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HE the Minister of Social Development and Family Buthaina bint Ali al-Jabr al-Nuaimi honoured the initiatives of private associations and institutions at a ceremony organised by her ministry. Held in Doha Sunday, the ceremony was attended by HE the Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council Dr Hamda bint Hassan al-Sulaiti and Assistant Undersecretary for Social Development Affairs Fahd Mohammed al-Khayarin, alongside chairpersons and members of the boards of directors of private associations and institutions. The ceremony came in recognition of the efforts of private associations and institutions dedicated to serving the community and reinforcing the sustainable development, in addition to underscoring the importance of their role in fostering partnership with state institutions to achieve the national development goals. Al-Khayarin said that private associations and institutions undertake an instrumental role in advancing the local community, adding that collaboration between the public and private sectors is a fundamental factor to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He affirmed a sense of pride in the tangible milestones these projects have achieved, underlining that the ceremony came within the efforts devoted to fostering the role of private associations and institutions in executing development projects. Al-Khayarin noted the Ministry of Social Development and Family’s steadfast commitment to supporting these initiatives and providing an environment conducive for optimising the level of offered social services. Private Associations and Institutions Department director Naji al-Aji affirmed that the support for the initiatives is aimed at spurring social institutions to continue offering innovative services and contribute to building far more cohesive and enduring communities. The ceremony saw the honouring of the associations that had outstanding initiatives. The Qatar Livestock Society (ANAAM) snagged first place, followed by the Qatar Arabic Language Association in second place, and the Qatar Society of Engineers in third place. Supportive entities were also recognised, including the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs’ General Directorate of Endowments, and Qatar Charity (QC), associations participating in offering diverse initiatives, such as Qatar Society of Radio Amateurs (QARS), the Qatari Women Association for Economic Awareness & Investment, the Qatar Lawyers Association, the Qatar’s Mental Health Friends Association and the Qatar Association of Certified Public Accountants. Also honoured were members of the jury committee for their role in evaluating the initiatives and ensuring their compliance with standards. Additionally, numerous associations featured their salient achievements, and successful projects were highlighted in recognition for their contribution to improving the livelihood of the targeted segments.

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Middle East concluded its landmark 2024 Year-End Conference “Qatar: Morphogenesis of a Pearl”, with the announcement that host venue Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) has won the AIA Middle East Award for Urban Design and Planning Excellence.The recognition underscores Msheireb’s transformative approach to smart sustainable urban development, blending traditional Qatari heritage with innovative architectural practices, a statement said Sunday.“At Msheireb Properties, we have always sought to create developments that honour our heritage while addressing the needs of the future,” said Msheireb Properties chief executive engineer Ali al-Kuwari. “Winning the AIA Middle East Award speaks to the success of Msheireb Downtown Doha in setting a new benchmark for urban design and sustainability that can be replicated globally.”The conference, held over two days and concluding on Saturday, showcased the MDD’s distinctive architectural style and innovative sustainable practices.All buildings in the district have achieved either LEED Gold or Platinum certification, demonstrating the highest standard of environmental sustainability in real estate development.The conference united top architects, urban planners, and design professionals from renowned firms including Pei Architects, Foster + Partners, ISOZAKI + HuQian Partners, and Zaha Hadid to explore Qatar’s architectural evolution, spotlighting the transformative role Msheireb Downtown Doha has played in promoting architectural innovation and smart design.US embassy chargé d’affaires Stefanie Altman-Winans emphasised architecture’s role in cultural dialogue: “Architecture has always been more than just buildings – it is the physical embodiment of our values, aspirations, and shared future.”“I have witnessed firsthand how architecture serves as a powerful instrument of public diplomacy, creating spaces that foster dialogue, understanding, and cultural exchange,” the official added.Li Chung “Sandi” Pei, founding partner of Pei Architects, offered unique perspectives on architectural heritage and innovation.“The past holds invaluable lessons in craftsmanship, materials, cultural context, and the evolving relationship between humans and their built environments,” he said. “By this means, architects can draw inspiration from time-tested solutions to contemporary challenges – whether it’s sustainability, space efficiency, or creating spaces that foster community and connection.”The judges were impressed with Msheireb Properties’ commitment to reviving the historic heart of Doha through a modern lens.Guided by a groundbreaking architectural framework, the “Seven Principles”, Msheireb Downtown Doha represents a seamless integration of Qatari architectural traditions with contemporary urban planning principles.It focuses on principles such as continuity between past and present, nurturing community development through harmonious urban design, and leveraging technology to maximise energy efficiency while respecting Qatar’s climate and resident needs.“This year’s conference in Doha proved to be an extraordinary success, showcasing a city whose architectural evolution is a testament to its rapid growth and bold vision for the future,” said AIA Middle East executive director Sherif W Anis. “The diverse range of speakers and topics highlighted Qatar’s journey from its traditional roots to its current position as a global architectural hub.”

Safari Hypermarket has handed over the car key to the first winner of its “Win 3 MG Cars” promotion, launched as part of the grand opening of the new outlet at Birkath Al Awamer, a statement said.The first lucky draw held on October 14, declared Noufal K P as the winner of the first MG ZS 2024 car. He received his car key from Safari Hypermarket officials on October 23 at the Birkath Al Awamer branch in a grand ceremony.Customers still have the opportunity to win the remaining two MG cars through the ongoing promotion.By spending QR50 or more at any Safari Hypermarket branch, shoppers can participate in the upcoming lucky draws, with winners to be announced in the coming months. Customers can also win QR100,000 in cash prizes through a raffle draw, part of the grand opening promotions, the statement added.

Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) president Dr Tulia Ackson has lauded Qatar’s efforts in resolving regional conflicts and its steadfast commitment to supporting global development.She highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the IPU and Qatar’s Shura Council in advancing global peace initiatives.In an interview with the Qatar News Agency (QNA) at the conclusion of her visit to Doha, Dr Ackson remarked: “The State of Qatar is making remarkable strides in conflict resolution in the Middle East. It has established itself as a trusted hub for peace, where opposing parties feel confident to meet and where world leaders gather to address pressing global challenges.”She expressed the IPU’s deep appreciation for Qatar’s endeavours, stating: “We value and commend Qatar’s persistent efforts in fostering peace.”“On behalf of the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the global parliamentary community, I extend our gratitude for Qatar’s contributions, which align with the IPU’s mission to defend peace, promote dialogue through parliamentary diplomacy, and support conflict-affected regions,” Dr Ackson said.She underscored Qatar’s tangible commitment to conflict resolution, noting its success in convening adversaries for dialogue in Doha.“Qatar’s approach resonates with the IPU’s objectives,” she said. “I urge all conflicting parties to leverage the opportunities and resources Qatar provides to achieve peaceful resolutions.”Dr Ackson emphasised the alignment between Qatar’s conflict mediation efforts and the IPU’s broader goals, particularly through its specialised committee on Middle Eastern conflicts.She affirmed the IPU’s dedication to enhancing the committee’s effectiveness in ensuring regional stability.This year, discussions within the IPU have focused significantly on the role of parliaments in fostering global peace.Dr Ackson acknowledged Qatar’s vital contribution, represented by the Shura Council, to the IPU’s efforts in addressing peace-building, climate change, innovation, and other global priorities.She further explained the IPU’s role as a platform for dialogue, providing parliamentarians from diverse nations an avenue to exchange views and deliberate on pressing issues.“Through this dialogue, we aim to articulate collective positions, often centred on protecting human rights and fostering understanding,” she said.Dr Ackson highlighted the IPU’s commitment to working with parties involved in conflicts, providing them a space to express their perspectives.“As parliamentarians, while we are not part of executive governments, we have a vital role to play in mitigating conflicts and promoting peace,” she remarked.She clarified that although decisions on war are made by governments or executive authorities, parliaments often review and endorse such decisions, which underscores the importance of engaging legislators in peace-building processes.Dr Ackson acknowledged the IPU’s proactive engagement in addressing global crises and conflicts through parliamentary dialogue.She reiterated the union’s commitment to collaborating with parliamentarians worldwide to resolve disputes, safeguard human rights, and establish lasting peace.She praised Qatar’s substantial contributions to global development, emphasising the country’s proactive role not only in conflict resolution and peacebuilding but also in addressing critical challenges such as development and climate change.Dr Ackson commended Qatar’s extensive support for various countries through initiatives like the Qatar Fund for Development.“The State of Qatar works diligently to make the world a better place,” she said. “There is no better way to ensure peace, security, and environmental protection than by promoting sustainable development.”She highlighted Qatar’s strong commitment to environmental protection, both domestically and internationally, as demonstrated by its support for numerous programmes aimed at combating climate change.Dr Ackson also acknowledged the Shura Council’s active role in bolstering government efforts to address climate challenges.“Qatar is setting an example for the world and deserves recognition for its leadership in these critical areas,” she said.She also noted the close collaboration between the Shura Council and the IPU, highlighting their shared commitment to advancing peace, development, and climate action.“The Shura Council is not merely a member of the IPU but a dedicated supporter of its projects and initiatives, particularly in the fields of peace, climate, and counterterrorism,” she remarked.Dr Ackson praised Qatar’s hosting and support of the UN Office on Parliamentary Engagement in Preventing and Combating Terrorism.She underscored the strong partnership between the IPU and this office, which facilitates numerous events and programs aimed at tackling global security challenges.Turning to the Middle East, Dr Ackson expressed concern over the ongoing tragedies in the region, particularly in Gaza.She highlighted her efforts as IPU president to engage both Palestinian and Israeli representatives in peace discussions.“Our goal as parliamentarians is to enable dialogue through the IPU Peace Committee, which focuses on Middle East issues. Dialogue is our preferred approach, and we have contributed to fostering communication and expressing our position on this conflict,” she explained.She called for the protection of children and women and urged all parties to shield civilians from the devastating impacts of conflict.She also voiced apprehension about the potential expansion of violence into other areas.

Qatar Foundation (QF) will host a special event celebrating Qatar National Day on November 28-30 at the Pre-University Education Theatre in Education City, showcasing Qatari heritage and culture, and offering activities for children that foster a sense of pride and belonging, including a special screening by QF’s educational TV series Siraj.A 3D film on the theme of Qatar National Day has been produced by Siraj, designed specifically to introduce children to the value of citizenship and the importance of patriotism.Tickets to watch the screening – which takes place between 3pm and 9pm in three different time slots, can be purchased on the Q-Tickets website.In addition to the film, children will enjoy a live interactive show with Siraj characters Rashid and Noura. Children will also enjoy an exclusive song in the film by Qatari artist Fahad al-Hajjaji, celebrating the beauty of Qatar.Alongside the film, an art exhibition titled “Qatar Al Hob” will showcase the creativity of QF students from kindergarten to grade four, expressing their love and loyalty to Qatar through various art pieces.The event will also include a performance of the Qatari Ardha, presented by QF schools, along with interactive games and crafts activities.“This event is a valuable opportunity for children and families to engage with the essence of Qatari heritage in fun, engaging, and educational ways,” said Azlaa Hamad al-Qahtani, head of Culture and Identity, Student Affairs and Community Engagement, at the QF’s Pre-University Education.“The event aims at raising children’s awareness about citizenship and teaching them the difference between patriotism and active citizenship,” the official said. “It provides them with a deep understanding of the role of each individual in building the nation, and supporting its progress through hard work and continuous commitment of learning.”

The Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2024, at Lusail International Circuit (LIC) from November 29, offers three days of world-class racing and entertainment.Thousands of racegoers have already snapped up tickets to the hotly-anticipated penultimate race of the 2024 Formula 1 season, a statement said Sunday.Following Max Verstappen’s victory in clinching the Formula 1 World Champion title during the Las Vegas Grand Prix Sunday, this event is expected to witness fierce competition among top teams, including McLaren Formula 1 Team, Scuderia Ferrari, and Oracle Red Bull Racing, as they strive for the coveted Constructors’ Championship title.The first day is known as Family Friday, when children under 12 can get free access to the general admission area on Lusail Hill (when accompanied by a parent or guardian who has purchased a full price ticket) enabling them to enjoy activities in the Fan Zone.A maximum of four free child tickets can be booked by an adult purchasing a full price ticket only for Friday General admission.A wide range of other activations will be featured throughout the circuit including virtual reality laser tag, two-in-one go karting for children and teens, face painting, an immersive artificial intelligence (AI) photobooth and kids car racing.Offering the weekend’s first opportunity to watch top-flight racing, fans can catch Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East, F1 Academy and FIA Formula 2 Championship drivers get behind the wheel for their practice races which will take place at intervals throughout the day.At 4.30pm, spectators will be able to get the first glimpse of their Formula 1 heroes when teams and drivers take to the track for the inaugural F1 practice session whilst the qualifying for the nail-biting Formula 1 Sprint Race will take place at 8.30pm.And once the sun goes down, Lebanese singer, performer and songwriter, Myriam Fares will headline the main stage in the concert area kicking off the weekend’s musical programme.For the first time in Qatar, fans will also be able to see the heroes of the track at the F1 Fan Forum.Across Friday and Saturday, F1 drivers will take to Fanzone’s main stage for a series of exclusive question and answer sessions.On “Super Saturday”, race goers of all ages will be able to enjoy a plethora of racing, including the Porsche Carrera Cup’s first competitive race at 2.20pm, in addition to activities in the fan zones.From F1‘s own Pit Stop Challenge, where spectators have the chance to try their hand at changing the tyres on a Formula 1 car, to F1 SIM which offers racegoers the chance to experience how it feels to drive the famous cars.The fastest lap of the day wins prizes including signed merchandise and paddock tours.The F1 Driver Selfie is an opportunity for fans to walk away with a digital or physical photo with their favourite Formula 1 team’s drivers whilst the F1 Static Podium gives fans the chance to experience what it’s like to celebrate pole position.At 5pm, all eyes will be looking to the track when the high-octane Formula 1 Sprint Race takes place.It will be followed by the all-important Formula 1 qualifying session at 8pm, which will determine the grid for Sunday’s Grand Prix.The LIC is one of just six locations chosen to host the 100km dash, which gives teams another opportunity to score points for their respective championships.For the first time, the F1 Academy’s maiden 14-lap race will take place on Saturday from 11.05pm.The highly competitive all-female racing series is designed to nurture and propel young female drivers towards higher echelons of competition.The final day of the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2024, promises a packed schedule of racing and entertainment.Racing fans will also have an opportunity to visit the support paddock to see Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East, F1 Academy and FIA Formula 2 Championship cars up close before they take to the track for their final competitive races.With excitement levels building throughout the afternoon, F1 drivers and teams will take part in a parade at 5.30pm before the pit lane opens at 6.20pm.The big moment – the Grand Prix™ finale – will take place at 7pm under the glow of the LIC’s floodlights.Rounding off one of the most iconic racing weekends will be global pop rock icons Maroon 5 as they headline the post-Grand Prix finale in the LIC’s state-of-the-art concert area.Open to Formula 1 race-goers, fans will only be able to watch both Friday and Sunday’s concerts if they have a one or three-day pass to Sunday’s Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2024.Motorsport fans attending as part of a hospitality event will have VIP access to Sunday night’s concert.Tickets are available at https://tickets.lcsc.qa

QNB Group has announced ‘Platinum Sponsorship’ of KidZania Doha’s “Kids for a Greener World” programme, aimed at supporting environmental education in all schools across Doha.This sponsorship reflects QNB’s continued commitment to fostering environmental awareness and sustainability and environmental education among younger generations while promoting initiatives that have a lasting impact within the communities where it operates.Commenting on the partnership, Heba al-Tamimi, Senior Executive Vice-President of Group Communication at QNB said, “We are delighted to support KidZania’s ‘Kids for a Greener World’ initiative as it aligns with our commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility.“By empowering young people to learn about sustainability in an engaging way, we hope to inspire the next generation of environmental champions.”The “Kids for a Greener World” programme, now in its third edition, is a dynamic educational initiative by KidZania Doha that focuses on key environmental issues such as sustainability, energy conservation, and responsible consumption.Through a series of interactive, fun-filled activities, children will learn how they can make meaningful contributions to environmental preservation, starting from their own homes.As part of the programme, KidZania Doha also launched a Sustainable Business Ideas Competition, in which schools across Doha participated.The competition encouraged students to think creatively about sustainable practices and develop innovative business ideas that promote environmental responsibility.

Al Jazeera English Channel has won an Association for International Broadcasting (AIB) award for its consistent and uncompromising news coverage of the Gaza genocide.“War on Gaza” was announced as the winner in the Continuing News Coverage category at the 20th AIB gala evening in London on 22 November. Other nominees included CNN Worldwide, BBC and ITV.The hour-long compilation of excerpts from the perspective of committed Al Jazeera English journalists offers a fresh insight into Israel’s War on Gaza and yearlong genocide.“This year’s recognition reaffirms our commitment to journalism and to delivering courageous human stories that continuously challenge the status quo,” said Issa Ali, Acting Managing Director of Al Jazeera English. “I am immensely proud of our team's relentless pursuit of uncovering the truth, especially our colleagues on the front lines in Gaza working under extremely challenging circumstances.Al Jazeera English provides international news and current affairs that place people at the heart of the story, rooted in the belief that everyone has a story worth hearing. It is the only international English broadcaster still operating in Gaza, despite its offices being forcibly closed in Jerusalem and Ramallah."Our journalists remain committed to objective reporting on the war and its devastating impact on people. We continue to convey the plight and capturing the voice of the Palestinian people. We remain steadfast in our pursuit of truth, and we salute the work of our incredible team of journalists on the ground without whom we could not shed light on what is happening in Gaza. These are the men and women who risk their lives daily. Sadly, many of them have paid the greatest sacrifice in their commitment to sharing the truth,” said Al Jazeera English Director of News, Salah Negm.Since 7 October 2023 through to today’s ongoing displacement, bombing and killing of more than 41 000 civilians, Al Jazeera English continues to the war on Gaza despite Al Jazeera’s journalists and their families being targeted and killed.Al Jazeera English has won AIB awards for “The Big Picture: The World According to AI”, (2020) Witness’ “The Beirut Blast” (2021) and Fault Lines’ “Bloodsport” (2023).

Alfardan Sports Motors, the official Ferrari importer in Qatar, marked its silver jubilee — 25 years of igniting dreams, fostering community, and celebrating the unparalleled legacy of Ferrari in Qatar, with a grand celebration.Since its inception in 1999, when the first Ferrari showroom opened in Qatar, Alfardan Sports Motors has been more than an automotive dealer, a statement said Sunday.It has been the gateway to an extraordinary world where luxury meets passion and performance.Over two-and-a-half decades, it has built a vibrant community of Ferraristi, united by their shared admiration for the Prancing Horse and the pursuit of excellence.The celebration reached its crescendo with a majestic parade, a visual symphony of Ferrari’s finest creations. Up to 40 Ferraris, including the Ferrari Roma, Ferrari Roma Spider, Ferrari 296 GTB, Ferrari 296 GTS, Ferrari SF90 Stradale, Ferrari SF90 Spider, 812 GTS, formed a convoy that painted Qatar’s roads in bold strokes of luxury and innovation.As the engines roared to life at the Alfardan Sports Motors showroom, the convoy began its journey through the country’s picturesque landscapes, framed by golden dunes and cultural landmarks that mirrored the heritage of Qatar.The parade’s final destination was the Letbelah Museum, a treasure trove of Ferrari history, housing one of the rarest collections in the world. There, amidst the gleaming vehicles that embody Ferrari’s timeless legacy, the spirit of innovation and tradition stood proudly on display.As the sun dipped below the horizon, the festivities transitioned into an exclusive dinner that welcomed Ferraristi into an ambiance of refinement and camaraderie. Upon their arrival, Ferrari owners were greeted by Ardah dancers, a vivid celebration of Qatari heritage that set the tone for an unforgettable evening.The dinner was graced by Alfardan Group president Omar Alfardan and Alfardan Automotive’s chief marketing officer Hussain Omar Alfardan.Reflecting on the occasion, Tarek al-Hammoud, general manager of Alfardan Sports Motors – Ferrari Qatar, said: “Ferrari represents more than luxury and performance; it embodies passion, ambition, and timeless elegance. Over the past 25 years, it has woven itself into the cultural fabric of Qatar, inspiring generations of enthusiasts. This milestone is not just a celebration of the past but a promise to continue building a legacy of innovation and prestige together.”

Ten Palestinians, including four children, were martyred and several others were injured on Sunday in airstrikes carried out by Israeli occupation warplanes on the Al-Maghazi and Al-Bureij refugee camps in the central Gaza Strip.Rescue teams also retrieved the bodies of two more victims from the Al-Saftawi area, located in the northwest of Gaza City.In the southern part of the Gaza Strip, several citizens were wounded, some seriously, when Israeli forces targeted a gathering of people north of Rafah.Late last night, Israeli airstrikes renewed their assault on the Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahiya, in the northern Gaza Strip.The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said Sunday that at least 44,211 people have been killed in more than 13 months of war between Israel and Palestinian resistance movement fighters.The toll includes 35 deaths in the previous 24 hours, according to the ministry, which said 104,567 people have been wounded in the Gaza Strip since the war began on October 7, 2023.Meanwhile, the Israeli military issued new evacuation orders to residents in areas of an eastern Gaza City suburb, setting off a new wave of displacement Sunday, and a Gaza hospital director was injured in an Israeli drone attack, Palestinian medics said.The new orders for the Shejaia suburb were posted by the Israeli army spokesperson on X on Saturday night.Footage circulated on social and Palestinian media, showed residents leaving Shejaia on donkey carts and rickshaws, with others, including children carrying backpacks, walking.Families living in the targeted areas began fleeing their homes after nightfall on Saturday and into Sunday's early hours, residents and Palestinian media said — the latest in multiple waves of displacement since the war began 13 months ago.Adding to the miseries of Gaza's 2.3 mn people, most of whom have been repeatedly displaced, heavy winter rain flooded hundreds of tents across the enclave, spoiling food and sweeping away plastic and cloth sheeting that had protected them against the elements.The Palestinian Civil Emergency Service said thousands of displaced people were impacted by the seasonal flooding and demanded new tents and caravans from aid donors to shield them.Kamal Adwan is one of three hospitals in north Gaza that are barely operational as the health ministry said the Israeli forces have detained and expelled medical staff and prevented emergency medical, food and fuel supplies from reaching them.Residents in three embattled north Gaza towns — Jabalia, Beit Lahiya and Beit Hanoun — said Israeli forces had blown up hundreds of houses since renewing operations in an area that Israel said months ago had been cleared of fighters.

Pakistan’s capital was put under a security lockdown on Sunday amid protests by supporters of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan calling for his release.Highways leading to Islamabad through which supporters of Khan, led by members of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, approached the city, have been blocked.Most major roads of the city have also been blocked by the government with shipping containers and large contingents of police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed in riot gear, while mobile phone services have been suspended.The PTI reported multiple arrests and the use of tear gas and shelling by government forces in Islamabad as part of ongoing efforts to suppress protests. According to PTI sources, security agencies have detained numerous protestors advocating for political reforms and opposing the current administration.The PTI alleged that the government employed heavy-handed tactics, including the use of tear gas canisters and live ammunition, to disperse demonstrators gathering in key areas of the capital. These actions have heightened tensions between the opposition party and state authorities, with PTI accusing the government of undermining democratic freedoms and the right to peaceful assembly.In response to the escalating situation, government officials have issued a firm statement pledging to halt the protests “no matter what.” The administration has called for an end to what it describes as unlawful gatherings that disrupt public peace and safety.Human rights organisations expressed concern over the reported use of force against protestors, urging both the government and opposition parties to engage in dialogue to resolve differences peacefully. They called for an independent investigation into the alleged abuses to ensure accountability and protect citizens’ rights.As the situation unfolds, Islamabad remains on high alert with increased security presence in major protest hotspots. The international community is closely monitoring the developments, with several foreign observers advocating for restraint and the protection of democratic processes.Global internet watchdog NetBlocks said on X that live metrics showed WhatsApp messaging services had been restricted ahead of the protests.A key Khan aid, Ali Amin Gandapur, who is the chief minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and was expected to lead the largest convoy into Islamabad, called on people to gather near the entrance of the city’s red zone, known as “D Chowk”.Islamabad’s red zone houses the country’s parliament building, important government installations, as well as embassies and foreign institutions’ offices.“Khan has called on us to remain there till all our demands are met,” he said in a video message on Saturday. The PTI’s demands include the release of all its leaders, including Khan, as well as the resignation of the current government due to what it says was a rigged election this year.Khan has been in jail since August last year and, since being voted out of power by parliament in 2022, faces a number of disputed charges. He and his party deny all the charges.“These constant protests are destroying the economy and creating instability...we want the political leadership to sit together and resolve these matters,” Muhammad Asif, 35, a resident of Islamabad said in front of a closed market.

His neighbours have cats and dogs, but when 72-year-old Philippe Gillet settles down to watch television there is usually an alligator dozing beside him.His bungalow in western France is also home to a venomous Gabonese viper, a spitting cobra, a python, alligator turtles that can bite off a finger, tarantulas and scorpions.When someone unfamiliar enters Gillet’s living room, Gator, a two-metre-long (6.5 feet) alligator, growls from under a coffee table.“Calm down,” said Gillet and Gator went back to his snooze near Alli, another dozing alligator.“When there is a storm he comes to sleep in my bed,” said Gillet. “People think I am mad.”Videos of such episodes and other everyday tales of his deadly menagerie of 400 animals have made Gillet a social media star. They also promote his Inf’Faune charity which aims to educate people about the animals he is so passionate about.Gillet lived in Africa for 20 years, working as a hunting guide. He said he would often catch crocodiles there to keep them away from villages.Back in France, he became a herpetologist — a specialist on reptiles and amphibians. He made his base in Coueron, west of Nantes, with his partner, their children, and the animals.In the garden is Nilo, a Nile crocodile, who Gillet said was “one of the most dangerous species”. Chickens wandered by scratching for food.Most of the animals were bought or given to him by people who could no longer care for them. France’s customs department has also sometimes turned to him.“You cannot just free them,” said Gillet. “With global warming, freed cobras could reproduce and spread. Is that what we are going to leave our kids?” Financing his passion has become a problem since the Coronavirus epidemic however. His association could no longer organise fund-raising open days to show off the animals to the public. That used to bring in €100,000 ($105,000) a year.Now his social media videos are the main way he gets the conservation message across. He chooses a different animal for each video, mixing education and humour “to demystify the legends and preconceptions about wild animals”.Inf’Faune built up 100,000 YouTube followers in its first four months and now has 200,000. Gillet also has 700,000 TikTok followers. The revenues allow Gillet and the 20 volunteers who help him feed the animals.But Gillet is still concerned about the future as he ages.“Alligators can live up to 100 on average and Allia and Gator are about 30. The volunteers will have to take over,” he said.He is already training the volunteers on looking after the animals and wants to set up a specialised refuge for reptiles far from the suburbs where there would be less need for cages and pens.With his internet following, Gillet has already raised €15,000 for the centre. “There are refuges for dogs and cats, why not for these unloved” species.