MONDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2020 www.thepeninsula.qa15 RABIA II - 1442 VOLUME 25 NUMBER 8457

Share unused data and minutes with the family Terms & Conditions Apply

Sport | 12

Abdullah bin JubaraAl Rumaihi

named CEO ofBarwa Real

Estate Group

Messi salutes Maradonaas Barca trounce Osasuna

Business | 01

2 RIYALS

Qatar University and NTSC launch Traffic Safety AwardSIDI MOHAMED THE PENINSULA

Qatar University and the National Traffic Safety Committee (NTSC) yesterday launched ‘The Traffic Safety Award for the State of Qatar’ during a ceremony held at Qatar University.

They also launched the Qatar Traffic Safety website www.roadsafety.qa, which aims to collect and publish research studies and initiatives in the country as a national and global reference. This site con-tains academic publications, reports, events and training workshops, in addition to traffic safety news.

Valuable prizes have also been allocated to everyone who contributes an innovative idea, project or an unprecedented new invention that serves the traffic safety system, contributes to spreading traffic awareness, and tries gradually to solve the

problems facing the system. The value of the Award is QR1,000,000.

The ceremony was attended by Qatar University President Dr. Hassan bin Rashid Al Derham; Director General of the General Directorate of Traffic, Brigadier Mohammed Abdullah Al Shahwani; National Traffic Safety Committee Secretary, Brigadier Mohammed Abdullah Al Malki; Managing Director of Abdullah Abdulghani and Brothers Company (Toyota), Dr. Nasser Abdulghani Al Abdulghani; and Qatar Transport and Traffic Safety Center (QTTSC) Director, Dr Mohammed Yousef Al Qaradawi.

“We are meeting today to value the efforts to make the traffic safety initiatives suc-cessful and to continue to meet the objectives of the National Traffic Safety Strategy 2018-2022. The traffic safety has been built on the National Vision 2030 and is one of the priorities that Qatar seeks to develop,” Dr. Al Derham said. �P2

HIA to install sophisticated surveillance radarTHE PENINSULA — DOHA

Qatar Civil Aviation Authority yesterday signed a contract with Leonardo S.p.A. of Italy for supplying, installing and oper-ating sophisticated Approach

Surveillance Radar PSR & MSSR (Primary and Secondary Radars) at Hamad International Airport.

The signing of contract was witnessed by Minister of Transport and Communications H E Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti

and it was also attended by Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive H E Akbar Al Baker, CAA Chairman H E Abdulla bin Nasser Turki Al Subaiey and Italian Ambassador to Qatar H E Alessandro Prunas. �P3

Education Ministry calls for adherence to precautionary measures during examsQNA — DOHA

The Student Evaluation Department of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education emphasised the necessity of adherence to the application of precautionary

and preventive measures inside and outside the general secondary examination committees in schools.

The Department also stressed the necessity of adherence to the numbers per-mitted in the examination

committees. This came in a meeting held by the adminis-tration with school principals and supervisors at high school exams headquarters, in the framework of preparing for the end of the first semester exams for the year 2020-21.

The meeting discussed the procedures followed in the sec-ondary examinations and stressed the need to implement them.

It also touched on the precautionary procedures followed inside and outside

the committee, where all public and private schools that apply national standards must fully adhere to the application of precautionary measures.

The Student Evaluation Department also stressed the

need to adhere to the numbers allowed in the examination committees, so that the number of students in classrooms does not exceed a maximum of 15 students, and does not exceed a maximum of 60 students in the sports hall. � �P4

Minister of Transport and Communications H E Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti witnessing the signing of the contract. Also seen are Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive H E Akbar Al Baker, CAA Chairman H E Abdulla bin Nasser Turki Al Subaiey, and Italian Ambassador to Qatar, H E Alessandro Prunas.

QR1,000,000 awardValuable prizes have been allocated to everyone who contributes an innovative idea, project or an unprecedented new invention that serves the traffic safety system, contributes to spreading traffic awareness, and tries gradually to solve the problems facing the system. The value of the Award is QR1,000,000.

02 MONDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2020HOME

Kenya Speaker welcomes Shura Council electionsQNA — NAIROBI

The Speaker of the National Assembly of Kenya Justin Muturi welcomed the announcement of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to hold elections for the Shura Council in October next year.

He said that the legislative process in the State of Qatar is commendable, adding that it is considered a bold step in strengthening the traditions of the Shura Council in a way that enhance citizen participation, which is an important com-ponent of democracy.

Total COVID-19recoveries riseto 135,862: MoPHTHE PENINSULA — DOHA

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) yesterday announced the registration of 171 new confirmed COVID-19 cases.

Also 211 people have recovered from the virus, bringing the total number of recovered cases in Qatar to 135,862.

82 referred to prosecution for not wearing face masksTHE PENINSULA — DOHA

The Ministry of Interior (MoI) yesterday referred 82 people to the Public Prosecution for not wearing face masks, which is mandatory as part of COVID-19 precautionary measures.

The Ministry also said that it has referred five people for violating the limit allowed in a vehicle, which is specified as four including the driver, except for the members of the same family. The authorities called on the public to adhere to the precautionary and pre-ventive measures.

Qatar takes part in meeting of Airsport Federation of AsiaQNA — DOHA

The State of Qatar, represented by the Qatar Air Sports Committee, participated in the annual meeting of the Airsport Federation of Asia (AFA), which was held virtually, in the presence of 17 countries.

The meeting is part of a series of periodic meetings of international and regional fed-erations and organizing com-mittees for air sports activities. The meeting discussed the nature of the relationship with the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and the Asiania Para-chute Federation (ASIANIA), among others.

Seasonal flu vaccine safe for pregnant women: HMC expertTHE PENINSULA — DOHA

The seasonal influenza vacci-nation is safe for pregnant women and also can help to protect both mothers and their babies aged under six months from getting the flu and as winter approaches it is more important than ever that they get vaccinated.

Though most people recover relatively quickly from flu, preg-nancy can change the way the human body handles a viral infection, according to Senior Consultant Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Executive Director of Quality & Safety at the Women Wellness and Research Center, Dr. Huda Abdulla Al Saleh.

“Flu can be very serious during pregnancy for both mothers-to-be and their babies and leaves women at higher risk of complications and, in some cases, can develop into pneu-monia,” Dr. Al Saleh said.

“That is why we are encour-aging all pregnant women to have the vaccine as soon as pos-sible, so they are protected from flu viruses circulating this winter.”

“The influenza vaccine has been given safely to millions of pregnant women worldwide over many years. Influenza vac-cinations have not been shown to cause harm to pregnant women or their babies. Women who have had the flu vaccine while pregnant also pass some

protection on to their babies, which lasts for the first few months of their lives. It is also safe for women who are breast-feeding to have the vaccine.”

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) and Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) have again joined forces to offer free flu vaccines to all in Qatar. People can get the free flu vaccine at all Primary Health Care Centres, more than 40 private clinics as well as when they attend outpatients appoint-ments at HMC.

Dr. Al Saleh said as we con-tinue to battle COVID-19 it was more important than ever to get the flu vaccine this year.

“It’s even more critical this

year because both the flu and COVID-19 can mean serious illness,” Dr. Al Saleh said. “We don’t yet know what this winter holds as far as the two infections together, so we want to do eve-rything possible to prevent both.

“While the flu and COVID-19 are two different viruses, it is important to ensure you are pro-tected against the seasonal flu this year. Getting a flu vaccine will not protect against COVID-19. However, the flu vac-cination has many other important benefits including reducing the risk of flu illnesses and hospitalisations.”

For more information about the flu vaccine including where you can your free flu shot, go to www.fighttheflu.qa

Future of schools in post-pandemic era explored at QF ForumFAZEENA SALEEM THE PENINSULA

Recommendations for the future of schools in a post COVID-19 era were explored at Qatar Founda-tion’s (QF) Teaching and Learning Forum, yesterday.

‘Teaching and Learning Forum 2020 — Deep Dive’ brought together those in the field of education to address the theme of ‘Education for Resilience.’ The virtual event build upon a pre-vious forum held in October.

Held by the Education Devel-opment Institute (EDI), part of QF’s Pre-University Education, the day-long virtual event saw par-ticipants engage in discussions surrounding the question, ‘How do we make learning sustainable amid and post COVID-19?’

Director of the Diplomatic Institute at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Abdulaziz Al Horr, in a keynote speech said, “The issue of identity is a worldwide concern, and the challenges differ

between societies. We cannot import a specific identity-making project and apply it in a certain community, as we must have suf-ficient understanding of our society — its data, its strengths and weaknesses, its history and geography — to enable us to for-mulate a proper national identity project. There are societies that have already succeeded in finding solutions to reach a common concept of identity.

“Today, we need to discuss

the issue of identity, define com-monalities and concepts and design frameworks on the issue of identity. Building a national identity is not a state project, but rather a community one. Creating an identity requires a lot of societal, practical and behav-ioural projects and programmes, not just knowledge content that we communicate to children and test them on,” he added.

The newly published

recommendations developed under six streams at the Forum include, Personalising Teaching and Learning; Building Inclusive and Accessible Learning Com-munities; Fostering Community and Individual Wellbeing; Glo-balizing the Curriculum; Identi-fying and Solving Problems; and Redefining Communication — have now been analysed to assess how they can potentially be taken forward within schools, curricula, and specific education areas.

Eric Sheninger, Associate Partner with the International Center for Leadership in Edu-cation said, “So much attention has been paid to the pandemic, and rightfully so. But prior to the pandemic, the most disruptive force that was really compelling us to think about what we were doing was the Fourth Industrial Revolution.”

The Fourth Industrial Revo-lution (or Industry 4.0) is the ongoing automation of

traditional manufacturing and industrial practices, using modern smart technology.

“If we think about what our learners need right now in the midst of pandemic — with the Fourth Industrial Revolution – our learners need to think,” he said.

“They need those personal skills, especially since they’re isolated behind their computer screens. They need job-specific skills, which are going to be rad-ically different to what we thought they might have been even a few months ago,” said Sheninger.

Participants at the forum also heard from a faculty member at Harvard University and founder of Edumetrics Inc., Dan Kindlon and President of the Lebanese Association for History, Nayla Khader Hamadeh, whose work is focused on designing and implementing new approaches to teaching history.

Director of the Diplomatic Institute at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Abdulaziz Al Horr

‘Teaching and Learning Forum 2020 — Deep Dive’ brought together those in the field of education to address the theme of ‘Education for Resilience.’ The virtual event build upon a previous forum held in October.

Conceptual designsof Al ShahaniyaIntersection finalisedIRFAN BUKHARI THE PENINSULA

Under system of integrated planning of road network, the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MoTC) has finalised conceptual designs of Al Shahaniya Intersection.

“As MoTC continues devel-oping a system of integrated planning of road network in Qatar, the conceptual designs that aim to improve the entrances and exits of Al Sha-haniya Intersection have been finalised,” the Ministry said in a tweet yesterday.

“The project aims to improve road safety, reduce traffic on the roundabout and the Commercial Avenue as well as separating the traffic heading to Azab Complex in Al Sha-haniya from the Commercial Avenue by providing two lanes in each direction in

coordination with relevant entities and the project is cur-rently being carried out.”

Earlier in September 2020, the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MoTC) had completed concept design for Phase 4 of the Main Roads Infra-structure Project in Central Doha. The concept of the project which includes many new underpasses and overhead bridges had been sent to the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) for detailed design and implementation.

“Continuing the Ministry’s efforts to develop an integrated planning system for road network across the country, Phase 4 of the Main Roads Infra-structure & Concept Design Project in Central Doha has been completed, which is a major part of the future of Doha. It has been submitted to the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) to prepare the detailed design and start

implementation,” the MoTC had announced in a tweet.

It is to be noted here that the Ministry of Transport and Com-munications had signed a mem-orandum of understanding (MoU) with the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) on planning, studying, designing, main-taining and managing the road projects in August this year.

The MoU is upgrading the level of collaboration, joint efforts and constructive coop-eration between the two sides

with the aim of providing a safe, integrated transportation system in line with best uni-versal practices and standards within the tasks and compe-tencies of the two parties.

The MoTC and Ashghal aim to develop and manage the mobility and transportation projects as an integrated network compatible with other modes of transportation in an efficient, economic, safe and environment-friendly fashion.

The two sides aim to fulfil

the needs of the State of Qatar from in mobility and transpor-tation in line with the Second National Development Strategy (2018-2022) and Qatar National Vision 2030, an earlier statement had stated.

Ashghal carries out infra-structure projects across the country according to the rec-ommendations of MoTC and the comprehensive plans, strategic studies, concept designs, prior-ities, recommendations, reports, research and the like.

QU, National Traffic Safety Committee launch Traffic Safety AwardFROM PAGE 1

Speaking at the event, he said: “In recent years, the State of Qatar has been able to improve and work to reduce traffic accidents to the point of competition from developed countries, thanks to the efforts of all sides, notably the General Directorate of Traffic and the National Traffic Safety Com-mittee at the Ministry of Interior.”

Qatar University, repre-sented by QTTSC, was assigned by the National Traffic Safety Committee to carry out several measures, including the annual program of the Traffic Safety Award and creation of the Traffic Safety website of Qatar,” he added.

For his part, Brigadier Al Shahwani said: “We are deter-mined to make all the traffic safety initiatives in Qatar suc-cessful, and we inform you that the Directorate General of Traffic at the Ministry of the Interior has insisted on continuing to work to improve the traffic safety system in the State of Qatar.”

“We are working together to achieve the United Nations goals for sustainable devel-opment endorsed by the State of Qatar, related to the devel-opment of road networks, transport services, congestion reduction, transport planning and land use. The country has also set a new world record in the reduction of traffic acci-dents,” he said.

In his speech, Brigadier Al Malki, said: “This annual prize for traffic safety in Qatar, measures traffic awareness in all categories of the society, rep-resented in scientific and engi-neering innovations, artistic and intellectual innovations, and adopt and execute projects with a tangible and sustainable impact in the field of traffic safety.”

The target groups in the Traffic Safety Award include, individual category, and this award will be presented to an individual who has developed an initiative concerned with traffic safety and has actively contributed to improving traffic safety in Qatar.

The person must be a citizen or resident of Qatar and the submitted works must be inno-vative and clearly explained, and the idea should not have been previously proposed. One

or more ideas can be partici-pated and if one of them wins, the rest of the posts are excluded.

Then there is a category of public and private institutions,

and category considered to be special for prominent partici-pants in the field of traffic safety for organizations that have undertaken initiatives to reduce traffic accidents and have

contributed to raising the level of traffic safety in Qatar.

The institution must be in Qatar, and government agencies and institutions con-cerned with traffic safety in the public and private sector are entitled to participate in the award.

As for the educational insti-tutions category, it includes kin-dergartens, schools, institutes, colleges and universities, where the best projects, initiatives, research and scientific, intel-lectual and technical innova-tions in the field of traffic safety will be selected.

The National Traffic Safety Committee has prepared a detailed guidebook that includes the conditions and cri-teria for participation for each category of the competition for traffic safety education in Qatar, in addition to the participation forms for each category. The brochure is available via the link roadsafety.qa. An award ceremony will be organized for the winners during the World Traffic Safety Conference 2021 in Qatar.

FROM LEFT: Secretary, National Traffic Safety Committee Brigadier Mohammed Abdullah Al Malki; Director-General, General Directorate of Traffic Brigadier Mohammed Abdullah Al Shahwani; President of Qatar University, Dr. Hassan bin Rashid Al Derham; and Managing Director of Abdullah Abdulghani and Brothers Co, Dr. Nasser Abdulghani Al Abdulghani, at the launch ceremony of the Road Safety Award held at Qatar University yesterday. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA

Qatar condemns attack in NigeriaQNA — DOHA

Qatar voiced its strong condem-nation and denunciation of the attack which targeted the village of Koshobe in northeast Nigeria, leaving dead and injured.

In a statement issued yes-terday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated the firm position of Qatar on rejecting violence and terrorism, regardless of motives and reasons. The statement expressed Qatar’s condolences to the families of the victims, and to the government and people of Nigeria, wishing the injured a speedy recovery.

THE PENINSULA — DOHA

Qatar Fund For Development signed a memorandum of under-standing (MoU) with the Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education of Somalia to support a local project by Education Above All (EAA) Foundation aimed at providing quality primary education to Somalian children, yesterday.

The MoU was signed in support of Education Above All project to provide primary edu-cation to 57,000 out-of-school children.

The MoU also aims to provide alternative basic education to older children and retain them, empower teachers to use child-centred teaching practices, strengthen community education committees, and improve the project management capabilities of staff at the Ministry of Edu-cation, Culture and Higher Education.

Representing Qatar, Director General of Qatar Fund For Devel-opment, Khalifa bin Jassim Al Kuwari, signed the agreement along with Abdullahi Abukar Haji, Minister of Education, Culture and Higher Education of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

Kuwari affirmed that this pledge comes as part of Qatar’s commitment towards the gov-ernment and people of Somalia, building on a number of current projects between the two coun-tries, and covering several devel-opmental areas in all states, including rehabilitation and development of infrastructure, stimulating the economy, cre-ating jobs for youth, and empow-ering women.

He added that Qatar would be keen to support the Somali government in achieving its com-prehensive national goals.

“The State of Qatar is one of the biggest supporters of Somalia in various fields such as edu-cation. Empowering Somali people to contribute to building and developing their country is

very important to us,” he added.Minister of Education, Culture

and Higher Education of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Abdullahi Abukar Haji said, “We are grateful for the Qatar’s support to my country during the past years.”

He affirmed that the Qatari-Somali bilateral relations have always been strong and beneficial.”

He commended the support provided by Qatar in various fields, especially in education. CEO of Education Above All, Fahad Hamad Al Sulaiti said, “We must remember that education is an integral part of human capital and development as well as an engine for sustainable development. Let us work together to provide a better

future for all by ensuring equality and inclusivity through providing quality education.

The project will work with the aim of promoting the enrolment of children deprived of formal primary education in

the Somalia’s states of Puntland, Galmudug, Hershabil, Jubaland and south-western Somalia, and to ensure that nearly 57,600 out-of-school children have access to basic education, who were denied it as a result of instability,

displacement and poverty.“We value the efforts of both

partners and those who support us to find sustainable solutions to help create a safe environment for education and prosperity,” Al Sulaiti said.

03MONDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2020 HOME

QFFD signs MoU with Somalia Education Ministry

Director-General of Qatar Fund For Development, Khalifa bin Jassim Al Kuwari, and Minister of Education, Culture and Higher Education of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Abdullahi Abukar Haji, signed the agreement.

Qatar’s foreign policy based on values of peaceand prosperity, says Ambassador to GermanyQNA — BERLIN

Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Federal Republic of Germany H E Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Thani has said that the values of Qatari foreign policy is based on peace, stability and prosperity, which are national values that stem from the deep belief of Qatar in the importance of international cooperation and the adoption of balanced diplomacy, rationality and dialogue as tools to promote international peace in a sustainable manner.

He said while delivering a lecture through virtual tech-nology at the European School of Management and Tech-nology to a number of busi-nessmen, economists and rep-resentatives of German companies.

He focused on the prepara-tions of Qatar to host the World Cup, the progress it has made in this regard and the devel-opment of the legal envi-ronment governing workers’ rights.

He stressed on the strength

of bilateral relations between Qatar and Germany, which are based on understanding, coop-eration, mutual respect and common interests. This has led to strengthening international cooperation and consolidating peace through international forums and diplomatic medi-ation to resolve disputes, he added.

The Ambassador referred

to the congruence of shared visions regarding the nature of the challenges posed by regional and international developments, especially with regard to the war on terror, achieving reconciliation in Libya and Syria, the unity of the position towards the devas-tating war on Yemen and the nature of the relationship with Iran.

Ambassador of Qatar to Germany, H E Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Thani, delivering a lecture through virtual technology.

Ooredoo CSO shortlisted for WeQual EMEA AwardsTHE PENINSULA — DOHA

Ooredoo Qatar Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) Munera Al Dosari joins an exclusive group of women shortlisted for the pres-tigious WeQual EMEA 2020 Awards.

The Ooredoo CSO is one of just 24 world-class female exec-utives nominated for the shortlist in the WeQual EMEA awards, which recognise and celebrate potential C-suite leaders.

The nomination is based on the WeQual organisers finding successful senior women who are one level below C-suite. The 24 finalists were assessed against seven criteria: leadership, cog-nitive ability, integrity, drive and resilience, equality, knowledge

of the business, and personal development.

Director PR at Ooredoo Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari said, “Congratulations to my colleague and CSO Munera Al Dosari on being named as a finalist for WeQual EMEA 2020. This is a tremendous achievement and we welcome the way her existing industry recognition and repu-tation is beginning to reach a global audience.”

Commenting on being short-listed, Munera Al Dosari said, “I am proud to be shortlisted for one of these awards, among the first to target women at this level. Besides connecting me to like-minded female executives, it builds awareness of both Ooredoo and this group of

talented people from across the business world.”

CEO Katie Litchfield founded the WeQual Awards to augment women’s represen-tation in leadership roles within the world’s biggest businesses in response to her perception of a lack of diversity and equality in such roles and organisations.

Al Dosari joins a senior group of 24 executives who will become members of the WeQual Club, alongside an existing cohort of 72 senior FTSE and Fortune 500 female executives. A quarter of the winners of previous UK and US WeQual Awards have since been promoted to FTSE and Fortune 500 companies’ exec-utive committees.

The MoU was signed in support of Education Above All project to provide primary education to 57,000 out-of-school children. It aims to provide alternative basic education to older children, empower teachers to use child-centred teaching practices, strengthen community education committees, and improve the project management capabilities of staff at the Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education.

ANNHRI marks International Day of Solidarity with Palestinian peopleQNA — DOHA

The Doha-based Arab Network for National Human Rights Insti-tutions (ANNHRI) organised a symposium to commemorate the International Day of Soli-darity with the Palestinian people, which was adopted by the United Nations in 1977 and falls on November 29 each year.

A large number of national human rights institutions affil-iated with the ANNHRI partici-pated in the symposium, along with the United Nations, repre-sented by the Special Rapporteur

on the Occupied Palestinian Ter-ritories, the Friends of Palestine organisation, the Center for Defense of Liberties and Civil Rights “Hurryyat” from Pal-estine, Kyoto University from Japan, and the Palestinian Min-istry of Foreign Affairs.

In an opening speech, Head of the ANNHRI Issam Younis said that commemoration of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is an affirmation that the Palestinian cause expresses inherent and inalienable rights, on top of which are the right to self-deter-

mination and to return.He underlined that the

current situation is the most dangerous to the Palestinian cause due to the serious encroachment of the rights of the Palestinians, and the cre-ation of new facts unilaterally, indicating that settlements are now the most serious crimes committed against the Pales-tinians and their lands, espe-cially as they are in full view of the world.

He warned of the process of Judaising Jerusalem and con-sider it a capital for

the occupation power which continues its violations of the rules of international law and the basic rights of the Palestinian people.

For his part, ANNHRI Exec-utive Director Sultan Hassan Al Jamali called on the Arab nation to shoulder its responsibilities, starting with ending Arab con-cessions and stopping normalisation.

He stressed that normali-sation with the occupation vio-lated the states’ obligations towards the Palestinians and the justice of their cause, and led to

prejudice to the human rights of the Palestinian people.

He noted that the sym-posium comes at a very sensitive time in view of the complex con-ditions the Palestinian issue is going through, which are repre-sented in the lack of prospects for a political solution, the emer-gence of projects and annexation plans, the attempts of the American administration to settle the issue, as well as the accelerating pace of normali-sation with the occupation state at the expense of the Palestinian people’s rights.

The symposium discussed a number of topics related to the accountability for the crimes of the occupation from the point of view of international law, the role of the State of Palestine and the Palestinian diplomacy in facing annexation plans, the sick Palestinian prisoners and inter-national law, the international relations between Japan and the Middle East, and the human rights strategy to confront the occupation, in addition to the role of solidarity movements with the Palestinian people in Europe.

Ties with Qatar diverse,vibrant: Indian envoySANAULLAH ATAULLAH THE PENINSULA

Ambassador of India to Qatar, H E Dr. Deepak Mittal, has said that Qatar-India relationship is very strong, diverse, vibrant and multifaceted ranging from trade investment cooperation to energy, agriculture, healthcare, people-to-people contact and those related to cultural and educational sectors.

“We have also seen good exchanges during past few months in specific sectors like trade and investment. India this year remained among major trading partners of Qatar which showed strengthening of bilateral ties, even during dif-ficult times of coronaviurs we maintained our great part-nership,” said Dr. Deepak Mittal.

Dr. Mittal was speaking in an interactive session with local media organised by the Embassy of Indian at its premises yesterday.

“An Indian university (a campus of Savitribai Phule Pune University in Qatar) will open in second half of 2021 offering a lot of streams in BSc, Bachelor of Education (BEd), BA and many other degrees,” said Dr. Mittal.

He said that 18 Indian schools are operating in Qatar. “Two more new Indian schools are in the process of getting approval. H E Minister of Edu-cation and Higher Education of Qatar and the education authority showed strong

support to open more schools to meet the need of largest expatriate community which accounts over 700,000 people,” said Dr. Mittal.

He said that the Embassy provided over 25,000 services from September 2020 till now including passport services, emergency certificates, attes-tation services, police clearance certificates which are needed for job change and education requirements, visa services and many more.

“To cope with COVID-19, we have put in place online appointment system for con-sular service with automatic confirmation. A user can go to the appointment system and select date and time which is available and immediately get system generated confirmation. Now no more needed to wait for confirmation for appointment,” said Dr. Mittal.

He said that the Embassy also started emergency

appointment service enabling applicants to request for early appointment. “The service is fully operational to deal with emergency cases which people do need,” he added.

He said that the Embassy has started special walk-in-facility for all senior citizens retired government employees from India living in Qatar who needed to have life certificate issued for pension purpose. “A total of 197 life certificates were issued in November. They can walk in without any appointment and will be served,” said Dr. Mittal.

He said that the Embassy is working to undertake a very robust grievance system, an online portal ‘Madad’ through which people can approach the Embassy and get response. “The Embassy also plans to launch a mobile app under its reach out programme as it is easy and accessible for all,” said Dr. Mittal.

Ambassador of India to Qatar, H E Dr. Deepak Mittal, during a press conference in Doha, yesterday. PIC: ABDUL BASIT/ THE PENINSULA

HIA to install sophisticated surveillance radarFROM PAGE 1

The contract was signed by the Director of Financial and Administrative Affairs Department and Tender Com-mittee Chair, CAA, Ali Hamad Al Kuwari and Branch Director, Leonardo S.p.A., Abdallah Mroue.

The new radar, to be supplied and installed by the Italian firm, will be added to existing radars at HIA, thus maintaining the air-port’s position as one of the best

in the world as the new terminal will be equipped with latest, sophisticated radars in line with QNV2030.

The new radar will effec-tively contribute to keeping pace with the growing capacity of the airport and Qatari airspaces. It will also improve air traffic sur-veillance and enhance air navi-gation safety and security.

The new device will also facilitate surveillance and control

over an increasing air navigation activity in Qatar particularly during major events Qatar is hosting over the coming years on top of which is the FIFA World Cup 2022.

The radar will be surveilling aircraft movement and identi-fying them within Qatar’s air-space and the surrounding regions with a coverage range of nearly 230 nautical miles off the center of the radar.

04 MONDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2020HOME

A popular platform for Qatari designers to showcase their latest collections, this year’s edition includes a series of talks covering topics from design to innovation and entrepreneurship.

Heya features high profile talks on fashion businessTHE PENINSULA — DOHA

The ongoing 17th Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition presents a series of events showcasing the latest in Arabian and modest designs, as well as valuable insights on the business of fashion.

A popular platform for Qatari designers to showcase their latest collections, this year’s edition includes a series of talks covering topics from design to innovation and entrepreneurship.

Qatar Business Events Cor-poration (QBEC) CEO Ahmed Al Obaidli commented: “Heya is bringing together local talent to educate and entertain audi-ences in Qatar, and to offer up-and-coming designers the opportunity to learn from industry leaders, while contrib-uting to the economy. We are pleased to present a diverse and inspirational programme of talks this year, in collaboration with our partners across the public and private sectors, with the aim of developing synergies between designers, entrepre-neurs, aficionados, and stu-dents, and furthering Qatar’s burgeoning fashion business.”

Each day has featured talks, providing opportunities to network, learn and be inspired

by the best of Arabian and modest fashion. Opening day included a session by Maha Al Sulaiti, Acting Director of M7, a creative startup hub established by Qatar Museums. The session highlighted M7’s role in culti-vating opportunities for small businesses and empowering designers to explore, collab-orate, and grow into successful entrepreneurs.

Led by Amal Ameen, Founder& CEO of Amici Di Moda, along with media per-sonalities Ola Al Fares, Asma Al Hammadi and Al Ftoon Al-Janahi, “Abaya Talk” focused on modest fashion’s role in shaping the industry into a significant retail sector, and how it has helped empower women. A talk show entitled “Flowers & Fashion” by Khadeja Ahmad

Albuhaliqa, Co-founder of H.E.N.K.S gardens, celebrated the role of flowers in inspiring designers throughout the years.

On day two of the exhi-bition, Dana Riad, Founder and CEO of Dana Riad House of Fashion, hosted a discussion entitled “From Concept to Runway, behind the Scenes” while Harriet Gyamfuah, PR director of Creative Amplified and Abla Sebak, CEO of Noir Group, spoke about the power of public relations in fashion.

Day three of Heya featured a talk on scaling up fashion

business, focusing on the oppor-tunities, programmes and entities that support budding fashion entrepreneurs. Panel-lists included Aysha Al Romaihi, Head of Strategic Initiatives and Business Collaborations at Qatar Business Incubation Center (QBIC) and Maha Al Sulaiti, Acting Director of M7.

As with many of Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC) exhibitions, young talent played a prominent role at Heya. A talk on “What it is like to study fashion in Qatar” brought together alumni

of Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts (VCUarts), Roda al Marzouqi, Jude Zahran, and Lauren Morell. Sustainability, of great import to Qatar, was also a key theme, with a discussion of “Sustainable Luxury Fashion.” Panellists included Sonali Raman from VCUarts Qatar, Sakala A. Debrass and Kim Wyatt, with the talk drawing many attendees.

Chris Fink, Chair of Fashion Design at VCUarts Qatar com-mented: “We are thrilled to be part of Qatar’s premier fashion

event again this year. For close to two decades, we’ve been partnering with Heya, giving our students and alumni a chance to be part of the growing Qatari fashion industry, gain hands-on experience and meet designers, planners, influencers and buyers.”

Those who have not yet visited the exhibition still have a chance to do so. Three more talks are scheduled for today. A talk on “Women Empowerment in Social Media Era” will be pre-sented by Zunira Malik, CEO of What’s Up Doha; Mahdiya Farook, Founder of Social Panther Group; and Conchita Ponce, Founder of Future 318.

“Marketing through Pho-tography” by Aljazi Alhajri, Creative Content Creator, will give a general overview on sales and marketing, how to increase business exposure and Instagram engagement. Fatma Ghanem, CEO of Fatma Ghanem Academy, will cover “Grow Your Business, Knowing Yourself,” discussing how to cultivate passion in business.

The five-day exhibition organised by QBEC, a subsidiary of QNTC, runs until tomorrow at Doha Exhibition and Con-vention Centre with represen-tation from more than 150 Qatari brands.

The 17th Heya includes a series of talks covering topics from design to innovation and entrepreneurship.

Education Ministry calls for adherence to precautionary measures during exams

Scatteredrain inselect areasof Qatar

FROM PAGE 1

The meeting also discussed the procedures adopted to confront cases of cheating and handle such cases in light of the student evaluation policy.

In this context, Assistant Director of Student Assessment Department Iman Al Mohannadi highlighted the Ministry of Education and Higher Education’s keenness to inform school principals and committees about the proce-dures for the exam period to ensure that it is managed as required and to provide a safe exam environment for all students.

It is noteworthy to mention that the high school diploma exams will start from November 30 and end on December 15.

THE PENINSULA — DOHA

Scattered rain was reported yesterday in the central, eastern and southern parts of Qatar. After the scattered rain, stunning rainbows were seen from Salwa road and The Pearl-Qatar.

On Twitter, Qatar Meteor-ology Department (QMD) shared photos and videos of rain observed in Al Zubarah. Al Rayyan also received light rain.

QMD has forecast that weather is expected to con-tinue cloudy to cloudy until December 12, 2020 as a result of the extension of upper level trough of low pressure system that is concentrated over the northwest of the Arabian Peninsula.

The chances of scattered rain will continue in inter-mittent periods as it may turn to thundery rain at some places and varying in intensity and may be accompanied by strong wind which leads to blowing dust and low visibility at times.

Marine warning expected on December 1 with expected thundery rain accompanied by strong wind and high sea. QMD urged people to be careful and to avoid all marine activities during warning period as well as to follow latest updates through its official account.

Given the current weather conditions in some parts of the country, QMD also shared instructions to ensure safety during thundery rain.

Blue Salon unveils the RULE FRAGRANCES perfume lineTHE PENINSULA — DOHA

RULE FRAGRANCES, in part-nership with Blue Salon, has recently unveiled a timeless contemporary fragrance line.

It is inspired by Da Vinci’s quote “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication”, and boasts an exquisite mixture of harmony and luxury. The perfume house, RULE FRA-GRANCES, was establish in 2018 by Mert Sajdam - a chemical engineer and expert in luxury cosmetics - and Umut Gur - a computer engineer spe-cializing in business devel-opment and project design.

The company was estab-lished in July 2019 as a contem-porary aromatic house in Istanbul, the city of culture and

civilizations where East meets West. RULE FRAGRANCES takes inspiration for its fra-grances from simplicity and minimalism, expressing them with a contemporary design approach.

The goal is not only to create new perfumes but to create a community that values arts and crafts. From the RULE FRAGRANCE line comes the “Sway” perfume, which has a precious and contemporary scent with ingredients such as orange blossoms, ylang-ylang and jasmine, and notes of creamy vanilla, musk and coconut. The enigmatic Extrait De Parfum features a lily flower surrounded by a mys-terious blend of sandalwood and amber.

Stars of Science invites aspiringinnovators to apply for Season 13THE PENINSULA — DOHA

Qatar Foundation’s Stars of Science is accepting online submissions for Season 13 from aspiring Arab innovators until December 31, with selected indi-viduals being given the oppor-tunity to present their ideas to a panel of scientific experts.

Young Arab innovators with ideas and solutions designed to tackle global challenges – such as the COVID-19 pandemic – are encouraged to apply and transform their concepts into tangible innovations.

For more than a decade, the

impact of Stars of Science has been felt through its significant contribution to creating a vibrant entrepreneurial culture among young people in Arab countries, which is reflected by the successes achieved by its many alumni.

Stars of Science has thus far empowered more than 147 innovators representing 18 Arab countries, instilling the values of collaboration and scientific excellence during their time on the show. Collectively, the show’s alumni community have become drivers of change to catalyse social progress and

create a culture of innovation across the Arab region and beyond.

Stars of Science not only provides funding and technical assistance, but also grants con-testants the necessary tools to develop their ideas and projects. Furthermore, partic-ipants of Stars of Science Season 13 will become part of a wide network of alumni that holds collaboration and rein-forcement as its main foundation.

More details on how to apply can be found at www.starsofscience.com

Presenter, Khalid Al Jumaily, with various Stars of Science alumni outside Qatar Science & Technology Park.

THE PENINSULA – DOHA

The leading retailer Lulu Hyper-market Qatar signed a Memo-randum of Understanding (MoU) with the Embassy of North Macedonia yesterday in a ceremony held at the Regional Headquarters of Lulu Hyper-market on D-Ring Road to promote the business cooper-ation for import of agricultural produce, meat, meat products, Ajvar and cheese varieties of North Macedonian origin to Qatar.

Chargé d’ Affaires of the Embassy of North Macedonia to the State of Qatar, Elma Altorok, and Director of Lulu Hypermarkets, Dr. Mohamed Althaf, signed the MoU in the presence of officials from both the organisations. Under the MoU, the Embassy will facilitate to establish trade relations between potential suppliers of North Macedonia and Lulu Hypermarket Qatar for regular import of products from North Macedonia to Qatar.

Elma Altorok said: “I am pleased to start negotiations to

promote North Macedonian food in Qatar, in collaboration with LuLu Hypermarket.

The initiative is designed to promote and exhibit a wide range of traditional ‘Made in North Macedonia’ products, while telling the unique story of the extraordinary Mace-donian cuisine and food. We believe that today’s negotiation was the beginning of a great

success story that will help us raise awareness and appreci-ation of the local market towards North Macedonian food.”

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Mohamed Althaf said: “I sin-cerely appreciate the gesture from the Embassy of North Macedonia. I think, with all these interesting products that we start to bring in, this is the first time we are trying up something like this. This will be the first opportunity for us to bring in products of North Mac-edonia to Qatar, and we are very happy for the interest in Lulu and for promoting the products of North Macedonian origin in Qatar.

This will, no doubt, help Qatar and Lulu to diversify our sourcing operations now. We would be happy to add products of North Macedonian origin on our shelves.”

“Today we have this MoU that we are signing; this will be the beginning of our journey. We will be exploring more and more product lines. We will together expand the categories,

and I think this will be a huge boost for both North Macedonia, Lulu as well as Qatar in terms of import of products,” he added.

The first products that will be exported to Qatar are fruits and vegetables, meat and meat product (lamb), as well as AJVAR (can also be spelled Ayvar in English, renowned as

one of the most popular culinary staples in North Mac-edonia) is a traditional roasted pepper appetizer that dates back over centuries, cheese and healthy food products.

The unique products are aimed at presenting the Mace-donian history and heritage. Due to their uniqueness and value, they are transforming the

tradition into luxury. Lulu’s intentions are aimed at pro-viding our partners and cus-tomers with all kinds of premium quality products from North Macedonia. Through a concentrated effort and deter-mined purpose, Lulu is con-fident that it will provide cus-tomers with the best value for quality, service and price.

05MONDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2020 HOME

Today we have this MoU that we are signing; this will be the beginning of our journey. We will be exploring more and more product lines. We will together expand the categories, and I think this will be a huge boost for both North Macedonia, Lulu as well as Qatar in terms of import of products.

Dr. Mohamed Althaf, Director of Lulu Hypermarkets.

HEC Paris in Qatar concludes Mid-Management Program for Alstom AMECATHE PENINSULA – DOHA

HEC Paris, one of the leading providers of executive education in the world, has successfully completed its fourth Africa, Middle East, and Central Asia (AMECA) Mid-Management (M3) custom program for Alstom.

The program offers selected participants access to the renowned faculty and learning methods of HEC Paris and rein-forces the exceptional man-agement skills of Alstom’s key talent in the region. Tailored to the participants’ needs and designed in conjunction with Alstom, a total of 25 candidates from the AMECA region were

chosen for the M3 program. The first module of the program ‘My World, My Company’ was organized in Istanbul, Turkey, from 3 – 7 November 2019.

The second module ‘Me and My Leadership’, which was spe-cially adapted to be delivered online, took place in October and November 2020 and focused on experiential learning that included a series of simu-lations, exercises and role play activities.

Featuring talks by Professor Charles Matar, Dr. Thierry Cou-durier and Dr. Olivier Tabatoni, the first module had provided participants with an oppor-tunity to know their company better and learn about

geopolitics, macroeconomics, business strategy, operational excellence, finance and value creation. The objective was to prepare participants for future challenges; increase their capacities to act as change agents; and empower them to deliver the performance objec-tives of Alstom in the AMECA region.

The second module spread over eight days from October 7 – November 2, and featured talks by HEC Paris professors Simon Elliott, Christian Monjou, Veronique Nguyen and Patrick Delamaire.

While Professor Elliot dis-cussed intercultural man-agement and teamwork;

Professor Monjou reflected on leadership in times of crisis. Meanwhile, Dr. Nguyen, the third speaker of the session, enlightened attendees about overcoming resistance to change. The module concluded with Professor Delamaire pro-viding valuable insights on leading, working and contrib-uting in teams.

The objectives of the second module were to enable partic-ipants to get to know them-selves better; to learn how to effectively work in teams in a cross-cultural environment; and to apprehend and analyze their communication style and relation to others.“HEC Paris’ M3 program has been designed

specifically for Alstom and brings to the fore the phe-nomenal management skills within the company,” said Dr. Pablo Martin de Holan, Dean of HEC Paris in Qatar. “It’s yet another testament of how we are able to gauge particular requirements of companies and address them accurately with the help of our custom programs.”

Meanwhile, VP Human Resources AMECA at Alstom said, Walfa Chouki: “We are pleased to have successfully completed our 4th M3 cohort. Alstom employees and the HEC Paris team have demonstrated the true essence of agility during those unprecedented

times. Our partnership with HEC Paris continues to blossom, and I am happy to see how our collaboration is playing a major role in enhancing our teams’ man-agement and leadership skills in the region and beyond.”

The M3 program is designed to develop mid-level managers’ skills and core competencies in line with the objectives of Alstom in the Africa, Middle East and Central Africa. It is also intended to alleviate partici-pants’ capacity to become influ-ential change agents in their work environment and to build a network of colleagues and partners who share the same culture and experience.

WCM-Q online COVID-19 lecture series attractsthousands of healthcare professionalsTHE PENINSULA – DOHA

Thousands of healthcare professionals across Qatar have taken advantage of Weill Cornell Medicine – Qatar’s (WCM-Q) COVID-19 Live Webinar Series to learn of the latest advancements in COVID therapies, helping them to treat patients and save lives.

The hugely beneficial webinars were developed at the beginning of the March lockdown to meet the clinical needs of the local healthcare community, who were battling to treat patients afflicted by the virus. WCM-Q’s Division of Continuing Professional Devel-opment (CPD) realised that to aid recovery, Qatar’s physicians and healthcare workers needed a trusted online source for the latest news about treatments and therapies.

Assistant professor of neu-rology at WCM-Q and one of the series’ co-directors, Dr. Salman Al Jerdi, said, “As countries across the world entered lockdown in March, doctors fought to keep patients alive, researchers studied the novel coronavirus in laboratories, and new information was dis-covered on an almost daily basis. In some instances, this infor-mation was vital for improved patient outcomes but because it was coming from discrete sources, it was a challenge for the medical community to avail itself of all the updates. So, the COVID-19 Live Webinar Series was conceived out of an idea to help keep Qatar’s medical com-munity abreast of the rapidly changing clinical situation.”

So far there have been 33 presentations and a total of 36 speakers, including presenta-tions by WCM-Q faculty, WCM-Q alumni, physicians from Sidra and Hamad Medical Corporation, and experts from foreign institutions. Each online lecture attracts more than a thousand virtual attendees and since the lectures began, 22,000 healthcare profes-sionals have participated, the

majority from Qatar but some from across the world.

The series has been tailored to information that has been spe-cifically needed during the pan-demic. Whether it related to pul-monary care or pediatrics, dif-ferent aspects of the crisis have been covered to support the entire healthcare community.

Dean of WCM-Q, Dr. Javaid Sheikh delivered a valuable lecture on the vital importance of maintaining close social rela-tionships while keeping to physical distancing guidelines, and Dr. Abdullatif Al-Khal, deputy chief medical officer, director of the Department of Medical Education and senior consultant in infectious diseases at Hamad Medical Corporation, discussed the national response the Covid-19 pandemic.

The WCM-Q alumni who were invited to deliver a lecture were Drs. Mahrukh Rizvi, Karima Becetti, Ghaith Abu-Zeinah, Mohamed Elshazly and Salman Al-Jerdi. They discussed subjects including therapeutics for COVID-19 pneumonia and the pandemic’s impact on cardiovas-cular diseases, to how COVID-19

affects the brain.Other speakers and topics include Dr. Randi R. Diamond, assistant professor of clinical medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York, who dis-cussed ‘Palliative Care and COVID-19, The Weill Cornell Medicine Experience’, and Dr Evelyn C. Granieri, professor of medicine at Columbia Univer-sity’s Vagelos College of Physi-cians and Surgeons in the US, who spoke about the effects of Covid-19 on older patients.A par-ticularly high-profile recent lec-turer was Dr. Howard Markel, the George E. Wantz distinguished professor of the history of med-icine, director of the Center for the History of Medicine at the University of Michigan and member of the National Academy of Medicine.

Dr. Markel’s webinar looked at previous pandemics to affect the world in a lecture entitled ‘When Germs Travel: Corona-virus, and the Long History of Contagious Crises.’

The COVID-19 Live Webinar Series continues until the spring of 2021 and past presentations can be viewed online at CPD’s online archive.

Dr. Javaid Sheikh, Dr. Karima Becetti and Dr. Salman Al Jerdi attending webinar.

Lulu Hypermarket signs MoU with Embassy of North Macedonia

Chargé d’ Affaires of the Embassy of North Macedonia to the State of Qatar, Elma Altorok, and Director of Lulu Hypermarkets, Dr. Mohamed Althaf, signing the MoU.

DOHA TODAY06 MONDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2020

At Hamad Medical Corporation we are utilizing advanced technology and innovative systems to deliver the highestquality care to Qatar’s population.

www.hamad.qa

Ultra-modern operatingtheaters

State-of-the-art ambulancefleet

Highly-advanced patientinformation systems

Cutting-edge treatments forcancer

Qatari Song Night Festival deepens national belongingSIDI MOHAMEDTHE PENINSULA

With the participation of 22 Qatari and Arab singers, musicians, and songwriters, the second edition of the Qatari Song Night Festival 2020 was held recently at Al Mayassa Theater at the Qatar National Convention Center (QNCC).

The two-day event was based on the Ministry of Culture and Sports’ vision “towards a conscious society with an authentic conscience and a healthy body.”

The Minister of Culture and Sports, H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali, attended the event.

Among the artistes who participated was Tunisian singer Lotfi Bouchnak. Also, a group of Qatari poets, composers, and songwriters par-

ticipated in the event.The event aimed to deepen national belonging,

promote the spread of local songs, and develop artistic talents among the new generation. It is also an opportunity to reconnect with original art. It embodied the artiste’s connection with the Qatari society’s national identity and culture by reflecting the local environment’s details.

The festival was a significant milestone because it was an emotional meeting between the creative art of Qatari singing and the Qatari audience, who are passionate about music and elite singing.

Through their content and originality, Qatari songs paint the features of Qatari life over the years characterized by honesty and nobility of feelings. Organizing such an event will help

talented Qatari singers to develop their ability and showcase the original Qatari heritage to the audience.

The audience appreciated the festival’s success, stressing that it was an exceptional event that entertained them to a great extent.

The festival was held under strict precautinary measures to ensure the safety of the participants. For the first time, due to the coronavirus measures, the Ministry of Culture and Sports decided to divide the Song Night programme into two days for better implementation.

Meanwhile, H E the Minister honoured the pioneers of Qatari songs to appreciate their artistic and literary career and dedication. The honourees included artistes Hamed Al Naama, Mohamed Rashid, Saqr Saleh, and Dr. Marzouq Bashir.

The Qatari Song Night Festival concluded with the participation of a group of artists such as Saud Jassim, Ayel, Rahma Riyad, Khaled Salem Turki, Saad Hamad, Mansour Al Mohannadi, Ahmed Ali, Saqr Salih, Aisha Al Zayani, Ahmed Abdul Rahim, Fahd Al Kubaisi, and Issa Al Kubaisi.

Qatar TV broadcast the festival live. Also the festival was broadcast live on Doha 360 and Qatar TV 2 and Sout al Khaleej (Voice of the Gulf), in support of the local song, and Qatari artists.

Qatari Song Night Festival is considered a source of happiness for every Qatari artist, due to opportunities offered to creative young Qatari talent.

The Ministry of Culture and sports provides much support to the cultural movement in general and the artistic movement in particular.

Texas A&M at Qatar presents 47 students with Aggie RingsTHE PENINSULA - DOHA

Texas A&M University at Qatar recently presented 47 students with their Aggie Rings during a lively socially distanced, drive-in ceremony in Education City.

Students of Texas A&M Uni-versity are called “Aggies” and that tradition continues at Texas A&M’s branch campus in Doha. The Aggie Ring worn by all Aggies is the most visible symbol of the Aggie Network that connects graduates of Texas A&M around the world.

Dating back more than 100 years, the Aggie Ring is a tradition that is deep in symbolism and rep-resents the values every Aggie should hold: excellence, integrity, leadership, loyalty, respect and selfless service. Those who have earned the right to wear the Aggie Ring have cleared some of the toughest requirements in the United States for a class ring, making it one of the most treasured items an Aggie possesses.

For student body leaders Motaz Eledrisi and Zeina Barghouti, having a special ceremony for stu-dents helped to restore one of the Doha campus’ most cherished traditions.

“As leaders of the student body,” Eledrisi and Barghouti said, “we felt that it was very important to restore one of our campus’ favorite traditions in this time when everything meaningful feels like it’s being put on hold. As engineers we are always taught to adapt to changes in our environment, so we felt like it was time to work with the situation we have. Instead of delaying another milestone in our

Aggie experience, we took charge and came up with an event that was safe, fun, and memorable. It was a way for all of us Aggies to come together safely and lift our spirits as the semester comes to an end.”

And as Aggies who received their own Aggie Rings during the drive-in ceremony, both are still getting used to the new rings on their hands.

“We feel really proud and

accomplished,” they said, “not only for reaching the 90-credit hour milestone, but also for being able to bring this incredible event idea to life. Our Aggie Ring Day is a day we’ve all been looking forward to ever since our freshman year and having the rings on our hand at this moment feels so surreal.”

Texas A&M at Qatar’s dean, Dr. César Octavio Malavé, congratu-lated the students on achieving this significant milestone. The father of two Aggies, Malavé knows the sig-nificance of the Aggie Ring: Just the day before, his own daughter received her Aggie Ring at Texas A&M’s main campus in College Station, Texas (USA).

“I’m proud of all of you,” Malavé said. “This is an amazing day! It’s not easy to get an Aggie Ring so be proud of what you have accom-plished. This ring is a visible sig-nifier to the rest of the world that you are a member of the Aggie Network. It ties you to your class-mates and to fellow Aggies around the world. Treasure it always, along with the memories of your days at Texas A&M, and wear your Aggie Ring with pride, knowing that you belong to the to the Aggie family.”

TAMUQ students receive Aggie Rings.

Bosnian community inbeach clean-up driveTHE PENINSULA - DOHA

Fifty members of the Bosnian community in Qatar recently cleaned up a beach close to the heritage site of Al Zubara in the North of the country.

The Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to Qatar, H E Haris Lukovac, joined his countrymen and women in this noble effort. Over the approximately two hours, around 500 kilograms of waste were collected and safely disposed of.

“Qatar has such a diverse and unique ecosystem and we do this to give back and help protect it for the future generations to enjoy. Plastic pollution is a serious problem and we hope to inspire others to recycle and not to litter,” said Haris Alisic.

“We are very engaged in the community work and this is just one of the activities of the Bosnian community here in Qatar. It is a very educational and an awareness-raising activity for our kids. We will come out and do it again insha Allah,” said Edin Focic.

This volunteering effort was organized in a cooperation with Doha Environmental Actions Project (DEAP).

MES students volunteer indonation drive for QCSTHE PENINSULA - DOHA

Twenty students from Classes 11 & 12 of MES Indian School participated in the voluntary humanitarian initiative launched by Qatar Cancer Society (QCS) at the Lulu Hypermarket branches on October 30. The objective of the volunteering was to create awareness and donate generously to support the QCS.

As part of the assigned task, the volunteering students interacted with the customers and encouraged them to buy products from sections exclu-sively marked in pink, as a certain per-centage would go as proceeds from such products to the QCS, when scanned the QR Code at the billing counters for an automatic credit of donation within the cost of the product purchased. MES Indian School is the only school engaged in the noble cause of supporting the initiatives of QCS

even during the pandemic.The volun-teering students were honoured with certificates and compliments at a felic-itation ceremony organized at the Conference Hall of the school on November 19 in recognition of their initiatives. Speaking on the occasion, Nisreen Yahya Head of Events and Volunteering Department, QCS expressed her gratitude for the volun-teering service of the students on behalf of QCS and thanked the school for its exceptional involvement in the community service.

Congratulating the volunteers, Hameeda Kadar, School Principal encouraged the students to take part in helping the society and uphold the core values of MES that is CARE Compassion-Achievement-Respect and Empathy. The school officials, media personnel, Jancy Mol Varghese – Media Coordi-nator QCS, were among those present on the occasion.

THE PENINSULA – DOHA

Qatar National Library has something for everyone this month as it celebrates Qatar National Day with its biggest-ever roll call of lectures, discussions and interactive forums.

Director of Research and Learning Services at Qatar National Library, Abeer Saad Al Kuwari said: “Our program of events throughout December caters to people of all ages and interests to celebrate Qatar National Day. In this most chal-lenging of years, we have made sure we continue to offer as wide a range of events as pos-sible to educate and entertain. We hope that people of all ages can join us to learn something new and exciting about Qatar during this time of great celebration.”

On December 5, the Library will run an Instagram Live event looking at the achievements of Qatari author Eissa Abdullah, featuring a deep dive into his most popular books and his upcoming new release. Abdullah is an active con-tributor to several Arabic news-papers, as well as a lecturer on reading and writing for Qatar’s future generations.

On December 7, Khaled Al Maadid, Deputy Director General of Al-Urban Center,

will present a special lecture looking at educational pio-neers in Qatar from 1890 to 1957.

Patrons can join the Library on December 8 for a talk with Ali Al Fayyadh, owner of the Ali Al Fayyadh Library. He will discuss his experience in creating a private library and offer insights into putting together a collection of wonders from

the world of literature.On December 10, Qatar

National Library will run an interactive contest about Qatar’s history, culture, tradi-tions and economy. The chal-lenge requires participants to correctly answer a set of 20 questions in 30 seconds. That same day, patrons will have the opportunity to share their hopes and ideas for making Qatar a better place for all.

People will be invited to hang their ideas on a tree placed in the Library’s Main Plaza.

On December 13, inter-ested can join the Library online for a cup of coffee with librarian Latifa Al Amri. She will interview Qatari athlete Mariam Farid, who repre-sented her country at the 17th World Athletics Champi-onship, held in Doha in 2019, where she ran in the women’s

400 meters hurdles. On December 14, the

Library will run a virtual event looking at the contribution of Sheikh Jassim Al Thani, the Founder of Qatar, to printing and publishing books in the Arab and Islamic worlds. The following day, patrons can join a talk with Instagram account owner “Turath Lawal” about the significance of preserving Qatari heritage through social media.

On December 15, join our Artificial Intelligence experts to meet a robot who will perform the “Ardah” dance, in collaboration with Hamad Bin Abdullah bin Jasim Secondary School. On the same day, the

Library invites people to join an online lecture covering Qatar’s many initiatives to protect and maintain the Arabic language.

On December 16, the Library will explore the poetic diwan of Sheikh Jassim the Founder and the different themes in his poems, including religion, politics, courage and power. On December 17, children and their families can enjoy “Qatar Through My Five Senses” by learning through a variety of fun activities for Qatar National Day. Adults can help spread the word about Qatar by taking part in the Wikithon, where they’ll edit articles and topics on Wiki-pedia related to the country.

On December 20, patrons are invited to join a virtual lecture looking at the history of Qatar on maps. Qatar has been identified on European maps for around 2,000 years and was even represented as a peninsula on some 16th-century maps, but then disap-peared completely for over 200 years. This talk will discuss this history and how these maps can provide unique information about the history of Qatar.

Further details of events in December, is available on Library’s website and social media channels for the latest.

07MONDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2020 DOHA TODAY

Our program of events throughout December caters to people of all ages and interests to celebrate Qatar National Day. In this most challenging of years, we have made sure we continue to offer as wide a range of events as possible to educate and entertain.

Abeer Saad Al Kuwari, Director of Research and Learning Services at QNL

QNL to celebrate QND with series of events

The interior of Qatar National Library.

Area 23 conducts virtual Open HouseTHE PENINSULA – DOHA

Area 23, under Division F in District 116, recently conducted an online Open House with around 80 Toastmasters and 20 plus non-Toastmasters in and outside Qatar.

The event was presided by Area 23 Director Sabari Prasad, DTM, and attended by District 116 Director Thayalan K, PQD Manzoor Moideen, DTM, and CGD Rajesh VC, DTM, and o t h e r d i s t i n g u i s h e d

toastmasters and leaders from Qatar.

Area Director Sabari Prasad, DTM, opened the Open House. The launch of a new advanced toastmasters club, Midas Touch Advanced Club, was inaugurated by District CGD Rajesh VC, DTM, TM She-hariyas Kandy, and TM Mohamed Nazrie, Presidents of the sponsoring clubs’ EF Toastmasters and Malaysian Toastmasters, respectively. TM Haseeb CM was announced as

the Charter President of the new advanced club.

Robin Anand, DTM, delivered a keynote speech on “The Why Toastmasters,” fol-lowed by a Q&A session mod-erated by TM Simon Kurian. After the Keynote speech, a demo Toastmasters meeting for non-Toastmasters led by TM Sruthy Mammen and a panel discussion on the Advanced Club moderated by Safeer Azeez, DTM, was con-ducted in parallel.

Toastmasters during the online Open House held by Area 23.

DPS-MIS students shine inonline debate competitionTHE PENINSULA – DOHA

DPS-Modern Indian School debaters participated in Qatar Preparatory School Debate League for Girls organized online by Qatar Debate on 21 November 2020 and won top coveted positions.

Team 1, consisting of Asin Ashraf, Vaidehi Rogiye, and Amishi Negi, bagged the top place, followed by Team 2 with Antara Alurkar, Geetika Yala-manchili, and Drishti Tibrewal in the second place. The team with Gargee Kanade, Man-jushree Magesh, and Anah Mer-chant secured fifth place.

In the individual category, nine out of 10 debaters earned their place among the top 10 best speakers. Amishi Negi won first place, followed by Anah Merchant in second place. Drishti Tibrewal, Asin Ashraf, and Vaidehi Rogiye shared the third place, Antara Alurkar, Manjushree Magesh, and

Geetika Yalamanchili, and Gargee Kanade tied for the seventh place.

DPS-MIS debaters com-peted against 107 debaters from different schools in three rounds. The swing debaters Sansriti, Sharvi, Ishita, and Izma also gained in-depth knowledge

about implementing the fun-damentals of debating.

This tournament opened doors of new opportunities for the debaters and helped them work in team spirit, analyse dif-ferent issues and structure their argumentation and refutation effectively.

DPS-MIS students during the Qatar preparatory School Debate League for Girls competition.

THROUGH THE LENSKaraana Lagoon located 60km southwest of Doha has emerged as a major habitat with diverse birds and fish species, which provides a green rest stop with clean water for migratory birds flocking over the country. The project also aims to protect and enhance the Qatari environment by rehabilitating the area and transforming it into a wildlife habitat with diverse species of birds and fish. It also provides a green rest stop with clean water for migratory birds. The project is an important step in the efforts of all concerned entities to achieve Qatar National Vision 2030 in the field of environmental sustainability, as well as protecting Qatar’s environmental heritage and contributing to its prosperity.PICS: ABDUL BASIT/THE PENINSULA

Director of the International Organizations Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs H E Yousef Sultan Larem said that the State of Qatar continues its active role within the framework of international efforts to confront terrorism and participate in international mechanisms to coordinate efforts to combat terrorism and its financing, especially in partnership with the United Nations.

08 MONDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2020VIEWS

CHAIRMANDR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFDR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFIeditorinchief@pen.com.qa

ACTING MANAGING EDITORMOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMEDm.salim@pen.com.qa

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITORMOHAMMED OSMAN ALI osman@pen.com.qa

EDITORIAL

IT is almost more than two decades since the State of Qatar emerged as one of the world’s major donor of aid, devoting most of its foreign development assistance to countries stricken by poverty or dealing with refugees and internally displaced peoples, in particular in this region. Qatar’s aid mostly takes in the form of funding for infrastructure projects, health and education programmes.

Nevertheless, Qatar is providing high share of its aid as humanitarian support, but it has also stepped up its aid to engage in rehabilitation plans of governments in countries suffered for years under civil wars such as the Federal Republic of Somalia.

Since the establishment of the Federal government of Somalia, Qatar is a key supporter of the country and spares no effort to provide it with all necessary assistance for development and implementation of sus-tainable plans of the government in partnership with the United Nations and the World Bank.

Confirming its commitment to support Somalia, Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) signed yesterday an MoU with the Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education of Somalia to provide quality edu-cation to 57,600 Somali children. This step is expected to expand access to education promoting the enrolment of children deprived of formal primary education in dif-ferent parts of Somalia.

This agreement will support a project for Somalia by Education Above All (EAA) Foundation, whose projects assist marginalised and impoverished children with hope of creating opportunities for a better future by increasing access to education for children affected by poverty, conflict and disaster.

According to the General Director of QFFD the “pledge comes as part of the State of Qatar’s com-mitment towards the government and people of Somalia, building on a number of current projects between the two countries, and covering several developmental areas in all states, including rehabilitating and developing infra-structure, stimulating the economy, creating jobs for youth and empowering women”.

A similar memorandum of understanding signed last week by Qatar Fund for Development with Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports in Cambodia to support the implementation of the EAA's project aimed at improving access to equitable quality education in Cam-bodia. This programme, in Cambodia, seeks to develop schools for children deprived of education in Southeast Asia. It further targets more than 100,000 Cambodian children out of school. By supporting such programmes of education, Qatar no doubt is spreading the light in marginalised or less privileged communities across the globe.

Spreading the light

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767FAX: +974 4455 7758

MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769

LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743

BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535

SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745

ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501email: INFO@PEN.COM.QA

PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613email: PR@PEN.COM.QA

ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780FAX: 4455 7870, email: adv@pen.com.qa

CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857email: adv@pen.com.qa

SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 FAX: 44557819, email: info@tawseelqatar.com

D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAREMAIL: editor@pen.com.qa

Quote of the day

I think it’s highly speculative for us to say that the disease did not emerge in China. It is clear from a public health perspective that you start your investigations where the human cases first emerged.

Mike Ryan, top emergency expert at WHO

Director of the International Organizations Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, H E Yousef Sultan Larem, and his delegation attending the 47th session of OIC Council of Foreign Ministers in Niamey, the Republic of Niger.

QNA

The State of Qatar participated in the 47th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) that was held in Niamey, the Republic of Niger.

Qatar’s delegation was headed by Director of the International Organizations Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs H E Yousef Sultan Larem.

Speaking at the session, the Director of the Interna-tional Organizations Department said that the State of Qatar continues its active role within the framework of international efforts to confront terrorism and participate in interna-tional mechanisms to coor-dinate efforts to combat ter-rorism and its financing, especially in partnership with the United Nations.

He pointed out that at the national level, the State of Qatar has carefully developed the legislative and regulatory framework for combating ter-rorism and its financing, and has prepared a national strategy to combat terrorism.

He added that it was important to keep pace with emerging threats and conflicts such as the link between ter-rorism, religious intolerance, escalating xenophobia, hate speech and misleading infor-mation, in addition to the issue that the OIC plays an important role in monitoring and addressing it, which is Islamophobia. In this regard, he underlined the importance of serious and collective work to confront escalation against Islam, the Prophet Mohammed, Peace Be Upon Him, and the Muslims.

He said that this meeting is being held at a time when the world is facing many chal-lenges that require strength-ening solidarity and cooper-ation between the OIC members and all countries of the world, especially as the coronavirus (Covid-19) pan-demic has affected everyone, and this pandemic has imposed itself as a top priority.

The Director pointed out that this pandemic has changed the features of soci-eties and the activities of states and individuals every-where, and highlighted the importance of ensuring sta-bility, strengthening security and development and consol-idating human rights so that international peace and security are not affected by any urgent threats.

He said that the State of Qatar has assumed its shared responsibility towards this pandemic by cooperating

with the United Nations and providing governmental and non-governmental humani-tarian aid to many countries around the world. It has also established many field hos-pitals in the affected countries and has spared no effort in providing urgent medical aid as it supported the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization and health care organizations working to develop vaccines and health care resilience with $140m.

He continued by high-lighting the contribution announced by Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani with an amount of $100m to the least developed countries, landlocked devel-oping countries and small island developing countries. Realizing the role it has always played and in support of the international efforts, the State of Qatar will host the Fifth Conference on the least developed countries, land-locked developing countries and small island developing states in January 2022, he said.

He noted that while we are talking about the need for a collective approach and col-lective frameworks to address the common challenges, the State of Qatar still faces unjust blockade and unilateral coercive measures imposed on it unlawfully and without justification and in violation of the United Nations Charter, international law, interna-tional norms and the prin-ciples of the friendly relations among the states, especially those brought together under one organization, such as this.

Although more than three years of the insistence on these unilateral policies have passed, the State of Qatar con-tinues to adhere to its prin-ciples based on reducing ten-sions and resolving crises through dialogue, and in accordance with the principles of the peaceful settlement of disputes and respect for inter-national law, he said. Therefore, the State of Qatar has resorted to the interna-tional legal frameworks, foremost among which were the International Court of Justice, to confront the measures targeting it in vio-lation of the United Nations Charter, international law, international conventions and charters, and human rights.

He also pointed out that the Palestinian cause is still the central issue for the State of Qatar, reaffirming Qatar’s principled position in support of all sincere efforts aimed at reaching a settlement to the Palestinian cause by achieving a two-state solution in accordance with the terms of reference of the peace process,

international legitimacy deci-sions and the Arab Peace Initi-ative, in a manner that guar-antees the establishment of the independent state of Pal-estine on the basis of the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, and the settlement of all final status issues.

He added that this set-tlement requires ensuring that the Palestinian people enjoy their inalienable rights, pulling an end to the Israeli occupation of the occupied Arab lands, including the Syrian Golan, ending the illegal settlement activity and the attempts to annex lands illegally, stopping the measures aimed at changing the character, legal status, and demographic com-position of Jerusalem, and stopping all other practices against the Palestinian people that violate international law and human rights.

The Director of the Interna-tional Organizations Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it is regret-table that many crises and threats to international peace and security are affecting OIC member states and affecting their brotherly peoples. In Syria, the crisis has caused countless suffering to the Syrian people and it is a serious threat to regional and interna-tional peace and security.

He said that Yemeni peo-ple’s great human suffering will only end when peace, security and stability return to the country. This requires the implementation of

the outcomes of the national dialogue in which all Yemeni parties participated, and the political process to get out of the crisis and preserve the sovereignty of Yemen and its national and regional unity based on the relevant Security Council resolutions, in par-ticular Resolution 2216.

The Director of the Interna-tional Organizations Department affirmed the State of Qatar’s support for the endeavors, initiatives and efforts of the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General to find a solution through dialogue. Until then, the need to secure basic needs and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to all Yemenis continues, he added.

With regard to the situ-ation in Libya, he said that it witnessed important develop-ments, including the ceasefire agreement, the restoration of oil production flow, and the launch of the Libyan political dialogue in Tunisia in which a road map for elections next year was agreed upon.

He noted that the State of Qatar welcomes these pos-itive developments, noting that it encourages the Libyan parties to achieve a compre-hensive political settlement that would preserve the unity, sovereignty and inde-pendence of Libya and put an end to the ongoing violence.

He pointed out that within the framework of the priority that the State of Qatar attaches to settling disputes by peaceful means, especially mediation, and based on its commitment to play a pos-itive role at the regional level and support peace and security in Islamic countries, the State of Qatar has con-tinued intensive mediation efforts to help establish peace, security and prosperity in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

He added that they were pleased that these efforts cul-minated in the signing of the agreement to bring peace to Afghanistan between the United States and the Taliban last February, and this agreement was the basis for launching a comprehensive peace process between Afghans in order to end the fighting that the country has been facing for a long time.

Concluding, he expressed the State of Qatar’s support for efforts to reform the work of the Organization of Islamic Cooper-ation, including the assumption of high-ranking positions on the basis of equitable geographical rotation, and it is also com-mitted to cooperating with member states in order to achieve the desired common goals for the benefit of the Islamic Ummah and its peoples.

Qatar reiterates support for efforts to reform work of Organization of Islamic Cooperation

/PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar

/Peninsula_Qatar

/ThePeninsulaNewspaper

+974 6698 6188

www.thepeninsula.qa

Established in 1996

AFP — OCCUPIED JERUSALEM

Questions mounted in Israel yesterday following the assassi-nation of a top Iranian nuclear scientist, with experts speculating on whether Israeli agents were responsible, and if so, how Tehran might respond.

Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani has blamed the Jewish state for Friday’s killing of 59-year-old Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, accusing it of acting as a US “mercenary” and vowing revenge.

Officials in Israel have declined to comment on the attack near Tehran, which Iran said was carried out by assailants who opened fire on Fakhriza-deh’s car before engaging his bodyguards in a gunfight.

The assassination could have been plucked from a script of the new Israeli-made television series “Tehran”, which features opera-tives from the Mossad intelligence agency on a secret mission inside the Islamic Republic.

But if Mossad was respon-sible, Israeli observers were zeroing in on the significance of the timing. Did Israel simply see a chance to carry out an oper-ation long in the planning, or was there a direct link to US President Donald Trump’s imminent departure from the White House?

For left-leaning Haaretz newspaper, the Trump link was clear. “The timing of the assas-sination, even if it was deter-mined by purely operational con-siderations, is a clear message to President-elect Joe Biden,

intended to show Israel’s crit-icism of the intent to return to the nuclear accord with Iran,” it said.

Biden has promised a return to diplomacy with Iran after four hawkish years under Trump, who withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal in 2018 and began reim-posing crippling sanct