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As part of the preparations to host FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, the Ministry of Transport Wednesday launched its brand-new website, fifaweather2022.com, developed by the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). HE the Minister of Transport Jassim Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti launched the new website which will provide weather and climate information during November and December 2022 as a service for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 fans. CAA's Meteorology Department director Abdulla al-Mannai speaking to the media The new services are also available on the Q Weather App under the name 'FIFA 2022 Weather Conditions.' HE al-Sulaiti said the initiative will provide comprehensive weather readings at the sites of the stadiums around-the-clock. The launch of the new website coincided with the World Meteorological Day, observed on March 23. "This is an addition to a wide range of accomplishments by the civil aviation sector in Qatar, aiming at providing all the requirements for hosting such a global event, including the Mukaynis Meteorology Center, which significantly contributes to improving weather predictions by monitoring several elements of the weather that were not available before,” he said adding that Qatar is recognised by the World Meteorological Organisation for providing weather services via the Gulf Marine Center (GMC) – the only provider of marine predictions and which provides its services to all the Gulf region, Arabian Sea and Gulf of Eden. When asked about the preparations for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, HE al-Sulaiti said that the Ministry of Transport has completed almost all of the projects and the rest are being implemented. “Next month we will inaugurate the public transport terminals for electric buses while marking another milestone of Qatar’s journey in this sector. Also, a large number of electric buses will be used to transport fans during FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022,” he said. The minister pointed out that 2,000 charging stations are being installed while making Qatar one of the most advanced countries in the world in this field. Qatar is the first country in the world with huge public transit services. These stations will be operational during June and July. Transferring about 20 to 25% of public transit to electricity was earlier announced. I would like to assure that the percentage of electric vehicles during World Cup will be much more than announced,” he said. CAA's Meteorology Department director Abdulla al-Mannai said that the services of the new website, which have been added to the Q Weather App, will display the weather conditions monitored at the sites of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 stadiums via monitoring stations installed at each stadium to facilitate weather predictions. The weather data provided by the Meteorology Department will be used to show the general weather predictions during the World Cup in November and December by indicating daily normals and diurnal temperature distribution on charts that are easy to read and understand.

Dimdex has turned out to be an ideal platform to showcase the innovations and technologies that support and advance the air space security needs, Boeing has said. While talking to Gulf Timeson the sidelines of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (Dimdex 2022), Rick Lemaster, vice-president-International Sales, Defence, Space and Security, said the exhibition is a key international platform to share ideas and innovations while engaging in commercial exchange. Boeing is taking part in Dimdex 2022 by showcasing its products and services with a focus on the latest technology in the defence and security sectors. F-15, KC-46, T-7 advanced pilot training system, H-47 Chinook, Airborne Early Warning and Control, Air Power Teaming System and unmanned systems like the Integrator and ScanEagle are highlighted at the exhibition. Boeing’s pavilion in Stand 119, Hall 6 at Qatar National Convention Centre, showcases solutions and capabilities from the Boeing Global Services portfolio, which includes digital solutions and analytics, modifications, modernisation, training and maintenance services, many of which are deployed in support of governments in the region. Rick said Boeing looks forward to strengthening its nearly two-decade-old partnership with Qatar while serving the needs of the country and co-operating in the defence and security sectors. “We have good relations and co-operation with the Qatar Amiri Air Force and the relations are being further strengthened. While working with Qatar, we are looking to ensure future advancements in their defence and services capabilities,” he said, adding that Boeing is connecting with Qatari customers and industry partners at Dimdex. The F-15 is an indispensable asset to global force structures with affordability, speed, range and heavy-weapon payload. With its contemporary sensors, powerful radar, all-glass digital cockpit and advanced electronic warfare suite, the digitally-engineered F-15 delivers complementary and interoperable capabilities ready to take on the missions of today and adapt to meet the missions of tomorrow. The KC-46 Pegasus features multi-mission capability for aerial refuelling, cargo and passenger transportation, aeromedical evacuation support and data connectivity, enabling all facets of fleet air mobility for the Middle East region’s vast geographic landscape. The KC-46A also delivers data as well as fuel at the tactical edge, with secure communications and data link to ensure situational awareness for the force to maintain air superiority. The CH-47 Chinook is an advanced multi-mission helicopter for the US Army and international defence forces. It contains a fully integrated, digital cockpit management system, Common Avionics Architecture System (CAAS) Cockpit and advanced cargo-handling capabilities that complement the aircraft’s mission performance and handling characteristics. The Boeing Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW and C) is a combat-proven weapon system that provides powerful multi-domain surveillance, communications, and networked battle management capabilities, as well as interoperability that multiplies the effectiveness of joint and coalition forces.  

* HE the Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad bin Sherida al-Kaabi inaugurates three-day conference The seventh General Conference of the Arab Union of Electricity began Sunday at Sheraton Doha under the patronage of HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani. HE the Minister of State for Energy Affairs, Saad bin Sherida al-Kaabi, inaugurated the three-day conference in the presence of Arab ministerial delegations headed by a number of Arab ministers of electricity and energy. Addressing the opening session, HE al-Kaabi noted that the conference provides a platform to shed light on the opportunities and challenges facing the electricity sector, and discuss ways and prospects for its development and advancement to the best levels while ensuring a prosperous future for all Arab communities. HE Saad bin Sherida al-Kaabi addressing the opening session HE al-Kaabi expressed hope about providing an opportunity to form a more profound and accurate vision through the interest and follow-up of the Arab Union of Electricity, with the aim of building a unified Arab strategy based on best practices in the field of energy and renewable energy at the Arab and global levels. “Qatar, as one of the most important energy centres in the world, will work in co-operation with all brothers to raise levels of interest in issues related to electricity while activating joint co-ordination and constructive co-operation through electrical interconnection agreements and projects and strategic energy to support Arab electricity networks, while encouraging investment in the electricity sector in order to keep pace with the global transition to low-carbon energy and the use of renewable energy and cleaner energies, including natural gas,” he said. Dignitaries taking a tour of the event The work of the conference includes extensive sessions that will discuss the future of renewable energies and the possibilities of integrating them into Arab energy systems to convert them into integrated systems. “This is in line with the direction of the Arab Union of Electricity towards striving to achieve environmental sustainability and the development of the energy sectors in order to serve the economy and maintain environmental security by reducing carbon emissions and greenhouse gases, which is considered one of the most important issues at the present time,” he said. HE al-Kaabi said the conference will discuss the development of policies and strategies for the electricity sector in the Arab world, prospects for the common Arab electricity market, and electrical interconnection projects that will play a major role in enhancing prospects for co-operation and reducing the cost of energy production, which will positively affect the selling prices of electrical energy to consumers. The new logo of the Arab Union of Electricity was launched during the opening session. This was followed by the inauguration of the exhibition accompanying the conference and the exhibition of electrical equipment and supplies for the production, transmission and distribution of electricity in the Arab countries in its 10th edition combined with the main exhibition, by HE the Minister of State for Energy Affairs, accompanied by a number of Arab ministers of energy and electricity, Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation (Kahramaa) president Essa bin Hilal al-Kuwari, who is also the chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of the seventh General Conference of the Arab Union of Electricity, addressed the opening session along with the chairman of the Board of Directors of the Arab Union of Electricity and general director of the National Office for Electricity and Drinking Water in Morocco, Abdel Rahim al-Hafidi, and the director of the Energy Department of the League of Arab States, Jamila Matar.

Under the patronage of HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani, the 7th General Conference of the Arab Union of Electricity will begin in Doha Sunday under the theme 'Towards a common vision to achieve a promising future for electricity in the Arab world'. Organised by the Arab Union of Electricity every three years, the 2022 conference is being held in co-operation with the Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation (Kahramaa) at the Sheraton Doha. It will discuss challenges, innovations, and areas of co-operation and strengthening of partnerships. The conference, which runs until March 22, will be opened by HE the Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad bin Sherida al-Kaabi and Kahramaa president Essa bin Hilal al-Kuwari, who is also the chairman of the conference’s supreme organising committee. Dr Abdullah Mohsen al-Wahidi, director of Shared Services Affairs at Kahramaa and chairman of the organising committee, said that the conference is the largest Arab gathering to discuss issues and challenges facing the electricity sector in the Arab region while exploring prospects for Arab co-operation and joint action. “The conference is an occasion for acquiring knowledge and sharing experiences through pioneering scientific research and dialogue sessions that bring together the most prominent Arab, regional and international governmental and non-governmental bodies concerned,” he said. Arab ministerial delegations, headed by ministers and senior officials, will take part. Accompanying the conference, the 14th session of the Arab Ministerial Council of Electricity and the 37th meeting of the Executive Office of the Arab Ministerial Council of Electricity will be held, in addition to the meeting of the Board of Directors of the Arab Electricity Union and the meeting of the General Assembly of the Arab Electricity Union. There will be also an exhibition that will be attended by representatives of prominent companies and authorities concerned in the electricity sector of the Arab world, giving visitors an opportunity to know about the latest trends and innovations. It will highlight the electrical equipment and supplies used in the production, transmission, and distribution of electricity in the Arab countries. The exhibition aims to develop and introduce this industry as part of the continuous efforts to support and encourage the local electrical industries and develop their businesses. “This edition of the conference comes at a time when the economic and environmental challenges facing the electric power sector in the Arab world,” al-Wahidi said. “This requires decision-makers and specialists in this vital sector to work on developing electrical power systems in their countries to meet the needs of the population and different economic sectors.” Arab League Energy Department director Jamila Matar said that the Arab common market for electricity is among the agenda of the conference. “The idea of the common market reflects a long process that began in 2001, and the transition towards green energy was recently included on the agenda of the Arab Ministerial Council for Electricity,” she said, adding that this market is based on solid institutional framework with complete infrastructure that takes into account the technical aspects to achieve market integration. “Also, it needs a legislative framework based on the adoption of four basic documents for the governance of the electricity market, which are the memorandum of understanding, the general agreement, the market agreement, and network operating rules,” she added.

Indian expatriate Shahana Ilyas is a pharmacist by profession. But the premises of her home at Al Aziziya is full of lush green plants and flowers. The highlight is tomatoes of 22 types. Varieties of gourd, pumpkin, beans, chillie, brinjal, cauliflower, cabbage, lettuce, broccoli,carrot, potato, spinach and radish are also grown here in addition to f strawberry and shamam and herbs such as coriander and mint. Farming is a way of life for Shahana who feels happy growing vegetables and fruits. “I come from a hilly hamlet in Kerala and I am fascinated by greenery which soothes my mind. After coming to the Gulf, I started to miss the greenery back home and decided to do my bit,” she told Community. Shahana started with some tomatoes and flowers nine years ago. “Though the flowers bloomed, there was no yield of vegetables,” she recalled. Undaunted Shahana read up on the ideal farming methods and sought the advise of experts.   “I became a member of some farmers’ collectives and groups where I got insight and ideas of becoming a better farmer. I bought seeds, fertilisers, soil and agricultural equipment. She also used to bring all these while returning from vacations back home. Shahana credits the farmers' collectives with helping and encouraging her. "With the advent of social media platforms, I could easily clear my doubts and listen to the experts,” she said. Shahana follows organic farming methods even though it needs extra effort. She uses treated cow and camel dung after making the soil ready for farming by mixing protein soil and coco peat. “Farming here needs a lot of effort while preparing the soil, planting and watering,” observed Shahana who is supported by her husband Abdul Aziz Purayil and their children Izza Safreen, Khalaf Salman and Mishal Ramadan. Shahana is immensely fond of growing tomatoes “Love for tomatoes drives me to shops and supermarkets where I find new varieties. I also have Arab friends who keenly wait for the harvesting. I share the yield with my relatives, friends and neighbours, and some of them often want to know when I reap the vegetables, especially tomatoes,” she said. Shahana has already harvested 19 varieties of tomatoes, with three more due soon. She makes sauce and jams from tomatoes and credits her mother for the passion towards making food. She is the admin of Keralite culinary enthusiast group Malabar Adukkala and is passionate about cooking. She runs mytastediary.com, an exclusive website for food making and writes for food magazines. She has also won several prizes while attending various cookery competitions. Her new venture Charlotte Baking Solutions sells baking materials and equipment.

*CIFAL’s mission is to strengthen the capacity of government officials and civil society leaders and empower them to advance sustainable development   The 23rd centre of the International Training Centres for Local Authorities and Local Actors (CIFAL) global network was opened at the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Centre (Rolacc) at Lusail Wednesday. HE the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Center Dr Ali bin Fetais al-Marri and the head of the CIFAL Global Network Alex Mejia attended the opening ceremony. The first of its kind in the Arab world, CIFAL Doha will represent the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) while enhancing the implementation of the United Nations 2030 Agenda. The centre will also specialise in anti-corruption and sustainable development. While addressing the function, HE Dr al-Marri said that CIFAL Doha was established as a result of the confidence of international organisations in partnership with Qatar. “This reflects the confidence of the international community in the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani. The centre will provide support to organisations and individuals in the region and the entire Arab world while providing training,” al-Marri said, adding that Rolaac will serve as the training place.   “While serving the civil society in Qatar, Rolaac has trained 2,744 persons in partnership with the UN. Ministers, judges and advocates were among the trainees,” he explained. Alex Mejia hailed Qatar’s efforts and cooperation with UN agencies while making various contributions. He thanked HE Dr al-Marri and Rolaac for its continuous support for anti corruption training. CIFAL’s mission is to strengthen the capacity of government officials and civil society leaders and empower them to advance sustainable development. The network comprises International Training Centres for authorities and leaders located across Asia, Oceania, Africa, Europe, the Americas, and the Caribbean.The network is coordinated by UNITAR’s Social Development Programme. UNITAR provides innovative learning solutions to individuals, organisations, and institutions to enhance global decision-making and support country-level action for shaping a better future. Rolacc was inaugurated in 2011 in order to promote mutual cooperation and partnership building both locally and regionally with an international mandate to spread awareness and knowledge of the policies and tools necessary to prevent and combat corruption. It promotes the permanent exchange of experience and expertise in the region through strategic partnerships with the relevant bodies of the UN, particularly the UNITAR and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The function also marked handing over the UN flag. HE Dr al-Marri received the flag from Alex Mejia as an appreciation and it was later hoisted on the premises of the centre.

The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has urged companies to pay salaries on time, ensure workers’ welfare and safety, and continue upholding their important role in preventing crimes. Addressing a webinar titled 'Crime Prevention is a Shared Responsibility' Tuesday, Captain Meshaal Mubarak al-Mansouri from the Technical Office in the North Security Department, said that the "failure of some companies resulted in their reluctance to pay their workers' salaries, that led the latter to strike, which is forbidden by our true religion and prohibited by legislative laws". Companies must maintain security by protecting the lives of the employees with safety procedures, food and appropriate accommodation, and paying attention to the basic needs of employees at workplace and outside. “Companies should educate employees about the country’s procedures and laws and install surveillance cameras in the workers’ accommodation to prevent theft and attacks,” Capt al-Mansouri said, urging company officials to inform the security authorities if any negative behaviour or suspicious activity is noted from the employees. He asked companies to carry out periodic maintenance of the housing and provide for the requirements of the employees, and urged employees to wear clothes that are not against moral values in Qatar. “Ensure the cleanliness of accommodation and do not overcrowd. Provide health insurance and pay attention to their health. Educate employees how to transfer funds electronically to their countries in order to reduce the fraud or theft of their money. (Sign a) contract with any bank to provide an ATM at their accommodation or nearby,” Capt al-Mansouri said. The MoI official also urged companies to follow precautionary measures while withdrawing funds from banks. “Electronic means, such as bank transfers or money exchanges, are preferred, and if it’s essential to withdraw cash itself, we recommend not leaving money in the vehicle while it is parked somewhere unattended,” he said. “Those dealing with bank transactions should maintain high alertness. Make sure you are in the places covered by surveillance cameras while holding transactions,” Capt al-Mansouri added. “In case of withdrawing huge amounts from the bank, be vigilant of those around you.” The MoI official shared tips on securing houses, companies and residential complexes, as well as personal belongings at company accommodations. "A resident should be aware of the address of the place where he is located, to assist the emergency response team to quickly reach if needed,” he said. “Don’t keep large sums of money and jewellery outside the locker. Inform your neighbours, relatives or friends when you leave the house for a long period.” “Only buy valuables one or two days before departure for vacation, and avoid storing valuables for a long period before the trip,” Capt al-Monsouri added. “Don’t disclose the details of the purchased items to the roommates.” He also warned against illegal vendors, saying that the law obliges anyone wishing to do business to obtain a licence from the competent authority, even if such activities are carried out by selling goods on the ground. The MoI official warned against drinking and smoking in public places, and said that whoever is found drunk on the public road may be punished with six months of imprisonment and a fine not exceeding QR3,000. “Anyone who imports, exports, manufactures, brings, sells or promotes alcohol or any intoxicating drink shall be punished by imprisonment for three years, and a fine not exceeding QR10,000,” he warned. “Intentional destruction of others’ property is punished with imprisonment for a term of not more than three years, and a fine of not more than QR10,000.”

Qatar has set a successful model in using and promoting scientific research for protecting the environment. This was highlighted at the ninth Qatar International Agricultural Exhibition (AgriteQ) and the third Qatar International Environmental Exhibition (EnviroteQ), which concluded on Monday. Dr Mohamed Saif al-Kuwari, director of the Environmental and Municipal Studies Centre at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoCC), said Qatar has encouraged and supported technical scientific research aimed at promoting and protecting the environment from pollution to achieve the required balance. He was addressing the forum at the event on ‘the role of scientific research in promoting and protecting the environment…successful Qatari models’.Dr al-Kuwari, quoted His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, saying a future roadmap was drawn up in 2008 under the title “Qatar National Vision 2030”, which aims to transform Qatar into an advanced country capable of achieving sustainable development, and ensuring the continuation of decent living for its people by 2030.“The objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030 couldn’t be achieved without a comprehensive environmental vision with top priority. Qatar National Vision aims to guide Qatar towards establishing a balance between the developmental needs and the protection of its natural land, air and sea resources. While determining this fact, Qatar has promoted research initiatives meant for environmental protection,” he said. Dr al-Kuwari noted there are several successful practical applications in the research sector for protecting and promoting the environment.“These are implemented with the participation of the national level stakeholders including the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Ministry of Municipality, Public Works Authority (Ashghal), Qatar University, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, industrial sector, experts and factories of concrete, construction materials and asphalt. At international level, there is participation of the Austrian Institute of Technology, Leibniz-Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research, University of the West of England - UWE Bristol, Texas University and other institutions across the world,” he said. The official noted there are several successful scientific and innovative initiatives for environmental protection in Qatar and explained that recycled stones from construction sites are used for building and road construction. Iron slag is used in asphalt mixtures while old asphalt is recycled and used for road construction and used cooking oil is used for making smart bricks. Ashes and human waste from treatment plants are converted into environmentally friendly green cement. Old tyres are used for asphalt production. There is a carbon dioxide capture plan as well. Dr al-Kuwari further explained that a sustainable strategy for food, water and energy resources is being formulated for the select cities of Doha, Berlin, Bristol and Vienna and their vegetation areas while deploying robots to detect pollution levels. He noted Qatar’s models in environmental protection have won several international recognitions. While making recommendations, Dr al-Kuwari said research should be a top priority and more research should be initiated and promoted in the environment and climate change sectors while bringing scholars and experts together. There is a need to make use of international and national research initiatives, he added.    

With a wide range of dairy products, the Mazzraty brand is becoming a strong presence in the Qatari food market. This has been highlighted at the ninth Qatar International Agriculture Exhibition (AgriteQ 2022) at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC) where the National Group for Agriculture and Animal Products, a subsidiary of Al Mana International Holding Group, is featuring its Mazzraty dairy products. Milk, flavoured milk, labneh, cheese and yogurt are on sale at the Mazzraty pavilion along with Qatar-made juices. Mazzraty's fresh dairy range "marks a milestone in the company’s strategy of diversifying its product portfolio through innovation, geographical expansion and organic growth", an official has said. This is also in line with its board and management’s vision of meeting the local demand for healthy, natural products and contributing to Qatar’s food security. At the pavilion, fresh cow’s milk, low-fat milk, skimmed milk and full-fat milk are presented along with chocolate, strawberry and mango-flavoured low-fat milk. The pavilion also showcases the mixed berries flavoured drink and orange, apple and mixed fruits nectar. The other products include yogurt plain, low-fat yogurt along with mango, coconut, strawberry and peach-flavoured special yogurt. These are fortified with probiotics and attractively bottled. Among the highlights is the Mazzraty packed cheese. Saad al-Mana, executive board member, Mazzraty, earlier told Gulf Times on the sidelines of the exhibition that the new products will help strengthen the company's presence in the Qatari market. The dairy products are made at Mazzraty farms where they are processed by using state-of-the-art technology, adhering to the highest quality standards. In order to ensure 100% natural products without the presence of any chemicals or antibiotics, Mazzraty processes the dairy products without human interaction. Mazzraty is also specialised in the poultry and vegetable production sector. The company follows a fully environment-friendly production cycle while trying to raise environmental awareness, and encourage the Qatari community to become part of sustainable development and combat climate change. Apart from dairy products and soft drinks, Mazzraty's poultry products include fresh whole chicken, fresh chicken wings, necks, thighs, whole legs, tenderloin, gizzards, hearts, livers, feet, drumsticks, breast fillet and mixed parts. Featured at the pavilion are Mazzraty Fresh Chicken Minced Meat and Chicken Shish Tawook. Mazzraty floral honey and honey sidr flowers have also found place at the company's pavilion where varieties of dates, including Mazzraty premium dates are available. The varieties of dates include Zahidi, Malaki, Khudry, Safaawy,Sukkary, Suqa’ey, Khalas, Fard, Barny and Berhi. Special space is allocated for fresh vegetables including parsley, aubergine, beans, cucumber, squash, tomato and okra. Visitors can also find fertilisers and animal feeds for pigeon, fish, dog, dairy, sheep and goat, horse, duck, calves, camel and broiler chicken. Mazzraty’s organic fertiliser has also been put on sale. Kidzania has partnered with Mazzraty at the exhibition to give children a first hand experience of farming and dairy production by making use of augmented reality, a blender bike, arts and crafts. Mazzraty has provided visitors the opportunity to experience the most exquisite dishes cooked by Chef Ahmed Al Zamel, who among other items, has introduced the 'magical combination' of Mazzraty eggplants and Mazzraty minced chicken.    

Qatar will do everything to make the Chadian peace talks a success, HE the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad al-Muraikhi said on Sunday as the talks began in Doha on Sunday with the participation of the Transitional Military Council representatives and armed groups in Chad. The opening session was attended by HE al-Muraikhi, HE the Special Envoy of the Qatari Minister of Foreign Affairs for Combating Terrorism and Mediation in Settlement of Disputes Mutlaq bin Majid al-Qahtani, Prime Minister of the Transitional Government of Chad Albert Pahimi Padacké, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Libya Najla El Mangoush, Chairperson of the African Union Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat, and a number of senior ministers, officials, diplomats and representatives of international and regional organisations. HE al-Muraikhi stressed that the peace negotiations that started in Doha yesterday are Chadian-Chadian negotiations led by Chadians, and Qatar - in its capacity as a facilitator and host - will do everything to make it a success. “Qatar maintains friendly relations with Chad and hopes that the relations will continue and develop at various levels. We didn’t hesitate to accept the invitation to host these negotiations. With its peace-loving people, Qatar is a peace-loving country. We have no doubt that Chadians are also peace-loving people and, therefore, Qatar hopes for the success of negotiations,” HE al-Muraikhi said, adding that the hopes of many depend on these negotiations. “The people of Chad have the right to enjoy peace, security, stability, development and prosperity. Therefore, every effort must be made to achieve these for this generation and future generations. In order to achieve this, national interest should be put above all interests while making consensus and reconciliation as a priority above all priorities and being wise and realistic,” he said and noted that Chad, like other developing countries, is facing major development challenges that require efforts to move forward on the path of progress and prosperity. “There is no doubt that political and security stability is a prerequisite in view of the interrelationship between the factors of security, peace, development and human rights. This is considered an additional incentive towards making all possible efforts for the success of the peace negotiations,” HE al-Muraikhi said. He welcomed the participants in the Chadian peace talks, and said it is Qatar's pleasure to host the talks in Doha, as it has hosted many successful peace talks and negotiations that have contributed to achieving security, stability and regional and international peace. HE al-Muraikhi hoped that the Chadian peace negotiations in Doha would succeed in converging the points of view of the Chadian people, reach fruitful consensus, and achieve the aspirations of millions of Chadians, adding that he looked forward to Qatar having an active role in the noble efforts leading to this end. (With inputs from QNA)    

Crossing a milestone, Podar Pearl School Saturday celebrated the signing of a partnership agreement with Podar Education Network and marked the foundation stone laying for its Sports Complex. A function was held in this regard on the school’s Al Meshaf campus in the presence of several dignitaries, including Indian ambassador Dr Deepak Mittal, Pearl School patron Sheikh Hassan bin Abdullah Hassan Ali al-Thani, Sheikh Jaber bin Hassan Abdullah al-Thani, school director Shamna Mohamed Althaf, Podar Education Network director Harsh Podar and other school directors. The function also saw cultural performances by students.   Dr Mittal, who expressed pleasure at attending the event, said sports is an integral part of any educational institution and wished the Sports Complex would be developed as a state-of-the-art facility. He said Qatar is paying much attention to sports and the facility will help students become healthy and meet their physical engagement needs. The envoy stressed that the agreement with Podar will help the school cater to the emerging educational needs of students, adding that the school will make the students better citizens.   Podar Education Network is one of the oldest and largest school networks in India. Established in 1927 and Mahatma Gandhi being the first president of the trust, this 95-year-old education network is spread across India with 136 schools, more than 180,000 students, and 7,600-plus experienced teaching faculty. School president Sam Mathew said the Podar group of schools is well-known for its academic excellence and holistic development of students. “The backbone of Podar Education Network is the Podar Innovation Centre, which is one of the best-in-class centralised educational research centres with more than 100 highly experienced educationalists. This centre focuses on lesson planning, examination paper setting, teachers' training, coaching and other development programmes. Associating with such a credible education network is a big boost for us in realising our vision,” he said. PICTURES: Shaji Kayamkulam Harsh Podar said it is an honour for Podar Education Network to partner with Pearl School and impart quality education in Doha. “Podar Education Network has vast expertise in the field of education, with our first school opening in 1927. The vision of Podar Education Network is to raise the traditional standards of educational possibilities and outcomes for students, parents and society,” he said. Shamna Mohamed Althaf said the Podar group of schools is among the top entities in India when it comes to academic excellence and the holistic development of students. "What makes them different is the research and innovation, teachers’ training and technology application. The group has a unique approach to exploring and identifying students’ aptitude and fitness and creating programmes accordingly. This is a very scientific and professional approach to students' holistic development,” she noted. “Pearl School was started by a few like-minded individuals with a strong social focus. The motive was to create a full-fledged education institution with state-of-the-art facilities to benefit the Indian community in Qatar. We looked at the infrastructure of other global educational institutions in Qatar and the way these ecosystems support the holistic development of students to achieve their life goals,” said C M Nizar, another director. Pearl School, with the new tie-up with Podar, has all the ingredients to be one of the best-in-class Indian schools in the Middle East, a press statement noted. School facilities include the latest technology-enabled classroom set-up, open areas, play areas, other skill development facilities, sports, games, dance and music. Faisal Hyder, another school director, noted that technology-enabled teaching is an integral part of the school's new approach.” With support from Podar Education Network, we will advance in this area. Podar Education Network is one of the pioneers in introducing 3D printers, Artificial Intelligence and robotics in school learning. They have an advanced innovation lab to do practicals in these emerging topics, which are useful for 21st century students,” he explained. “With a clear vision of building a purposeful and resilient institution to meet the life goals and aspirations of our children, parents and staff, the school management invested in improving the facilities as well as the quality of teaching in the school. In 2019, the school laid the foundation for a purpose-built school campus at Al Meshaf. The building was completed in a record time of 15 months,” he added. Director Pradeep Chandran said academic excellence is at the core of the school. “This tie-up with Podar group will further strengthen us in achieving this. The new campus has all the facilities to support this, such as the latest technology-enabled classrooms, laboratories, multiple libraries, in addition to top-class teaching faculty,” he said. "Aligning with our vision of enabling achievement of student’s life goals, the school created support facilities like excellent play areas, a mini-Olympic size swimming pool, a large multipurpose hall, tennis and basketball courts, a large and spacious cafeteria, training rooms, and purpose-built rooms for music & dance, etc," added Ashraf Madathil, one of the school directors. According to the statement from the school, the Multi-Sports Complex of Podar Pearl School includes a wide range of sporting facilities, including international standard tennis courts, a basketball court, nine-a-side football court, full-fledged hockey ground, multiple squash courts and a multi-purpose hall. The facility also includes recreational and indoor sports such as a bowling alley, mini-golf room, dance rooms, indoor games facilities and a premium food court. “In 2016, Podar Schools innovated a new concept of sensory rooms called ‘Sensory Spa’ in their preschools, where children experience soft sounds, dimmed lights, an unhurried agenda and the pleasure of playing using all the senses. The reason for introducing it is that children are constantly in brightly lit spaces with a mixture of sounds. The technology gadgets that they usually use control the flow of the interaction and thus they are unable to experience the world with their other senses. In our sensory rooms called 'Sensory Spas', children are able to use these gadgets to design their own games, at their own pace and feel a sense of relaxation and achievement- a unique combination," the statement explained. In addition, the ‘Mother Toddler programme’ part of Podar Jumbo Kids incorporates fun learning methods for children between 12 and 24 months, which help in brain development through multi-sensory activities. This programme helps the children gain a smooth transition to Nursery. The program mealso touches upon play-way, Montessori, Reggio, Froebel, & EYFS blended learning, the school said. “Going forward, we will be known as Podar Pearl School and any students from our school will have a preferential status in getting admission in any Podar Education Network in India, including higher education centres and professional colleges of Podar,” it added.

Spreading the message of 'Green Desert and Better Environment' and helping visitors learn about the latest technologies in environmental protection and agriculture, the Ministry of Municipality and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC) are taking part in the 9th Qatar International Agriculture Exhibition (AgriteQ 2022) and the 3rd Qatar International Environmental Exhibition (EnviroteQ) at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC). The exhibitions, which opened on Thursday, are running until March 14. The pavilion of the Ministry of Municipality highlights its contributions and role in the development of the agricultural sector and schemes to encourage local farmers. HE the Minister of Municipality Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie, while addressing the inaugural ceremony, said that the exhibitions comes as part of the ministry’s strategy to support food security in Qatar and is inspired by the vision of the wise leadership and the Qatar National Vision 2030 while working to achieve self-sufficiency in all aspects of food. Showcased at the exhibitions are many modern innovations in agricultural technologies and environmental sustainability. The MoECC pavilion highlights its roles for the protection of environment and initiatives to encourage smart waste management while ensuring sustainability. Also, the pavilion focuses on plans to protect the environment, achieve sustainability and confront climate change. HE the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Sheikh Dr Faleh bin Nasser bin Ahmed bin Ali al-Thani said the exhibitions are an effective platform that allows specialists and experts to learn about modern technologies related to water treatment, waste management, smart agriculture and others, especially as Qatar is keen to protect the environment and its natural balance, in order to achieve comprehensive and sustainable development.   Youssef Khaled al-Khulaifi, vice chairman of the organising committee and director of the Agricultural Affairs Department at the Ministry of Municipality, said that this edition is special with the highest number of participants from across the world and the two exhibitions will discuss the ways to protect environment and encourage agriculture. He said that the ministry has set up special space within the exhibition for local farmers to showcase and market their products. The minister said Qatar recently launched the Qatar National Strategy for Environment and Climate Change, which is one of the main pillars to achieve Qatar National Vision 2030. This is in line with the sustainable development goals of the United Nations and Qatar’s ambition to achieve a leadership position in the region through the implementation of many projects and initiatives that contribute to efforts to reduce air pollutants and carbon emissions while increasing reliance on renewable energy sources.    

The new National Group for Agriculture and Animal Products, a subsidiary of Al Mana International Holding Group, is featuring its Mazzraty dairy and juice products at the ongoing ninth Qatar International Agriculture Exhibition (AgriteQ 2022) at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC).The Mazzraty pavilion at the exhibition has its newly launched milk, labneh, cheese and yogurt on sale while several Qatar made juices are featured. “We are known for our specialisation in poultry and vegetable production. And we have made a foray into the dairy sector while giving consumers better options to buy high quality products at best commercial prices.   We guarantee the healthiest and tasteful food for consumers while ensuring full quality,” Saad al-Mana, executive board member, Mazzraty, told Gulf Times on the sidelines of the exhibition. He added that there is space for new products in the Qatari market and consumers are benefited when new products are made available. Among the newly launched products are fresh cow’s milk with various specifications. These include low-fat milk, skimmed milk and full fat milk and juices in attractive bottles and beautifully packed cheese. Al-Mana said the dairy products are made from Mazzraty farms and they are marketed after processing using state-of-the-art technology and highest quality standards. The production and processing are done free of human interaction in order to ensure 100% natural products without any chemicals or antibiotics. Mazzraty uses a fully environment-friendly production cycle using various facilities in order to make sure that its projects are free of any negative environmental impact while trying to raise environmental awareness and encourage the Qatari community to become part of efforts for sustainability and combating climate change. The Mazzraty pavilion also features a wide range of poultry products. These include Mazzraty fresh whole chicken, fresh chicken wings, necks, thighs, whole legs, tenderloin, gizzards, hearts, livers, feet, drumsticks, breast fillet and mixed parts. Also, Mazzraty Fresh Chicken Minced Meat and Chicken Shish Tawook are available. Mazzraty floral honey and honey sidr flowers are also sold. Varieties of dates are available with molasses. There are Mazzraty extra dates and various types including Zahidi, Malaki, Khudry, Safaawy,Sukkary, Suqa’ey, Khalas, Fard, Barny and Berhi. Fresh vegetables including rocca, parsley, aubergine, bean, cucumber, squash, tomato and okra too are on sale. Fertilisers and animal feeds are also featured in the exhibition. Al-Mana said the exhibition is an ideal venue for Qatari farmers and entrepreneurs to showcase and market their products and share experience while taking new lessons.    

Tributes were paid to prominent Indian religious and political leader Panakkad Syed Hyderali Shihab Thangal at a commemoration programme in Doha on Monday. Thangal, 74, the Indian Union Muslim League national chairman and Kerala state president, passed away in the southern state on Sunday. He was also serving as the vice-president of the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulema, an influential body of Muslim scholars in Kerala. A number of dignitaries from various walks of life, including Qatar Ministry of Interior's Public Relations Department director Brig Abdullah Khalifa al-Muftah, attended the function at Ideal Indian School grounds. Hundreds also attended the absentee funeral prayer of Thangal at the function organised by the Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre (KMCC). Speaking on the occasion, Brig al-Muftah paid homage saying that the gathering bears witness to the grandeur of Thangal. While reminiscing his moments with Thangal during his visit to Qatar, the senior Qatari official said Thangal invited him to visit Kerala several times. "I was fascinated by his simplicity and truthfulness whenever I met him," he said and wished Thangal's descendants God's blessing to keep his great legacy intact. KMCC state president S A M Basheer said that Thangal always upheld the motto of tolerance and togetherness while guiding his community as a virtuous leader. "His ideas will continue to inspire generations," he noted. In a statement to Gulf Times, KMCC Malappuram district general secretary Akbar Vengassery noted that Thangal was an icon and his demise had left an immense void. He noted that he was an inspiring leader, who was simple and approachable for all. KMCC Qatar state general secretary Asees Narikkuni welcomed the gathering. Isamaeel Hudawi led the prayers. Ideal Indian School president Hassan Kunji, representatives of Indian Cultural Centre, Indian Community Benevolent Forum, Indian Sports Centre, Indian Business and Professionals Council, Indian National Cultural and Arts Society, Kerala Islamic Centre, Islahi Centre and Pravasi Coordination Committee were also present.    

The Plant Million Trees initiative by the Supervisory Committee of Beautification of Roads and Public Places in Qatar has marked a milestone of 750,000. HE the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) chairperson Maryam bint Abdullah al-Attiyah recently planted the 750,000th tree. According to a tweet by the Ministry of Municipality, the tree was planted in the presence of Mohamed Ali al-Khoury, director of the Public Parks Department at the ministry. According to the latest figures available with the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), a total of 1,010 students from 70 schools across the country took part in the Qatar Beautification and Our Kids Planting Trees campaign held within the Plant Million Trees initiative. These are in addition to government and private institutions, organisations, clubs and community collectives. The participants have planted trees at various parks, project sites and on building premises and streets across Doha and other municipalities. The campaign launched in September 2019 aims to afforest various areas, while working under the Ministry of Municipality in co-ordination with several ministries and other entities such as the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Culture and Sports, Qatar Museums, Qatar Rail, Private Engineering Office and others. The Supervisory Committee of Beautification of Roads and Public Places in Qatar is responsible for five major tasks, including the construction of central public parks, provision of dedicated lanes for pedestrians and bicycles, development of the Doha Corniche and Central Doha and increasing afforestation and green areas. The committee’s work will enhance sustainability through minimising environmental pollution and reducing the emission of CO2 through reduced consumption of energy resources. It also focuses on the provision of more public transport options aiming at reduced use of private cars and improving lifestyle through clean and safe transportation. Further, it is intended to ensure a healthy environment within residential neighbourhoods and places of public gatherings through increased afforestation and landscaping, which will greatly help in reducing the temperature in cities.    

Qatar will host the meeting of the leaders of the United Nations' (UN) International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (Insarag) from Monday until March 11. This was announced during a press conference on Sunday. Addressing the press meet, Lieutenant-Colonel Mubarak Sherida al-Kaabi, Qatar International Search and Rescue Group leader, said the meeting will enhance effective communication and exchange of experiences between the leaders of the participating teams. “It will benefit the participants in future tasks while taking up efforts to develop global standards for the rapid response of international search and rescue teams during emergencies,” he said. The official explained that a request was submitted by Qatar on the directives of HE the Commander of the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya) Major-General Abdulaziz bin Faisal al-Thani to host the conference. “The International Advisory Office for Search and Rescue Teams office welcomed Qatar's hosting of this meeting for the second time after 2014,” he said. The meeting will have 65 participants from 33 countries in addition to representatives from four international organisations, including the World Health Organisation and the United Nations Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Some of the participants will attend the meeting virtually. An accompanying event will be held on the sidelines of the meeting and it will be attended by a number of companies that have been invited to display the latest devices and equipment for search and rescue missions. Lieutenant-Colonel al-Kaabi said joint exercises will be held on the first two days as part of the meeting with the aim of exchanging experiences and training on the latest methods of search and rescue missions. He explained that Qatar has been selected as the head of the regional group of search and rescue teams in the Middle East, Europe and Africa for 2023 by Insarag, noting that this comes as a recognition of Qatar's efforts and contributions. Winston Chang, Insarag global lead and unit head, Emergency Response Section, said the meeting would enhance co-operation between the countries and strengthen ties while helping the member countries learn from each other. “Such initiatives help the members make the rescue mechanisms developed and effective,” he noted. He praised the relief and rescue work it carried out during the past years, especially the great role played by the Qatari search and rescue team after the Beirut port explosion. "The Qatari team has great capabilities that qualify it to carry out humanitarian tasks with high efficiency," he said.    

The Ministry of Interior (MoI), represented by the General Directorate of Civil Defence (GDCD), yesterday launched the Civil Defence Technical Requirements Guide 2022, putting in place an updated mechanism to combat emergencies and adding more features to the existing guidelines. The 2022 guide was launched at a function held at the Officers’ Club of the GDCD in the presence of senior officials at the ministry, including Brig Hamad Othman al-Duhaimi, director-general of Civil Defence. Representatives of consulting offices and contracting and engineering companies were also present. Brig al-Duhaimi noted that the updated manual is the result of the efforts made by members of the committee assigned to prepare the guide for more than two years. “The guide includes all engineering requirements related to prevention systems in buildings,” he said, adding that it was updated with some new requirements to keep pace with urban development in the country. The guidelines will be applicable from now, he noted. The guide has been developed in co-operation with the authorities concerned and includes all the engineering requirements related to the construction scenario in the country. It retains the existing requirements while adding some essential features. Brig al-Duhaimi thanked all government and private agencies for their contribution towards updating the guide. During the inaugural ceremony, an introductory video was shown highlighting the efforts of the working team assigned with preparing the guidelines, the stages of their completion and the most important updates that were made regarding building requirements and standards for protection systems. Capt Abdulrahman Sultan al-Ghanim, one of the members of the technical team, gave a presentation on the updates of the Civil Defence Technical Requirements Guide, the efforts of the committee concerned with its development and its objectives of protecting lives and property and keeping pace with in terms of fire safety requirement updates that the international community issues on an ongoing basis. He also explained the updated requirements that came into effect in line with the observations of the private sector and in co-ordination with various relevant government agencies. Capt al-Ghanim pointed out that the first version of the requirements was prepared, approved and implemented in 2015, noting that the updates included in the guide are in line with the requirements of a number of authorities, such as Qatar Electricity & Water Corporation (Kahramaa), educational facilities, nurseries and mosques. According to him, the guide was prepared in line with the needs of people with disabilities in hotels as well as the requirements for storing hazardous materials in laboratories. Also, it has a special chapter for workers' accommodation buildings and the update of ventilation requirements for warehouses and industrial facilities. The director-general of Civil Defence honoured the engineers of the consulting offices who participated in preparing and reviewing the Civil Defence Technical Requirements Guide 2022. On the sidelines of the launch, the GDCD organised a technical workshop for specialists to introduce the design and construction requirements for fire prevention control systems. In addition, technological developments related to firefighting systems, conditions approved by the authorities concerned in the country, and the updated technical requirements to enhance safety and protection systems in buildings and facilities were also discussed at the workshop.    

The first ministerial-level meeting of the joint committee of India and Qatar will be held in mid-2022. Indian ambassador Dr Deepak Mittal told a press conference on Thursday that high-level delegations from both countries will discuss ways to expand ties to more areas. The envoy noted that the co-operation in security, defence, education, culture, business and tourism is growing while opening doors for further expansion. “Indian investment in Qatar is witnessing an upward trend and prominent Indian businesspersons have visited the country while giving an indication of further growth. More Indian universities are set to come to Qatar in order to help Indian students pursue their higher studies here,” he pointed out. Dr Mittal said the embassy’s mobile application and the hotline 44953500 are available to serve Indians by helping them book appointments and avail various services. "The embassy officials are holding regular visits to the workplaces and detention centres in order to ensure the welfare of community members. Several Indians are making use of the Open House facility and the embassy’s welfare fund,” he observed. The ambassador said the embassy is in touch with the parents of Doha-based students, who got stuck in Ukraine. "India is part of Qatar- Middle East, North Africa and South Asia (MENASA) year of culture and programmes will be held under the theme ‘Passage to India’. Steps are being taken to draw tourists from Qatar to India," he said.