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Thursday, March 28, 2024 | Daily Newspaper published by GPPC Doha, Qatar.
 Shafeeq Alingal
Shafeeq Alingal
Shafeeq Alingal is a Staff Reporter with Gulf Times. He has mainstream media experience of six years. Health, environment and wildlife are among his specialties.
From the Rwanda pavilion at Expo 2023 Doha
Qatar
Rwanda pavilion highlights innovations and sustainability at Expo Doha

Innovation in the agriculture sector, the country’s tourism potential and the efforts to ensure sustainability have taken the stage at the Rwanda pavilion at Expo 2023 Doha. At the expo, Rwanda highlights its cultural legacy, environmental conservation initiatives, the country’s growth in adopting technology for development and the green mission. The pavilion has various domes with each showcasing the country’s past, present and progress attained in agriculture and water management. Through screens and hoardings, the visitors go through the tales of the country’s progress in various sectors. “Rwanda is an important tourist destination with its numerous eye-catching spots. The country is rich with its flora and fauna. The pavilion is an attempt to introduce our tourism and investment potential to the world,” said Godfrey Atusasire, one of the guides at the pavilion. The visitors can embark on a trip while starting with the Rwanda coffee. Grown in Rwanda's high mountain elevation, the coffee has a silky yet creamy body with a pleasantly balanced acidity level. Agriculture is one of the highlights of the pavilion where Rwanda’s focus on the sector is featured. The country’s keenness to tap the potential of horticulture is also showcased through the installations. The Land of Thousand Hills, Rwanda is making great strides in vegetable, fruit, nuts and flower production while using modern technology, a favourable climate, diversified climatic conditions, fertile soils and abundant water resources. The country exports nutrient-packed superfoods like avocados to fiery habaneros. Rwanda promotes conservation agriculture where sustainability, enhanced biodiversity, healthier soils, increased yields and reduced costs are considered. Rwanda's National Agriculture Policy was updated in 2018 to promote good agricultural and conservation practices. These practices have resulted in a sustained increase in agricultural production and productivity. The pavilion features tourist attractions including Nyungwe Forest National Park, Lake Kivu, gorilla trekking, Big 5 Safaris, birdwatching, hiking and water sports. The Responsible Tourist dome features Rwanda’s efforts to ensure sustainability and forest conservation while promoting tourism. As guardians of many iconic species, Rwanda is a place of luxury eco-tourism whilst also conserving natural resources, supporting communities and saving endangered species. “Rwanda's stunning scenery offers one of the most unique travel experiences in the world. There are efforts to conserve the extraordinary biodiversity, incredible wildlife, mountain rainforests and sweeping plains,” Godfrey said.

Lt. Fahad Jaber al-Athba
Qatar
Youth are biggest traffic rule breakers, elderly and women drivers most committed to rules

Youth are the top traffic rule breakers in Qatar, an official with the General Directorate of Traffic has said. Lt. Fahad Jaber al-Athba from The Pear Traffic Department told Qatar TV Tuesday that drivers aged 18-30 are among the top violators while women and elderly persons are more committed towards obeying traffic rules.Al-Athba explained various types of violations and the reasons that result in the seizure of vehicles and motorcycles.“The most prominent violations that cause cars and motorcycles to be impounded are raising the volume of sound, exceeding the permissible speed level and driving a bike or car without a valid driving licence,” he said. He added that electronic devices are used to check the sound level in cars and bikes.The General Directorate of Traffic has identified careless driving and mobile phone usage as the main causes of concern when it comes to traffic accidents in Qatar. Intensified awareness programmes are being held to address the grim scenario and achieve accident-free roads. Using or holding mobile phone or any other device in hand while driving or becoming busy watching any visual from the television set in the vehicle draws a penalty of QR500.The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has launched automated monitoring of these two violations by installing a unified radar system, which will detect the violations in a move to boost traffic safety and reduce accidents.

PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam
Qatar
Angola highlights its agricultual and tourism potential at Expo Doha

The Angola pavilion at Expo 2023 Doha is lending visitors an opportunity to experience the country’s rich cultural legacy and innovations in the agricultural sector. At the International Zone of the expo, the pavilion highlights the country’s focus on the tourism sector while featuring the major tourist destinations. With the theme ‘Planting for Life’, the pavilion is a testament to the efforts of Angola to preserve nature and ensure sustainability in tourism and agriculture. It draws investors while explaining the opportunities in the country.“Angola is implementing initiatives to ensure sustainability in various sectors and the country is looking to bring in best practices for economic diversification. We are highlighting our potential in the agricultural and tourism sector,” Herbert Ferreria, Private Investment Promotion Officer at Private Investment and Promotion of Exports Agency, told Gulf Times.Angola has plans to export agricultural products to Qatar. “The participation in Expo Doha will open the doors of further cooperation between the two countries and we are looking to grab the opportunities here as part of the government policy to promote private investment and exporting,” he said.The pavilion is showcasing Angola’s transformation from the traditional agricultural methods to modern ways. Herbert added that the pavilion may draw Qatari and other foreign investors who can get a better understanding of Angola’s potential.Angola’s major tourist attractions including the Calandula Falls and the rich flora and fauna are on display.

Gulf Times
Qatar
Qatar achieves substantial growth in vegetable self-sufficiency

Qatar has achieved remarkable growth in vegetable self-sufficiency with the efforts of the Ministry of Municipality yielding results. Adel al-Yafei, Assistant Director of the Agricultural Affairs Department at the ministry, recently told Qatar Radio that the self-sufficiency rate of vegetables reached 46% in 2023 while it stood at 10% in 2017.“The ministry had contacted Hassad Foood for marketing support and providing agricultural services to local farms in production. With the support of Hassad, the ministry runs two programmes for agricultural services and marketing services. These are to help farmers increase production and proper marketing of local products,” al-Yafie said.Named Agricultural Services and Inputs Programme, the programme aims to develop the local agricultural sector and to achieve food security in the country. This comes as part of Hassad's investment strategy and the ministry’s vision to develop the local agricultural sector and achieve self-sufficiency. The programme focuses on developing agricultural practices and services to increase the agricultural season's duration, as well as reach the highest productivity per sqm.The programme targets local farms to provide them with the needed agricultural services and inputs, as well as co-operate with the local farmers to develop the farms' infrastructure to maximise the subsidy value provided by the ministry.According to the ministry official, the agricultural census was completed this year with the Survey Research Institute to develop future agricultural plans and develop agricultural production.“The ministry is working to increase the self-sufficiency rate of vegetables in Qatar, preserve natural water resources and help with the quality of the product. The focus is on basic vegetables such as courgette, okra, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and green leaves to raise self-sufficiency rates in these crops. Other products are not neglected as well.“During the peak period of farming, from the beginning of January to the end of April, these crops may achieve a sufficiency rate from 90% to 100%,” he said.

A snapshot from collection point at Katara. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam
Qatar
Amir donates QR 100mn to 'Palestine Duty' drive

In a remarkable display of solidarity with the war-affected people of Gaza, the 'Palestine Duty' fundraising campaign campaign headed by the Regulatory Authority for Charitable Activities (RACA)garnered an impressive QR 200mn Monday.Qatar TV gave the total amount collected as QR 200,048750. His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani donated QR 100mn to the campaign. The announcement came through Qatar TV during its live broadcast of the campaign that was launched by the Regulatory Authority for Charitable Activities (RACA),in partnership with Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) and Qatar Charity and in co-operation with Qatar Media Corporation (Qatar TV). The campaign, on the occasion of Qatar National Day, evoked an overwhelming response from donors with many joining the drive live on Qatar TV and the exclusive collection points at Souq Waqif, Katara and Darb Al Saai. Qatar Charity and QRCS deployed its officials and volunteers at three of these points where donors deposited money in the boxes. Many donated clothes and other commodities for the people of war-torn Gaza. Qatar TV, during its live broadcast of the campaign, featured dignitaries, who appealed for donations. The broadcast kept the momentum going by making regular announcements of donations from individuals and companies. Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB) donated QR 1.5 mn.Barwa Real Estate Company and Ooredoo, each donated QR 1 mn. Dukhan Bank donated QR 0.5 mn. Even children made their bit of contribution to the campaign adding much to the excitement. Mohamed al-Kuwari got a special mention as the first kid to take part in the donation through Qatar TV. The Qatari kid donated QR 11,000. Faisal Mohamed al-Emadi, Acting Secretary General, said QRCS launched a global initiative to register doctors and nurses as volunteers to support Gaza’s hospitals. So far, we have received more than 900 volunteer requests from inside and outside Qatar. They are ready to perform their medical and humanitarian tasks when the ground conditions allow,” al-Emadi said. Ahmed Saleh al-Ali, member of the Regulatory Authority for Charitable Activities (RACA), said the ‘Palestine Duty’ campaign comes as a continuation of Qatar’s role in supporting and helping Palestinians in need. Abdul Aziz al-Mahmoud, Head of Public Relations at QRCS, said that the campaign witnessed exciting participation from donors of all ages noting that both the citizens and residents are always supportive of all the humanitarian campaigns.Ahmed Yousef Fakhro, Assistant Chief Executive Officer of the Resource Development and Media said Qatar Charity launched relief activities with the participation of Qataris and the residents to support Gaza from the first day of Israeli aggression. “We have delivered aid and launched many relief campaigns with the participation of the people of Qatar ,” he said.Dr Mohamed Salah Ibrahim, Director of Relief and International Development Sector at QRCS said a ship, with a capacity of 30 planeloads, will carry essentials collected from Qatar to Gaza.From the city of Arish, QRCS volunteers Fatima al-Kuwari and Haiba al-Saadi joined the Qatar TV broadcast online. Al-Kuwari said she is glad to help the people in need noting that the QRCS is reaching out to the bereaved Palestinians in Gaza to extend relief.Also, prominent preachers and Islamic scholars including Sheikh Abdulla al-Naama, Sheikh Khaled Abu Moza and Sheikh Mowafi Azab addressed the viewers on Qatar TV. The scholars encouraged the donors and prayed for them. While participating in the ‘Palestine Duty’ drive, Qatar Charity and QRCS opened ‘windows’ on their official websites for donors. RACA, in a statement, said the campaign provides relief to the victims of the aggression in the Gaza Strip, especially the injured, orphans, children, widows, pregnant women, and the elderly. The donations will be used to purchase urgently needed medicines, food, emergency shelter supplies, clothing, water, cleaning and hygiene supplies as well as children's and women's supplies for the people of Gaza.“We are standing in support of our brothers and sisters in Palestine who are going through a tragic humanitarian situation. Our duty towards the people in Palestine is to make every effort to help them and alleviate their pain,” Qatar Charity said on its website. The amount, raised through the campaign, will be used to provide decent livelihoods for 50,000 affected and displaced families and to improve their psychological and social situation. Also, the fund will be spent towards providing food, water and the basics of decent living for these families. Also, the health and education sectors will be supported through the campaign. “The Palestine Duty relief campaign is aimed at standing up for the Palestinian people, by lending a helping hand to 100,000 people affected by the war on Gaza, at a total cost of QR 20 mn,” QRCS said on its website.This generous initiative is aimed at alleviating the plight of the war-affected people of Gaza, who continue to grapple with the devastating consequences of conflict. The unprecedented fundraising effort not only underscores Qatar's commitment to global humanitarian causes but also serves as a beacon of hope for the beleaguered residents of Gaza, offering a lifeline in their struggle for survival and recovery.

Engineer Mohamed Ali al-Khoury
Qatar
Qatar's green cover sees massive increase

Qatar has seen a substantial increase in green space with the number of parks doubling in the last 13 years. Expo 2023 Doha secretary general engineer Mohamed Ali al-Khoury told Qatar TV that the per capita share of green space increased from 1sqm in 2010 to 16.2sqm in 2022, a 16-fold growth.The expansion of the parks is done carefully while ensuring there is no excessive growth in number of the parks. “Maintaining the green spaces and trees is an effortful job and expansion should be carried out carefully,” he explained.“Before the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, several large parks including Umm Al Seneem Park were opened. The works of Rawdat Al Hamam Park will be completed soon. These parks serve a large group of homes and neighbourhoods. There are also small parks that serve specific areas. Parks are set up according to the needs and priorities, while also considering the suitability for developing green space," the official said.Expo 2023 Doha is an important step towards achieving sustainability and enhancing environmental awareness and a unique event of its kind in the region, the secretary general pointed out.All previous editions of the expo were held in countries with a cold climate and this is for first time the horticulture expo has come to a place with desert weather. “Qatar’s hosting of the horticulture expo reflects the advancement in its status as a place of horticulture and agriculture,” he said.“There is scope for participating countries to provide research, as well as for international companies to contribute to modern technologies,” he added. Expo 2023 Doha, which opened on October 2, 2023, will run until March 28, 2024 at Al Bidda Park.

Gulf Times
Qatar
QC, QRCS start accepting donations for ‘Palestine Duty’ campaign

Qatar Charity (QC) and Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) have opened 'windows' to receive donations from individuals and companies to support the joint campaign ‘Palestine Duty’. Donors can make contributions by calling QC on 44290000 or through the link on its official website.“We are standing in support of our brothers and sisters in Palestine who are going through a tragic humanitarian situation. Our duty towards the people in Palestine is to make every effort to help them and alleviate their pain. Join the ‘Palestine Duty’ campaign, the largest fundraising campaign in Qatar, to make this year's National Day an occasion to stand in solidarity with the affected people in Palestine,” Qatar Charity said on its website.Donations are accepted at QC’s 105 collection sites and 27 branches. The locations are available here.Donors can participate in the donation campaign at the QRCS website.“The Palestine Duty relief campaign is aimed at standing up for the Palestinian people, by lending a helping hand to 100,000 people affected by the war on Gaza, at a total cost of QR20mn,” QRCS said on its website.Further, the Regulatory Authority for Charitable Activities (RACA) will hold Monday the 'Palestine Duty' campaign at Souq Waqif, Katara and Darb Al Sai , from 5pm to 11pm on the occasion of the Qatar National Day. The campaign is in partnership with QRCS and Qatar Charity and in co-operation with the Qatar Media Corporation (Qatar TV).RACA, in a statement, said the campaign provides relief to the victims of the aggression on the Gaza Strip, especially the injured, orphans, children, widows, pregnant women, and the elderly. The donations will be used to purchase urgently needed medicines, food, emergency shelter supplies, clothing, water, cleaning and hygiene supplies as well as children's and women's supplies for the people of Gaza.Qatar TV will broadcast the campaign live from the three locations.

PICTURE: Thajudheen
Qatar
Ahmed Al Maadheed Art Exhibition imprints Arab-Qatari art at Corinthia Yacht Club

The Ahmed Al Maadheed Art Exhibition is set to enthral the visitors at Corinthia Yacht Club where the renowned Qatari artist gives vent to his creativity through artworks. To run from December 17-23, the exhibition features Qatari artist Ahmed al-Maadheed's artworks. The exhibition displays more than 50 artworks-all are spectacular with their impressive imprints of Arab-Qatari glory and pride. The exhibition is open to visitors from noon to midnight.Al-Maadheed, through the exhibition, attempts to showcase his creative talents on canvases that depict his simplicity and sincere expression. “I am trying to grow up while studying, developing my skills and improving my talent,” al-Maadheed told Gulf Times. The exhibition expresses Maadheed’s diverse creations that strengthen the Qatari cultural legacy with all its richness. The renowned artist added the exhibition will be a qualitative addition to his creative career as it highlights the sublime Arab-Qatari art while leaving a message of motivation to the young artists.For the past three years, al-Maadheed has been holding one yearly art exhibition. This year’s exhibition has abstract artworks that revolve around circles. “Each painting on display portrays connected circles that represent infinity,” al-Maadheed said adding that every artwork is distinguished with its Arabic touch. “Each artwork here is unique with its distinguished gestures,” the artist said adding that he worked for years to envisage his ideas on the canvases at the exhibition. He said the paintings are influenced by his feelings and thoughts about the world he lives in.Al-Maadheed’s iconic portrait ‘Tamim Al Majd’ His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani became a popular phenomenon. The portrait represents an iconic of loyalty and love to His Highness the Amir while becoming an artistic icon expressing love, fulfilment and national cohesion. He has been active while participating in and presenting numerous works of art like character design and branding the major events in Qatar while leaving an unforgettable impact.Designed by al-Maadheed, the AsianCup mascot embodies Qatar’s culture and natural landscape. Earlier, al-Maadheed's 'Smile' artwork was unveiled by the Supervisory Committee of Beautification of Roads and Public Places in Qatar in co-operation with Qatar Museums (QM) on the Doha Corniche.

The students’ choir of QFIS performed in support of Gaza. PICTURES: Shaji Kayamkulam
Qatar
QFIS holds 'Art Night' to raise funds for Gaza children

Qatar Finland International School (QFIS) on Wednesday witnessed a gathering of students, staff and parents for a charity fundraising event in solidarity with Gaza.'Art Night the Children of Palestine' featured various programmes including poem recitation, art exhibition as well as art and craft activities for children. Parents along with the local residents volunteered to prepare dishes and cakes to support the initiative.Donning the iconic Palestinian keffiyeh and waving the Palestinian flag, parents and students supported the event by donating money. Artworks and paintings were on display to resonate with the global rage against the war and the plight of Gaza children. The event also had traditional Palestinian attire available for sale. Many donated by buying the artworks and crafts on display. The students’ choir of QFIS also performed in support of Gaza.“It’s time to stand with Palestine and express our support. The students have come up with the idea to show solidarity by giving vent to their creativity and collecting funds for the struggling children,” said Susanne Mortensen, Chair of the QFIS Parents Association.Salina Ballout, co-chair of the association, said all essentials for the event were contributed by individuals and companies. “Parents and students along with staff volunteered to organise the event. The food was prepared by the parents while some companies donated lighting and other arrangements,” she said. Funds raised will go to Gaza through Qatar Charity, Ballout added.

Panellists attending Sudan at War session at Doha Forum Monday. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam.
Qatar
Doha Forum discusses ways to end Sudan war

Doha Forum 2023 Monday discussed ways to bring an end to the Sudan’s ongoing civil war, which has 'already killed thousands and displaced millions'. Moderated by Dr Comfort Ero, president and CEO, International Crisis Group, the panel discussion 'Sudan at War' hosted Hanna Tetteh, UN Special Envoy to the Horn of Africa; Michael Hammer, US special envoy for the Horn of Africa; Kholood Khair, founding director of Confluence Advisory; and Murithi Mutiga, Africa Programme director of International Crisis Group.The discussion noted that the conflict has protracted instability in Sudan and could reverberate further afield. It explored avenues for securing a lasting ceasefire and contemplated steps necessary to kickstart a meaningful political process while identifying ways to reduce the conflict’s impact in neighbouring states and the wider region.Tetteh noted that the war is a conflict between two military establishments and not between the Sudani people. “It has to be an unconditional ceasefire and there are no terms or preconditions that ought to come into play before that happens. But it is also important to recognise that the government of Sudan will have to reflect the country and hence the civilian actors should be consulted as part of that process to get the outcome that is desired,” Tetteh said.Hammer underlined the need to stop the foreign support for the warring parties in Sudan. “We, as the US, along with the UN, are working to support the Intergovernmental Authority on Development' efforts in conjunction with the African Unon and our Saudi partners, for a ceasefire and humanitarian assistance,” he added.

Gulf Times
Qatar
'Qatar has promptly acted on Gaza-Israel crisis'

Palestine occupies a significant place in Qatar's foreign policy and the country has promptly acted on the Israel-Gaza crisis, HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz al-Khulaifi told Doha Forum 2023 on Monday.While addressing a session on 'Palestine Has Become a Global Crisis - Does It Have a Global Solution? he explained that Qatar speaks through action, not just words while demonstrating the country’s commitment to peace by actively engaging in conflict resolution from day one of the conflict.“We are disappointed that the Security Council failed to secure a ceasefire despite the UN Secretary-General invoking Article 99 to prompt decisive action,” Dr al-Khulaifi said noting that there is a need to find a resolution to the current situation. “A ceasefire is a must,” he said.Dr Husam Zomlot, the Head of the Palestinian Mission to the UK, called for international intervention in the issue and urged steps to recognise the rights of Palestinians.“We must leave the question of who will govern to the Palestinian people. The issue in Gaza is not just the slaughter. It’s the mass degradation and humiliation of an entire nation. Think of fathers and mothers who can't provide basic services for their children,” he said.“This is the first time Israel has applied the concept of equality in terms of its mass murder of our people. The normalisation of mass murder will haunt our humanity,” he added.Daniel Levy, president of the US / Middle East Project noted that there are Jewish voices who are saying, ‘not in my name’. “Things will get worse the more the US indulges Israel. Israel has been on a clear trajectory towards more extremism,” he said.Dr Comfort Ero, president and CEO of International Crisis Group, criticised the international community by saying “silence in the face of destruction has a cost”. “The day of reckoning for those who remained complicit in Gaza's suffering is inevitable,” she said.Dr Huiyao Wang, founder and president of the Centre for China and Globalisation, said China wants to see a ceasefire, provide humanitarian aid, protect civilians and amplify the diplomatic intervention. The session was moderated by Becky Anderson, managing editor and anchor of CNN's Connect the World.

Panellists attending the session  ‘Afghan Women as a Source of Afghan Stability' at Doha Forum Sunday. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam
Qatar
Doha Forum underlines need to address Afghan women's woes

A panel discussion at Doha Forum Sunday underlined the need for the international community and Islamic scholars to engage with the Taliban to address the woes of women and girls in the country.“Muslim countries are initiating steps to ensure Afghan women their rights and education,” said Dr Nilab Mobarez, advisor, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, while addressing the session ‘Afghan Women as a Source of Afghan Stability’.She said the scenario remains grim for girls and women noting that intervention and engagement with the Taliban may result in changes. She noted girls are banned from secondary school. “This means there won’t be enough workforce in the future in the health sector,” she said adding that there is a huge shortage of health workers in the country and the families are migrating due to the denial of education to girls.Moderated by journalist Kimberly Dozier, the panel discussion was attended by Rina Amiri: Special Envoy for Afghan Women, Girls and Human Rights, US Department of State; Richard Bennett, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, United Nations- Education and Prof Ian Bickford. President of American University of Afghanistan.Amiri said there is a need for international intervention to address the grim scenario in Taliban ruled Afghanistan noting that ultimately it will be the Afghans who will create change and not the international community.“Women were at the forefront of inspiring changes and they have been let down. Afghanistan would be an economic and security concern and is going to bleed out into the region. The world is going to come back to Afghanistan without making the mistake of walking away from the Afghan people,” she said adding that the US isn’t going to normalise the relations with the Taliban until it addresses the situation of Afghan women and respects the rights of Afghan people. Bennett noted that the Afghan women feel that they were betrayed by the international community.Bickford said support is extended by the international community including Qatar when it comes to the education of Afghan students. “Students are taken to other countries for education and they are given scholarships to continue their education,” he said.

Panellists attending the session on ‘The Imperative of Palestinian Political Renewal' at Doha Forum Sunday. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam
Qatar
Palestinian cause a universal problem, Doha Forum told

The Palestinian cause is a universal problem and not Arab centric, a panel discussion at Doha Forum Sunday was told. The session ‘The Imperative of Palestinian Political Renewal’, discussed the plight of Palestinians while narrating the sufferings of Israeli invasion torn Gaza.Addressing the session, Dr Safwan M Masri, dean of Georgetown University in Qatar, underlined the need for the Palestinian cause to be perceived through a broad perspective. He noted that the residents of Gaza are in dire straits and one child dies ten minutes.The session shed light on the dimensions of the current crisis for Palestinians with a focus on the unfolding catastrophe in Gaza. The session underscored the need for a renewed focus on the carrying capacity of current Palestinian political structures in terms of governance and the ability to effectively articulate and advocate for Palestinian political aspirations, the country’s freedom and the people’s rights.Masri said the Palestinian Authority has failed its people and lost its credibility and legitimacy. “It’s illegitimate in some parts of Palestine,” he said.Moderated by journalist Mehdi Hasan, the session was attended by Rula Shadeed, programme and advocacy director, Palestine Institute for Public Diplomacy; Wadah Khanfar, president and co-founder of Al Sharq Forum; Sami Abu Shehadeh, chairman of the National Democratic Assembly Party; Omar H Rahman, research fellow, Middle East Council on Global Affairs.“We can’t treat any situation without the right diagnosis. This is ethnic cleansing, it is mass killing, it’s confiscation of land and expansion of settlements" Rula Shadeed said.Sami Abu Shehadeh pointed out that the Palestinians are getting a raw deal even from their government, noting that the Palestine leadership ignored its people and the refugees abroad while signing the Oslo Accords.Wadah Khanfar said the Palestinian Authority is the tool of Israeli occupation and the Fatah Party will lose its credibility if the party fails to do anything effective to resolve the current situation.

Salem Hamoud al-Shafi, Director Municipal Control Department at Doha Municipality.
Qatar
Municipality official warns against illegal partitioning of residential units

Authorities have warned against illegally partitioning residential units citing that any such practice would draw certain fines and action. Salem Hamoud al-Shafi, Director of the Municipal Control Department at Doha Municipality, told Qatar Radio that partitioning the residential units without permission is illegal and causes danger to the occupants. “Partitioning should be carried out legally while following the rules. Illegal partitioning pauses threat to occupants’ lives in case of emergencies like fire outbreaks,” al-Shafi said.“In case of fire outbreaks, casualties are caused if the Civil Defense doesn’t have a map of the building after partition. Kahramaa and infrastructure services are affected due to the illegal partitioning and accommodating excessive occupants. The resident units with illegal partitions affect an entire neighbourhood due to misuse of Kahramaa services and the disproportionate number of residents,” al-Shafi said. “If the building is designed to be used by 20 people, it can’t be used by 200 people. It affects the condition of the building and the expected lifespan of the building,” the Doha Municipality official said.Al-Shafi explained that the officials, during checks, impose fines of QR 500 per sqm and QR 400 per linear metre. In case of corrections, the fines are cut by 50%.Al-Shafi warned against illegal encroachment on state properties noting that using state lands and fencing them off as garages or warehouses are illegal. He explained that violations can be reported by calling 184 and legal measures would be taken immediately after violations are registered.

HE the Minister of Transport Jassim Saif Ahmed al-Sulaiti with QAA director general HE Sheikh Jabor bin Hamad al-Thani and UDST president Dr Salem al-Naemi and other officials after the signing of the MoU.
Qatar
QAA, UDST sign pact to co-operate in higher education, research areas

Qatar Aeronautical Academy (QAA) and the University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) yesterday signed a memorandum of understanding of co-operation in the education and higher education sectors.QAA director-general HE Sheikh Jabor bin Hamad al-Thani and UDST president Dr Salem Al-Naemi signed the MoU in the presence of HE the Minister of Transport Jassim Saif Ahmed al-Sulaiti.The objective is to help develop the academic and research co-operation between the two sides based on mutual benefit. Areas of co-operation include redesigning the foundation programme, and jointly upgrading the diploma programmes, currently offered by the QAA, to a bachelor’s degree and making them available for admission at both entities with a certificate to be issued by the UDST. Co-operation areas also cover scientific research, student affairs, marketing, and training.HE the Transport Minister said the agreement will reflect positively on building up and improving students’ knowledge in a way that supports human development and the goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030.“The Ministry of Transport (MoT) supports all forms of co-operation with educational institutions to optimise the work of the QAA further thereby building promising generations capable of meeting the requirements of the civil aviation industry,” HE al-Sulaiti said. He thanked the two parties for their efforts to sign the MoU noting that it would serve students’ learning paths according to their aspirations and desires.The QAA director-general lauded the signing of the MoU, which lays the foundation of a strategic partnership with UDST.“The MoU will achieve the desired benefit for both parties, most importantly, enabling QAA students to enrol at UDST,” he said, noting that the co-operation with UDST will open promising prospects for future co-operation, exchange of expertise and development of work between the two sides, thereby creating new opportunities to obtain higher degrees.Al-Naemi emphasised the importance of the MoU in terms of empowering the QAA’s students, sharpening their skills, and allowing them to complete their academic path at UDST. He praised the faith the academy has placed in UDST through the efforts of the MOT and the QAA administration.He also pointed out the potential good outcomes of this MoU such as the exchange of expertise and conducting joint research within the framework of the national strategic pillars, which help meet the needs of the country and national industries and contribute to developing the national economy within the framework of the QNV2030.

Mohamed Ali al-Khoury inaugurates Microsoft booth at Expo 2023 Doha in the presence of Harold “Lee” Brayman, Srinivasa Murthy and Lana Khalaf Monday. PICTURE: Thajudheen
Qatar
Microsoft booth showcases innovations at Expo 2023 Doha

Featuring the latest data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) innovations to ensure sustainability, build climate resilience and protect nature, Microsoft Monday opened its booth at Expo 2023 Doha.Expo 2023 Doha secretary general Mohamed Ali al-Khoury inaugurated the booth in the presence of US embassy's commercial officer Harold “Lee” Brayman and Srinivasa Murthy, Commercial Specialist representing the Foreign Commercial Service.Al-Khoury said the agricultural and horticultural sectors are currently experiencing tremendous technological transformation. “Technology plays a crucial role in establishing sustainable systems that will assist us in addressing the most pressing environmental challenges. We are proud to collaborate with the world's leading technical company to introduce the world to technology-powered agriculture,” he explained.Microsoft Qatar general manager Lana Khalaf emphasised Microsoft's commitment to advancing climate change initiatives in line with Qatar National Environment and Climate Change Strategy. She stressed the need for a balance between economic growth, social development, and environmental preservation. She underscored Microsoft's efforts to continue to innovate with organizations in Qatar, offering learnings, resources, and technology – including the power of data and AI – to help them make data-driven decisions to set and achieve their own climate goals while driving business growth and innovation.“Microsoft believes, as the Government of Qatar does, that economic prosperity and environmental awareness go hand in hand. That’s why in 2020, we began a process to transform our company’s work on sustainability. This is achieved by reducing our own environmental footprint and by accelerating research, helping our customers build sustainable solutions and advocating for policies that benefit the environment,” she said.Located inside the Innovation Centre, Microsoft booth at Expo 2023 Doha features an impressive lineup of solutions such as Microsoft Cloud for Sustainability, the Emissions Impact Dashboards for Azure and M365, and Microsoft Sustainability Manager, in addition to a range of solutions by Microsoft partners including QMIC, Siemens, Techvista, Alight, Click2cloud, Bravent, TCS, and Accenture/Agerpoint.From renewable energy and vertical farming to carbon capture and climate monitoring, each of these solutions has been designed to help organisations cut energy and water consumption, reduce physical footprints and design sustainable products themselves.The solutions also demonstrate the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in unlocking tremendous opportunities for sustainability. Microsoft has recently shared Accelerating Sustainability with AI: A Playbook, highlighting AI’s three game-changing capabilities to overcome bottlenecks and accelerate progress in climate action, which are AI's ability to measure, predict, and optimise complex systems, Accelerate the development of sustainability solutions and empower the sustainability workforce with solutions such as Microsoft Copilot.

Gulf Times
Qatar
Innovations in sustainable urban development in focus

The innovations and trends in sustainable urban development were discussed at the Smart City Expo Doha 2023 yesterday. The session ‘Accelerating Towards a Sustainable Urban Future’ focused on the best practices to build sustainable cities while shedding light on the ways to reduce harmful impacts on lives.Moderated by Dr Leslie A Pal, dean at College of Public Policy of Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), the session featured Dursun Yıldırım Bayar, head of Smart Cities Department, Ankara; Kamal Zian, chief cybersecurity and privacy officer at Gulf North Representative Office, Huawei, Qatar' and Sebastien Turbot, director of content, communications and external affairs, Earthna.The discussion covered crucial areas including public spaces, resource management, sustainable buildings, climate change adaptation, green areas, clean technologies, nature-based solutions and urban biodiversity.A need to create sustainable cities by implementing green infrastructure and cutting-edge smart city solutions was noted. The session also examined the driving forces behind sustainability in urban areas, exploring innovative pathways for urban resilience while analysing the role of science, innovation, and data-driven approaches in fueling the transition toward a more sustainable urban future.The panelists shared their ideas and solutions on how to create a better more sustainable future for cities while giving examples and practices within the entities they represented at Smart City Expo Doha 2023.

Safder Nazir
Qatar
Expo underlines need for urban transformation

The Smart City Expo Doha 2023 has underlined the need for a transformation in order to ensure the sustainable development of cities."Environmental consideration should be on the top of the priorities along with societal expectations, and technological advancements," said Safder Nazir, senior vice president of public sector for the Middle East and Central Asia at Huawei Technologies.In his keynote session on ‘Metropolis to Ecopolis’, Nazir explained the idea of Ecopolis- the ecologically and economically restorative city. The session was instrumental in delving into the developmental trajectory of cities, examining the intricate connections between environmental considerations and other key priorities.The Huawei official explained the need to adopt the principles of sustainability, circularity and resilience as a key priority for the city transformation.“According to UN-Habitat, cities consume 78% of the world’s energy and produce more than 60% of greenhouse gas emissions. Yet, they account for less than 2% of the earth’s surface,” he said.“Smart City requires massive, real-time data, so the sensing system is essential, then we can build city twins from the physical world to the digital world. This can be achieved through implementing technological innovations,” Nazir said adding that technology needs to be more sustainable and tech strategy needs to be resilient.