred imperial regalia at a “inherit” the imperial symbols sincere efforts for the success of Pakistani educational solemn ceremony later today but of an ancient sword and jewel at the ongoing Afghan peace institutes and are now he became the 126th emperor at a formal ceremony at 10:30 am process and has played its due working in the public the stroke of midnight, ushering today. The third piece of the role in the development of the in the “Reiwa” imperial era. imperial regalia - a mirror - country. and private sector His father, the popular never leaves the palace. Addressing the seventh in Afghanistan. We 85-year-old Akihito used his As Naruhito ascends the round of the Pakistan-Afghan- extended 6,000 fully- final royal speech to offer his throne, he will find a very dif- istan Track-II Dialogue in “heartfelt gratitude to the people ferent Japan than his father took Islamabad, he said peace in funded scholarships of Japan” and pray for global over in 1989. Afghanistan was imperative for to Afghan students.” peace as the curtain came down At the end of the 1980s, regional connectivity, and the on his 30-year reign that saw Japan ruled the world econom- Afghan people have to decide carried out trade through rail him transform the role of ically, its technology was the their future themselves. and road links. Emperor. envy of every industrialised The Foreign Minister noted “Over 50,000 Afghans have During a 10-minute cer- nation and its stock market at that he has visited different studied in Pakistani educational emony in the Imperial Palace’s highs unlikely to be matched countries and also held several institutes and are now working Room of Pine, he stopped to offer again. But after a “lost decade” meetings with US Special Rep- in the public and private sector a hand to his wife of 60 years, when the bubble burst, Japan is resentative for Afghanistan Rec- in Afghanistan. We extended Michiko, as she stepped down still locked in a battle against onciliation Zalmay Khalilzad for 6,000 fully-funded scholarships from the stage and poignantly deflation and sluggish growth peace in Afghanistan. to Afghan students. To paused before exiting the room, while its population ages rapidly Inviting Afghanistan to make encourage female education, we bowing deeply to the 300 invited and many rural areas suffer from a new beginning, Qureshi said [allocated] 100 seats to female guests. depopulation to the major cities. Pakistan and Afghanistan have candidates form Afghanistan,” It was the first time in more Japan’s Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako listen to The abdication has resulted a shared future. he continued. than 200 years an emperor had a speech by Japan’s Emperor Akihito (right) during a ceremony for in a 10-day holiday in Japan, Pakistan has played its due Qureshi further said Afghan- stepped down in Japan and kicks the Emperor’s abdication, at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, yesterday. although polls show many role in the development of istan’s importance in regional off the “Reiwa” era - meaning famously hard-working Jap- Afghanistan, pledging projects connectivity could not be “beautiful harmony” - that will others watched on giant screens at Tokyo’s famous Shibuya anese were opposed to such a worth one billion dollars, he ignored as completion of last as long as Naruhito is on the around Tokyo. crossing. “The emperor was a long break. added. projects with Central Asian throne. Several couples held their good person. He played an They have nonetheless Mentioning a number of states such as Turkmenistan- Constant rain dampened wedding ceremonies at midnight important role during the March seized on the rare opportunity examples in this regard, the Min- Afghanistan-Pakistan-India large-scale celebrations but a at hotels to join the national 11 quake. He was the symbol of to travel, with bullet trains and ister said Afghanistan was a (TAPI) and Central Asia-South few hundred hardy souls celebration. Japan. I hope the new Emperor airports overflowing and Tokyo’s major trading partner of Asia (CASA)-1000 was not pos- gathered outside the palace as And crowds braved tor- will carry on the kindness the old usually packed commuter trains Pakistan, and the two countries sible without Afghanistan. the ceremony unfolded while rential rain to see in the new era Emperor had,” said Rika eerily empty at rush hour. Australian Opposition urges Imran to brief parliament on economy police detain INTERNEWS lawmakers in the Senate and the the conditions of the LNG deal. actions taken against national his emergency medical needs ISLAMABAD man, neutralise National Assembly, presided The opposition, she said, interests by the Ministers could be addressed. over by former Prime Minister wanted the government to sacked in the recent cabinet The meeting expressed sol- explosive Pakistan’s main opposition party, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi. explain the reasons for “tam- reshuffle. idarity with Khawaja Saad Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz According to PML-N pering” with gas bills to which The PML-N has demanded Rafique, Khawaja Salman AFP (PML-N), has presented nine spokesperson Marriyum it had already conceded. an immediate increase in sal- Rafique, Kamran Michael, Hafiz SYDNEY demands to Prime Minister Aurangzeb, the party has The Prime Minister should aries of public and private Nauman, Fawad Hassan Fawad Imran Khan, besides declaring demanded that the Prime Min- fix responsibility on the former employees before Ramadan in and Ahad Cheema who are in Australian bomb experts deto- that it would “vehemently” ister must explain the reasons Minister who was responsible view of the inflation. NAB’s custody. The PML-N leg- nated “highly unstable” oppose any steps in the coming for the cabinet reshuffle and the for hyper inflation in prices of It demanded that the entire islators expressed concern over explosive materials found in a budget that would increase the terms and conditions for the all medicines and explain why parliament be briefed on the the country’s economy. suburban Adelaide garden shed already skyrocketing prices and International Monetary Fund such an inhuman anti-people National Action Plan as soon as It reaffirmed resolve to yesterday, following the arrest fail to provide relief to the (INF) bailout package on the step was taken, Marriyum possible without further delay. continue exposing the govern- of a 43-year-old man police people. floor of parliament. Aurangzeb said. The party also called for ment’s ‘anti-people actions and believe to hold anti-Muslim The decision was made at a The PML-N also wants the The list of demands also the release of former Prime blunders’ that have damaged views. joint meeting of the party Premier to brief parliament on includes that Imran tell the Minister Nawaz Sharif so that national interests. Police said the incident was not being considered terror- related at the moment but “the state protection security North Korea threatens US branch” was helping with the ongoing investigation. with ‘unwanted outcome’ Authorities late Monday found a small amount of sub- AFP In an interview with CBS last stance believed to be triacetone SEOUL week, Pompeo said the US could triperoxide, used to make a “change paths” if Kim did not chemical explosive used by A senior North Korean official bring “real conversations” on terror groups. yesterday accused US Secretary abandoning North Korea’s The man appeared in court of State Mike Pompeo of having nuclear arsenal to the negoti- early yesterday charged with “foolish and dangerous ideas”, ation table. manufacturing and possession and warned Washington of an North Korean Vice Foreign of explosives. “unwanted outcome” if it does Minister Choe Son Hui said yes- “The accused may have not adjust its stance on economic terday Pompeo’s comments some right-wing nationalist sanctions. were “foolish and dangerous anti-Muslim views,” acting Pyongyang and Washington ideas that imply overthrowing assistant police commissioner have been at loggerheads since our system with military Craig Patterson told media. the collapse of a summit means”. “Our resolution on between North Korean leader denuclearisation remains intact Afghan forces Kim Jong Un and US President and we will do so when time is Donald Trump in February with right,” she said, in comments launch attacks to Malaysia destroys seized ivory tusks no deal reached on the North’s cited by North Korea’s official denuclearisation. KCNA news service. Wildlife officials display seized ivory to journalists before being destroyed at a waste management clear militants Since then tensions have “But it will only be possible centre in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, yesterday. Nearly four tonnes of elephant tusks and from east mounted, and yesterday’s com- when the US revises and ivory products estimated to be worth $3.2m were destroyed. ments marked the second time reshapes its current calculation.” REUTERS/KABUL Pyongyang has criticised the top And if the US did not change its US diplomat this month. It has stance by the end of this year, it Afghan government forces have Another Canadian sentenced to death in China previously demanded the will “face (an) unwanted launched attacks in a bid to removal of Pompeo from future outcome,” she said, without clear rival militants who have AFP sold 63.38kg (140 pounds) of sentences which would be talks, labelling him “reckless”. elaborating further. been battling each other for BEIJING methamphetamine and 366 reduced to life imprisonment territory near the Pakistan grammes of dimethyl- after two years while the rest of border in fighting that has A Chinese court sentenced a amylamine, a drug used for the men faced prison terms. Explosives found in Christchurch forced thousands of villagers second Canadian man to death attention deficit-hyperactive They have 10 days to appeal from their homes, officials said for drug trafficking yesterday, disorder, weight loss and the sentence. Foreign Minister AFP a military bomb squad had yesterday. eliciting a rebuke from Canada’s improving athletic performance, Chrystia Freeland reacted to the WELLINGTON rendered a suspicious package Taliban and Islamic State Foreign Minister, amid diplo- according to the Jiangmen Inter- sentencing, saying the Canadian safe and a 33-year-old man militants have been fighting for matic tensions between Ottawa mediate People’s Court. government was “very con- New Zealand police found a had been arrested and was more than a week in the eastern and Beijing. Fan and a Chinese man who cerned.” “Canada stands firmly suspected bomb and ammu- “assisting police with border province of Nangarhar, The court in southern played a key role in operations opposed to the use of the death nition yesterday in a vacant lot inquiries”. “Police have located since Islamic State fighters Guangdong province said the were sentenced to death, the penalty, everywhere around the in Christchurch. a package containing a sus- seized six villages in an area Canadian, Fan Wei, and 10 court said in a statement. world,” she told reporters. “We Police cordoned off streets pected explosive device and where the mineral talc is mined. others - including an American “The number of drugs sold think that this is a cruel and late yesterday afternoon in the ammunition at a vacant There has been no and four Mexicans - had been and manufactured was inhumane punishment, which Phillipstown area just outside address on Newcastle Street in comment from Islamic State or part of an international narcotics extremely large and the crimes should not be used in any the central business district Christchurch,” Superintendent information about casualties it syndicate working out of Taishan were extremely serious,” the country. and evacuated local houses. John Price said in a statement. has sustained in the clashes, city between July and November statement said. “We are obviously, particu- Shortly after 6:00pm “The NZDF EOD team have some of the heaviest between 2012. The other foreigners were larly concerned when it is (0600 GMT) they said rendered the package safe.” the rival factions. The group produced and given suspended death applied to Canadians.” 12 CLASSIFIEDS WEDNESDAY 1 MAY 2019 AL ASMAKH LISTINGS CALL CENTER: 4448 5111 / 4041 0757 We also offer our RICS regulated International valuation service VALUATIONS & RESEARCH [email protected]
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