<<

European Bayern Munich Commission get set for ‘very urges athletic’ Tigres governments in CWC title to think green clash

Business | 02 Sport | 11

WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 28 JUMADA II - 1442 VOLUME 25 NUMBER 8529 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS Have the SIM delivered to you Nation celebrates unique 10th Sport Day

QNA — DOHA

Qatar marked the 10th edition of the National Sport Day On our Sport Day, in this exceptional year which all countries yesterday, with an aim to raise of the world are experiencing, sport exercises remain awareness of the importance of sports and its role in society and indispensable for health and social behaviour. I wish make it an essential part of the everyone an enjoyable day. daily life of the individual. National Sport Day is an event unique to Qatar. This year only individual COVID-19 pandemic in Qatar moral and human values it activities were held, such as and to prevent further outbreak represents. running, swimming and cycling, and ensure the safety of society. It also aims to educate cit- as sports that require contact All sports activities took izens and residents on impor- and several teams competing in place outdoor, as indoor sports tance of sports in daily life and a limited space were not were prohibited as a precaution. encourage them to practice it allowed. Additionally, sporting events in throughout the year, in addition Additionally, public schools and clubs were not to the many health benefits of attendance was not allowed in allowed. sports and exercising. places of sports activities during The importance of organ- Qatar celebrated the first the National Sport Day. This was ising a National Sport Day in National Sport Day in February all according to the plan to re- Qatar every year comes to raise 2012 after Amiri Decree No. (80) impose restrictions due to the the status of sport with the of 2011 was issued. The Decree stated that the second Tuesday of every February will be a National Sport Day and holiday. Ministries and other gov- Sport is health, giving and building ... and Sport Day is not ernment agencies, public bodies Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani an annual occasion to practice sports, but rather a reminder and institutions organise walks in a park to mark the National Sport that it should be a daily behaviour for everyone in our society, sporting events for employees Day yesterday. even in such an exceptional circumstance imposed by the and their families to raise COVID-19 pandemic. awareness of the importance of sports and its role in the lives of individuals and societies on National Sport Day. `P2 ‘Qatar supports any path leading Sport Day shows to formation of govt in Lebanon’ country’s belief in H E Sheikh Mohammed bin investing in people Abdulrahman Al Thani called on all Lebanese factions to QNA — DOHA of individuals and society and prioritise the national confirm the level of awareness interest and accelerate for- Minister of Culture and Sports reached by society. mation of a government. H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali Meanwhile, the National said that National Sport Day is Sports Day Committee Following the Beirut port an annual date for promoting announced last Friday the blast, Qatar is contributing to community sports in Qatar. amendment of the conditions rebuilding a hospital, over 55 The Minister affirmed, in a and guidelines for the activ- public schools, 20 technical statement on the institutes and 80 university occasion of National buildings. Sport Day, which the State of Qatar cele- brates annually on crisis and establishing stability in Lebanon second Tuesday of through Qatar’s contact with the Lebanese February, that the factions and regional and international Sport Day is a pio- countries influencing the Lebanese internal neering initiative on affairs, he said that Qatar’s message to the global level, President of the Republic of Lebanon H E General Michel Aoun meeting Qatar's Deputy Lebanon is a message of support and a clear adding that it is based Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman message to all political parties that there on the wise leader- Al Thani, in Beirut, yesterday. must be a priority for the national interest ship’s view regarding QNA — BEIRUT in order to form the government, stressing the status of sport in Michel Aoun, H E the Deputy PM affirmed that this communication continues on a societies and its Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of that the State of Qatar will support any path permanent basis, whether through this visit belief in the impor- Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin that leads to the formation of the gov- or through communication by other means. tance of investing in Holding Sport Day this year under Abdulrahman Al Thani has called on all ernment in Lebanon, adding Qatar does H added Qatar’s message is the same people. exceptional circumstances due to Lebanese parties to give priority to the not seek to undermine the French initiative, for all regional countries, and Qatar hopes He added that the coronavirus pandemic shows national interest and accelerate the rather it is working to complete interna- that everyone will support in this direction Sport Day contributes the commitment of the Qatari formation of the government. tional efforts to form a government. to come out with the formation of a gov- to the diversification society to preventive measures, in In a statement at the Lebanese Repub- In response to a question by the Qatar ernment that is agreed upon by all political of sports activity by lican Palace after a meeting with President News Agency (QNA) correspondent in Beirut currents in Lebanon in order to bring sta- not limiting it to com- order to enhance the safety of of the Republic of Lebanon H E General about Qatar’s role in resolving the Lebanese bility to the country. `P2 petitive sports and individuals and society and achieving the required confirm the level of awareness balance with the reached by society. various types of sports Virtual NSD highlights need to follow health measures that the community H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali practices, so that the Minister of Culture and Sports AYENI OLUSEGUN allowed, and sports in which an active lifestyle. On the other Qatari society THE PENINSULA several teams compete in a hand, Aspire Academy posted becomes a model for limited space were also not per- videos by professionals showing moral and intellectual Navigating the new normal mitted, in addition to not exercises that can conveniently advancement because it con- ities and sporting events of the means assimilating ways of allowing public attendance in be done at home. firms the quality of investment 2021 National Sports Day carrying out day to day activ- places of sports activities during Meanwhile, for some resi- in people, especially as the based on the decisions of the ities or perhaps annual events. Sport Day. In response, public dents, the NSD being virtual this human element is important in Council of Ministers issued on As Qatar celebrated the and private agencies have year further buttresses the need the sports field in order to Wednesday and after coordi- National Sport Day (NSD) 2021, encouraged citizens and resi- for people to adhere strictly to empower generations to nation with the Ministry of the global health challenge Due to the recent increase dents to exercise individually COVID-19 preventive measures. assume their responsibilities in Public Health. It was decided further resonates as this year’s in COVID-19 cases, the National but can share their NSD activ- “I didn’t think we’d still be bat- the future. that all sports activities this event was held virtually for the Sports Day Committee, ities on Twitter, Instagram, and tling the pandemic at this time,” The Minister of Culture and year will be individual only, first time. alongside the Ministry of Public . Mahmud Abdulrahman, a res- Sports indicated that holding such as running, swimming, The NSD is held annually on Health (MoPH), had announced The Qatar Olympic Com- ident, told The Peninsula. Sport Day this year in an excep- and cycling. the second Tuesday in February, that all sports activities this year mittee, Qatar University, Qatar “When we went into tional circumstance due to the It added that sports that with the primary objective of would be individual only, such Foundation, Qatar Sports For lockdown last year, it was a coronavirus pandemic shows require physical contact and promoting a healthy lifestyle. as running, swimming, and All shared activities of partici- challenge, and then Qatar was the commitment of the Qatari sports in which several teams The first National Sport Day was cycling. It added that sports that pants online and held sessions able to mitigate the pandemic's society to preventive measures, compete in a limited space are held in 2012. require physical contact are not highlighting the importance of impact successfully." `P2 in order to enhance the safety not permitted. 02 HOME WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 Al Mahmoud: GOPAC Deputy PM opens world's largest calisthenics park to intensify activities QNA — DOHA Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence for achieving goals Affairs H E Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Attiyah, inaugurated yesterday the QNA — DOHA The Global Organization calisthenics park in Meqdam of Parliamentarians camp, in conjunction with Speaker of the Shura Council the National Sport Day. and Chair of the Global Against Corruption The park has entered the Organization of Parliamen- (GOPAC) will build Guinness World Records for tarians Against Corruption partnerships with being the largest of its kind in (GOPAC), H E Ahmed bin the world. Abdullah bin Zaid Al the UN Organization, The ceremony was Mahmoud stressed that the develop its cooperation attended by Minister of Culture organization will intensify with the Inter- and Sports H E Salah bin activities in the coming period Ghanem Al Ali, and a number within its future plans and Parliamentary Union of ranking officers in the programs to achieve its goals. (IPU), and will have Armed Forces. In this context, it will build effective participation On the sidelines of the partnerships with the UN ceremony, H E the Deputy Organization, develop its coop- in the Prime Minister and Minister eration with the Inter-Parlia- session on combating of State for Defence Affairs mentary Union (IPU), and will corruption, which will received the Guinness have effective participation in World Records certificate, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, H E Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al the United Nations session on be held in New York in via video conference Attiyah, inaugurating the Calisthenics park in Meqdam camp yesterday. The Minister of Culture and combating corruption, which June. technology. will be held in New York in Sports H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali is also seen. June. In his speech at the opening honesty and justice in order to of the regional meeting of the build nations. Southeast Asian Parliamen- The Speaker of the Shura Turkish Foreign Minister arrives today tarians Against Corruption Council concluded his speech by (SEAPAC), one of the GOPAC’s stressing the readiness of the regional branches, which was GOPAC to provide all assistance THE PENINSULA — DOHA Prime Minister and Minister of held today via video conference to the SEAPAC and other regional Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh technology, Al Mahmoud branches so that they perform Foreign Minister of the Republic Mohammed bin Abdulrahman pointed out that GOPAC has an their role and accomplish their of Turkey, H E Mevlut Cavu- Al Thani and the visiting important role in preparing for tasks effectively and efficiently. soglu, will pay official visits Turkish Minister will discuss this special session by high- The meeting of the SEAPAC to the Gulf countries bilateral relations in various lighting during which the par- discussed ways to activate the including Kuwait, Oman and aspects, and they will exchange liamentary aspect in efforts to regional branches of the Qatar. The Foreign Minister views on regional and inter- combat corruption. GOPAC and work to continue will hold important discus- national issues of common He said that GOPAC and efforts to combat corruption sions with his counterparts in interest, said the statement, SEAPAC have the potential to despite COVID-19 pandemic. these brotherly countries, adding that Cavusoglu will also lead action against corruption The meeting also discussed said Turkish Ambassador to meet Turkish businessmen at the national and interna- good preparation for the Doha, H E Mustafa Goksu, in working in Qatar. tional levels, and it is our special session to be held by the statement yesterday. Turkey and Qatar are con- responsibility as parliamen- General Assembly in June on The Minister’s tour of the sidered strategic partners that tarians to work to meet the combating corruption, as well Gulf states which starts today cooperate in many issues at the aspirations of peoples who as preparing for parliamentary with visit to Qatar comes at bilateral, regional and interna- want to see their wealth and meetings that will be held on an important time after the tional levels, said the Turkish money be spent with integrity, the sidelines of the session. Gulf reconciliation that was Ambassador of Turkey to Qatar, Dr M Mustafa Göksu. ambassador. achieved on January 5, during Bilateral relations are wit- the 41st Gulf Summit held in nessing remarkable progress in the Kingdom of . Turkey believes that the which is an important regional recent years in all fields, as the Amiri Guard celebrates This visit carries an security of the Gulf is an organisation, and in a way sixth meeting of the Higher Joint important message that to integral part of the collective serving the interest of the people Strategic Committee was held support reconciliation efforts security system of Turkey and of the region. last December, said the National Sport Day between brothers in the GCC, its neighbours in the Middle The visit of the Turkish statement. QNA — DOHA said the ambassador, noting East. Foreign Minister to Doha aims The number of agreements that it also supports peace and Ankara had welcomed the to strengthen all aspects of signed between the two coun- Under the auspices of Commander of the Amiri Guard Major stability efforts, not only in the Gulf reconciliation, calling for cooperation between the two tries reached 62 after signing 10 General Hazza bin Khalil Al Shahwani, the Amiri Guard held a countries the Minister will visit, exerting efforts to complete the friendly countries. agreements in various fields at number of sporting activities in the outdoor sports field in Barzan but in all the region, where work within the Gulf system The meeting of the Deputy the sixth meeting. camp, in celebration of the state’s National Sport Day for 2021. A number of commanders of the Amiri Guard participated in the activities, and leaders and officers of departments and groups. Virtual NSD This year’s sporting activities focused on individual sports like Lebanese President expresses walking, running, paddling, and horseback riding, in line with the highlights precautionary measures for doing sports that were set by the Sports Day committee, which were in accordance to the Ministry appreciation for Qatar's support need to follow of Public Health’s protocols. The sports day activities committee of the Amiri Guard was QNA — DOHA as an affirmation of the distin- organized by the French Pres- health keen to prepare the outdoor playgrounds to suit the individual guished relations between both ident Emmanuel Macron, or physical activities, in order to take into account the implemen- President of Lebanon H E countries. through the air bridge which measures tation of all the necessary preventive measures. The activities started General Michel Aoun has In a statement during his was established between early in the morning on the outdoor fields, where the staff of the expressed his country’s appre- meeting with Deputy Prime Beirut and Doha to send FROM PAGE 1 Amiri Guard conducted warm-up exercises in preparation for the ciation for the support Minister and Minister of Foreign medical and food aid in start of the sporting activity. then after that they practiced walking provided by Qatar, under the Affairs, H E Sheikh addition to field hospitals. “Since the vaccine came out, I and light jogging on the side of the grass field while adhering to safe directives of Amir H H Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman According to a Lebanese believed everything would be distancing to limit physical contact between them. Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, to Al Thani, President Aoun presidency’s statement, Pres- back to pre-pandemic days. I The Amir Guard participates in celebrating Sport Day along Lebanon and the Lebanese asserted that the Qatari soli- ident Aoun has expressed his feel people should be more with the different state authorities, which was launched in Qatar people, especially during the darity with Lebanon was appreciation for the facilities responsible and adhere to the 10 years ago. The Amiri Guard, through the sports activities it difficult circumstances which translated on several occa- provided by Qatar to Leb- measures set out by the organizes, aims to enhance the state’s message of increasing the country went through after sions, whether through anese citizens residing in authorities,” Abdulrahman awareness on the importance of physical activity. the Beirut Port explosion. financial and in-kind dona- Qatar, and the job opportu- added. Physical activity in the Amiri Guard is considered one of the He also said that urgent tions, through the partici- nities it provides to many Yesterday, Qatar recorded main pillars used to raise the level of physical fitness of its social, humanitarian and health pation of Amir H H Sheikh Lebanese, especially in light over 400 new COVID-19 cases. members, as it is a fundamental and important pillar of training aid that arrived in Lebanon and Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in of the difficult economic The increase in infections has and rehabilitation plans, and one of the important elements that was placed at disposal of the the Paris Conference to conditions which Lebanese been consistent, and the help individuals renew physical and mental activity. affected Lebanese considered support Lebanon which was is passing through. authorities had earlier said more restrictions would be introduced if the numbers continued to rise. ‘Qatar supports any path leading to formation of govt in Lebanon’ “I am happy the gov- ernment continued the FROM PAGE 1 areas, wishing the various Leb- adding that he is confident that about Qatar presenting a new the interest of the people. This National Sport Day tradition. Qatar’s top diplomat reiterated anese political currents success the political currents in Lebanon initiative that undermines the requires a stable government It could have been easy to his country’s support for the so that they prioritise the are capable to give priority to French initiative, he said that it and work on economic pro- cancel it and not even consider brothers in Lebanon, adding interest of the Lebanese people their national interest and that has nothing to do with under- grammes that serve the people. virtual interactions. The con- that Qatar will always be and work to form a government Qatar will support any efforts mining the French initiative and Lebanon’s Caretaker Prime tinuation gives a sense of present and proactive to as soon as possible. We look at to form a government that we are completing international Minister H E Dr Hassan Diab comfort and assurance that support the Lebanese people the future of Lebanon as a brings political stability to efforts, expressing his aspirations and Speaker of the Parliament we’ll get through the pan- and help them to overcome promising and positive future, Lebanon. to meet with Prime Minister-des- H E Nabih Berri also met sepa- demic,” Ushie John said. their crisis, pointing out that but this matter requires stability Regarding the written ignate H E Saad Hariri, who is rately with H E Sheikh Qatar has undertaken some and requires a formed gov- message from Amir H H Sheikh currently outside the country, on Mohammed bin Abdulrahman projects and is following up ernment. We in Qatar wish Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to upcoming visits to Lebanon. Al Thani in Beirut yesterday. Nation celebrates them since the explosion of the them all success in their con- HE the Lebanese President, he On the invitation of the During the meeting, they Beirut port, such as field sultations and that the gov- said that the message expresses political parties to Doha, he reviewed bilateral cooperation unique 10th hospitals that it sent along with ernment will be formed as soon Qatar’s support for the brothers added that the Lebanese are and relations, in addition to Sport Day the reconstruction of the Kara- as possible, he added. in Lebanon and encourages the welcome at any time, but there issues of common concern. ntina Hospital that was To a question about a Qatari parties to give priority to the is no initiative on the table to “I met with President destroyed during the Beirut port initiative to solve the Lebanese national interest over political invite the parties to consult in General Michel Aoun of FROM PAGE 1 explosion, in addition to the crisis similar to that of Doha interests in order to achieve the Doha to solve the Lebanese Lebanon during my visit to All state institutions participate reconstruction of some Agreement 2008, he said that formation of a government and crisis, hoping that the solution Beirut today. I affirmed that the in this event, which makes buildings, including more than the process of forming the gov- political stability in Lebanon. will be in Beirut as soon as State of Qatar will support any Qatar a large stadium where 55 public schools, 20 technical ernment in Lebanon is an The State of Qatar always possible. path that leads to the formation tens of thousands of citizens and institutes and 80 university internal matter for politicians has consultations with all With regard to the financial of a government that is agreed residents from all segments of buildings. The State of Qatar will in Lebanon, stressing that Qatar friendly countries interested in aid to Lebanon from Qatar, the upon by all political parties in society practice many types of rehabilitate them, in addition to has good relations with the Lebanese affairs, and everyone Deputy Prime Minister said that Lebanon,” the Deputy PM said sports. Qatar is considered a providing scholarships to 400 various political currents in agrees that this stage is sensitive allocating an integrated eco- in a tweet. “I also met with pioneer in organising a National students at the American Lebanon and its message to in Lebanon and there must be nomic programme to Lebanon Prime Minister Dr Hassan Diab Sport Day at the regional and University, he said. them is a positive one, that is a government as soon as pos- requires the formation of a gov- and Speaker of the Parliament global level, as some countries H E Sheikh Mohammed bin they should cooperate and place sible, and all the countries that ernment, stressing that the State Nabih Berri of the Republic of began to organise a sports day Abdulrahman Al Thani affirmed the national interest over par- Qatar talks with are in the same of Qatar in its policy does not Lebanon. We reviewed bilateral similar to Qatar. Qatar’s continued support for tisan or political interests. He direction, the Deputy Prime provide financial support in cooperation relations between National Sport Day receives the brothers in Lebanon as well stressed that Qatar is ready to Minister and Minister of Foreign cash, but in the form of pro- Qatar and Lebanon and a great attention, as this event is as its efforts and completion of play a role if requested by the Affairs added. grammes that make a difference number of issues of common marked by all age groups — its projects in these devastated Lebanese parties to do so, In response to a question in the state’s economy and in concern.” citizens and residents alike. WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 HOME 03 MoPH reports 477 new Amir sends message to Amir of Kuwait cases, 158 recoveries

THE PENINSULA — DOHA However the Ministry has stressed it is important for everyone to play their role in controlling the The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) yesterday virus by following precautionary measures announced the registration of 477 new confirmed including adherence to physical distancing, COVID-19. Among them 43 were travellers avoid close contact with others, crowded places, returning from abroad. Another 158 people have and confined closed spaces where other people recovered from the virus, bringing the total congregate, wearing a face mask and washing number of recovered cases in Qatar to 147,191. hands regularly. All new cases have been introduced to iso- The Ministry further said that measures to lation and are receiving necessary healthcare tackle COVID-19 in Qatar have succeeded in flat- according to their health status. tening the curve and limiting the spread of the Ministry reported two deaths – 81-year-old virus. and a 66-year-old - taking the total death toll Due to the measures put in place by Qatar’s to 253 in the country. government and the support of the public in fol- The total number of positive COVID-19 cases lowing preventive steps, Qatar succeeded in sup- recorded in Qatar is 155,002 and there are 7,558 pressing the spread of the virus since its peak in active cases under treatment. July. There are 81 new cases of hospital admis- However, over the past month in Qatar has sions taking the total number of patients in the seen a gradual and consistent increase in the hospital to 575. number of new daily infections. Two were admitted to intensive care, and so “Additionally, and of great concern, is the 64 people continue to receive medical attention recent increase in both the number of people in ICU. admitted to hospital with COVID-19 and the Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani sent a written message to the Amir of the State of Kuwait While the first phase of COVID-19 vaccina- number of people admitted to ICU with COVID- H H Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, pertaining to bilateral relations and ways to support tions has started in Qatar and in the coming 19,” said the Ministry in the daily COVID-19 and develop them. Qatar’s Ambassador to Kuwait, H E Bandar bin Mohammed Al Attiyah handed over months it will be available for the public for free. update report. the message during his meeting with the Amir of Kuwait at Bayan Palace, yesterday. Doha Plan of Action will be starting point Unesco Director-General for transforming most vulnerable countries wishes Qatar on National Sport Day QNA — NEW YORK H E Ambassador Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Qatar has pledged that the Doha Plan of Action will be a starting point for trans- Thani, Permanent forming the lives of millions of people living Representative of Qatar to in the most vulnerable countries, and putting the least developed countries on the United Nations, the path towards sustainable and compre- highlighted the steps hensive development. Qatar has taken for the This came in a statement made by Per- manent Representative of the State of Qatar Fifth Conference despite to the United Nations H E Ambassador the unprecedented Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani circumstances and during the Organisational Session of the Preparatory Committee for the Fifth UN challenges posed by the Conference on the Least Developed Coun- coronavirus pandemic. tries, which was held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. Conference are proceeding in an efficient THE PENINSULA — DOHA “Today entire country She stressed that the Committee’s and effective manner, including planning developed countries, she expressed Qatar’s is celebrating sports efforts constitute a guarantee for the success visits, and continuous efforts are being full confidence that the Fifth UN Conference Director-General of the of the preparatory process for the Con- made to complete all the various aspects on the Least Developed Countries will con- Unesco, Audrey Azoulay has and its values. I wish ference, expressing the State of Qatar’s related to the Conference, noting in this stitute a different and transformative event wished Qatar on National Sport to add Unesco voice appreciation for the Member States for context the participation of the Secretary- to chart a course that responds to the Day. “Qatar understands very electing it as a member of the Bureau of General of the United Nations, H E Antnio unprecedented challenges and strengthen well the power of sports. I wish to this celebration Preparatory Committee, as the host country Guterres in the Conference and his full the capacity of the least developed coun- you all an excellent National because sport is more of the Fifth UN Conference on the Least support for it. tries to meet these challenges. Sports Day,” Azoulay said in a Developed Countries. She also drew attention to the State of She referred to the Istanbul Pro- video message. than just scoring She added that the State of Qatar is Qatar’s keenness to prepare and provide gramme of Action for the Least Developed “Today entire country is goals, beating records proud to host the Fifth UN Conference on all the requirements that help in facilitating Countries for the Decade 2011-2020 in celebrating sports and its or winning races." the Least Developed Countries from 23-27 the success of the Fifth UN Conference, addressing the structural challenges facing values. I wish to add Unesco January 2022. She reiterated that the State explaining that Qatar National Convention the least developed countries, expressing voice to this celebration of Qatar hosting the Conference comes in Center will host the Conference, as it is one the aspiration of the State of Qatar for the because sport is more than line with its belief that achieving the ambi- of the largest conference centers in the new programme for the next decade to just scoring goals, beating reduce depression up to a third tious aspirations of the 2030 Sustainable Middle East and the most technologically build on the achievements that have been records or winning races,” she according to the latest studies,” Development Plan will not be possible advanced. It also has a state-of-the-art made and to complete the goals that are added. said Azoulay. without paying special attention to the least media presentation and production facil- still in progress. She said that the sport In addition, she said developed countries. ities and is staffed by a team of event and She added that Doha Plan of Action will allows people to serve them- sport is a powerful asset for She highlighted the steps that Qatar took conference management professionals. be the first to address the challenges caused selves to go faster higher and countries’ economic and to prepare for the Fifth Conference despite In light of the emerging challenges and by the Coronavirus pandemic and its reper- stronger as the motto in social development. It is the unprecedented circumstances and chal- the changing global landscape, and the cussions on the least developed countries, Olympic games. estimated that every dollar lenges posed by the Coronavirus pandemic. additional burden the coronavirus pan- in addition to the recovery from the pan- “It is also a powerful tool invested in sport earns four She said that the preparations of the demic placed on the shoulders of the least demic and its multifaceted effects. for peace and dialogue which dollars in return by brings us closer together improving overall health, because when we play sport she added. Bangladesh Embassy we speak truly universal lan- “According to WHO, a large guage and alphabets shed number of girls in school do not marks National Sport Day gesture and emotion that is get enough exercise. To put an what sport is all about,” said end to this Unesco has long Azoulay. been active in the field of THE PENINSULA — DOHA She said sport allows sport.” people to keep hope no matter “Recently we initiated a Embassy of Bangladesh in Qatar yesterday cele- what to see bigger, to see global observatory for women brated National Sport Day. Ambassador of Bang- higher and to see further. in sport in Switzerland to ladesh to Qatar, H E Md. Jashim Uddin, and the “Sport is also essential for evaluate and find gender ine- Embassy officials participated in the sports activ- physical and mental well- quality in line with Gazan ities organised at the Embassy premises. being, and general health as we action plan adopted by world On the occasion, Bangladesh Ambassador has all are shouldering the recent conference of sport ministers wished the Government of Qatar and the brotherly lock down because of the which is being organised by people of Qatar peace, prosperity and continued pandemic. Unesco since 1976,” said success in the areas of sports. "Regular exercise could Azoulay. Families enjoy Sport Day in Aspire Park

SANAULLAH ATAULLAH Young children in sport get time especially at weekend,” THE PENINSULA dress indulged in sport activ- said Yaqub. ities and physical exercises. Aspire Park opened in the Aspire Park was one of the Families taking hands of their morning to receive the visitors major venues to host people, small kids were also spotted on National Sport Day which is especially families, to mark jogging creating a culture of a favourite place for people who National Sport Day safely sports and exercise in their love exercise. yesterday. Adhering to children since childhood. “I used to visit Aspire Park COVID-19 measures and “Qatar National Sport Day for many years. I celebrate instructions issued by the is very important to educate Qatar National Sport Day with authorities concerned visitors people about the importance of my family there every year by carried out physical exercises sports and exercise in their life, playing different games with my individually. Syed Mohamad Yaqub, a Paki- children,” said a visitor, Sadiq Majority of the visitors pre- stani national told The Abdul Aziz Ahmad. He said ferred walking and running on Peninsula usually Aspire Park attracted jogging tracks of Aspire Park. He said that on this day large number of people but this Some people were also spotted every year a large number of year because of pandemic less plying footballs and volleyballs people come out of their homes people came to the park. Another withing their small groups of to mark the day in sport venues, visitor Ahamd Al Qutaiba said family members. Security per- public parks, Corniche and that he visits Aspire Park regu- sonnel were deployed to beaches. “We need to utilize this larly for physical exercise to keep instruct visitors to maintain day to make exercises and sport him fit and healthy. People cycle along the Hamad International Airport cycle track to celebrate National Sport Day, social distance and stop gath- activities a habit and daily “I came to Aspire Park today yesterday. PIC. ABDUL BASIT/ THE PENINSULA ering. Security personnel in club routine to lead a healthy life. I to confirm the importance of cars were seen patrolling and encourage my children and Qatar National Sport Day in the He lauded government of educate people about the fitness and health. monitoring the situation. took them to parks whenever I life of people,” said Al Qutaiba. Qatar for dedicating a day to importance of exercise for 04 HOME WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 Qatari embassies, consulates abroad mark National Sport Day QNA - DOHA of the embassy held a football Houston held sporting events on match to mark the NSD the NSD. The events were The diplomatic, consular, and celebration. attended by Consul General H E representative missions of the In Mogadishu, the Embassy Rashid bin Abdullah Al Dehaimi State of Qatar abroad organized of the State of Qatar in the and many Qatari citizens in sporting activities marking the Federal Republic of Somalia Houston. National Sport Day amid organized activities on the In Mumbai, the Consulate preventive measures and occasion of the National Sport General of the State of Qatar in procedures. Day, with the participation of Mumbai organized activities on In Berlin, the Embassy of the Ambassador of the State of the occasion of the National State of Qatar in the Federal Qatar to Somalia H E Hassan bin Sport Day with the participation Republic of Germany organized Hamza Hashem and the of Consul General H E Saif bin activities on the occasion of the embassy staff, including dip- Ali Al Mohannadi and members National Sport Day, attended by lomats and administration staff. of the mission. Ambassador of the State of In a speech on this In San Salvador, the Embassy Qatar to Germany, H E Sheikh occasion, He stressed the of the State of Qatar in the Abdullah bin Mohammed Al importance of the National Republic of El Salvador Thani, the diplomatic staff, and Sport Day, noting that it is an organized sporting events on the embassy staff. The programme annual celebration aimed at occasion of the State’s Sport Day, included various sporting encouraging and supporting with the participation of Acting events. youth and all groups in sports. Charge d’Affairs in El Salvador In Mexico City, the Embassy In Dhaka, the Embassy of Tariq Othman Al Othman, of Qatar in the United Mexican Qatar in the People’s Republic members of the diplomatic corps States organised events of Bangladesh celebrated the and embassy staff. attended by Ambassador H E National Sport Day with Ambas- The activities were held in Mohammed bin Jassim Al sador H E Ahmed bin an open sports center that Kuwari, President of the Qatar- Mohammed Al Dehaimi, included spinning, yoga, and Qatar embassy officials in Berlin pose for a picture during National Sport Day celebrations yesterday. Mexico Parliamentary members of the diplomatic boxing. Friendship Group Deputy mission, and embassy staff. On this occasion, the Acting Sergio Perez, diplomats, and embassy, including diplomats, that the embassy continues to Republic of Afghanistan, Speaking on this occasion, Charge d’Affairs said Qatar is the embassy staff. local employees, and their organise the NSD event Qatar’s ambassador H E Saeed Al Dehaimi said that Sport Day keen to organize this sporting In Bandar Seri Begawan, families. annually based on its impor- bin Mubarak Al Khayarin and reflects the interest that Qatar event every year. It is one of the the Qatari embassy in the Sul- The programme included tance in reflecting the State’s members of the embassy par- attaches to sports and physical most important occasions that tanate of Brunei Darussalam many sporting events and awareness, interest in sports ticipated in various events to health and that sport is a way of shows Qatar’s interest in sports held events to mark the day activities such as running, and its noble values, and con- mark the NSD. life that must not be abandoned and its keenness to consolidate with the participation of the walking, table tennis, and tributing to the upbringing of In San Jose, Costa Rica, the to prevent diseases and sports culture to create a healthy Ambassador of Qatar to Brunei badminton. generations healthily. Qatari embassy under Ambas- pandemics. and strong society to promote Darussalam H E Jassim bin Ali In a speech on this In Kabul, the Embassy of sador H E Dr. Khamis bin In Houston, the Consulate public health and encourage Al Obaidli and members of the occasion, Al Obaidli stressed the State of Qatar in the Islamic Rashid Al Kaabi and members General of the State of Qatar in healthy, sound lifestyles. InterContinental Doha offers unforgettable QSC hackathon for sports innovations begins weekend staycation and dining packages QNA – DOHA club will help these ideas and their owners in the club’s modern tech- THE PENINSULA – DOHA QR300 credit at Spa InterCon- The Qatar Scientific Club (QSC) nical laboratories. tinental. Late check-out and started the competition activities QSC has set several condi- InterContinental Doha will be upgrade to the next available on hackathon for sports innova- tions and requirements to par- offering romantic weekend room category will also be tions, in cooperation with several ticipate in the competition. The staycation and dining provided to guests, subject to partners and supporters, on cel- conditions include having at least packages across its various availability — rates from ebrating Qatar Sports Day. three team members, including award-winning establish- QR720 for the staycation A Hackathon is an event one Qatari member, and ments from February 11 to 14 package from February 12 to where people meet and share adhering to the competition’s making an unforgettable 28. interests and skills and exchange standards of controls and pro- experience for visitors. Located on Doha’s longest experiences or solve a problem. cedures. The teams participating Celebrate February 14 at private beach, the iconic Inter- The competition aims at rein- in the competition will compete Belgian Cafe from 12:30 pm to Continental Doha and Resi- forcing innovative ideas that con- in presenting innovative ideas 12:00 am and spend the day dences offers world-class tribute to supporting innovators. and solutions in a sports field. with your loved one over a facilities with unparalleled Executive Director of the The competition consists of seafood platter for two and an service. Qatar Scientific Club Engineer three phases — first, registration unrivaled view of Doha’s It is the perfect place to Rashid Al Rahimi said that the for the innovative idea. The second skyline, the hotel said in a indulge in the vast array of youths received the competition phase will be in March, and will statement. culinary choices offered by heartily. He said that 20 projects be held virtually. The qualified The package includes A view of amenities on the private beach of the InterContinental award-winning restaurants had been registered. They will teams would compete to develop Greek romance this February Doha. from fantastic Peruvian fare be presented to a technical com- the project in 48 hours. The final 14 from 6 pm. Customers can at La Mar, ice-cold European mittee of the challenge to phase is implementing the indulge in the finest Mediter- intimate evening dinner for sweet pastries. Your romantic drinks at Belgian Café, sig- evaluate them. winning and qualified projects. ranean 4-course menu with a two, complete with a welcome afternoon tea for two awaits. nature beverages at La Vue, He pointed out that QSC’s The winners will implement their special someone and make it beverage. Bookings are from Customers can treat their and sip on the perfect cup of interest in providing a platform for projects in QSC’s laboratories. The an unforgettable evening. 5 pm to 12 am. loved one to a romantic afternoon tea at the lounge or innovative ideas and hackathon club will provide the necessary For Heart’s Day, wow your This February 14, enchant weekend stay at InterConti- escape into a haven of relax- competitions in other fields sup- funding and technical support as special someone 14 with a your loved one with a nental Doha, including ation at the exclusive Spa porting young people generate an amount of QR 50,000 has been romantic sunset dinner or an selection of savoury treats and breakfast at Coral for two and InterContinental. creative scientific ideas. In turn, the allocated to fund projects. QIIB participates in NSD activities BPS celebrates National Sport Day 2021

THE PENINSULA – DOHA THE PENINSULA – DOHA The Sport Day has a special QIIB participated in this year’s significance to our country, Qatar National Sports Day was National Sport Day events that which has become an celebrated virtually yesterday, reflect the new circumstances international sports hub. with all fanfare and related to the spread of the For this reason, celebrating exuberance, by all BPS stake- COVID-19 and in line with the this event amidst the holders jointly. requirements and guidelines Addressing the audience, the related to the sports activities current pandemic reflects Chief Guest, Gope Shahani, and events approved for the our country’s Chairman, remarked, “Qatar day. determination to get on National Sports Day is celebrated The bank encouraged its with life and adopt new to promote a healthy lifestyle staff to exercise individually in measures and controls that among its population, and I am open areas in line with the pre- happy that our school is doing all shall not stand in the way Students of BPS celebrating National Sport Day virtually. ventive measures. Activities like of looking after our health that it can to celebrate all the walking, running, and biking, national days and festivals.” especially in parks, walking and physical fitness. Highlighting the importance While offering felicitations, reiterated that it was amazing to trails, and designated bicycle of physical activities amidst this Dr. Mohan Thomas, Director of live in a country where sports is tracks, are given a lot of QIIB Chief Executive Officer Dr. Dr. Abdulbasit Ahmad Al Pandemic on our mental Birla Public School & President practiced as a routine. He added emphasis by the State to Abdulbasit Ahmad Al Shaibei. Shaibei makeup, Shahani said, “Sports of Indian Sports Center, Qatar, that the brain becomes active encourage everyone to practice QIIB CEO offer, children and adults alike, said, “As we celebrate the day, all when students play and develop sports safely and create a a change from the monotony of must recognise sports as a choice the ability to think. healthy and interactive provide them suitable envi- their daily life. It is also a useful in profession, the new ESports in BPS organised various indoor community. ronment and conditions under means of entertainment and Qatar is a major game-changer, games for students, parents, and QIIB Chief Executive Officer different situations and circum- productivity, and interaction in physical activity for them. It is an and students can decide to try teachers. The winners of these Dr. Abdulbasit Ahmad Al stances, including various indicators and trends. excellent tool to build this as a goal to achieve.” events were announced and Shaibei and several senior contingencies”. “Despite the pandemic, self-confidence.” Earlier, A P Sharma, Principal, appreciated. executive management “It is true that group sports Qatar has remained the world’s members led the Bank partic- are important and beneficial sports hub and organised many ipants in the Sport Day activ- and echo the real meaning of international and regional QIIC to conclude 40th anniversary celebration on March 26 ities as they took part in the participation, interaction, and championships while main- events, fully adhering to safety communication at social, taining the highest standards of THE PENINSULA – DOHA P. Abdul Qader Moulavi, a undertaken for education. protocols and complying with human, and cultural levels. Yet, safety and security, which has renowned Islamic scholar. The centre kicked off the the health requirements. the current circumstances contributed to Qatar’s great Qatar Indian Islahi Centre has Original members Akbar yearlong celebrations with Commenting on QIIB’s NSD emphasise the importance of successes in various fields. announced the yearlong cele- Qasim, Fyzal Karattiyattil, social works in the face of the events, Dr. Al Shaibei said: “The exercising as it boosts the indi- “Qatar National Vision 2030 brations of its 40th anni- and TP Kunjammed, are still COVID-19 pandemic. The tri- Sport Day has a special signif- viduals’ immune system, has laid the basic foundations versary would conclude on inspiring QIIC members and mester campaign, “Post Covid icance to our country, which strengthens their determi- that kindled interest in sports, March 26, 2021. Over four volunteers over the last 40 Expatriation, Comforts and has become an international nation, helps them cope with for the National Vision’s decades, QIIC has accom- years. Their efforts have Prospects,” was timely, and sports hub. For this reason, cel- pressure, and makes them primary focus is on the indi- plished social engagements, flourished the greatness of all mechanisms of QIIC ebrating this event amidst the much more productive, inter- vidual and how to achieve his community services, espe- this organisation. engaged in activities locally current pandemic reflects our active, and able to give,” he aspirations and needs cially in socio-cultural and As part of the 40th-anni- and in India with the part- country’s determination to get added. according to the best standards humanitarian arenas. The versary conclusion, QIIC nership of ISM Kerala. Food on with life and adopt new Dr. Al Shaibei said QIIB is and principles. Creating suc- organization was founded as President Hussain kits distributions, job, and measures and controls that keen to participate in various cessful, productive, healthy, the first expatriate unit of Mohammed U declared the shelter, medical aids, coun- shall not stand in the way of activities that underline the and fit individuals means cre- Kerala Nadvathul Mujahideen donations of 40 houses to 40 seling, financial consulting looking after our health and positive values represented by ating a strong, cohesive com- (KNM), Kerala’s Muslim homeless families, 40 events were organized. physical fitness. However, such sports, which will enable the munity capable of giving and renaissance movement. It was drinking water/public water Houses were also built in measures and controls are whole society to share a strong building and developing its materialized during the Qatar facilities; and sponsor 40 Kerala through the ISM applied to serve individuals and sense of strength, cohesion, country,” Dr. Al Shaibei noted. visit of late KNM leader Sir A. underprivileged students Golden Home scheme. WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 HOME 05 Women athletes inspire community at Vodafone launches QF’s National Sport Day celebration AR game for NSD

FAZEENA SALEEM THE PENINSULA — DOHA THE PENINSULA Open to everyone in Vodafone Qatar launched a Qatar, the immersive Qatar’s women athletes took one-of-a-kind Augmented game that seamlessly centre stage during the Qatar Reality (AR) game to mark blends the real and Foundation’s virtual National Qatar National Sport Day (NSD). virtual objects require Sport Day celebration said that The game enables individuals players to collect as sport has become part of the to engage in exercises from the country’s culture. safety of their homes. many balls as possible Qatari athlete Mariam Farid Open to everyone in Qatar, while avoiding getting and Olympic swimmer Nada the immersive game that seam- hit by the rogue Arakji also encouraged the lessly blends the real and characters. community, especially women virtual objects require players to be confident and march to collect as many balls as pos- forward to reach their goals in sible while avoiding getting hit Sport Day this year. Vodafone sports. by the rogue characters. Players has historically on NSD each The annual celebration of who get the top three scores year, showcased how tech- sport, and Qatar’s hosting of will win an iPhone 12, and the nology can enable an active major sporting events, has players in fourth and fifth place lifestyle and promote well- “motivated our society to see will get an AirPod Pro. being. We’ll continue using that sport is now part of our Vodafone will contact the our digital expertise to culture,” said Mariam during TV personality Khalid Al Jumaily in conversation with Qatari athlete Mariam Farid during QF’s winners on February 10 promote how you can live a QF’s National Sport Day talks. National Sport Day talks. through their email address healthy lifestyle using inno- To young women thinking used for their app store vative technology,” Vodafone about following in her sporting said that it important to have a professional instructors from Naomi Hynd said, “There are registration. Qatar said in a statement. footsteps, Mariam said, “You disciplined lifestyle and keep a gyms and fitness centers many different factors that “During these exceptional The game can still be should be confident, believe in balance between sport and across Qatar holding sessions affect mental health, and circumstances, we’re enjoyed until the end of Feb- yourself, and work toward other priorities in life. that were open to everyone exercise is certainly one of delighted to have still been ruary by downloading the improving, changing, and “If you have a passion for through a dedicated National those. able to engage the public in Vodafone AR App, available on growing as a person – love sports one of the main charac- Sport Day section on QF’s “Exercise boosts our mood an innovative and, more both the App Store and Google yourself, accept yourself, and teristics is to be disciplined,” she website, while a series of and releases the tension and importantly, safe National Play, go into society with a smile that said. activities for all ages were held worry in our body. If you have says you won’t give up.” “While trying to balance through the newly-launched an excess of stress in your life, “I hope to raise more between sport and other activ- Education City App. you need to balance it out with awareness in Qatar of the ities like higher education can Professional instructors pleasurable activities, and importance of being more be overwhelming but with a from Zulal Wellness Resort, exercise is really good in this active and living a healthy life- right time management and Gymmito, F45, and T23 staged respect. And with social iso- style. I would support anyone support system one can online workouts, with people lation being a key predictor to to participate in sports, and to overcome it,” she added. also participating in a Muay mental health issues, exercising upcoming athletes, we have The activities hosted vir- Thai class with Hands of Stone with others is a good way to such a great opportunity tually by QF enabled people and a yoga session with Vishnu meet people. through Qatar hosting the across the country to get into Yoga, and QF’s Qatar Reads ini- “But it’s important to set 2030 Asian Games, both to the spirit of sport and exercise tiative teaming up with Olympic realistic targets with exercise, participate and to be part of while observing COVID-19 Stars and Warrior Fit to offer a it doesn’t have to be a large our sports industry,” she health guidelines, and to boost gymnastic class and a bootcamp amount of time. If you do 10-15 added. their fitness while also learning for children. minutes of vigorous exercise QF’s National Sport Day about the value of living an In a session focusing on how each day, that is enough in talks introduced by TV person- active life from sports stars and exercise and mental health are terms of benefiting our mental ality Khalid Al Jumaily, also fea- experts. interconnected, a consultant health. It simply has to be some- tured Nada first woman to rep- QF’s National Sport Day clinical psychiatrist at QF thing that is sustainable for resent Qatar at the Olympics activities also featured member Sidra Medicine, Dr. you,” said Dr. Hynd. HMC changes visitor Qatar University celebrates NSD virtually policy as COVID-19 THE PENINSULA— DOHA regularly and at all times of the year to make it a way of life. Qatar University (QU) cele- Besides, Asma Al-Nuaimi, precautionary measure brated the National Sport Day Director of the Sports Affairs (NSD) 2021 event under the Department, said the school is THE PENINSULA — DOHA All other HMC facilities will slogan ‘Sport Unites US’, delighted with the community be available for visitors only virtually via the Webex response to the NSD. She noted Due to the rising number of between 12pm and 8pm, with platform, as part of the precau- the need to engage in physical COVID-19 cases in Qatar, one visitor at a time for a tionary measures for the activities and urged people to visitor policy has been changed maximum period of 15 minutes. COVID-19 pandemic. The NSD continue observing precau- across Hamad Medical Corpo- All visitors will be required to falls on every second Tuesday tionary measures for COVID-19. ration (HMC)’s hospitals. wear a mask, show their of February and is celebrated Dr. Eiman Mustafawi, Vice- “It has become necessary Ehteraz app and undergo body annually to enhance President for Student Affairs, QU, to make important changes to temperature checks. community awareness of the stressed the importance of cele- our visitor policy,” HMC said in “These changes are made importance of sport and its brating this day annually. Dr. Mus- an announcement published in for the safety of our patients impact on an individual’s life. Instructors during an online training session. tafawi emphasised the state’s social media. and visitors. Thank you for your Commenting on the concern for citizens’ and residents’ According to the changes, understanding and cooper- occasion, Dr. Hassan Al- importance of this national various kinds, through the sta- health and its tireless efforts to From Friday, February 11, vis- ation,” HMC said. Derham, President of QU, said, event since its launch and has diums equipped according to serve the community by providing itors will not be allowed at Also HMC is stopping “National Sports Day is a sig- organized several activities to the best international standards, sports facilities that enable eve- Communicable Disease Center, physical attendance at outpa- nificant national occasion, in encourage an interactive, active public squares for practicing ryone to exercise safely. Hazm Mebeireek General Hos- tient clinics in all HMC hospitals which we spotlight activities and healthy community.” sports, and other modern The Sports Day activities at pital, The Cuban Hospital, from today February 10. HMC that enrich Qatari society in “The State of Qatar, which equipment,” he added. QU include sports activities Mesaieed Hospital and all facil- has urged patients not to come terms of sports, health, and is about to host the 2022 FIFA Dr. Hassan urged university coached by professionals in ities of the Enaya Specialized into hospital for social development. The Uni- World Cup, has provided all employees and community sports and targeting both Care Center. appointments. versity recognizes the means of practicing sport of members to practice sports females and males. Sports exhibition offers unique perspective on Qatari sports figures

RAYNALD C RIVERA THE PENINSULA

“Sports Exhibition In Downtown,” which launched yesterday at AlHosh Gallery at Sikkat Alwadi, offers a fresh and unique perspective on the journey of well-known sports figures in Qatar who have carved their names in the world of sports through their remarkable feats. Presented on the occasion of Qatar National Sport Day, the exhi- bition spotlights on Qatari high jumping world champion Mutaz Barshim, mountain climber Mohammed Al Thani, drag race champion Abdulla Al Khulaifi, adven- turer and sports figure Sheikha Asma Al Thani, and traveler and athlete Ali Bin Towar Al Kuwari. In addition, the exhibition also fea- tures works by sports documentarian Sultan Al Jassem and well-known artist Ahmed Al Maadheed. Visitors to the show had a glimpse into the life of these prominent sports personalities through different objects A view of the “Sports Exhibition In Downtown” launched yesterday at AlHosh Gallery at Sikkat Alwadi at Msheireb Downtown Doha. PICS: RAYNALD C RIVERA/THE PENINSULA on display including sports equipment, awards, memorabilia and photos of the athletes during pivotal moments in Asma Al Thani used in her journey as addition to sports artworks by Ahmed sequences in canopy by a team” just lifestyle and pursue their sports their careers. the first Qatari to reach the North Pole Al Maadheed are among the other this year are also featured at the careers.” Mutaz Barshim’s jersey and shoes, as well as photos of her long grueling highlights of the exhibition. exhibition. Spnsored by Msheireb Properties, Abdulla Al Khulaifi’s race car, travel to raise Qatar’s flag for the first Achievements such as Guinness In a statement, organizers said the exhibition hosted by Msheireb Mohammed Al Thani’s mountaineering time on the North Pole are also World Records for Qatar achieved by “the exhibition aims to shed the light Downtown Doha and organized by gear, and Ali Bin Towar Al Kuwari’s exhibited at the show. the Qatar Skydive Team and the Joint on the Qatari sport in the past and the AlHosh Gallery and Sea Shore Group bicycle are some of the objects show- Rare photos taken by documen- Special Forces for “the largest para- present and introduces the current is open for public viewing following cased at the exhibition. tarian Sultan Al Jassem on historic chuting canopy formation at night” in generations to the big achievements COVID-19 safety precautions from The sports gear and tent Sheikha sports events in Qatar in the past, in 2018 and “the most parachuting and encourage them to follow healthy 10am to 9pm until February 20. 06 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 Egypt opens Rafah crossing with Gaza as Palestinians hold talks /GAZA further notice”, one source at the The 365-sq km Gaza strip is home checkpoint and an Egyptian security Egypt yesterday opened its Rafah to around 2 million Palestinians. source said. border crossing with the Gaza strip The Palestinian embassy in Cairo until further notice, Egyptian and An Israeli-led blockade has put said Egypt had decided to open the Palestinian sources said, a move restrictions on the movement of crossing as a result of “intensive and described as an incentive for reconcil- people and goods for years. bilateral talks between the Palestinian iation between the main Palestinian and Egyptian leaderships to facilitate factions, meeting in Cairo. the passage of Palestinians to and from Leaders of Palestinian President the Gaza Strip”. Mahmoud Abbas’s Fatah faction, which An Israeli-led blockade has put Palestinian sources attending the controls the West Bank, and of Hamas, restrictions on the movement of people Cairo talks said they had been told by the armed movement that opposes any and goods for years. Egyptian intelligence officials that the Palestinians wait to leave Rafah border crossing after it was opened by Egyptian negotiations with Israel, began Egypt had been opening the Rafah move was designed to create a better authorities, in the southern Gaza Strip, yesterday. Egyptian-brokered talks on Monday crossing for only a few days at a time atmosphere at the negotiations. to address long-standing divisions to allow stranded travellers to pass. Egypt has tried in vain for 14 years ahead of elections planned for later this The crossing was opened early yes- to reconcile the two factions, and the recognise Israel and advocates armed the West Bank, with the aim of year. terday and a bus carrying Palestinians talks are unlikely to bridge the ideo- resistance. installing a single elected government The 365-sq km (141-sq mile) Gaza arrived in Egypt, two Egyptian sources logical divide between Abbas’s Fatah, It would, however, be a significant for both. strip, controlled by Hamas, is home to at the crossing said. whose strategy is to seeks peace with achievement if the factions could agree The current round of talks was due around 2 million Palestinians. Rafah will remain open “until Israel, and Hamas, which refuses to to hold an election in both Gaza and to conclude yesterday. Arab foreign ministers reiterate commitment to Palestinian rights Iraq hangs five men convicted QNA — CAIRO tinian state based on the achieve just, comprehensive, in East Al Quds. The council They also praised the borders of 1967. and lasting peace in the also encouraged international important role played by the of terrorism Arab League, in an extraor- The council stressed the Middle-East. actors, including the United United Nations Relief and dinary meeting of its foreign Arab world’s commitment to a The council also con- Nations and the Quartet on the Works Agency for Palestine charges ministers on Monday, reit- two-state solution with an demned all Israeli unilateral Middle East, to take steps to Refugees in the Near East erated that the Palestinian independent Palestinian state steps that violate the rights of ensure the restart of credible (UNRWA) in providing essential REUTERS — BAGHDAD issue remains central to the based on international law and the Palestinian people and peace negotiations that brings humanitarian and basic Arab countries, adding that international resolutions undermine a two-state to an end Israeli occupation of services to Palestinian ref- Iraq yesterday hanged five they remain committed to related to the Arab peace ini- solution, calling for com- Palestinian land in 1967, in ugees, calling on the interna- people convicted of terrorism supporting the rights of Pales- tiative of 2022. mitment to Security Council order to achieve just and com- tional community to honour charges, local security officials tinian people led by estab- They added that the resolutions on ending all illegal prehensive peace based on a their commitments to the inter- said. lishing an independent Pales- solution was the only way to settlement activities, including two-state solution. national agency. All those executed at a prison in the southern Iraqi city of Nassiriya were Iraqi Turkish, German nationals, said one source who Iran starts vaccination drive with Sputnik V shots attended. leaders discuss A second security source AP — TEHRAN who is part of a team in charge improving ties of handing over bodies to their Iran yesterday launched a coronavirus inoculation relatives confirmed the details. QNA — ANKARA campaign among healthcare professionals with The sources gave no details recently delivered Russian Sputnik V vaccines as of the crimes that the men had Turkish President Recep the country struggles to stem the worst outbreak been convicted of. Tayyip Erdogan and German of the pandemic in the Middle East with its death Another Iraqi man, con- Chancellor Angela Merkel toll nearing 59,000. victed of murder, was also discussed bilateral ties, At a ceremony marking the start of the cam- hanged yesterday, the sources regional issues, and Turkey- paign, Parsa Namaki, son of Health Minister Saeed said. EU relations . Namaki, received his first dose. The minister said Iraq has put hundreds of The two leaders also dis- the vaccination would be simultaneously carried suspected militants on trial cussed issues that would out in more than 600 medical centres across the and carried out several mass improve cooperation between country. executions since defeating the two countries via video In the coming weeks, Iran plans to extend the Islamic State fighters in US- conference, according to a vaccination to elderly people and those suffering backed military campaign in statement by Turkey’s Com- from chronic diseases, the minister added. “We 2014-2017. munications Directorate. have to vaccinate vulnerable groups.” COVID-19, On November 16, Iraq In the video talk, stressing the disease caused by the coronavirus, has so far hanged 21 convicted terrorists Turkey’s determination to claimed the lives of more that 300 healthcare pro- and murderers, including boost relations with the EU, fessionals in Iran. people involved in two suicide Erdogan said Turkey wishes Last Thursday, Iran received its first batch of attacks that killed dozens of A member of the Imam Khomeini Hospital receives a dose of Russia’s Sputnik V to intensify contacts and have foreign-made coronavirus vaccines from Russia. people in a northern town. vaccine in Tehran, yesterday. technical talks with the bloc in Iran has so far reported some 1.48 million con- Human rights groups have the period ahead of an EU firmed cases of the virus. Iranian media have accused authorities in summit planned to be held in reported that a total of 2 million Russian vaccines Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali it expects to distribute it in spring. The Baghdad and other Iraqi March. will arrive in Iran in February and March. Khamenei has banned imports of the country has also began working on a regions of inconsistencies in Highlighting that the EU’s Though the daily death toll has remained under American and Britain vaccines, a joint vaccine with Cuba, too. the judicial process and flawed fair and constructive approach 100 for weeks, authorities warn about a possible reflection of mistrust toward the West. Iran is also planning to import some trials leading to unfair convic- to Turkey would benefit both surge in March as many ignore distancing In December, Iran began testing an Ira- 17 million doses of vaccine from COVAX tions. Iraq says its trials are sides, Erdogan reiterated his measures in public places. nian-made vaccine in humans and said and millions from other countries. fair. call for updating a refugee deal inked on March 18, 2016. Erdogan also reiterated his expectation on a Turkey-EU Iran summons Belgium summit to be held before the Portugal’s presidency of the EU Council ends. ambassador over Over 97% of recent sentencing of diplomat virus deaths in AP — TEHRAN, IRAN He did not attend Thursday’s hearing at the Antwerp court- Israel were those Iran has summoned Belgium’s house in which he was not vaccinated: PM ambassador in response to the sentenced. 20-year prison sentence given The court rejected Assadi’s REUTERS — JERUSALEM to an Iranian diplomat claim of diplomatic immunity convicted of planning a saying he was on vacation at More than 97% of COVID-19 thwarted bomb attack against the time of his arrest — and not deaths in Israel over the past an Iranian opposition group, in Austria, where he was month were people who had state-run IRNA news agency accredited. not been vaccinated, Prime reported yesterday. The case has infuriated Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Iran’s foreign ministry said Iran, whose foreign ministry said yesterday, as his the legal process, detention, claimed the legal process was government tries to increase trial and conviction of Assa- influenced by a conspiracy turnout for the Pfizer Inc shots. dollah Assadi, who worked as designed by the Mujahedeen- Around 38% of Israel’s 9 a diplomat in Iran’s embassy in e-Khalq to destroy Iran-Europe million population have Vienna, was in violation of the relations. The Dome of the Rock is seen in the background as Palestinian youth skateboard on rooftops, as Israel received at least one vaccine 1961 Vienna Convention on In its ruling, the Belgian partially lifts its third national lockdown to fight the coronavirus disease pandemic, in Jerusalem’s dose, the Health Ministry says. Diplomatic Relations and are court made clear Iran was not But government goals of Old City, on February 7, 2021. illegitimate. on trial, but insisted the achieving 50% coverage and During the meeting with the defendants in the case were reopening the economy next Belgian ambassador, Iran’s members of a cell operating month have been challenged Palestinian youth skate the Old City foreign ministry urged Bel- for Iran’s intelligence services as the daily vaccination pace gium’s government to imme- gathering information about ebbs. rooftops, high above Jerusalem’s crowds diately release Assadi. IRNA’s the opposition group to “We are in a national report said Iran’s foreign min- identify targets and set up an emergency,” Netanyahu told REUTERS — JERUSALEM dozen friends from other parts But the rooftops are rutted istry also delivered a written attack. reporters. of East Jerusalem who relished and they often tumble over objection to Belgium’s Assadi’s conviction comes “I want to give you a High above Jerusalem’s narrow the chance to release pent-up ventilation shafts and ambassador. at a critical time and has the jarring fact: Over the last medieval alleyways, teenage frustrations. guttering. Last week, a court in potential to embarrass his month — the last 30 days — Palestinians sped across white- “During coronavirus So sometimes the group — Antwerp sentenced Assadi, who country as US President Joe 1,536 people have died (of washed roofs and soaked up the (lockdown) we weren’t able to most boys but with some girls had been identified as an Biden’s administration weighs COVID-19) in the State of light and space denied to them go out and skate or do any- — cross over into West Jeru- undercover agent, to 20 years whether to rejoin the 2015 Israel. More than 97% of them during a six-week Israeli thing,” said Baha’Shweiki, 17, salem to practise in a purpose- in prison after he was convicted nuclear deal between Tehran had not been vaccinated. COVID-19 lockdown. from the Al Turi built park used by Israeli skate- of planning a thwarted bomb and world powers. Fewer than 3% had been A small handful who lived neighbourhood. boarders, with ramps and runs attack against exiled Iranian Iran also said last month it vaccinated.” in the Old City were able to “We have been waiting far smoother than they are opposition group Mujahedeen- expects Washington to lift eco- The vaccination drive practise their moves long every day to get the opportunity accustomed to. e-Khalq in France. nomic sanctions that former began on December 19 with a before the spice merchants to go out.” With few training “We saw that there are Assadi contested the President Donald Trump focus on Israelis over the age below reopened their doors. resources and little space in Arabs who skateboard, so we charges and refused to testify imposed on the country after of 60 and other high-risk They were joined after the East Jerusalem, most learn their decided to do it too, try it and during his trial last year, pulling America out of the groups. lockdown eased by a couple of skills from YouTube. improve,” said Shweiki. invoking his diplomatic status. atomic deal in 2018. WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 AFRICA 07 South Africa looking at ways to use AstraZeneca vaccine REUTERS — JOHANNESBURG deliveries. Members of the gov- company believed its vaccine ernment’s Ministerial Advisory should still protect against South Africa is looking at ways Committee said the plan was South Africa plans to severe COVID-19. The British- to deploy AstraZeneca’s not to discard the AstraZeneca start its vaccination Swedish firm said earlier that it COVID-19 vaccine after tempo- shots. Rather, their use would programme with Johnson was adapting its vaccine to the rarily putting on hold plans to be suspended until more evi- & Johnson shots in mid- 501Y.V2 variant. roll it out to healthcare workers, dence was available on whether Abdool Karim suggested on government advisers said the vaccine protects against February, after the US Monday that South Africa could yesterday. severe COVID-19 from the 501Y. company promised to start by giving 100,000 people The government had V2 variant, which is more con- expedite deliveries. the AstraZeneca jab to see how planned to start rolling out 1 tagious and currently accounts well it worked on preventing million doses of the Astra- for more than 90% of the coun- hospitalisation and death. Zeneca shot later this month, try’s cases. combination with another But Schoub said that was but trial data published after “AstraZeneca may well have vaccine, to see whether one still under discussion. they had arrived showed the a place, it may well have a sig- dose “either the prime or the Separately, local pharma- vaccine offered minimal pro- nificant place. This is only a sus- booster with the AstraZeneca ceutical company Lamar Inter- A woman walks past a newspaper billboard during the coronavirus tection against mild-to-mod- pension, not turfing it out,” Pro- may work well synergistically national said it was looking to disease outbreak in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Monday. erate disease caused by the fessor Barry Schoub told with another vaccine”. sell 15 million doses of Russia’s country’s dominant coronavirus Reuters. “We have got in South Another adviser, Professor Sputnik vaccine to the gov- variant. Africa a problem with the Salim Abdool Karim, told local vaccinations, hospitalisation vaccinate 40 million people, or ernment. It declined to name South Africa now plans to variant, it all hinges on that.” TV channel Newzroom Afrika rates would be assessed “and if two-thirds of the population, to the price per dose, but said it start its vaccination programme Schoub said a number of that a “two-step rollout” was we are happy that it’s within the achieve some level of herd could start supplying them if with Johnson & Johnson shots options were being looked at for being considered for the Astra- range we want to see, then we immunity. regulator SAHPRA granted in mid-February, after the US the AstraZeneca shots, including Zeneca vaccine. continue with the rollout,” he AstraZeneca’s chief exec- approval for the vaccine to be company promised to expedite whether they could be used in After an initial round of said. South Africa aims to utive said on Tuesday that his used. secures 9 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines till April Officials: IS militants kill 6 REUTERS — added, and said the country was the continent have begun have tested positive COVID-19 vaccine. Lai said not doing any procurement of administering vaccines. Yes- for COVID-19 with more than Ethiopia was waiting for more in Egypt’s Sinai Ethiopia has secured nine doses independently but only terday, Lia did not specify 2,100 dying from the disease, information over concerns that million doses of COVID-19 through the COVAX facility. which vaccines Ethiopia will be according to WHO data. the AstraZeneca-Oxford AP — EL ARISH, EGYPT vaccines up until April and COVAX is co-led by the receiving through COVAX. Earlier this month, COVAX vaccine may not be as effective hopes to inoculate at least a fifth GAVI alliance which secures “We are not getting any spe- said it had allocated at least 330 in significantly reducing the Islamic State group militants of its 110 million people by the vaccines for poor countries, the cific vaccine we are getting million doses of COVID-19 vac- risk of mild or moderate yesterday killed at least six end of the year, the health World Health Organization, the them based on the availability cines for poorer countries and COVID-19 from the 501Y.V2 Bedouins in an ambush for minister said yesterday. Coalition for Epidemic Prepar- of the COVAX facility,” she told will aim to deliver these and variant. their alleged collaboration “For now up to April we edness Innovations and the U.N. Reuters. many millions more in the first “There is a concern that the with the Egyptian military in have been allocated close to Children’s Fund. The health ministry said on half of 2021. AstraZeneca may not work. It the country’s restive part of nine million doses,” Lia Tadesse African countries are trying Tuesday the country will need This includes 240 million is not declared that it doesn’t Sinai Peninsula, security offi- said. to obtain COVID-19 vaccine 13 billion ($328m) doses of the AstraZeneca- work,” she said. cials said. “Within this year we want supplies for their 1.3 billion for vaccines and related Oxford COVID-19 vaccine “The information we have The ambush took place in to make sure we get at least people even as rich nations expenses, the state-run Ethi- made by the Serum Institute of is that it’s under investigation the mountainous Maghara 20% of the population,” she told elsewhere in the world race opian News Agency said, which India, an additional 96 million by the relevant authorities area in central Sinai when mil- Reuters. ahead with mass immunisation will be covered by the gov- doses of the same shot made within the COVAX facility, the itants from a local IS affiliate Ethiopia was open to pos- campaigns. ernment and international by AstraZeneca, plus 1.2 million research institutions and WHO, established a fake checkpoint sible donations of vaccines, Lia Only a handful of nations on donations. More than 142,000 doses of Pfizer -BioNTech’S so we will wait for that.” and opened fire on two vehicles carrying Bedouins, the officials said. They said a seventh Bedouin was missing UN to deploy 25 more following the attack. Bedouins are from the nomadic Arab Trabin tribe. staff to The two security officials spoke on conditions of ano- AP — UNITED NATIONS workers have reported having nymity because they were not to negotiate access with a authorized to brief the media. UN agencies have received range of armed actors, even Egypt has been battling approval from Ethiopia’s from neighbouring Eritrea, and militants in the northern part government to send 25 more starvation has become a major of Sinai Peninsula for years. staff members to embattled concern. The pace of IS attacks in Tigray, a region where the As fighting enters its fourth Sinai’s main theatre and else- United Nations says hunger is month, international pressure where has slowed to a trickle growing and much of the area has increased on Ethiopia, since February 2018, when the has been inaccessible to Africa’s second most populous military launched a massive humanitarian workers. country and the anchor of the operation in Sinai that also UN spokesman Stephane Horn of Africa, to allow aid encompassed parts of the Nile Dujarric called the clearance “a workers, journalists and human Delta and deserts along the first step towards ensuring that rights experts into Tigray. Cur- country’s western border with aid workers in Tigray can rently, communications are Libya. deliver and ramp up the patchy and little is known about The seven tribesmen were response given the rapidly the situation for most of its 6 allegedly collaborating with rising needs in the region.” million people. security forces in the region A U.N. humanitarian report Dujarric pointed to recent under the so-called Sinai Workers from the International Committee of the Red Cross and volunteers from the Ethiopian Red released on Thursday said life “positive engagements” Tribes Union, which helps Cross distribute relief supplies to civilians in Tigray region, Ethiopia, on January 27, 2021. for civilians in Tigray has between the government and provide intelligence to the mil- become “extremely alarming” senior UN officials, including itary and police forces. since fighting began in early World Food Program Executive looking forward to receiving across the region.” It said that coming weeks. Health care in The Bedouins, with their November pitting Ethiopian and Director David Beasley, who approval” for 60 staff members “only 1 percent of the nearly the region is also “alarmingly local knowledge, accompany allied forces against those of the just wrapped up a trip to from the UN and aid agencies 920 nutrition treatment facil- limited,” the report said. forces on patrols and raids Tigray region, which dominated Ethiopia. who are in Ethiopia’s capital, ities in Tigray are reachable.” In a separate statement, the searching for weapons cashes. the country’s government for Beasley reported that WFP Addis Ababa, ready to go to “Many households are UN special adviser on the pre- They also man checkpoints to almost three decades before has accepted the government’s Tigray, as well as rapid approval expected to have already vention of genocide, Alice control roads. Scores of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed request “to help authorities and of future requests. depleted their food stocks, or Wairimu Nderitu, said she has Bedouins have been killed in took office in 2018. Each side aid partners transport aid into According to last week’s are expected to deplete their received reports of serious the past couple of years. now views the other as and within Tigray” and also report from the Famine Early food stocks in the next two human rights violations in Also on Monday, the mili- illegitimate. agreed “to provide emergency Warning Systems Network, months,” the report said. It Tigray, including “extrajudicial tants shot dead a conscript on The government has said food aid for up to one million which is funded and managed warned that more parts of killings, sexual violence, looting duty in Gifgafa village in well over 1 million people in people in Tigray,” Dujarric said. by the United States, “aid central and eastern Tigray likely of property, mass executions central Sinai, the officials said. Tigray have been reached with The UN spokesman said workers on the ground indicate will enter Emergency Phase 4, and impeded humanitarian assistance but some aid humanitarian workers “are a rising in acute malnutrition a step below famine, in the access.” Attackers kill 10 Morocco factory flooding in raid on eastern Nigerian businesses step in to buy Congo village death toll rises to 28 vaccines while government dithers REUTERS — BENI, DRC AP — RABAT, MOROCCO “There was nothing to BLOOMBERG Last year, Africa’s largest worry about. We were working Attackers killed around 10 The Coalition Against economy plunged into Heavy rains flooded an illegal as usual,” the woman said. people in an overnight raid on Some of Nigeria’s biggest COVID-19 aims to purchase recession after the pandemic garment factory in the “And then because it was a village in eastern Democratic companies plan to raise as the 42 million doses hit, causing the second con- northern Moroccan city of raining, as you can see... the Republic of Congo, local much as $100m to purchase allocated to Nigeria by the traction in four years. A slow Tangier, killing at least 28 water started entering, a little authorities and the army said coronavirus vaccines as the roll out of vaccination cam- workers on Monday, state tele- water, even my shoes didn’t yesterday, blaming fighters government of Africa’s most African Union’s vaccine paigns could derail an economy vision quoted a medical official get wet. But suddenly...” She from a Ugandan armed group. populous nation is facing procurement programme. forecast to expand by 1.5% this as saying. couldn’t finish her sentence. The Allied Democratic increasing criticism for not year, the International Mon- That raised the death toll To meet growing interna- Forces (ADF), a Ugandan having secured deals with etary Fund has warned. from 24, reported earlier by tional demand, numerous fac- armed group active in eastern drugmakers. doses from manufacturers for Some of Nigeria’s most the Moroccan news agency tories in Morocco, notably in Congo since the 1990s, has The Coalition Against its member states, with Afrex- prominent businesspeople have MAP. Casablanca and Tangier, rely committed a succession of COVID-19, led by top executives imbank providing advance pro- joined the Coalition Against Local authorities said fire- on unregulated shadow fac- brutal reprisal attacks against including Aliko Dangote, curement commitment guar- COVID-19, which last year fighters and emergency tories to speed up production civilians since the army began Africa’s richest man, and antees of as much as $2bn to raised about 30 billion naira workers rescued 10 people and meet deadlines. an operation against it in late Herbert Wigwe, chief executive manufacturers including Pfizer ($75m) to add beds to health from the factory, in the Factories subcontract to 2019. The group killed around officer of Access Bank Plc, aims Inc., Johnson & Johnson and facilities across the country and basement of a residential villa. such illegal units to better 850 people last year, according to purchase the 42 million doses AstraZeneca Plc. distribute food to poor people. Rescuers searched for others compete with cheaper Chinese to UN figures. allocated to Nigeria by the Even though the gov- Central bank Governor who might have been trapped and Turkish products. “So far a provisional African Union’s vaccine pro- ernment has pledged to vac- Godwin Emefiele, billionaire in the sudden flooding. Such hidden factories are assessment is of about ten curement programme, cinate 40% of the population entrepreneur Femi Otedola and The total number of mainly located in residential people killed. It is attributed according to a statement yes- this year and reach 70% in Zenith Bank Chairman Jim Ovia labourers at the site wasn’t areas and up to 40 people to the Islamist ADF fighters,” terday. It will start with a first 2022, it’s so far procured only are among those who support immediately known. An inves- often work in them, sometimes said Rosette Kavula, deputy tranche of 1 million doses worth 16 million doses of Astra- the group. Nigeria’s second- tigation was opened. minors. administrator of Beni territory. $3.45m, which should be ready Zeneca’s shot under the Covax largest cement maker, BUA A shaken unidentified Long hours and low wages An army spokesman con- for shipment within two weeks facility. A state governor and Group, said in a statement on woman who emerged from the are a mark of such illegal firmed the attack and said once a deposit is paid, the group several experts have said Monday that it has paid for 1 flooded basement told Tan- work, usually in unsafe con- troops had been deployed to said in the statement. Nigeria lacks sufficient million vaccines and is com- jaNews, a local site, that no one ditions, without fire extin- the area at the foot of the The African Union has resources and adequate infra- mitted to buying 5 million addi- was prepared for the deadly guishers, emergency exits and Rwenzori mountains on the secured about 670 million structure to reach those targets. tional doses. deluge. indoor plumbing. border with Uganda. 08 VIEWS WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 Sustainability of charitable Established in 1996

CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI activities during pandemic EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI ike other activities, [email protected] charitable and volunteer work has fallen within the ACTING MANAGING EDITOR crossfireL of the health MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED pandemic known as [email protected] COVID-19 and recent muta- tions of the virus. Just as voluntary and charitable DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR institutions affect commu- MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI nities and individuals [email protected] wherever they are, they are undoubtedly affected by the crisis around them. But it is noticeable that volunteering EDITORIAL activities face the current crisis with courage, perse- verance and with a force that rejects failure to perform its Hand-in-hand for global progress roles as it carries a great message of giving to all QATAR’S contribution to the integrated and sustainable humanity. development of the under-developed countries is being This is how it has high written in golden letters in the history of the world’s flexibility in re-centralizing its progress. Qatar has always been keen on taking along activities schedule in the An early morning view of West Bay area skyline. PIC: THE PENINSULA other less privileged states in its march towards a holistic presence of human energies, development whether in the field of education, youth armed with human values, direct communication. Work association. employment, healthcare or infrastructure. and availability of modern continues in its usual Such a charitable Yesterday, Qatar has assured the world that the technology in providing dynamism despite the reper- movement carries other con- Doha Plan of Action (DPoA) will be a starting point for various programs to reach the cussions and developments of notations represented in transforming the lives of millions of people living in the farthest point in society. the pandemic. strengthening the relationship most vulnerable countries and putting the least Perhaps the current health To demonstrate the conti- between the private institu- developed countries on the path towards sustainable crisis has shown the way for nuity of the community work tions and associations and and comprehensive development. Qatar will host the boards of directors working in approach, the charitable between the local community Fifth UN Conference on the Least Developed Countries voluntary societies to push presence is prominent in the with all of its members and (LDCs) from January 23 to 27, 2022, at the Qatar towards finding more second annual exhibition of families. It directly con- National Convention Center. Qatar’s Permanent Rep- effective work strategies to private institutions and associa- tributes to the generalization resentative to the United Nations Ambassador H E continue giving. This is exem- tions supervised by the Ministry of aspects of interconnect- Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, while addressing plified by many of the trends of Administrative Development, edness and interdependence the Organisational Session of the Preparatory Com- that have strengthened their Labor and Social Affairs, which of knowledge among all rel- mittee for the Fifth UN Conference on the Least programs such as raising the SHEIKH FAISAL BIN FAHAD AL THANI is set to be held on the twenty- evant bodies. Developed Countries at the UN, said that Qatar’s professional capability of Chairman of the Society of Petroleum fifth of February. Hence, it is necessary to decision to host the conference is in line with its belief their members and enhancing Engineers (SPE) The exhibition is of educa- point out the notable support that achieving the ambitious aspirations of the 2030 their element of profession- tional character having other provided by the Department Sustainable Development Plan will not be possible alism, especially with regard extensive activities and pro- of Associations and Private without paying special attention to the least developed to the use of social media and and programs to support grams over a period of three Institutions at the Ministry of countries. She said that preparations for the Conference provision of digital and video communication effectively days. The associations will Administrative Development, are proceeding in an efficient manner despite the chal- technology services to send contributed to the sustaina- provide educational lectures Labor and Social Affairs. Such lenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. educational materials of bility of volunteer activities to the public on the latest support constitutes an The Conference is expected to adopt a 10-year pro- interest to the largest number and the maintenance of work applied techniques, modern important factor to maintain gramme of action for the LDCs to succeed the Istanbul of audiences. continuity without any inter- theories and practical the sustainability of charitable Programme of Action (IPoA) which concluded in 2020. From this standpoint, we ruption and that too with full methods that will promote and volunteering activities of In the last 10 years, the IPoA aimed at achieving sus- say that positive-oriented commitment to all health pro- charitable and volunteering private associations, and thus tained, equitable and inclusive growth by strengthening training for the energies of the tocols being followed in light work according to the orien- is in the interest of the greater the LDCs’ productive capacity, building their human volunteers and the harnessing of the ongoing crisis in the tation and specialization of community, which is the dear capacities, reducing the vulnerability to environmental of “online” networks event of each participating homeland. shocks and disasters, ensuring financial resources and enhancing good governance at all levels. There is no doubt that the Fifth Conference will be a success in charting new plans and actions for the all- In a harsher trade world, EU arms itself for future conflicts round development of LDCs as it is being hosted by Qatar, a country which already has proven its willingness PHILIP BLENKINSOP green and digital recovery, Body. commitments on labour rights to help the less developed states even during the pan- REUTERS while also stressing greater The EU has agreed an in a trade agreement that demic. The country has extended aid to over 70 coun- resilience to a future pan- interim appeals system with entered force a decade ago. tries to alleviate the pressure of the pandemic. Qatar Hardened by the pain of demic and fair play - the so- trading partners, including It appears the shape of Airways has never stopped flying despite world’s air Brexit, clashes with the called “level playing field” China, but not the United things to come, with another travel coming to a standstill in the past one year, taking Trump presidency and a new demand that became such a States. Conceived in the face panel ruling related to wood essential health care materials and medicine to different realism over China, a bruised bone of contention in its post- of Trump’s trade tactics, the exports from Ukraine done parts of the world and reuniting hundreds of people is due next Brexit talks with Britain. “We system could spell conflict and another due on poultry stranded in the farthest corners of the globe with their week to set out a future trade are reinforcing our toolkit to with the new U.S. adminis- exports to southern Africa. families during the pandemic. Qatar’s efforts in pro- policy designed to help it deal be able to react in case third tration of Joe Biden. The EU’s agreements with viding education, jobs and other essential living condi- with partners it does not trust. countries are not playing by The international pro- Britain on trade and China on tions for people in vulnerable areas has drawn wide Enforcement of global the rules so we are better curement instrument, likely investment, both struck at the applause from around the world. rules and ensuring equal equipped to protect our- to be agreed this year, is a end of December, are models market access will be corner- selves,” Trade Commissioner further piece in the EU’s of how to reach accords with stones of a new strategy to be Valdis Dombrovskis told a armoury. It could penalise partners one does not really unveiled by the European seminar last week. trading partners that do not trust, both filled with sections Commission that is strikingly Dombrovskis did not open government tenders as on how to resolve disputes. D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR harder in tone than the “Trade name the third countries and much as the European Union The European Union wants to promote its values, EMAIL: [email protected] for All” mantra of the last nor will the review, but few does. revamp in 2015. doubt China and the United It is designed to push insisting for example all free As coordinator for the 27 States are the focus. The China towards reciprocity but trade partners sign up to the EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 EU countries, the Commission enforcement push was could also bring a challenge to Paris climate change accord. FAX: +974 4455 7758 wants trade to support a already gathering pace in Biden’s new “Buy American” Whether the enforcement 2019 when the EU first order. has teeth remains to be seen. MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 Enforcement of global declared China a “systemic The legislation was first Critics say that, while market rival” and when the Trump put forward in 2012 but was access disputes can lead to DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 rules and ensuring administration paralysed the blocked by EU countries. sanctions, enforcement of equal market access World Trade Organization’s However, Germany and environmental or labour LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 Appellate Body, removing the others have now changed standards, such as in both the will be cornerstones ultimate arbiter of global their views. Korea and China deals, is in BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 of a new strategy trade. “Trump’s unilateral Tougher on partners too the form of a panel finding action is what caused the EU With a new chief that is more of a shaming SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 to be unveiled to respond by beefing up its enforcement officer, the exercise. by the European capacity to act, not outside European Union will also The EU’s new arsenal may ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 Commission that is the WTO, but in a more rapid raise disputes with its free also never be used, particu- email: [email protected] and vigorous manner,” said trade partners to ensure deals larly against potential new strikingly harder in Andre Sapir, senior fellow at are met in full, not only over U.S. allies, and serve more to PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 tone than the “Trade Brussels-based think tank market access, but also cov- increase leverage in trade- email: [email protected] Bruegel. ering “sustainable” issues, related discussions. for All” mantra of the The EU’s enforcement such as labour rights and “The EU has preferred the ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 last revamp in 2015. regulation is a result. Set to environmental policy. diplomatic route,” said Guil- FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] enter force in weeks, it will The bloc kicked off 2021 laume Van der Loo, research allow the bloc to retaliate if a with an arbitration panel fellow at think tanks EPC and CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 third country blocks dispute ruling in its favour on a Egmont Institute. “Will it now email: [email protected] settlement, such as by dispute with South Korea, use its bazookas? I think only appealing a WTO panel ruling which the European Union as a last resort. It will pursue SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 to its non-existent Appellate said had not fulfilled other avenues first.” FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar I will not hide: In the next two months, restrictions may be imposed and lifted /Peninsula_Qatar depending on the level of alarm. But this is also /ThePeninsulaNewspaper the last mile towards freedom. Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Prime Minister of Greece +974 6698 6188 WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 OPINION 09 Mexican envoy hails Qatar's sport diplomacy

QNA was exceptional, but taking Qatari authorities in picture of what Qatar looks Mexican Ambassador into account that the pre- general have done excep- like, especially in terms of to the State of Qatar, vious version was set up in tional work since the sports and what it is doing The Mexican Ambassador to normal conditions compared beginning of the pan- for the 2022 World Cup, and H E Graciela Gomez the State of Qatar, H E to the current version, which demic, in terms of is also working to make the Garcia, said the Graciela Gomez Garcia, witnessed a great challenge adopting precautionary Qataris know everything hailed the success of the State at all levels in light of the measures to contain the about Mexico. organisational skills of Qatar in organizing the current circumstances the spread of the virus and Her Excellency the of the State of Qatar 2020 FIFA Club World Cup in world is going through. developing those precau- Mexican Ambassador appeared clearly in an exemplary manner in all She added that the organ- tionary systems that allow expressed her expectations aspects and in light of the izational skills of the State of them to track infections, that her country’s team the current version of coronavirus pandemic, Qatar appeared clearly in the and whether the opening would win the World Cup the FIFA Club World praising sports diplomacy in current version of the FIFA or partial closure of some Qatar 2022, and that visitors Qatar, which she described Club World Cup in light of the places will help to pre- in this tournament would Cup in light of the as a long-term vision and an challenges facing the organi- serve the safety of society. have a wonderful expe- challenges facing the ideal way to unite ranks and zation of the tournament, but She noted the strategy rience during which they bring people together. at the same time she stressed followed by the State of would gain different experi- organization of the In an interview with the the need to take advantage of GRACIELA GOMEZ GARCIA, Qatar in providing ences and get acquainted tournament, but at Qatar News Agency (QNA), this opportunity and learn Ambassador of Mexico to Qatar support for partnerships with a new culture and a the Ambassador of the new experiences and lessons and various sectors, as classy society that is the same time she United States of Mexico, said to avoid such matters in the World Cup, including teams, well as conducting friendly and welcoming. She stressed the need to that she enjoyed the con- future. officials, organizers and fans. extensive COVID-19 tests, stressed that the tour- take advantage of this temporary organization of Her Excellency explained She pointed out that all which are all positive things. nament itself will be highly two wonderful versions of that the State of Qatar has World Cup participants The Mexican Ambassador organized in light of the opportunity and learn the Club World Cup in Qatar placed health as a top priority entered a medical bubble expressed her overwhelming capabilities of the State of new experiences and in light of the participation during the organization of that does not allow them to happiness at the happy sur- Qatar and the environmen- of the Mexican C.F. the FIFA Club World Cup, and communicate with the prise achieved by the Tigres tally-friendly global infra- lessons to avoid such Monterrey and Tigres, con- has taken every possible step outside community in order team by qualifying for the structure and stadiums. matters in the future. sidering that the organi- to preserve the safety of all to maintain their safety. World Cup final after Her Excellency referred zation in the two versions participants in the FIFA Club She stressed that the defeating Palmeiras (1-0) in to the work and cooperation the semi-finals, pointing out between the Mexican that they had done an Embassy and the Supreme unusual job and greatly Committee for Delivery and improved its performance Legacy and her aspiration to and level, as they appeared continue this cooperation in in a wonderful way that the future, and for Mexico to pleased their fans and all be a partner in the success of Mexicans. organizing the World Cup, as She expressed her regret well as for Qatar to provide that Tigres fans were not able support to Mexico, Canada to come to Doha and cele- and America when hosting brate with their team, due to the World Cup in 2026. the health precautionary She praised the Qatari measures and the current society, which she described crisis that the world is going as vibrant, diverse and mul- through, as it happened in ticultural, as many national- the last version with the ities work together, stressing presence of about 1,500 fans that the State of Qatar has of the Monterrey fans to been able to create a balance support their team, noting among society as it pre- that the Mexican community served its traditions and her- in Qatar supported Team itage while witnessing Tigres and raised the banner developments on a global of their country and not to a level everywhere in terms of specific team. universities, technology, H E praised sports infrastructure, and other diplomacy in Qatar and its things. role in bringing people The Mexican Ambassador together through sport, as to Qatar, Graciela Gomez she saw that Qatar and Garcia, concluded her Mexico share many things, interview with QNA by con- but they do not know each firming the strength of the other well. She explained bilateral relations between that since her arrival to Mexico and Qatar, which The Embassy of the State of Qatar in the United Mexican States organised events on the occasion of the National Sport Day, attended Qatar in 2019, she has been extends for 45 years and by Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Mexico, H E Mohammed bin Jassim Al Kuwari, President of the Qatar-Mexico Parliamentary working to provide a clearer includes political and com- Friendship Group Deputy, Sergio Perez, diplomats and the embassy staff. idea and a more accurate mercial matters. What’s next for Myanmar after the military coup?

go from here? new legislators were to name insurance policy. implicit agreement embedded democratically-minded The immediate catalyst for presidential and vice-presi- During her first term in in the 2008 Constitution – leaders, it can still be a critical the February 1 coup appears dential candidates. The gov- power, amending the consti- that the military is the para- player in Myanmar’s quest for to be last November’s general ernment ignored the demand. tution to reduce the military’s mount power in Myanmar democracy in the coming election. With backdoor negotiations influence over the civilian and its authority cannot be years. All this, of course, The National League for failing to deliver a deal government was Aung San challenged. With last week’s depends on how the military Democracy (NLD) led by Aung acceptable to both sides, the Suu Kyi’s top priority. While coup, the military did not will choose to structure the YUN SUN San Suu Kyi won 83 percent military staged a coup in the the military successfully announce its desire to rule political arena if and when it of the vote and expanded its early hours of February 1 and thwarted every attempt she directly, but merely showed decides to hold elections and majority in the parliament declared a yearlong state of made to achieve this goal in the limits of its tolerance. transfer power to a civilian despite earlier speculation emergency. the last five years, when she This, however, does not government. Since the early hours of that it would lose seats to The dispute was long time expanded her support base in mean the military is not going While the fate of Myan- February 1, the world has other democratic and ethnic coming the 2020 election, they to make any changes to the mar’s most popular political been watching the political political parties. The fact that While the disputed became increasingly con- existing system. It will likely party and its world-famous developments in Myanmar in the NLD won the election with election was the immediate cerned that she may try again, launch an effort to amend the leader is indeed uncertain, shock. From removing the an even bigger margin than catalyst for the coup, the and perhaps succeed, in the constitution to remove and there are more pressing con- civilian government to filing five years ago attested to events of February 1 were coming years. adjust clauses that it believes cerns in Myanmar today. criminal charges against State ’s abiding actually a direct result of the The allegations of election are a threat to its authority. The coup is not yet over, Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi popularity in the eyes of the decades-old power struggle fraud were a test to assess For example, currently and we do not yet know how and President Win Myint, the public. Even though the state between Myanmar’s military Aung San Suu Kyi’s will- there is a first-past-the-post the people of Myanmar are Myanmar military took a counsellor and her gov- and civilian leaders. ingness to accommodate the electoral system in Myanmar. going to respond to the mili- series of steps that have ernment were not able to Myanmar had been ruled military’s demands and griev- This system allowed the NLD tary’s power grab. The mil- ostensibly stalled if not achieve much in terms of by a military government ances. Her adamant refusal to to secure an overwhelming itary has already shut down reversed the country’s their three stated goals – between 1962 and 2011. compromise was seen by the majority in the parliament. social media in response to democratisation process. peace, economic devel- During this period, the mil- military leadership as a tes- Had the electoral system been rising public disobedience. If But did Myanmar really opment and political reform – itary failed the country mis- tament of her growing based on proportional repre- people choose to take to the miss its shot at becoming a during their first term in erably in terms of economic defiance, which they feared sentation, other political streets in large numbers and true democracy? What led the power, the election result development and governance. could pave the way for the parties, including those sup- the military tries to suppress military to behave this way demonstrated that an over- In 2003, seemingly giving rise of a truly independent ported by the military, would the protests with violence, the and, perhaps most impor- whelming majority of the in to growing domestic and civilian government. have received more seats and situation can quickly tantly, where does the country public is still confident in international demands for The military’s end game reduce NLD’s dominance. deteriorate. Aung San Suu Kyi’s ability to democracy to be restored in After last week’s coup, a An electoral system based But there is still hope. The country’s current carry the country towards a the country, the military gov- key question is whether the on proportional represen- Myanmar’s path towards constitution, which better future. ernment announced its “Seven military wishes to rule the tation makes it very unlikely democracy has never been The military, alarmed by Step Roadmap to Democracy”. country directly for the fore- for a single party to dominate straight. The country’s history came into effect in the growing public support The aim of the road map was seeable future or transfer the parliament and can even is marked with periods of 2008, was drafted as behind the NLD, declared the to gradually introduce a new power to a nominally civilian create the need for a coalition slow progress, periods of swift election fraudulent. It filed governance system to government that it can guide government. After seeing the regress, unrelenting hope, and part of this long-term dozens of complaints with the Myanmar that gave more and control. consequences of one party many disappointments. Last democratisation plan. Union Election Commission power to the people while also Early signals point to the dominating the parliament, week’s coup undoubtedly (UEC) and claimed that it protecting the powers and latter. The military has the Myanmar military will erased most of the progress It was specifically uncovered more than eight privileges of the military. announced that it intends to most likely seek to change the that was made in the last 10 designed to pave the million cases of voter fraud. The country’s current con- hold a new election within a rules to prevent ending up in a years. But the fight is far from way for “a flourishing Arguing that these irregular- stitution, which came into year and hand over power to similarly precarious situation over. Whatever happens in ities undermined the integrity effect in 2008, was drafted as the winning political party. in the future. the coming weeks and and disciplined of the election and the legit- part of this long-term democ- Indeed, after trying and failing Is Myanmar’s quest for months, people of Myanmar democracy”, meaning imacy of its results, it called ratisation plan. It was specifi- to rule the country efficiently democracy over? will eventually get back on for a rerun. The UEC rejected cally designed to pave the for 50 years, the military Aged 75 and facing mul- their feet like they did many a democracy guided the military’s allegations, way for “a flourishing and dis- seems more interested in pro- tiple serious charges, Aung times before and continue by the military saying there were no errors ciplined democracy”, tecting its special status and San Suu Kyi may not be able their quest to build a political big enough to affect the credi- meaning a democracy guided privileges guaranteed by the to return to politics after the system that allows them to be leadership. bility of the vote. by the military leadership. It constitution than dealing with coup. This, however, does not in charge of their destiny. In response, the military not only allocated 25 percent the day-to-day problems of mean the NLD will also depart Yun Sun is a Senior Fellow pressured the government to of all seats in the parliament governance once again. from the political arena. The and Co-Director of the East delay the first session of the to the military, but also gave it What the military needs party has overwhelming Asia Program and Director of new parliament scheduled for the power to veto any consti- and wants is a civilian gov- public support and with a new the China Program at the February 1, during which the tutional amendment as an ernment that accepts the generation of young, Stimson Center 10 ASIA WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 Myanmar police fire rubber bullets, tear gas at protesters

BLOOMBERG — YANGON Ola Almgren, the UN’s resident and humanitarian coordinator Myanmar’s police fired rubber At least 20 protesters in the Southeast Asian nation bullets, tear gas and water were injured occurred saying: “The use of dispropor- cannons to quell demonstra- after police used rubber tionate force against demon- tions throughout the country bullets in the capital strators is unacceptable.” As the yesterday, leaving two people Naypyidaw during the protests began dissipating yes- in critical condition after anti- terday evening, Military chief coup protesters defied a ban on most serious clashes, Min Aung Hlaing warned civil public gatherings. according to a network servants not to engage in At least 20 protesters were of medics supporting politics. People rally against the military coup and to demand the release of elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi, injured occurred after police “They can vote freely for the protests. in Yangon, Myanmar, yesterday. used rubber bullets in the their favourite parties, but they capital Naypyidaw during the cannot participate in politics most serious clashes, according while on duty,” he was quoted “crimes against humanity” with showed Myanmar’s younger throughout the day yesterday. to a network of medics sup- demonstrators swarm streets as saying in a Facebook post by “genocidal intent.” generation an alternative to the Video footage from local news porting the protests. In the across the Southeast Asian Tatmadaw Information Team. On Monday, Min Aung generals who have run the outlets showed protesters hurling northern city of Mandalay, wit- nation since the weekend. He also said Myanmar Hlaing defended the military country for most of its history debris at fleeing police vehicles nesses said security forces They’ve used social media to would work within the existing takeover of the government by since it achieved independence in Mandalay as authorities used blasted tear gas and water quickly mobilise supporters with agreements for the repatriation repeating claims of voter fraud from Britain in 1948. Interna- tear gas in an effort to disburse cannons and detained 36 three main demands: the release of “displaced people” in Bang- in November’s election that have tional pressure continued to the crowd. people, while police threatened of civilian leaders including ladesh — referring to the coun- been disputed by the election grow, with the US reiterating its Protesters have vowed to to disperse large crowds that Aung San Suu Kyi, recognition try’s Muslim Rohingya minority. commission, international plan to renew sanctions and continue demonstrations until gathered in the commercial of the 2020 election results won Some 740,000 Rohingya have observers and Suu Kyi’s party. New Zealand suspending high- their demands have been met. capital of Yangon. by her party and a withdrawal fled Myanmar for neighbouring He also reiterated that the army level political and military Myanmar’s military has a history The at-times chaotic scenes of the military from politics. Bangladesh since 2017, in a would hold an election after the contact with Myanmar. of deadly crackdowns against showed the military regime The United Nations in mass exodus provoked, as yearlong state of emergency and Myanmar on Monday dissent. A United Nations report losing patience with a youth-led Myanmar expressed strong United Nations investigators respect the outcome. imposed a curfew and banned found 31 people were killed in protest movement that has seen concern over the actions of noted, by security forces prac- The coup reversed a decade gatherings of more than five 2007, while hundreds or possibly tens of thousands of police and security forces, with ticing “ethnic cleansing” and of democratic progress that people, leading to tense standoffs thousands were killed in 1988. Prosecutors in India orders 10 million more AstraZeneca vaccine doses Thailand file REUTERS — NEW DELHI South African variant and will from AstraZeneca and Oxford using the COVAXIN shot could manufacture its shot in charges against continue to use the vaccine in an University and markets it as COV- developed at home by Bharat India. He also said many more India said yesterday it had no inoculation drive that has covered ISHIELD for low-and middle- Biotech with the state-run Indian vaccines, including Russia’s four activists concerns over the efficacy of the 6.3 million front-line workers income countries. Council of Medical Research. Sputnik V, Cadila Healthcare’s AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine since January 16. India has ordered 10 million Bharat Biotech has supplied 5.5 ZyCov-D and a Novavax product, AP — BANGKOK despite South Africa putting it on “Our vaccination programme more doses of COVISHIELD on million doses to the government were in the queue. hold, and ordered 10 million more is robust and valid, and I assure top of 11 million supplied earlier, and is selling 4.5 million more, a “India is fortunate to have two Prosecutors in Thailand doses of the shot for its own huge you that we are going ahead with an SII spokesman said yesterday. company spokeswoman said. great made-in-India vaccines, and yesterday charged four prom- immunisation campaign. it, not worried at the moment,” SII has agreed to sell at least 100 The government wants to as many as six-seven vaccines in inent pro-democracy activists South Africa delayed use of Vinod Kumar Paul, a top Indian million doses to the government cover 300 million people by the pipeline and perhaps many with sedition and defaming the the vaccine after researchers vaccine official, told a news at a discounted price of 200 August, reaching the elderly and more,” he said, days after Pfizer monarchy for their protest found it offered minimal pro- conference. rupees ($2.74) each, though the those with existing conditions by Inc pulled an application seeking activities. tection against mild-to-moderate “We will intensify our surveil- government says firm orders will March. emergency-use authorisation in The case is the first of COVID-19 disease caused by the lance and we will be watching be staggered based on its needs, India has reported 10.85 the country. numerous ones lodged against country’s dominant coronavirus other developments in due and also on vaccine shelf-life. million infections and more than The US company had declined participants in the student-led variant. course.” COVISHIELD is about 72% 155,000 deaths — though cases to immediately do a small local protest movement that is being India, with the highest The Serum Institute of India effective, based on late-stage trials have fallen sharply since safety study for its shot and prosecuted by the attorney gen- number of infections after the (SII), the world’s biggest vaccine done abroad, India’s drug regu- September. produce it in India, unlike the eral’s office. It also is the first in United States, has yet to detect the maker, has licenced the vaccine lator says. The country is also Paul said Johnson & Johnson other vaccine developers. which the defendants are expected to spend significant time in jail, as suspects in other cases have usually been South Korea PM pleads released after arrest. The four — Parit “Penguin” for COVID-19 compliance Chiwarak, Arnon Nampa, Somyos Prueksakasemsuk and REUTERS — SEOUL travel across the country to Patiwat Saraiyaem, also known family gatherings. as “Mor Lam Bank” — were South Korean Prime Minister The Korea Disease Control denied bail. Chung Sye-kyun yesterday and Prevention Agency (KDCA) The protest movement called on restaurant and other reported 303 daily new corona- campaigned last year for Prime business owners in the greater virus cases as of Monday, Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha Seoul area to cooperate with bringing total infections to and his government to step social distancing rules to head 81,487, with a death toll of 1,482. down, the constitution to be off a spread of COVID-19 The KDCA held a COVID-19 amended to make it more dem- during the Lunar New Year vaccination dry run at the ocratic and the monarchy to be holiday. National Medical Center in Seoul reformed to make it more The country has been trying yesterday, as the country gears accountable. clamp down the number of up to kick off inoculation later The demand about the infections by imposing strident this month. monarchy is the most radical social distancing measures, The mock drill comes after and controversial, because the including a ban on indoor res- last week’s three-day vacci- institution has been widely con- taurant dining after 9pm, though nation preparedness drill at an sidered an untouchable, it eased that curfew on more airport, which mobilised special bedrock element of Thai nation- than half a million restaurants freezers and ran through sce- alism. It has been considered and other businesses outside the narios such as a terror attack, Members of National Disaster Response Force conduct a rescue operation outside a tunnel after a taboo to publicly criticize the capital Seoul after a backlash. theft and transport faults. part of a glacier broke away, in Tapovan, in the northern state of Uttarakhand, yesterday. monarch, and insulting or Business owners and self- Yesterday’s training focused defaming key royals is pun- employed people in Seoul, on indoor handling of the Pfizer/ ishable by up to 15 years in Gyeonggi Province and port city BioNTech vaccines: unpacking, prison per incident under a lese India glacier disaster: 165 of Incheon, home to over 25 thawing, and mixing with majeste law known as Article million, have strongly criticised diluents before administration, 112. the government for unfair the KDCA said in a statement. The activists focused late treatment, prompting some busi- The practice session involved last year on the monarchy issue missing, search continues nesses to open their stores in screening and processing with speeches and activities that protest. unscheduled arrivals of recip- drew an increasing tough AP — JOSHIMATH — possibly an avalanche or a Rajeev Semwal heard a “I understand the frustration, ients, as well as practising trans- response from Prayuth’s gov- release of accumulated water. sound similar to rumbling clouds but we have made the decision porting a recipient who ernment. After earlier pursuing Hundreds of rescue workers Experts say climate change may and then watched the usually after comprehensive consider- developed an allergic reaction other charges, it began bringing were scouring muck-filled be to blame since warming tem- blue waters of the Alaknanda ation of social acceptance and to a local hospital. The KDCA said complaints of lese majeste ravines and valleys in northern peratures are shrinking glaciers turn muddy. different opinions,” Chung told it would conduct similar exer- against them. The charge had India yesterday looking for and making them unstable “I understood disaster had an government meeting. cises with other brands of vac- not been used for about three survivors after part of a Hima- worldwide. indeed struck,” said Semwal, a The Lunar New Year holiday cines it has secured, including years at the request of King layan glacier broke off, The floodwater, mud and resident of Tapovan village in starts on February 11, and tens of Moderna, AstraZeneca and Maha Vajiarlongkorn. unleashing a devastating flood boulders roared down the Uttarakhand state where the millions of Koreans usually Johnson & Johnson. The legal aid group Thai that has left at least 31 people mountain along the Alaknanda power plant is located. Lawyers for Human Rights says dead and 165 missing. and Dhauliganga rivers, breaking Semwal’s brother-in-law at least 55 people have faced One of the rescue efforts is dams, sweeping away bridges and younger brother both lese majeste charges since last focused on a tunnel at a hydro- and forcing the evacuation of worked at the power plant. His November. Prayuth Petchkhun, electric power plant where more many villages while turning the younger brother was inside the a spokesman for the attorney than three dozen workers have countryside into what looked like tunnel that was flooded and has general’s office, said that in been out of contact since the an ash-colored moonscape. not been heard from since. addition to lese majeste, the four flood occurred on Sunday. Res- The flood swept away a small Most of the missing were have been accused of sedition cuers used machine excavators hydroelectric project and people working on the two and violating the Act on Ancient and shovels to clear sludge from damaged a bigger one down- projects, part of many plants the Monuments, in connection with the tunnel overnight in an stream on the Dhauliganga. government has been building a rally held in a public field near attempt to reach the workers as Flowing out of the Himalayan on several rivers and their trib- the Grand Palace. hopes for their survival faded. mountains, the two rivers meet utaries in the mountains of Utta- On Monday, UN human The disaster was set off when before merging with the Ganges rakhand state. rights experts issued a statement part of a glacier near Nanda Devi River. Rescuers said it was difficult expressing concern over Thai- mountain broke off on Sunday The power of the roaring wall to predict how long it would take land’s increasingly severe use morning. Scientists have gone to of water was first noticed by res- to open the tunnel because of the Nurses take part in a COVID-19 vaccination mock drill at a first aid of the lese majeste law to curtail the site to investigate what idents of multiple villages heavy mud inside, but that they facility in Seoul yesterday. criticism of the monarchy. caused the break and the flood perched on the valley slopes. hoped to find people still alive. WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 ASIA 11 Xi pitches vaccine to eastern Europe in bid to revive ties

BLOOMBERG — BEIJING online summit on yesterday, Xi “Cooperation doesn’t have Brussels. Greece joined the group and a signal that ties between revealed that China plans to political strings attached.” in 2019. Trade between China China and the region are sup- President Xi Jinping said China import more than $170bn of China is working to China is working to rebuild and these countries reached $103 posedly close and could remain stands ready to provide eastern goods from the continent’s rebuild diplomatic ties in diplomatic ties in Europe as it billion last year, up 8.4% year on so also under the Biden presi- Europe with coronavirus former communist east in the Europe as it faces faces growing criticism from year, China’s Commerce Ministry dency,” said Grzegorz Stec, an vaccines, part of efforts to reboot next five years, during which time mainly Western countries over Spokesman Gao Feng said Feb- analyst with Berlin-based think relations harmed by the failure it will also double agricultural growing criticism from issues ranging from its handling ruary 4. While supplying Serbia tank Merics. of the government in Beijing to imports. Other initiatives include mainly Western of information on COVID-19 to — and Hungary, which will get But the summit “can’t avert deliver on investment promises. deepening ties on the green countries over issues its crackdown on Muslim Uighurs its first doses next week — with the economic disillusionment of The comments come amid economy, e-commerce and ranging from its in Xinjiang and a controversial coronavirus vaccines developed CEE countries, which are also tensions within the European health care. handling of information national-security law for Hong by China’s Sinopharm is seen as increasingly mindful of security Union over the bloc’s pro- Yesterday’s meeting of the Kong that could spark an exodus a success, a lack of investment and geo-strategic implications of curement of shots to combat China and Central and Eastern on COVID-19 to a to the UK. has disappointed the region. cooperating with China,” Stec COVID-19, with member states European Countries forum — controversial national- It also wants to reset its rela- Enthusiasm for the 17+1 is waning said. The cancellation of an in- unable to match the pace of other more commonly referred to as security law for Hong tionship with the US under Joe as some countries bristle at wid- person summit planned for April Western nations in inoculating the CEE, or 17+1 — comes shortly Kong that could spark an Biden after the Trump adminis- ening trade balances with China, 2020 further weakened ties, and their citizens. Chinese companies after Beijing concluded a exodus to the UK. tration fuelled global skepticism despite the Asian country — in an apparent snub — have already provided 1 million landmark investment deal with over China’s intentions. pointing to growing volumes with Lithuania and Estonia said vaccine doses to Serbia, an EU the EU following seven years of The CEE format took shape eastern Europe, according to a neither their president nor prime aspirant that’s also using Russia’s negotiation. There’s been a lack in 2012 as a way for China to European diplomat in Beijing minister would attend yesterday’s Sputnik injection. of regular dialogue of late respect,” Xi said, according to the forge ties with 16 eastern who asked not to be identified. event, sending lower-level offi- Addressing leaders and other because of the pandemic. official readout from the state European countries, many EU “Beijing is eager to portray cials in their stead, Politico high-level representatives at an “We maintain mutual news agency Xinhua. members that felt overlooked by the summit as a victory for China reported. Uzbekistan prepones Separate attacks kill 9 election date to October in Afghanistan REUTERS — TASHKENT several locations across the country in protest. Uzbek sen- AP — KABUL Uzbekistan’s president signed a ators, who approved the law last constitutional amendment week, said the new move would A string of attacks yesterday in yesterday to move the date of also make it more convenient Afghanistan killed five presidential and other elections for foreign observers, especially government employees and four in the Central Asian nation to westerners, as Uzbekistan used policemen, officials said. No one October from the colder month to hold elections on Christmas immediately claimed responsi- of December. Day. bility for the attacks. The country’s next presi- December elections also led In the capital, Kabul, gunmen dential, parliamentary and local to delays in post-election opened fire in the Bagh-e Daud elections will now be held on political activity, including the neighbourhood and killed four “the first Sunday of the third adoption of state programmes employees of the ministry for decade of October”, which and other reforms, deputies rural development, according to means Oct. 24 for this year’s said. Ferdaws Faramarz, spokesman presidential election. Uzbekistan holds presi- for the city’s police chief. Elections on chilly dential elections every five Hours after the attack, the December days caused years and President Shavkat presidential palace in a statement problems for voters and the Mirziyoyev, who came to power said the target was Reyaz Ahmad authorities as the country faces following the death of his Khalil, the acting provincial gas and electricity shortages authoritarian predecessor in A health worker receives coronavirus disease vaccine at a vaccination centre in Karachi, Pakistan. director of the department for every winter which anger the September 2016, was elected rural development of Maidan population. Last December president in December of the Wardak province. He was among people blocked main roads in same year. Pakistan approves Sputnik V the fatalities in the attack. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani strongly condemned the vaccine for emergency use attack and accused the Taliban Philippines to step up naval of stalling peace talks by once REUTERS — ISLAMABAD according to a document on the normal refrigerator storage again escalating the violence. presence in South China Sea vaccine’s authorisation. requirement could make it a “They have show that they don’t Russia’s Sputnik V has become The authorisation to M/s favourable option for many believe in peace,” Ghani said. REUTERS — MANILA presence there is not (to) wage the third COVID-19 vaccine to AGP Ltd, Karachi, is valid until countries. AJ Pharma led CanSi- Elsewhere in Kabul, a sticky against China but to secure be approved by Pakistan for April 1, 2021, the document said, noBIO’s trial to import the bomb attached to a car exploded, The Philippines will beef up its our own people,” Lieutenant emergency use after China’s adding it was for immunisation vaccine vials initially before killing another government naval presence in the South General Cirilito Sobejana said Sinopharm and the one of those aged 18 and over. filling them in Pakistan, the first employee, Faramarz later said. China Sea to protect its fish- in a media briefing. developed by AstraZeneca and A fourth vaccine candidate, company to do so locally. According to the foreign ministry, ermen, its new military chief said China claims about 90% of Oxford University, the country’s developed by CanSino Biologics Sultan said Pakistan could it was their car and one of the yesterday, as concerns grow the South China Sea as its own health minister said yesterday. Inc (CanSinoBIO), has also com- get shots “in the range of tens ministry’s drivers was killed in about the operations of China’s and deploys its coastguard “Sputnik has received EUA pleted clinical trials in the South of millions” under an agreement that attack in the Macrorayan coastguard in disputed waters. throughout the strategically (emergency use authorisation),” Asian nation of 220 million with the Chinese firm. neighborhood. The move comes after the important waterway. Those are the minister, Faisal Sultan, told people, showing 65.7% efficacy Pakistan has launched its Also yesterday, four police Philippines protested a new often accompanied by large Reuters in a text message. in symptomatic cases and a vaccination drive with 500,000 officers were killed and a fifth law in China that allows its numbers of fishing boats seen Pakistan has become the 90.98% success rate in severe doses of Sinopharm donated by was wounded when their vehicle coastguard to board or open widely as a Chinese maritime 22nd country to approve cases in an interim analysis of longtime ally China, giving struck a roadside bomb in fire on foreign vessels in waters militia, which other claimants Sputnik V, the Russian Direct global trials, Sultan said on shots to frontline health western Herat province’s Zenda it regards as its territory, which accuse of harassing their Investment Fund, responsible Monday. workers as a priority. Jan district, said Wahid Qatali, the officials said could heighten fishermen. for marketing the vaccine He said its efficacy in the Pakistan has also secured provincial governor. risks of a miscalculation. “That pronouncement by abroad, said. Pakistani subset at preventing 17 million doses of the Astra- At least 21 Taliban insurgents, “We will increase our visi- China that their coastguard can It is to be administered in symptomatic cases was 74.8%. Zeneca vaccine under a global including three key members of bility through the deployment open fire at people intruding two shots, three weeks apart, It was 100% for preventing scheme to deliver coronavirus the group, were killed in a special of more naval assets, but I just into their territory is very has a six-month shelf life and severe disease. CanSinoBio’s treatments to developing operation conducted by Afghan want to make clear our navy alarming,” Sobejana said. is stored at -18 Celsius, single-dose regimen and nations. security forces in northern Faryab province, the Ministry of Defense said. The statement Indonesia investigators focus on added that another 18 Taliban fighters were wounded in the engine control in Boeing crash districts of Almar and Qaisar in Faryab.

BLOOMBERG — JAKARTA A person familiar with the investigation told Bloomberg Five countries The investigation into last News last month that a malfunc- month’s Sriwijaya Air crash in tioning automatic throttle was to abandon Indonesia is focusing on the being considered as a reason for engine-control system of the the pilots losing control by pro- Pacific forum Boeing Co. 737-500 jet, poten- ducing more thrust in one of the tially dealing another blow to the two engines. REUTERS — SYDNEY US manufacturing giant as it The device had been having emerges from the global problems on previous flights, Five Pacific island nations will grounding of its 737 Max according to the person. Unequal start withdrawing from the following two other fatal crashes. thrust can cause a plane to roll region’s main political forum, While Indonesia’s National onto its side and descend according to a joint statement, Transportation Safety Com- abruptly. in the fallout from a fractious mittee is still trying to determine Sriwijaya Air Flight 182 leadership vote last week. the exact cause of the crash, the crashed into the Java Sea four The presidents of Nauru, left engine throttle lever was minutes after takeoff from the Federated States of Micro- trimming back the power output Jakarta’s main airport on Jan. 9, nesia (FSM), Kiribati, Marshall just before the 26-year-old jet killing all 62 people on board. Islands and Palau said an Registration for vaccination plunged into the sea, according Searchers retrieved the flight- informal agreement to elect a to a family member who data recorder from the jet, but new chief diplomat from their Health workers and employees of Philippine General Hospital register for COVID-19 vaccination, in attended a briefing given by the the memory module of the Micronesia sub-region was not Manila, Philippines, yesterday. regulator in Jakarta yesterday. cockpit-voice recorder still honoured. “The NTSC hasn’t reached hasn’t been found. The impending withdrawals any conclusion on the cause of The jet nosedived more than from the Pacific Island Forum the crash, but they did say that 10,000 feet (3,050 meters) in (PIF) would reduce the number Australia: Active COVID-19 cases at near 2-month low there was an uncommanded about 15 seconds, according to of members to 13 and be dom- backward movement of the left tracker Flightradar24. The NTSC inated by South Pacific nations REUTERS — CANBERRA unit, the first such case in over which has now gone 23 days throttle lever while the autopilot had said that both engines like Fiji, Papua New Guinea and two weeks, while authorities without detecting any local was in operation,” said Rafik appear to have been functioning regional heavyweights Australia Australia has fewer than 50 are still investigating a case in cases of COVID-19, also warned Alaydrus, who lost his wife in the prior to the plane hitting the and New Zealand. active cases of COVID-19, a worker at a quarantine hotel of a drop-off in testing rates disaster. water. “There is no value in par- official data released yesterday for returned travellers. among the community. NTSC Chairman Soerjanto The pilots were experienced ticipating in an organisation showed, the lowest number in Victoria state Premier Dan “High testing rates are vital Tjahjono and lead investigator and flying an aircraft with a rel- that does not respect estab- nearly two months, although Andrews said the unnamed to giving us the best chance of Nurcahyo Utomo didn’t imme- atively good safety record. Sri- lished agreements, including authorities warned against person transferred to intensive finding any new cases and pre- diately respond to messages and wijaya Air, despite being little the gentlemen’s agreement on complacency. care caught the virus overseas venting new chains of trans- calls seeking comment. A repre- known outside of Indonesia, has sub-regional rotation,” said the A patient with COVID-19 in and had recently returned to mission from becoming estab- sentative for Boeing also didn’t a solid history too, with no fatal statement, sent after a virtual the state of Victoria has been Australia. Australia’s most pop- lished,” the state government immediately respond to an crashes since its establishment meeting of the Micronesian transferred to an intensive care ulous state, New South Wales, said in an emailed statement. emailed request for comment. in 2003. country leaders on Monday. 12 EUROPE WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021

France was right Germany earmarks to decide against €9bn to procure new national lockdown: Minister more vaccine doses REUTERS — PARIS REUTERS — BERLIN The COVID-19 situation in Finance Minister Olaf France is currently stable and Germany is planning to spend Scholz’s deputy Bettina the government was right to nearly €9bn ($10.9bn) this year Hagedorn proposed to have decided against imposing to help procure up to 635.1 lawmakers in a letter a new national lockdown, million COVID-19 vaccination Health Minister Olivier Veran shots for its population and that they should said yesterday. Veran also told other EU member states, a approve a request by France Info radio “it is possible finance ministry document Health Minister Jens and indeed preferable” that showed yesterday. Spahn for an additional France would not have to be Delays to the EU’s relatively €6.22bn to buy more locked down again. slow vaccine roll-out and “For three weeks we have concern about new coronavirus doses. This comes on top had (on average) 20,000 new variants are making it harder of €2.66bn already cases per day and 3,000-3,200 for European governments to earmarked in the 2021 Enjoying the weather patients in intensive care units. ease current pandemic restric- budget. It’s stable but high...It does not tions. The problems have led A man carries a child as they sledge down Primrose Hill, during a snowfall in London, Britain, yesterday. call for national lockdown to some tensions between measures,” Veran said. The Brussels and Berlin. additional spending on number of people in France Finance Minister Olaf Wednesday. who have died from COVID-19 Scholz’s deputy Bettina The Health Ministry will use Spain: Occupancy in intensive infections rose by 458 on Hagedorn proposed to law- the total funds of €8.89bn to Monday to 79,423 - the seventh- makers in a letter that they buy up to 635.1 million vaccine highest death toll globally. should approve a request by doses as part of the European care wards nearing peak Unlike some of its neigh- Health Minister Jens Spahn for Union’s joint procurement bours, France has refrained an additional €6.22bn to buy plans and Berlin’s national REUTERS — MADRID cases in late January, but offi- ministry said in the govern- from imposing a third national more doses, according to the scheme, the document said. All cials say the arrival of the new ment’s official bulletin. lockdown, hoping that a document. This comes on top EU member states have agreed Occupation of Spain’s intensive strains could drive a The two governments had curfew in place since Dec. 15 of €2.66bn already earmarked to procure vaccines under the care wards by COVID-19 patients resurgence. agreed to close on Jan. 28 the and a vaccination programme in the 2021 budget. bloc’s plan. should peak by the end of this The government also border for non-essential travel that has now given shots to The additional spending “For the federal gov- week, Health Minister Carolina announced it had extended with exceptions for cross- more than 2 million people plans come after Scholz said ernment, obtaining COVID-19 Darias told a news conference controls along its 1,200-km border workers, health workers will be enough to rein in the last week he was angry that vaccines is of fundamental yesterday, adding that pressure (750-mile) border with Portugal and truck drivers. spread of the disease. more COVID-19 vaccines were importance to get the pandemic on hospitals remained at until March 1, as both countries A surge in infections in Por- Veran said he expected not ordered last year at a under control,” Hagedorn told “concerning” levels. try to rein in a surge in corona- tugal since Christmas left hos- that between 3.5 milllion and European level while EU chief lawmakers in the letter. Average ICU occupation is virus infections and deaths. pitals on the verge of collapse, 4 million people in France executive Ursula von der Leyen “In addition, a broad port- at 43% across the country and “The severity of the prompting a strict nationwide would have received their first renewed her defence of the folio (of vaccines) is required above 50% in some regions, restrictive mobility measures lockdown. dose of a COVID-19 vaccine by European Commission’s record so that Germany will have Darias said. still in force in Spain and Por- Daily cases and deaths have the end of February. Some on rolling them out. effective vaccines with enough In Spain, a third wave of tugal justifies maintaining ... fallen significantly in the past health officials have however A coalition source said the vaccine doses for the various COVID-19 infections is ebbing, controls at the internal land week, but hospitalisations and warned about the strain being Bundestag lower house of par- population groups, also in the with the 14-day incidence rate border ... with the same limita- the number of patients in placed on the hospital system liament’s budget committee case that not all vaccines are falling to 667 cases per 100,000 tions applied during the initial intensive care units remained and the impact of more conta- was expected to approve the approved,” she added. people on Monday from 900 ten days,” the Spanish interior high. gious variants of the coronavirus. Veran reiterated that the Astra- Zeneca’s vaccine was efficient against 99% of the COVID-19 UK tightens travel curbs, threatens rule-breakers with jail, fines strains in France but that France was considering using vaccines REUTERS — LONDON Health secretary Matt Africa, would need to pay COVID-19 test in the past three this summer to help them other than AstraZeneca’s vaccine Hancock said people could be £1,750 and spend the minimum days and then self isolate for 10 survive after months without for overseas territories. Britain said it would bring in sent to prison and fined up to 10-day quarantine in an days from departure. The gov- revenues due to lockdown “We are monitoring the tighter border controls next £10,000 ($14,000) if they broke assigned hotel, Hancock said. ernment would introduce a holiday bans. progression of the South African week against new variants of the rules which come into force The government, already requirement for additional tests, Asked how long new border variant, notably in the French the coronavirus, requiring hotel on Feb. 15. criticised for being slow to bring Hancock said. measures would be in place, island of Mayotte. We are con- quarantine for arrivals and “Anyone who lies on the in tougher border measures, Strict travel measures could Hancock said that more infor- sidering increasing the protection threatening rule-breakers with passenger locator form and tries said it had contracted 16 hotels stay in place until the gov- mation was needed on the of health workers in overseas ter- up to 10 years in jail and fines. to conceal that they’ve been in for an initial 4,600 rooms and ernment can be sure that vac- success of the vaccines. ritories,” he said South Africa Under lockdown rules, hol- a country on the ‘red list’ in the would secure more as needed. cines work against new variants “And if that isn’t forth- decided to put on hold use of idays are banned, and testing 10 days before arrival here, will The tighter restrictions of the coronavirus, or booster coming, we will need to vac- AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 shot in regimes and quarantine are face a prison sentence of up to prompted a new cry for help shots have been given later this cinate with a further booster jab its vaccination programme after already in place for travellers, but 10 years,” he told parliament. from airlines and airports, year, Hancock said. in the autumn, on which we are data showed it gave minimal the government said yesterday British and Irish nationals already brought to their knees That would deal a further working with the vaccine protection against mild-to- it would bring in extra measures arriving in England from the by the pandemic. blow to stricken airlines and industry. These are the uncer- moderate infection caused by due to the risk of new variants on most high-risk countries, those Arrivals in England must travel companies, which are tainties within which we are the country’s dominant coro- which vaccines may not work. on the “red list” such as South currently have proof of a negative counting on a travel recovery operating,” he said. navirus variant. 117-year-old Heavy snow creates 37km French nun, traffic logjam in Germany Europe’s oldest AP — BERLIN Germans to stay at home and person, survives avoid traveling. Heavy snowfall in Germany led “When conditions are this COVID-19 to more severe traffic disrup- extreme, even the best track tions yesterday, including a heating and the best snowplow REUTERS — PARIS 37-km logjam in which can reach their limits,” Andreas hundreds of cars and trucks got Scheuer said. Europe’s oldest person, French stuck on a highway for hours in The snowy weather also nun Sister Andre, has survived sub-zero temperatures. affected the regional airport of COVID-19 and will celebrate Hundreds of vehicles were Dortmund in western Germany, her 117th birthday this week, her trapped on the A2 highway in where all flights were either caregivers said. Lucile Randon, western Germany all night in cancelled or rerouted to other who took the name of Sister that traffic jam, Bielefeld police airports until tomorrow at 6 am. Andre when she joined a reported early yesterday. More snow was predicted Catholic charitable order in Rescue teams went from car to for northern Germany espe- 1944, tested positive for coro- car handing out blankets and cially for Schleswig-Hollstein, navirus in her retirement home hot drinks, the German news the German Weather Service in Toulon, southern France, on agency DPA reported. DWD reported. Jan. 16. She was isolated from Traffic jams due to snowfall Parts of central and other residents, but displayed and icy roads were also northern Europe as well as no symptoms. reported in Brandenburg state Britain have been gripped by a Trucks are stuck in a traffic jam after snowfall on the Autobahn A2 highway in Kamen, Germany, Asked if she was scared to in the east and in Hesse state in cold weather front since the yesterday. have COVID, Sister Andre told central Germany. Train service weekend that the UK has France’s BFM television, “No, I was also partially canceled in dubbed Storm Darcy. Germany. The traffic was halted Czech officials urged those conditions in a decade for wasn’t scared because I wasn’t several regions and snowplows In the neighbouring Czech after Czech and German driving to the German state of cross-country skiing on scared to die... I’m happy to be worked around the clock to free Republic, miles-long lines of authorities closed the tunnels Saxony and the city of Dresden Prague’s famed Charles Bridge with you, but I would wish to be the tracks of ice and snow. traffic were formed by trucks on both sides of the border and to use different roads. and the nearby picturesque somewhere else - join my big The country’s transpor- on the D8 highway that con- the border crossing over the Meanwhile, people in Little Quarter brother and my grandfather and tation minister called on nects the capital of Prague with night due to severe weather. Prague enjoyed the best snow neighbourhood. my grandmother.” David Tavella, spokesman for the Sainte Catherine Labouré retirement home, Former Nazi guard, aged 100, charged as accessory to murder said she was doing well. “We consider her to be cured. She is very calm and she is looking AP — BERLIN investigation of the centenarian crimes, Klement said. That was established in 2011 Before that, German courts forward to celebrating her for the Neuruppin prosecutors’ It comes after prosecutors with the conviction of former had required prosecutors to 117th birthday tomorrow.” German prosecutors have office. in the northern town of Itzehoe Ohio autoworker John Dem- justify charges by presenting He said Sister Andre, who charged a 100-year-old man The man’s name wasn’t announced accessory to murder janjuk as an accessory to evidence of a former guard’s is blind but very spirited, will with 3,518 counts of being an released in line with German charges last week against a murder on allegations that he participation in a specific celebrate her birthday with a accessory to murder on allega- privacy laws, Despite his 95-year-old woman who served as a guard at the Sobibor killing, often a near-impossible smaller group of residents tions he served during World advanced age, the suspect is worked during the war as the death camp in German- task given the anonymity of than usual because of corona- War II as a Nazi SS guard at a considered fit enough to stand secretary of the SS commandant occupied Poland. Demjanjuk, most guards to the prisoners, virus infection risk. “She has concentration camp on the trial, though accommodations of the Stutthof concentration who steadfastly denied the alle- coupled with the paucity of wit- been very lucky,” he added. outskirts of Berlin, authorities may have to be made to limit camp. That case and the charges gations, died before his appeal nesses and the passage of time. Sister Andre, who was born said yesterday. how many hours per day the against the 100-year-old man could be heard. “The core of this case on February 11, 1904, is the The man is alleged to have court is in session, Klement said. both rely on recent legal prec- A federal court subse- follows the decision of Dem- world’s second-oldest living worked at the Sachsenhausen The Neuruppin office was edent in Germany establishing quently upheld the 2015 con- janjuk and Groening, that being person according to the Ger- camp between 1942 and 1945 as handed the case in 2019 by the that anyone who helped a Nazi viction of former Auschwitz part of the functioning of this ontology Research Group’s an enlisted member of the Nazi special federal prosecutors’ camp function can be prose- guard Oskar Groening achieved machinery of death is sufficient (GRG) World Supercente- Party’s paramilitary wing, said office in Ludwigsburg tasked cuted for accessory to the with the same line of reasoning, for an accessory to murder con- narian Rankings List. Cyrill Klement, who led the with investigating Nazi-era war murders committed there. solidifying the precedent. viction,” Klement said. WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 EUROPE 13 EU top diplomat signals sanctions against Russia

REUTERS — BRUSSELS Josep Borrell said Lavrov, which Borrell described as heated, Moscow expelled The European Union’s top that his visit last three EU diplomats from diplomat warned Moscow Friday to Moscow had Germany, Poland and Sweden, yesterday that it could face new cemented his view provoking tit-for-tat expulsions sanctions over the jailing of by Berlin, Warsaw and Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, that Russia wanted Stockholm. describing the government of to break away from Borrell said he only learned President as about the expulsions from “merciless”, authoritarian and Europe and divide the Russia via social media during afraid of democracy. West. his visit, which included a news Josep Borrell said his visit conference in which Lavrov last Friday to Moscow had chided the EU as “an unreliable cemented his view that Russia a hardening of EU attitudes to partner”. wanted to break away from Russia, a big energy provider to Many EU lawmakers said Europe and divide the West, in Europe, after years of seeking the Kremlin wanted to try to a speech marking the EU’s better ties despite Western humiliate Borrell on Friday in harshest criticism of Moscow sanctions imposed in 2014. Moscow to send a message that since Russia’s 2014 annexation “Russia seeks to divide us,” the West should stay out of of Crimea. Borrell said. Russian domestic affairs. At “The Russian government Navalny was arrested in least 81 deputies have called for is going down a worrisome January after returning to Borrell’s resignation. European High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, authoritarian route,” said Russia for the first time since Borrell said targeted sanc- attending a debate during a plenary session of the European Parliament, in Brussels yesterday. Borrell, who pleaded for Nav- being poisoned last August in tions were now an option for alny’s release in Moscow and Siberia with what many Russia, but it was up to EU states sought in vain to visit him in Western countries said was a to decide. “Yes, this includes Monday was denounced by The two Western diplomats Russian foreign ministry prison. nerve agent. sanctions,” Borrell said of next Moscow as treachery. declined to disclose names, but spokeswoman Maria “There seems to be almost Navalny blamed Putin for policy steps. Ashurkov and Volkov joined said Volkov and Ashurkov told Zakharova as saying Navalny’s no room for the development the attack but the Kremlin has Two allies of Navalny have the video call with European the call that sanctions should allies had received instruc- of democratic alternatives ... dismissed the accusations and urged Western envoys to Union states and envoys from target the assets and freedom tions on how to disrupt they are merciless in stifling any questioned whether the oppo- impose sanctions on senior Britain, the United States, to travel of those affected. The Russian politics during Mon- such attempts,” he told the sition politician was really poi- Russian business and political Canada and Ukraine to propose aim would be to weaken those day’s video call. She described European Parliament, saying soned. His arrest and impris- figures, judges and security names of senior figures in who have amassed fortunes members of Navalny’s Anti- that he believed the Kremlin onment has caused big protests chiefs, Western diplomats said. business, political and security and influence while ordinary corruption Foundation as saw democracy as an “exis- in Russia. The appeal for sanctions by circles who could face sanc- Russians struggle to make “agents of influence” acting on tential threat”. During Borrell’s talks with Vladimir Ashurkov and Leonid tions, according to two Western ends meet. behalf of the Nato military Borrell’s remarks suggested Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Volkov during a video call on diplomats who were on the call. RIA news agency quoted alliance.

Denmark: Submarine Russia sees 3-fold rise in virus-linked deaths last year killer gets 21 years BLOOMBERG — MOSCOW In total, 2,124,479 Russians December was the deadliest reversing Russia’s demographic the turning point after which the for prison escape died in 2020, nearly 324,000 month for Russia in the pan- decline. He has promoted a pandemic could begin to ease, Russia’s death toll from more than the previous year, demic, Deputy Prime Minister series of benefits aimed at Health Minister Mikhail AP — COPENHAGEN COVID-19 in 2020 was nearly according to the statistics Tatyana Golikova said in a tel- increasing the birthrate and has Murashko said on January 29 in three times the level previously service. Deaths in December evised briefing on Monday. Pre- overseen dramatic gains in life northwestern Russia, according A Danish man convicted of reported by the government, were 63 percent higher than in liminary data for January show expectancy. to Tass news service. The author- torturing and murdering a and the disease accounted for the same month in 2019. “a steady decline in mortality Russia has pinned its hopes ities aim to vaccinate about 60 Swedish journalist on his half of all excess deaths last The data demonstrate that the rates” alongside a reduction in for taming the pandemic on percent of the adult population homemade submarine, was year, according to official data. fallout from the novel coronavirus infections, she said. domestically developed vac- in the first half of the year, he given a 21-month sentence The Federal Statistics has been far worse than officials Russia’s population shrank cines, with Putin ordering uni- said. yesterday for his attempt to Service reported 44,435 deaths initially reported, even as Pres- overall by nearly 700,000 versal access to the inoculation Even before the vaccine is escape from a suburban linked to COVID-19 in ident Vladimir Putin resisted people last year, the statistics in December, though take-up widely distributed, the infection Copenhagen prison last year December in a statement, lifting locking down the country during service reported, more than remains slow. He boasted at a rate has been falling. New daily during which he threatened the full-year total to 162,429. the second, more severe wave of twice the decline registered in televised meeting on science on cases are down by about a third prison staff and police with That’s almost triple the 57,555 infections that started in the fall. 2019 and the worst shrinkage Monday that Russia is the only from their December highs, and a fake gun and fake explo- COVID-19 deaths in 2020 Only the US, Brazil and Mexico since 2005. country in the world with three some regions have begun to sives. reported by the government’s have reported higher epidemic The figures are a blow to of its own COVID-19 vaccines. ease restrictions intended to Peter Madsen was quickly virus response centre. death total so far. Putin’s long-held goal of February or March could be limit the spread of the virus. apprehended on October 20 near the Herstedvester prison in suburban Copenhagen where he is serving a life sen- Central Europe leaders mark tence for the killing of Kim Wall. 30 years of Visegrad Group The conviction doesn’t matter in reality as it will not AP — WARSAW the end of communism (...) we be added to the life sentence. an see that they were marked However, it may play a role if The presidents of Poland, not only by a great economic Madsen at some point makes Hungary, the Czech Republic and political success, but also a probation request. Madsen, and Slovakia gathered in by rapid social and civiliza- 50, accepted the ruling. northern Poland yesterday for tional development,” he said. Before the verdict was two days of debates to mark the He expressed satisfaction announced, Madsen told the 30th anniversary of the at seeing his guests “in good Glostrup City Court in sub- Visegrad Group, an informal health in these difficult times” urban Copenhagen that he body of political and economic and said he hoped that the wanted to flee because he cooperation in the region. systems of national vaccina- considered the prison con- Their talks will include the tions will bring “relief to our ditions poor, according to fight against the coronavirus nations and will help people the Ekstra Bladet tabloid. pandemic, building energy return to normal life.” Madsen, one of Den- security, protecting the climate, The presidents will hold a mark’s most notorious crim- and international and trans- remote news conference at the inals, was captured about Atlantic relations. The group, end of their meeting later. five minutes after the escape also known as V4, often works Next week, Poland Prime and around 500 metres from out joint positions in interna- Minister Mateusz Morawiecki the facility. Prison personnel tional ties, especially within the will host the V4 group’s gov- who followed him saw that European Union. ernment leaders’ anniversary he had jumped into a passing Yekaterina Andreeva and Darya Chultsova, accused of coordinating mass protests in 2020 by Poland President Andrzej meeting with European Council white van and informed broadcasting live reports, listen to lawyers while standing inside a defendants’ cage before a court Duda welcomed counterparts, President Charles Michel at the police. Zuzana Caputova of Slovakia, Wawel Castle in Krakow. hearing, in Minsk yesterday. He used a fake hand gun Janos Ader of Hungary and The meeting is set to work and mock explosives he had Milos Zeman of the Czech out a declaration of future goals 2 Belarus journalists on trial for protest coverage made in jail as he threatened Republic, at a residence on the for the group and discuss issues his way out of prison. Baltic Sea coast, on the Hel related to the internet and REUTERS — KIEV place in Belarus after President the detention of Andreeva and Madsen told the court Peninsula. online games, according to Alexander Lukashenko claimed Chultsova. that his plan was to hijack Opening the ceremonial Deputy Foreign Minister Two Belarusian journalists victory over opposition leader The New York-based Com- cars, take the owners’ cell meeting, Duda said the V4 Szymon Szynkowski vel Sek. working for the Polish tele- Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya in an mittee to Protect Journalists phones and move south and group has had a positive role The V4 was founded in Feb- vision channel Belsat went on election in August. The oppo- urged Belarusian authorities to eventually reach Germany. in European and trans-Atlantic ruary 1991 from a declaration trial in the capital Minsk sition said the result was rigged. drop the “absurd” charges In 2018, Madsen was sen- ties. of cooperation that then-Pres- yesterday on charges related to Prosecutors accused against Andreyeva and tenced in the Copenhagen City “The group is an important, idents Lech Walesa of Poland, their coverage of mass protests Andreeva and Chultsova of Chultsova and release them Court to life in prison for if not the key catalyst of the Vaclav Havel of then-Czecho- in 2020, the Belarusian Asso- coordinating the protests by unconditionally. killing Wall, a 30-year-old regional cooperation in all of slovakia and Jozsef Antall of ciation of Journalists said. broadcasting live reports. They “The Belarus government reporter from Sweden whom Central Europe and contributes Hungary signed in Visegrad, Yekaterina Andreeva and have denied the charges, for must stop punishing journalists he lured aboard his homemade significantly to the cooperation Hungary. Poland currently Darya Chultsova, a reporter and which they could be sentenced for reporting on important submarine the previous year and political processes holds the group’s 12-month a camerawoman for Belsat, to three years in prison. They political events, and allow them with the promise of an regarding the EU and Nato,” rotating presidency, which it were arrested in November appeared in court inside a cage. to work freely and without fear interview. Duda said. “If we look at the will hand over to Hungary on after a demonstration. International human rights of reprisal,” it said in a He dismembered her body three decades that passed since July 1. Months of protests took organisations have condemned statement on Monday. and dumped it at sea. Volunteer doctors turned away from struggling health service in Portugal REUTERS — LISBON and public sector offering to 100 of the medics involved said The government has faced 14,354 deaths. It is struggling to week whether to extend it by work extra hours, have put their in a letter to the government. mounting criticism over its han- treat nearly 7,000 COVID-19 another 15 days from February Doctors volunteering to help names forward to help state “It’s pure incompetence,” dling of the pandemic, including patients in hospital and 14. Portugal’s overstretched health hospitals since March, but few surgeon Gentil Martins, one of easing of restrictions over intensive care. Epidemiologist Baltazar service with a peak of COVID-19 have been contacted, Portugal’s the doctors who offered his Christmas which caused a spike, German government last Nunes, of the Ricardo Jorge hospitalisations say they are main doctors’ association said. services and spearheaded the refusing help from private hos- week sent a team of military public health research institute, being turned away or encoun- “Nothing happened or a letter, told broadcaster TVI. “It’s pitals last year, and reported doctors to help. said restrictions would need to tering unnecessary series of inexplicable adminis- the patients who lose out.” vaccine queue-jumping. A nationwide lockdown in remain in place until the end of bureaucracy. trative barriers were put The health ministry did not The country of 10 million place since mid-January has put March to reduce patients in Thousands of doctors, most forward, including the refusal immediately reply to a request people has so far reported a lid on soaring infections, and intensive care units to man- retired but some in the private of voluntary work,” more than for comment. 767,919 COVID-19 cases and parliament is due to decide this ageable levels. 14 AMERICAS WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 Haiti oppn picks interim leader as crisis deepens REUTERS — PORT-AU-PRINCE Magistrate Joseph crippling economic crisis. “I declare to accept the The Haitian opposition on Mecene Jean Louis, choice of the opposition and the Monday escalated a constitu- 72, said in a video civil society to be able to serve tional crisis by naming a magis- my country as the provisional trate as an interim leader for the message that he had president,” Jean Louis said. troubled Caribbean country amid been chosen by the Moise, who has ruled by a dispute over when the term of opposition to replace decree since January last year, President Jovenel Moise ends. has stated he would hand over Political tension was exac- President Jovenel power to the winner of the Sep- erbated on Sunday when Moise Moise, who the tember presidential election but alleged there had been an would not step down until his attempt to overthrow the gov- opposition accuses of term expires in 2022. ernment and 23 people were being authoritarian The United States, which is arrested, including a Supreme the biggest donor to Haiti, Court judge and a senior police and presiding over a appears to have backed Moise’s official. crippling economic timeline, saying the new pres- The opposition dismissed ident should take office in Feb- A demonstrator tries to grab the rifle of a police officer during protests against Haiti President Jovenel the suggestion of a coup crisis. ruary next year. Moise, in Port-au-Prince yesterday. attempt, and said Moise should On Monday, Moise held a have stepped down on February cabinet meeting and said on 7 when it says his five-year term Moise took power in 2017 Twitter the government is opposition to replace Moise as Earlier in the day, two jour- opposition would keep up its ended. after fresh elections. “taking all measures to ensure president are to be retired. nalists covering a small protest protests against the government The president has vowed to Magistrate Joseph Mecene the safety of the population”. Haiti’s military on Monday were shot in the capital and one this week. stay in power until February Jean Louis, 72, said in a video Haiti’s executive branch, said it was concerned about of them is in a serious condition, “The mobilisation must 2022, pointing out that an interim message that he had been consisting of the president, political events but appeared to according to news outlets and continue to force Jovenel Moise administration had governed for chosen by the opposition to prime minister and ministers, back Moise, saying it would videos uploaded on social to leave office,” Michel said. a year after he was elected in a replace Moise, who the oppo- published a decree announcing defend the rule of law and “legit- media. “We hope that the international disputed poll that was canceled sition accuses of being author- three Supreme Court judges imate authorities democratically Andre Michel, an opposition community will support our by the electoral council. itarian and presiding over a who were approached by the elected by the population”. figure, told Reuters that the approach.” Bolsonaro says new emergency White House aims to strengthen ties with Brazil aid package REUTERS — WASHINGTON many of Brazil’s most innovative hold back on areas where we “advance the rule of law and sands of jobs. and growth-focused companies, disagree, whether it’s climate protect and preserve margin- The Trump administration being discussed The Biden administration is and will continue to strengthen or human rights, or otherwise,” alized communities.” had sought to boost ties with closely following developments our economic ties and increase she said. Nestor Forster, Brazil’s Brazil, the largest economy in REUTERS — RIO DE JANEIRO/ in Brazil with regard to human our large and growing trade The Democratic-controlled ambassador to the United Latin America, and provide a BRASILIA rights and the environment, but relationship in the months US House of Representatives States, welcomed Psaki’s com- counterweight to China, which aims to keep strengthening US ahead,” she said. Ways and Means Committee ments and said Brazil was “fully has become Brazil’s largest Brazil is preparing a fresh economic ties and trade with Asked about calls by human last year blasted the adminis- on board” to address sus- trading partner. round of emergency cash the South American country, rights groups and Democrats to tration of former President tainable development and In October, Brazil and the transfers to millions of poor White House press secretary Jen halt trade talks with Brazil over Donald Trump for cozying up climate change concerns, and United States signed three and vulnerable people, Pres- Psaki said on Monday. concerns about human rights to Brazil. looked forward to expanded agreements to ensure good ident Jair Bolsonaro said on The administration of Dem- and the environment, Psaki said In a letter in June, Ways trade ties. business practices and stop cor- Monday, adding that any ocratic President Joe Biden on the Biden administration would and Means Committee “What we want is to keep ruption, and set a target for package will also take into February 5 had announced an not refrain from raising concerns Chairman Richard Neal said moving, keep working with the doubling bilateral trade in the account investor concerns additional $300,000 (1.5m reais) where there were differences. President Jair Bolsonaro’s gov- United States,” he told a trade next five years from around over the government’s fragile in funding from the US Agency “Just as is true in many of ernment had shown “a com- conference hosted by the $100bn currently. finances. for International Development our relationships, we look for plete disregard for basic human Washington International Bolsonaro last month wrote Bolsonaro’s remarks came to bolster Brazil’s emergency opportunities to work together rights,” and argued that Trade Association, adding that to Biden on the day he was after a government source COVID-19 response, Psaki told on issues where there is joint expanding ties would Brazilian investment in the inaugurated and said he hoped involved in the negotiations a White House briefing. national interest, and obviously undermine the efforts of Bra- United States had already the two countries would pursue said that the program would “We are by far the largest there’s a significant economic zilian human, labour and envi- increased fourfold over the a broad free-trade agreement be smaller than last year’s, investor in Brazil, including in relationship, and we will not ronmental advocates to past decade, generating thou- during Biden’s tenure. which expired on December 31, and would come with more strings attached. “I think there will be an Colombia to legalise extension,” Bolsonaro said in an interview with the TV program Brasil Urgente. undocumented “We are not going to run away from the issue of emer- gency aid. A large part of the Venezuelan migrants population is in difficulty,” Bolsonaro said, warning that AP — BOGOTA America we hope other coun- further fiscal stimulus must be tries will follow our example,” done in a responsible manner. Colombia said on Monday that Duque told a room full of If not, financial markets it will register hundreds of ambassadors and diplomats, could be spooked and the real thousands of Venezuelan who were invited to witness the could weaken to as low as 6 migrants and refugees announcement. per dollar, Bolsonaro warned. currently in the country without Grandi said the new policy Earlier on Monday, a gov- papers, in a bid to provide them would improve the lives of ernment source said the pro- with legal residence permits hundreds of thousands of posal is for three monthly and facilitate their access to impoverished people and called installments of 200 reais ($37) health care and legal it an “extraordinary gesture” of aimed at millions of informal employment opportunities. humanity, pragmatism and workers not already signed up President Ivan Duque said commitment to human rights. for the “Bolsa Familia” benefit that through a new temporary Colombia’s government scheme, at a cost of around 6 protection statute, Venezuelan estimates that 1.8 million Ven- billion reais ($1.1 bln) a month. migrants who are in the country ezuelans are currently living in Arthur Lira, the newly- On guard illegally will be eligible for the country, and that 55 percent elected speaker of the lower 10-year residence permits, of them don’t have proper res- house, tweeted on Monday Members of the Mexican National Guard patrol on the banks of the Rio Bravo river as they try to while migrants who are cur- idence papers. Most have morning that both chambers control the influx of migrants crossing toward the US, in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, yesterday. rently on temporary residence arrived since 2015 to escape and the executive branch must will be able to extend their stay. hyperinflation, food shortages draw up a viable program “for The new measure could and an increasingly authori- those who need it most,” while benefit up to one million Ven- tarian government. “always respecting the ezuelan citizens who are cur- Duque said that registering spending cap.” Peru begins COVID-19 vaccination drive rently living in Colombia these undocumented immi- Senate leader Rodrigo without proper papers, as well grants and refugees would Pacheco told GloboNews he was REUTERS — LIMA Health officials kicked off in locking down COVID-19 as hundreds of thousands who benefit Colombia’s security very optimistic that a package the program in the intensive vaccine deals. need to extend temporary visas. agencies and would also make could be put together this week, Peru launched its COVID-19 care unit of Lima’s Arzobispo The Andean nation has President Duque the provision of social services, but also stressed it must be vaccination campaign Loayza Hospital, authorities since signed agreements with announced the protection including coronavirus vaccines, compatible with keeping the yesterday with newly arrived said, where medical staff were US-based Pfizer, British- measure in a stately gov- more efficient. public finances under control. doses of China’s Sinopharm slated to receive the first of Swedish firm AstraZeneca ernment palace in Bogota while The government said Ven- The government’s consti- vaccine, as the South American 300,000 doses delivered by and Sinopharm, and is also standing with Filippo Grandi, ezuelans who arrive legally in tutional spending ceiling limits country struggles to control a Sinopharm on Sunday. slated to receive vaccines the United Nations High Com- Colombia within the next two the growth in public spending fierce second wave of infections Peru, mired in a political through the World Health missioner for Refugees. years will also be allowed to to the previous year’s rate of that has forced a lockdown in crisis last year, initially lagged Organization’s COVAX “As we take this historic and apply for temporary inflation. the capital Lima. behind its wealthier neighbors programme. transcendental step for Latin protection. Mexico to allow appeals on social media account cancellation AP — MEXICO CITY have over one million users in that decision, they could then The law could run afoul of Monreal argues that, under users’ human right to justice.” Mexico, apparently covering further appeal cancellations the US-Mexico Canada free trade the agreement, that clause The bill says companies The party of President Andrés only sites like Facebook, through Mexican courts. agreement, which states “no doesn’t apply to Mexico for cannot resolve disputes over Manuel López Obrador Twitter, Instagram, TikTok or Senator Ricardo Monreal, Party shall impose liability on a another 2 1/2 years, though it blockings or account cancella- presented for public comment YouTube. the party’s leader in the Senate, supplier or user of an interactive would presumably invalidate tions by using algorithms, but a proposed set of regulations on The proposal would allow hopes to submit the new law for computer service on account of... the law in the future. rather must use human Twitter, Facebook and other anyone whose account is approval in three weeks. any action voluntarily taken in The proposed bill acknowl- committees. social media companies. blocked or canceled to appeal “One of the things that affects good faith by the supplier or user edges that companies have their In January, López Obrador The new law proposed on the decision. The appeals would freedom of expression occurs to restrict access to or availa- own rules of use and online com- vowed to lead an international Monday by López Obrador’s go first to the company’s own through impeding the right to bility of material that is acces- munity behaviour, but says “it is effort to combat what he con- Morena party would open the internal committees, which receive information, by blocking sible or available through its necessary that these (internal) siders censorship by social companies to fines of up to would have 24 hours to affirm content, as has happened in recent supply or use of the interactive procedures be regulated by law, media companies that have $4.4m for violating users’ right or revoke the suspension. Users cases with Twitter,” according to computer services and that the so that based on that decision, an blocked or suspended the to free speech. The law would could then appeal to telecom a draft of the law that Monreal supplier or user considers to be administrative or legal appeal can accounts of former US President apply only to platforms that regulators, and if they don’t like published on his web site. harmful or objectionable.” be made, in order to enforce Donald Trump. WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 AMERICAS 15 Trump’s historic second impeachment trial begins

AP — WASHINGTON Trump’s lawyers are will cite the nation’s founders to declare a president “must The Senate opened Donald insisting that he is answer comprehensively for his Trump’s historic second not guilty of the sole conduct in office from his first impeachment trial yesterday, charge of “incitement day in office through his last.” the defeated former president There is no “January exception” charged by the House with of insurrection”, just before he leaves office, they inciting the deadly mob attack his fiery words just will argue, according to aides on the Capitol to overturn the granted anonymity to discuss election in what prosecutors call a figure of speech. the arguments ahead of the trial. the “most grievous constitu- But prosecutors Presiding is not the Chief tional crime.” Justice of the Supreme Court, as Trump’s lawyers are say he “has no has been tradition for the insisting that he is not guilty of good defence” and nation’s few presidential the sole charge of “incitement impeachment trials, but the of insurrection,” his fiery words they promise new chamber’s senior-most member just a figure of speech as he evidence. of the majority party, Sen. encouraged a rally crowd to Patrick Leahy of Vermont. “fight like hell” for his presi- “Sweeping it under the rug dency. But prosecutors say he National Guard troops on patrol. will not bring unity,” Senate “has no good defence” and they The nine House managers Majority Leader Chuck Schumer promise new evidence. walked across the shuttered said yesterday at the Capitol. “You The Capitol siege on January building to prosecute the case need truth and accountability.” 6 stunned the world as rioters before the Senate. Acquittal is likely, but the stormed the building to try to With senators gathered as trial will test the nation’s attitude US Senator Patrick Leahy wields the gavel to preside over and convene the US Senate as it begins stop the certification of Pres- the court of impeachment, toward his brand of presidential the second impeachment trial of former President Donald Trump on the floor of the Senate chamber ident-elect Joe Biden’s victory. sworn to deliver “impartial power, the Democrats’ resolve on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, yesterday. Five people died. justice,” the trial is starting with in pursuing him, and the loyalty Trump is the first president debate and a vote over whether of Trump’s Republican allies having that difficult national a request to testify. Democratic politicians making to face impeachment charges it’s constitutionally permissible defending him. conversation about the dif- Instead, House managers fiery speeches. “We have some after leaving office and the first to prosecute Trump after he is “In trying to make sense of ference between dissent and prosecuting the case will show videos up our sleeve,” Senior to be twice impeached for high no longer in the White House. a second Trump trial, the public insurrection,” Naftali said. videos of the violence, including Trump adviser Jason Miller said crimes and misdemeanors. He His defence team has embraced should keep in mind that It appears unlikely that the never before seen evidence, and on a podcast on Monday. remains a challenge to the this question, which could res- Donald Trump was the first House prosecutors will call wit- chart a succinct story beginning White House press secretary nation’s civic norms and tradi- onate with Republicans eager president ever to refuse to nesses, in part because the sen- with Trump’s false claims the Jen Psaki said Monday that tions even in defeat. to acquit Trump without being accept his defeat,” said Timothy ators sworn as jurors, forced to election was stolen and ending Biden will be busy with the Security remains extremely seen as condoning his behavior. Naftali, a clinical associate pro- flee for safety, will be presented with the attempt at insurrection. business of the presidency and tight at the Capitol, a changed They argue in filings the trial is fessor at New York University with graphic videos recorded Trump’s defense team has won’t spend much time place after the attack, fenced off “patently ridiculous.” and an expert on impeachment. that day. At his Mar-a-Lago club said it plans to counter with its watching the televised with razor wire and armed But the House prosecutors “This trial is one way of in Florida, Trump has declined own cache of videos of proceedings. US joins WHO programme to Hacker tried to poison drinking water in Florida city AP — FLORIDA found in cleaning supplies such Super Bowl — about the remotely accessible industrial attributed to its archenemy Iran. boost fight as soaps and drain cleaners. It incident and suggested they systems. Many victims appear Had Israel not detected the A hacker gained entry to the can cause irritation, burns and check their systems. to have been selected arbitrarily attack in real time, he said against virus system controlling the water other complications in larger Experts say municipal water and no serious damage was chlorine or other chemicals treatment plant of a Florida city quantities. and other systems have the caused in any of the cases -- in could have entered the water, REUTERS — GENEVA of 15,000 and tried to taint the Fortunately, a supervisor potential to be easy targets for part because of safety mecha- leading to a “disastrous” water supply with a caustic saw the chemical being tam- hackers because local govern- nisms and professional moni- outcome. A US official told a World chemical, exposing a danger pered with - as a mouse con- ments’ computer infrastructure toring, FireEye analyst Daniel Tarah Wheeler, a Harvard Health Organization meeting cybersecurity experts say has trolled by the intruder moved tends to be underfunded. Kapellmann Zafra said in a Cybersecurity Fellow, said com- yesterday that Washington grown as systems become both across the screen changing set- Robert M Lee, CEO of statement. munities should take every pre- would participate in a more computerized and acces- tings - and was able to Dragos Security, and a specialist “While the (Oldsmar) caution possible when using programme to boost COVID-19 sible via the Internet. intervene and immediately in industrial control system vul- incident does not appear to be remote access technology on testing, diagnostics and The hacker who breached reverse it, Gualtieri said. nerabilities, said remote access particularly complex, it high- something as critical as a water vaccines as it joins global the system at the city of Olds- Oldsmar is about 15 miles to industrial control systems lights the need to strengthen the supply. efforts to respond to the mar’s water treatment plant on northwest of Tampa. such as those running water cybersecurity capabilities “The systems administrators pandemic. Friday using a remote access Gualtieri said the public was treatment plants has become across the water and waste- in charge of major civilian WHO chief Tedros program shared by plant never in danger. increasingly common. water industry,” he said. infrastructure like a water Adhanom Ghebreyesus wel- workers briefly increased the But he did say the intruder “As industries become more What concerns experts most treatment facility should be comed the announcement amount of sodium hydroxide by took “the sodium hydroxide up digitally connected we will con- is the potential for state-backed securing that plant like they’re which follows confirmation a factor of one hundred (from to dangerous levels.” tinue to see more states and hackers intent on doing serious securing the water in their own last month that Washington 100 parts per million to 11,100 Oldsmar officials have since criminals target these sites for harm targeting water supplies, kitchens,” Wheeler said via under President Joe Biden will parts per million), Pinellas disabled the remote-access the impact they have on power grids and other vital email. remain in the Geneva-based County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri system, and say other safe- society,” Lee said. services. “Sometimes when people agency. Former President said during a news conference guards were in place to prevent The leading cybersecurity In May, Israel’s cyber chief set up local networks, they don’t Donald Trump criticized the Monday. the increased chemical from firm FireEye attributed an s aid the country had thwarted understand the danger of an agency and halted funding. Sodium hydroxide, also getting into the water. Officials uptick in hacking attempts it has a major cyber attack a month improperly configured and “We want to underscore called lye, is used to treat water warned other city leaders in the seen in the last year mostly to earlier against its water secured series of Internet-con- the commitment of the United acidity but the compound is also region — which was hosting the novices seeking to learn about systems, an assault widely nected devices.” States to multilateralism and our common cause to respond to this pandemic and improve global public health,” Colin L Biden budget nominee McIff, Acting Director at the Office of Global Affairs in the US Department of Health and regrets harsh tweets Human Services, said at a WHO virtual meeting. REUTERS — WASHINGTON the gatekeeper for the $4 The meeting in Geneva trillion federal budget. aims to help fill a $27bn Neera Tanden, President Joe When Biden picked funding gap for the WHO- Biden’s nominee to head the US Tanden, chief executive of the backed programme, called Office of Management and left-leaning Center for the Access to COVID-19 Budget, apologized yesterday American Progress think tank Tools (ACT) Accelerator for past attacks on Republicans in Washington, Republicans Facilitation Council, that is on social media, which have pointed to her past strong com- aimed at broadening global been a focus of opposition to ments on Twitter, such as access to COVID-19 fighting her nomination from members referring to Senate Republican tools. of that party. Leader Mitch McConnell as The United States had pre- “I recognize the concern. I “Moscow Mitch” and saying viously been an observer to deeply regret and apologize for “vampires have more heart ACT. my language, and some of my than (Senator) Ted Cruz.” The United States, the top past language,” Tanden said at However, now that Dem- donor to the WHO, has her confirmation hearing ocrats control the Senate, with pledged $4bn. WHO’s Special before the Senate Homeland Vice President Kamala Harris Envoy for the ACT Accelerator Security and Governmental able to break a tie, Tanden can Andrew Witty, a former Glax- Affairs Committee. She is due get the 51 votes needed to oSmithKline CEO, said discus- Veterans Affairs Secretary being sworn in to appear before the Senate become the OMB’s director sions on further support from Budget Committee today. even if she wins no Republican the United States were US Vice-President Kamala Harris holds a ceremonial swearing-in for Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis The Office of Management support in the 100-member ongoing. McDonough at the White House in Washington, DC, yesterday. and Budget, or OMB, serves as chamber. Police: Multiple people shot at Kobe Bryant crash pilot disoriented in clouds Minnesota clinic; one detained AP — LOS ANGELES the Sikorsky S-76 helicopter helicopter companies said foggy Orange County to a youth bas- banked abruptly and plunged weather before the helicopter hit ketball tournament at his Mamba AP — BUFFALO have further information on the US safety investigators said into the Southern California hills the ground was an act of God and Sports Academy in Ventura attack, including how many yesterday the pilot of Kobe below, killing all aboard. blamed air traffic controllers. County on January 26, 2020, Multiple people were shot at a people were shot or if anyone Bryant’s helicopter flew through The helicopter did not have The federal hearing focused when the helicopter encountered Minnesota health clinic was killed. the clouds last year in an the so-called “black box” on the long-awaited probable thick fog in the San Fernando yesterday and someone was Police Chief Pat Budke told apparent violation of federal recording devices, which were cause or causes of the tragedy Valley north of Los Angeles. taken into custody afterward, TV station KSTP that the standards, and likely became not required. that unleashed worldwide grief Pilot Ara Zobayan climbed police said. shooting happened inside the disoriented just before the heli- The revelation during a for the retired basketball star, sharply and nearly broke The shooting happened at Allina Clinic Crossroads copter crashed and killed hearing to announce the launched several lawsuits and through the clouds when the the Allina clinic in Buffalo, a campus. He said the situation Bryant and eight others. probable cause or causes of the prompted state and federal Sikorsky S-76 helicopter banked city of about 15,000 people was contained shortly before Robert Sumwalt, chairman crash followed plenty of legislation. abruptly and plunged into the roughly 40 miles northwest of noon and that there was no of the National Transportation finger-pointing. “I think the whole world is Calabasas hills below, killing all Minneapolis, Kelly Prestidge, further threat to the public’s Safety Board, said that pilot Ara Bryant’s widow blamed the watching because it’s Kobe,” nine aboard instantly before an office manager for the safety. Zobayan was flying under pilot. She and relatives of the said Ed Coleman, an Embry- flames engulfed the wreckage. Buffalo Police Department, FBI spokesman Kevin Smith visual flight rules, which meant other victims also faulted the Riddle Aeronautical University There was no sign of said. said the agency’s bomb tech- that he needed to be able to see companies that owned and professor and aircraft safety mechanical failure and the Prestidge said one person nicians were on their way to the where he was going. operated the helicopter. science expert. crash was believed to be an was taken into custody, but that scene, but he could not confirm Zobayan piloted the aircraft The brother of the pilot didn’t Bryant, his 13-year-old accident, the National Trans- she didn’t know if it was the media reports about a possible to climb sharply and had nearly blame Bryant but said he knew daughter, Gianna, and six other portation Safety Board has said shooter. She also said she didn’t bomb or explosion at the clinic. broken through the clouds when about the risks of flying. The passengers were flying from previously. WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 16

WHO says it’s unlikely virus leaked from Wuhan lab

AP — WUHAN

The coronavirus most likely first PRAYER appeared in humans after A closely watched visit TIMINGS jumping from an animal, a team by World Health PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMING of international and Chinese Organization experts to scientists looking for the origins Wuhan — the Chinese of COVID-19 said yesterday, city where the first FAJR 04.54 am dismissing as unlikely an coronavirus cases were SUNRISE 06.12 am alternate theory that the virus leaked from a Chinese lab. discovered — did not DHUHR 11.48 am A closely watched visit by dramatically change the ASR 03.00 pm World Health Organization current understanding MAGHRIB 05.26 pm experts to Wuhan — the Chinese of the early days of the ISHA 06.56 pm city where the first coronavirus cases were discovered — did not pandemic, said Peter dramatically change the current Ben Embarek, the leader understanding of the early days of the WHO mission. of the pandemic, said Peter Ben Embarek, the leader of the WHO mission. But it did “add details to that million people worldwide. story,” he said at a news con- Embarek said the initial ference as the group wrapped up findings suggest the most likely WEATHER a nearly four-week visit to the pathway the virus followed was city. from a bat to another animal and TODAY Peter Ben Embarek, a member of the World Health Organization team tasked with investigating the And it allowed the joint then to humans, adding that origins of the coronavirus disease, shakes hands with Liang Wannian, head of expert panel on COVID- Chinese-WHO team to rule out would require further research. one theory on the origins of the “The findings suggest that 19 response at China’s National Health Commission, in Wuhan, Hubei province, China, yesterday. virus. The Wuhan Institute of the laboratory incidents Virology has collected many virus hypothesis is extremely unlikely outbreak. An AP investigation appeared to have been Associated Press late last week samples, leading to allegations to explain the introduction of the has found that the Chinese gov- spreading in other parts of the that they enjoyed a greater level o o that it may have been the source virus to the human population,” ernment put limits on research city than the market, so it of openness than they had antic- 17 C 26 C of the original outbreak, whether he said. into the outbreak and ordered remains possible that the virus ipated, and that they were Minimum Maximum on purpose or accidentally. The mission was intended to scientists not to speak to originated elsewhere. granted full access to all sites and Misty to foggy at places at first But experts now consider the be an initial step in the process reporters. The team found no evidence personnel they requested. becomes moderate temperature possibility of such a leak so of understanding the origins of The team — which includes that the disease was spreading The visit by the WHO team daytime with some clouds at times, improbable that it will not be sug- the virus, which scientists have experts from 10 countries who widely any earlier than the initial took months to negotiate. China cold by night. gested as an avenue of future posited may have passed to arrived on January 14 — also outbreak in the second half of only agreed to it amid interna- W ALRUWAIS : 17o → 21o study, said Embarek, a WHO food humans through a wild animal, visited the Huanan Seafood December 2019. tional pressure at the WHO’s W ALKHOR : 16o → 25o safety and animal diseases such as a pangolin or bamboo Market, the site of an early “We haven’t been able to World Health Assembly meeting W DUKHAN : 17o → 22o expert. rat. Transmission directly from cluster of cases in late 2019. fully do the research, but there last May, and Beijing has con- W WAKRAH : 13o → 28o China had already strongly bats to humans or through the The market dealt in frozen is no indication there were tinued to resist calls for a strictly rejected that possibility and has trade in frozen food products are seafood and also domesticated clusters before what we saw independent investigation. W MESAIEED : 13o → 28o promoted other theories. The also possibilities, Embarek said. wildlife, and Embarek said the happen in the later part of While China has weathered W ABUSAMRA : 14o → 22o Chinese and foreign experts con- The WHO team’s visit is team had identified the traders, December in Wuhan,” Liang some localised resurgences of sidered several theories for how politically sensitive for Beijing, suppliers and farms connected said. infection since getting the out- HIGH TIDE the disease first ended up in which is concerned about being to the market. Another member of the break under control last year, 04:07 – 14:55 humans, leading to a pandemic blamed for alleged missteps in Liang Wannian, the head of WHO team, British-born zool- life in Wuhan itself has largely that has now killed more than 2.3 its early response to the the Chinese side, said the virus ogist Peter Daszak, told The returned to normal. LOW TIDE 11:46 – 22:16 Mary Wilson, longest-reigning UAE’s Hope Probe enters orbit Kakao founder original Supreme, dies at 76 in first Arab Mars mission to donate over AP — LAS VEGAS REUTERS — DUBAI half its 800kg of onboard fuel Advanced Technology and half of assets Mary Wilson, the longest- to slow down enough not to Chair of the UAE Space Agency, reigning original Supreme, has The United Arab Emirates’ first overshoot, the most dangerous Sarah Al Amiri, said it would BLOOMBERG — SEOUL died at 76 years old. mission to Mars reached the part of the journey. take a few weeks to start col- Wilson died on Monday red planet and entered orbit “Today is the start of a new lecting a mixture of data and Brian Kim, founder of South night at her home in Las Vegas yesterday after a seven-month, chapter in Arab history... of images, which could be made Korea’s top mobile-messenger and the cause was not immedi- 494 million-km journey, trust in our capability to publicly available as early as operator Kakao Corp., said he ately clear, said publicist Jay allowing it to start sending data compete with other nations September. has pledged to donate more than Schwartz. about the Martian atmosphere and people,” Sheikh “It’s an endeavour in devel- half of his wealth to solve social Wilson, Diana Ross and and climate. Mohammed tweeted after the oping capabilities and talent in issues, Yonhap News reported. Florence Ballard made up the The Mars programme is probe entered orbit. “The UAE the country, it is something Mary Wilson Kim, who once lived in a first successful configuration of part of the UAE’s efforts to will celebrate its Golden that has never been done room shared with seven family The Supremes. Ballard was develop its scientific and tech- Jubilee with science, culture before in terms of utilising a members, has seen his wealth replaced by Cindy Birdsong in succession. The Supremes also nological capabilities and and inspiration because we planetary exploration mission rise to $7.9bn and now ranks 1967, and Wilson stayed with recorded the hit songs “You reduce its reliance on oil. The aim to build a model of devel- to do this,” she said. 332nd on the Bloomberg Billion- the group until it was officially Can’t Hurry Love,” “Up the UAE Space Agency, the fifth opment.” This year marks 50 The UAE first announced aires Index, a list of the world’s disbanded by Motown in 1977. Ladder to the Roof,” and “Love globally to reach the planet, years since independence from plans for the mission in 2014 richest people. The group’s first No. 1, Child.” “I just woke up to this even has a plan for a Mars set- Britain and the founding of the and launched a National Space “I have pledged to donate million-selling song, “Where news,” Ross tweeted on tlement by 2117. UAE federation, which groups Programme in 2017 to develop more than half of my assets to Did Our Love Go,” was released Tuesday, offering her condo- “Contact with #HopeProbe seven emirates, including local expertise. solve social issues throughout June 17, 1964. Touring at the lences to Wilson’s family. “I am has been established again. Dubai. Mars probes launched Its population of 9.4 my life,” Kim told Kakao time, Wilson said there was a reminded that each day is a The Mars Orbit Insertion is by China and Nasa just after million, most of whom are employees in a message, moment when she realized they gift,” she added, writing “I have now complete,” said the the UAE’s lift-off in July are foreign workers, lacks the sci- according to Yonhap. had a hit song. so many wonderful memories Mohammed Bin Rashid Space also set to reach the planet this entific and industrial base of “I aim to solve social issues “I remember that instead of of our time together.” Centre, where the ruler of month. the big spacefaring nations. and help people that Kakao has going home on the bus, we Motown founder Berry Dubai and the crown prince of The Emirates Mars Mission, Hazza Al Mansouri became difficulty in approaching.” flew,” she told The Associated Gordy said he was “extremely Abu Dhabi were present to which has cost around $200m, the first Emirati in space in Precise details of the donation Press in 2014. “That was our first shocked and saddened to hear receive the news. launched the Hope Probe from 2019 when he flew to the Inter- have yet to be disclosed, though plane ride. We flew home. We of the passing of a major The attempt had a 50% a Japanese space centre. It national Space Station. Kim is planning an official had really hit big.” It would be member of the Motown family, chance of failing, Dubai’s ruler aims to provide a complete To develop and build the announcement, according to the first of five consecutive No. Mary Wilson of the Supremes.” and UAE Vice-President picture of the Martian atmos- Hope Probe, Emiratis and Yonhap. Kim, 54, developed the 1s, with “Baby Love,” “Come See His statement on Monday night, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid phere for the first time, Dubai’s Mohammed Bin Rashid Kakao Talk app in 2010 and About Me,” Stop! In the Name according to Variety, said, “The Al Maktoum had said. studying daily and seasonal Space Centre (MBRSC) worked controls a 26% stake in the of Love” and “Back in My Arms Supremes were always known To enter Mars’ orbit, the changes. with US educational company. Again” following in quick as the ‘sweethearts of Motown.’” probe needed to burn around Minister of State for institutions. Fossil fuel pollution kills millions more than scientists knew BLOOMBERG — LONDON to fine-particulate pollution generated pollution travels gave scientists greater by fossil-fuel combustion, up from pre- confidence in their numbers. Efforts to slow the process of global vious estimates of roughly 100,000 to The results underscore a fact absent warming focus on the future harms of 150,000. This means even successful from much public debate and discussion continuing to burn fossil fuel, but new pollution-fighters have more work to do about climate change. While the fight to research released yesterday shows that — particularly in poor and historically stop greenhouse gas pollution by cur- deadly consequences from pollution disadvantaged areas, where pollution is tailing fossil fuel use is framed in terms are killing larger numbers of people even more concentrated. of how it would improve the future, it’s right now than had been assumed. The new study improves on previous also true that fossil fuels are killing mil- Fossil fuels are alone responsible for methods in several ways. Much previous lions of people right now. That’s how more than 8 million premature deaths work — including past editions of the Aaron Bernstein, interim director of the annually, according to new research by influential Global Burden of Disease Center for Climate Health and the Global a team of US and UK scientists published study — relied on equivalents extrapo- Environment at Harvard’s Chan School in Environmental Research. That’s lated from studies of cigarette smoking. of Public Health, understands the new double the previous high-end estimate Now, however, there’s enough data on research. of fine-particle pollution mortality, and the real health effects PM 2.5, the dead- “I’m a paediatrician,” said Bernstein, three times the combined number killed liest type of airborne particulate matter who is familiar with the new study but by HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria made up of particles smaller than 2.5 mil- not involved in it. in 2018. lionths of a meter, that the researchers “When I’m taking care of a child Even though air quality has improved were able to refine their findings. who’s struggling to breathe because they in many countries, particularly wealthier The scientists also made other meth- breathe polluted air, the parent of that ones, the findings suggest that even at odological improvements, including by child is maybe very concerned about the lower concentrations pollution caused deriving a tighter relationship between world that their child is going to grow up by fossil fuels is deadlier than previously levels of air pollution and their effects in into, and lead their lives in, when they’re Even though air quality has improved in many countries, particularly wealthier understood. In the US, for instance, the different regions from a comprehensive 40, 50, 80 years old. But I assure you ones, new findings suggest that even at lower concentrations pollution caused researchers found that 350,000 pre- survey of research from around the they worry a lot more about the child mature deaths per year are attributable world. An improved model of how air not breathing right now.” by fossil fuels is deadlier than previously understood.