Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has reached Qatar for a two-day visit that will see him meeting top leadership of the politically significant West Asian country.&nbsp;

Jaishankar will meet the foreign minister of the country, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, and other top political leaders.

A Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release said, "During the visit, he will hold talks with his counterpart on bilateral issues as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest. He will convey special gratitude to the State of Qatar for taking care of Indians during the Covid-19 pandemic."

This is the seventh high-level in-person visit from India to West Asia amid Covid pandemic in the last four months.&nbsp;

September saw a stop-over by both India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Jaishankar in Tehran, while on way to Moscow for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation defense and foreign ministers met respectively.

October saw the visit of India's energy minister Dharmendra Pradhan to Kuwait to offer condolences on the passing away of former Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah al Ahmed al Jaber al Sabah. It was followed by the visit of Jaishankar to UAE and Bahrain in November.

December saw two visits -- the visit of Indian Army Chief MM Naravane to Saudi Arabia and UAE and Minister of State in the MEA V Muraleedharan to Oman. This visit by Indian Army chief was the first such visit to West Asia.

Overall, Indian leaders have been to seven West Asian countries -- Iran (two visits), Kuwait, UAE (two visits), Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Qatar -- the maximum to any region this year.

During his current visit, Jaishankar will address the Indian community. The country hosts 7 lakh Indian workers, many of them send huge remittances to back home.&nbsp;

India has welcomed the recent labour reforms measures adopted by the country -- which include the institutionalisation of rights of workers, their safe movement and settlement of labour issues.

Qatar, which has punched above its weight in West Asia, also hosts the intra-Afghan talks and Taliban delegation with Afghanistan -- which is also expected to be the key focus of Jaishankar's talks with the country's leadership.&nbsp;

In September, Jaishankar virtually joined the ceremony marking the start of talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government hosted by Doha.

Earlier this month, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Amir Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani with investment being the focus of the talks. Both sides have decided to create a special task force to further facilitate investments by Qatar investment authority into India. They have also resolved to explore Qatari investments in the entire energy value-chain in India.&nbsp;

The bilateral trade between the two countries stands at US$ 10.95 billion in 2019-20.

India has continued its engagement via virtual means with West Asia amidst the COVID pandemic as well. Jaishankar has spoken to a number of his counterparts, including a meet with the GCC or Gulf Cooperation Council.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has reached Qatar for a two-day visit that will see him meeting top leadership of the politically significant West Asian country.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has reached Qatar for a two-day visit that will see him meeting top leadership of the politically significant West Asian country. Jaishankar will meet the foreign minister of the country, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, and other top political leaders. A Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release said, "During the visit, he will hold talks with his counterpart on bilateral issues as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest. He will convey special gratitude to the State of Qatar for taking care of Indians during the Covid-19 pandemic." This is the seventh high-level in-person visit from India to West Asia amid Covid pandemic in the last four months. September saw a stop-over by both India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Jaishankar in Tehran, while on way to Moscow for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation defense and foreign ministers met respectively. October saw the visit of India's energy minister Dharmendra Pradhan to Kuwait to offer condolences on the passing away of former Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah al Ahmed al Jaber al Sabah. It was followed by the visit of Jaishankar to UAE and Bahrain in November. December saw two visits -- the visit of Indian Army Chief MM Naravane to Saudi Arabia and UAE and Minister of State in the MEA V Muraleedharan to Oman. This visit by Indian Army chief was the first such visit to West Asia. Overall, Indian leaders have been to seven West Asian countries -- Iran (two visits), Kuwait, UAE (two visits), Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Qatar -- the maximum to any region this year. During his current visit, Jaishankar will address the Indian community. The country hosts 7 lakh Indian workers, many of them send huge remittances to back home. India has welcomed the recent labour reforms measures adopted by the country -- which include the institutionalisation of rights of workers, their safe movement and settlement of labour issues. Qatar, which has punched above its weight in West Asia, also hosts the intra-Afghan talks and Taliban delegation with Afghanistan -- which is also expected to be the key focus of Jaishankar's talks with the country's leadership. In September, Jaishankar virtually joined the ceremony marking the start of talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government hosted by Doha. Earlier this month, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Amir Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani with investment being the focus of the talks. Both sides have decided to create a special task force to further facilitate investments by Qatar investment authority into India. They have also resolved to explore Qatari investments in the entire energy value-chain in India. The bilateral trade between the two countries stands at US$ 10.95 billion in 2019-20. India has continued its engagement via virtual means with West Asia amidst the COVID pandemic as well. Jaishankar has spoken to a number of his counterparts, including a meet with the GCC or Gulf Cooperation Council.

Seventh high-level visit from India to West Asia begins as Jaishankar reaches Qatar

Qatar celebrates its national day with a military parade on the waterfront of the capital Doha. The celebration also included an airshow, paragliders and the participation of camels and Arabian horses.

Qatar celebrates national day with military parade and airshow

The top U.S. general met Taliban representatives this week in Qatar, urging them to reduce the level of violence and move more swiftly towards a political solution in Afghanistan, the U.S. military said on Thursday.

Top US general meets Taliban in Qatar, calls for reduced violence

A 3-year old Gulf crisis might finally be coming to an end. Qatar's foreign minister has said that there had been some progress to resolve the dispute, one that has pitted a regional group of nations against Doha.

WION Fineprint: Kuwait, Qatar flag movement on resolving gulf row

Qatar and Saudi Arabia are close to striking a preliminary agreement to end a dispute that has pitted the Gulf neighbours against each other for more than three years.

Saudi Arabia, Qatar near agreement in Gulf crisis

Kushner is eager to persuade the Saudi and Qatari leaders to reconcile and reach an agreement on a number of issues.

WION Dispatch: Trump close aide Jared Kushner and team heading to Qatar, Saudi Arabia

History is not the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of young, energy-rich monarchies of the Gulf that often punch above their weight in geopolitics and geoeconomics. Yet, that is the rich, mostly unknown story of Qatar that Michael Quentin Morton tells in his book, Masters of the Pearl: A History of Qatar (Reaktion Books, 2020).

It is a story that sheds light on a country that is ruled by an autocratic family that has wielded power for centuries and that frequently dominates headlines with its grand and often controversial ambitions, including its hosting of the 2022 World Cup, as well as its predicaments, controversies, and idiosyncrasies. Michael Quentin Morton, author of nine books on the Gulf and oil, brings an understanding of Qatari history to the table based on extensive research and the fact that he lived in Qatar and UAE at a young age. His father worked there as a Geologist.

Morton puts into perspective Qatar’s differences with Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the UAE that exploded in 2017 with the imposition of a diplomatic and economic boycott that its detractors unsuccessfully hoped would force Qatar to fall into line with their designs for the Gulf and the Middle East at large. Morton draws the reader in by weaving a well-written tale of tribal intrigue, regional and historic animosities, and big power rivalry.

It is a history that on the one hand illustrates the forces that have shaped Qatar and other Gulf states and on the other describes how much the region has and is changing as the result of economic and social development and wealth garnered from oil and gas. Masters of the Pearl constitutes a critical, yet compassionate contribution to an understanding of a small state that manages to punch above its weight and the stormy winds that it attracts.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do&nbsp;not represent the views of&nbsp;WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse&nbsp;the views of the writer)

History is not the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of young, energy-rich monarchies of the Gulf that often punch above their weight in geopolitics and geoeconomics.

History is not the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of young, energy-rich monarchies of the Gulf that often punch above their weight in geopolitics and geoeconomics. Yet, that is the rich, mostly unknown story of Qatar that Michael Quentin Morton tells in his book, Masters of the Pearl: A History of Qatar (Reaktion Books, 2020). It is a story that sheds light on a country that is ruled by an autocratic family that has wielded power for centuries and that frequently dominates headlines with its grand and often controversial ambitions, including its hosting of the 2022 World Cup, as well as its predicaments, controversies, and idiosyncrasies. Michael Quentin Morton, author of nine books on the Gulf and oil, brings an understanding of Qatari history to the table based on extensive research and the fact that he lived in Qatar and UAE at a young age. His father worked there as a Geologist. Morton puts into perspective Qatar’s differences with Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the UAE that exploded in 2017 with the imposition of a diplomatic and economic boycott that its detractors unsuccessfully hoped would force Qatar to fall into line with their designs for the Gulf and the Middle East at large. Morton draws the reader in by weaving a well-written tale of tribal intrigue, regional and historic animosities, and big power rivalry. It is a history that on the one hand illustrates the forces that have shaped Qatar and other Gulf states and on the other describes how much the region has and is changing as the result of economic and social development and wealth garnered from oil and gas. Masters of the Pearl constitutes a critical, yet compassionate contribution to an understanding of a small state that manages to punch above its weight and the stormy winds that it attracts. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

Masters of the pearl: Understanding Qatar critically

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met negotiators from the Afghan government & the Taliban in Doha. The meet shows progress in talks between the groups as Washington DC is speeding up its withdraw from the region.

Mike Pompeo in Qatar, meets Taliban negotiators

Gas-rich Qatar has flung open its property market to foreigners, with a scheme giving those purchasing homes or stores the right to call the Gulf nation home.

The scheme, announced in September, is the latest in a series of measures designed to diversify Qatar's economy away from fossil fuel dependency and attract foreign capital ahead of the 2022 World Cup.

Well-heeled individuals are being invited to consider the glistening seaside tower blocks of Doha's man-made Pearl Island or the brand new Lusail city project that flanks a World Cup stadium. Retail units in malls also qualify buyers for residency.

The reforms could also help soak up an oversupply of units, which has left gleaming towers half-empty and seen prices drop by almost a third since 2016, according to consultancy ValuStrat's Price Index for residential property.

Previously, investors needed sponsorship from a Qatari business or individual for residency, but now a $200,000 property purchase secures temporary residency for the term of ownership. A $1 million purchase buys the benefits of permanent residency, including free schools and healthcare.

"The reason I didn't buy earlier was that there was so much grey area," said marketing director Tina Chadda, a Kenyan who has lived in Qatar for 15 years.

Now she is looking for "a property to live in which I can use to get permanent residency".

"I think this will allow me to call Qatar home. I feel more comfortable now," she told AFP.

Chadda said the visa would also allow her to bring her family, including elderly parents, to Qatar from Nairobi.

"It's a safe country, compared to Kenya."

Foreigners can now house hunt in 25 areas of Qatar -- mostly in and around the capital Doha -- nine on a freehold basis and the rest with 99-year leaseholds.

Seaviews for most

Gulf nations have long depended on foreign skills and expertise to convert their petrodollars into the region's towering cities, but have seldom made it easy, or cheap, for expats to make their moves permanent.

Similar schemes exist elsewhere in the Gulf, but for a significantly greater outlay. Dubai offers a 10-year residency visa for an investment of $2.7 million, 40 per cent of which must be in the property.

So-called "golden visas" and investment passport schemes in several countries have also faced scrutiny over allegations they have attracted corrupt individuals and money laundering.

In Qatar's case, it remains unclear how attractive the tiny, ultra-conservative nation -- where strict curbs apply to free speech and alcohol sales -- will be to wealthy global buyers.

Investment of $200,000 buys a 50 square metre (540 square foot) studio in Lusail's new Fox Hills development north of Doha, while $1 million would cover a 330 square metre three-bed Seaview apartment in the Pearl.&nbsp;

"These areas have been designated because they have the new and developed infrastructure... as well as a distinctive view of the sea for most," said justice ministry official Saeed Abdullah al-Suwaidi.

"There is no big demand, but we are trying to encourage real estate investment," he added. "(We) aim to diversify the economy and not depend on oil and gas."

This marks a step-change in the Gulf emirate, where 90 per cent of the 2.75 million people are temporary guest workers, mostly employed on projects linked to the 2022 tournament.

'Hype around 2022'

One estate agent promoting the scheme to clients said, "The whole idea is to have expats and locals working together and trying to promote a long-term outlook for Qatar."

"As the hype around 2022 increases, I think this will naturally create more demand," said Doha-based Sotheby's estate agent Oliver Essex.

In a report issued last month, auditor KPMG said the residential property had not been as hard hit by the novel coronavirus pandemic as other real estates in Qatar, with residential transactions worth $1.48 billion reported in the second quarter of 2020.&nbsp;

"However, Covid-19 measures have resulted in government and private layoffs, which is indirectly leading to an exodus of a substantial workforce," it said.

The policy shakeup comes at a time of political crisis, with Qatar under an economic and diplomatic boycott by its neighbours — depressing demand for Qatari property -- and faced with low oil prices, which have also undermined prices in other Gulf capitals.

Essex said he expected most of the initial interest to come from foreigners already living in Qatar rather than from investors based abroad.

"I believe mainly Lebanese, Iranians, Egyptian and Indians" will be interested initially, he said.

Gas-rich Qatar has flung open its property market to foreigners, with a scheme giving those purchasing homes or stores the right to call the Gulf nation home. The scheme, announced in September, is the latest in a series of measures designed to diversify Qatar's economy away from fossil fuel dependency and attract foreign capital ahead of the 2022 World Cup.

Gas-rich Qatar has flung open its property market to foreigners, with a scheme giving those purchasing homes or stores the right to call the Gulf nation home. The scheme, announced in September, is the latest in a series of measures designed to diversify Qatar's economy away from fossil fuel dependency and attract foreign capital ahead of the 2022 World Cup. Well-heeled individuals are being invited to consider the glistening seaside tower blocks of Doha's man-made Pearl Island or the brand new Lusail city project that flanks a World Cup stadium. Retail units in malls also qualify buyers for residency. The reforms could also help soak up an oversupply of units, which has left gleaming towers half-empty and seen prices drop by almost a third since 2016, according to consultancy ValuStrat's Price Index for residential property. Previously, investors needed sponsorship from a Qatari business or individual for residency, but now a $200,000 property purchase secures temporary residency for the term of ownership. A $1 million purchase buys the benefits of permanent residency, including free schools and healthcare. "The reason I didn't buy earlier was that there was so much grey area," said marketing director Tina Chadda, a Kenyan who has lived in Qatar for 15 years. Now she is looking for "a property to live in which I can use to get permanent residency". "I think this will allow me to call Qatar home. I feel more comfortable now," she told AFP. Chadda said the visa would also allow her to bring her family, including elderly parents, to Qatar from Nairobi. "It's a safe country, compared to Kenya." Foreigners can now house hunt in 25 areas of Qatar -- mostly in and around the capital Doha -- nine on a freehold basis and the rest with 99-year leaseholds. Seaviews for most Gulf nations have long depended on foreign skills and expertise to convert their petrodollars into the region's towering cities, but have seldom made it easy, or cheap, for expats to make their moves permanent. Similar schemes exist elsewhere in the Gulf, but for a significantly greater outlay. Dubai offers a 10-year residency visa for an investment of $2.7 million, 40 per cent of which must be in the property. So-called "golden visas" and investment passport schemes in several countries have also faced scrutiny over allegations they have attracted corrupt individuals and money laundering. In Qatar's case, it remains unclear how attractive the tiny, ultra-conservative nation -- where strict curbs apply to free speech and alcohol sales -- will be to wealthy global buyers. Investment of $200,000 buys a 50 square metre (540 square foot) studio in Lusail's new Fox Hills development north of Doha, while $1 million would cover a 330 square metre three-bed Seaview apartment in the Pearl. "These areas have been designated because they have the new and developed infrastructure... as well as a distinctive view of the sea for most," said justice ministry official Saeed Abdullah al-Suwaidi. "There is no big demand, but we are trying to encourage real estate investment," he added. "(We) aim to diversify the economy and not depend on oil and gas." This marks a step-change in the Gulf emirate, where 90 per cent of the 2.75 million people are temporary guest workers, mostly employed on projects linked to the 2022 tournament. 'Hype around 2022' One estate agent promoting the scheme to clients said, "The whole idea is to have expats and locals working together and trying to promote a long-term outlook for Qatar." "As the hype around 2022 increases, I think this will naturally create more demand," said Doha-based Sotheby's estate agent Oliver Essex. In a report issued last month, auditor KPMG said the residential property had not been as hard hit by the novel coronavirus pandemic as other real estates in Qatar, with residential transactions worth $1.48 billion reported in the second quarter of 2020. "However, Covid-19 measures have resulted in government and private layoffs, which is indirectly leading to an exodus of a substantial workforce," it said. The policy shakeup comes at a time of political crisis, with Qatar under an economic and diplomatic boycott by its neighbours — depressing demand for Qatari property -- and faced with low oil prices, which have also undermined prices in other Gulf capitals. Essex said he expected most of the initial interest to come from foreigners already living in Qatar rather than from investors based abroad. "I believe mainly Lebanese, Iranians, Egyptian and Indians" will be interested initially, he said.

Qatar puts up 'for sale' sign with new property visas 

The government of Qatar on Wednesday expressed “regrets” over a decision to pull more than a dozen women from a Qatar Airways flight in Doha and subject them to invasive medical exams after an abandoned newborn was found in an airport bathroom.

Your Story: Qatar regrets strip-searches over abandoned body

The women were checked for signs of having recently given birth after a newborn baby was found abandoned in a toilet at Hamad International Airport.

Australia seeks Qatar response after female passengers strip-searched

A US sale of advanced F-35 warplanes to Qatar could be possible despite Israel's objections to such a deal -- due to the Gulf state's links to Iran and Palestinian Hamas.

An Israeli cabinet minister on Sunday said, "This is a supposition that we must take into account," he said, arguing that the US administration "ultimately looks out for American interests," especially in the face of rival stealth jets on offer from Russia and China.

It was earlier reported that gas-rich Qatar had submitted a formal request to buy the F-35, a Lockheed Martin plane that has so far been supplied only to Israel in the region.&nbsp;

Israel, with which Washington consults on such sales, said it would be opposed.

Reuters also reported that should such a sale go ahead, Israel would demand "appropriate compensation" - an apparent reference to US defence assistance.

US officials have been open to selling the F-35 to the United Arab Emirates after it and Bahrain normalised relations with Israel on September 15.

Successive US administrations have since sought to preserve Israeli military superiority in the region.

There has been speculation in Israeli media that the Trump administration could hold out the F-35 as an inducement for Qatar to normalise ties with Israel.

(with inputs)

A US sale of advanced F-35 warplanes to Qatar could be possible despite Israel's objections to such a deal -- due to the Gulf state's links to Iran and Palestinian Hamas.

A US sale of advanced F-35 warplanes to Qatar could be possible despite Israel's objections to such a deal -- due to the Gulf state's links to Iran and Palestinian Hamas. An Israeli cabinet minister on Sunday said, "This is a supposition that we must take into account," he said, arguing that the US administration "ultimately looks out for American interests," especially in the face of rival stealth jets on offer from Russia and China. It was earlier reported that gas-rich Qatar had submitted a formal request to buy the F-35, a Lockheed Martin plane that has so far been supplied only to Israel in the region. Israel, with which Washington consults on such sales, said it would be opposed. Reuters also reported that should such a sale go ahead, Israel would demand "appropriate compensation" - an apparent reference to US defence assistance. US officials have been open to selling the F-35 to the United Arab Emirates after it and Bahrain normalised relations with Israel on September 15. Successive US administrations have since sought to preserve Israeli military superiority in the region. There has been speculation in Israeli media that the Trump administration could hold out the F-35 as an inducement for Qatar to normalise ties with Israel. (with inputs)

Qatar might get F-35s despite Israel's objections

Secretary of Defense Mark Esper on Sunday visited Kuwait to extend the condolences of the US administration to the country's leaders after the death of its emir, Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.

Esper expressed "sincere condolences" for the loss of Sheikh Sabah, who died on Tuesday at the age of 91, in a meeting with the new emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, who also expressed concern over the health of US President Donald Trump.

Sheikh Nawaf said he was glad that Trump, who has been hospitalised after being diagnosed with coronavirus, was "recovering and well". Esper thanked him for his "expression of concern".

Kuwait and the United States are close allies, bound by a defence agreement that expires in 2022.&nbsp;

Their alliance was sealed with the Gulf War in 1991, during which a US-led international coalition expelled Saddam Hussein's Iraqi troops from Kuwait after seven months of occupation.

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Camp Arifjan, near the Saudi border, is a key base for US troops stationed in the country.

Before arriving in Kuwait on Sunday, Esper spent the night in Qatar, another US ally in the oil-rich Gulf, where he discussed "the importance of the strong defence partnership" between the two countries.&nbsp;

Esper thanked Qatar for hosting some 8,000 US military personnel at the Al-Udeid Air Base, the US's largest in the region.&nbsp;

The Pentagon chief had been on a North Africa tour aimed at beefing up the fight against jihadists in war-torn Libya and the Sahel, and on Friday signed a military cooperation deal with Morocco.&nbsp;

Secretary of Defense Mark Esper on Sunday visited Kuwait to extend the condolences of the US administration to the country's leaders after the death of its emir, Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.

Secretary of Defense Mark Esper on Sunday visited Kuwait to extend the condolences of the US administration to the country's leaders after the death of its emir, Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. Esper expressed "sincere condolences" for the loss of Sheikh Sabah, who died on Tuesday at the age of 91, in a meeting with the new emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, who also expressed concern over the health of US President Donald Trump. Sheikh Nawaf said he was glad that Trump, who has been hospitalised after being diagnosed with coronavirus, was "recovering and well". Esper thanked him for his "expression of concern". Kuwait and the United States are close allies, bound by a defence agreement that expires in 2022. Their alliance was sealed with the Gulf War in 1991, during which a US-led international coalition expelled Saddam Hussein's Iraqi troops from Kuwait after seven months of occupation. × Camp Arifjan, near the Saudi border, is a key base for US troops stationed in the country. Before arriving in Kuwait on Sunday, Esper spent the night in Qatar, another US ally in the oil-rich Gulf, where he discussed "the importance of the strong defence partnership" between the two countries. Esper thanked Qatar for hosting some 8,000 US military personnel at the Al-Udeid Air Base, the US's largest in the region. The Pentagon chief had been on a North Africa tour aimed at beefing up the fight against jihadists in war-torn Libya and the Sahel, and on Friday signed a military cooperation deal with Morocco.

US defence chief in Kuwait after death of emir

Days after the beginning of intra-Afghan talks in Qatar's Doha, US Special Envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad is scheduled to visit New Delhi on September 15 (Tuesday).

US Special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad to meet S Jaishankar

After nearly two decades of war that has killed tens of thousands, peace talks between the Afghanistan government and the Taliban have opened in Qatar's capital. Watch report.

Intra-Afghan peace talks begin in Doha: 'Taliban attacked Afghan forces in 18 provinces'

Qatar's ruler Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani met representatives of both the Afghan government and the Taliban to wish them success during peace talks taking place in the Gulf state, Qatar state media reported on Sunday.

Talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban began in the Qatari capital Doha on Saturday, aimed at ending 19 years of war in Afghanistan.

Sheikh Tamim met with the Afghan High Council for National Reconciliation Chairman Abdullah Abdullah and the accompanying delegation, QNA said on Twitter.

Sheikh Tamim told Abdullah he wished the negotiations success and to achieve the Afghan people`s aspirations for national unity, progress and prosperity, Qatar News Agency said.

He expressed the same remarks in a meeting with Taliban political office head Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, which was also attended by a delegation, QNA said in a separate tweet.

Qatar's ruler Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani met representatives of both the Afghan government and the Taliban to wish them success during peace talks taking place in the Gulf state, Qatar state media reported on Sunday.

Qatar's ruler Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani met representatives of both the Afghan government and the Taliban to wish them success during peace talks taking place in the Gulf state, Qatar state media reported on Sunday. Talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban began in the Qatari capital Doha on Saturday, aimed at ending 19 years of war in Afghanistan. Sheikh Tamim met with the Afghan High Council for National Reconciliation Chairman Abdullah Abdullah and the accompanying delegation, QNA said on Twitter. Sheikh Tamim told Abdullah he wished the negotiations success and to achieve the Afghan people`s aspirations for national unity, progress and prosperity, Qatar News Agency said. He expressed the same remarks in a meeting with Taliban political office head Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, which was also attended by a delegation, QNA said in a separate tweet.

Qatar ruler meets Afghan, Taliban delegations during peace talks in Doha

The Taliban's negotiating team has arrived in Qatar, a spokesman said Saturday, in a sign that long-delayed peace talks with the Afghan government are inching closer to starting.

A date for the talks, to be hosted in Doha, has not been set but the warring sides have this week made signals that negotiations could launch soon, including efforts to wrap up a drawn out prisoner exchange.

"All members of our negotiating team have arrived in Doha. The talks will begin once some small technical issues are resolved," Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen told AFP.

The Taliban team had recently been in Pakistan discussing the peace process with the government in Islamabad.

Qatar authorities have been imposing a seven day quarantine period on all arrivals to the country, but have made exemptions for some delegations who undergo regular testing.

The Afghan government's negotiating team remained in Kabul on Saturday, but a logistics team landed in Doha earlier this week.

Faraidoon Khawzoon, a spokesman for the Afghan government's reconciliation council, said its negotiating team was ready for talks.

"The release of the prisoners is completed and there is no excuse for delaying the talks," he tweeted.

"But the Taliban don't seem to be ready for the talks. We expect the Taliban to get ready and start the negotiations."

The talks were initially due to begin in March as set out in a deal between the United States and the Taliban in February, from which Kabul was excluded.

But disagreements over ongoing violence and the prisoner swap have seen the start repeatedly pushed back.

The Taliban's negotiating team has arrived in Qatar, a spokesman said Saturday, in a sign that long-delayed peace talks with the Afghan government are inching closer to starting.

The Taliban's negotiating team has arrived in Qatar, a spokesman said Saturday, in a sign that long-delayed peace talks with the Afghan government are inching closer to starting. A date for the talks, to be hosted in Doha, has not been set but the warring sides have this week made signals that negotiations could launch soon, including efforts to wrap up a drawn out prisoner exchange. "All members of our negotiating team have arrived in Doha. The talks will begin once some small technical issues are resolved," Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen told AFP. The Taliban team had recently been in Pakistan discussing the peace process with the government in Islamabad. Qatar authorities have been imposing a seven day quarantine period on all arrivals to the country, but have made exemptions for some delegations who undergo regular testing. The Afghan government's negotiating team remained in Kabul on Saturday, but a logistics team landed in Doha earlier this week. Faraidoon Khawzoon, a spokesman for the Afghan government's reconciliation council, said its negotiating team was ready for talks. "The release of the prisoners is completed and there is no excuse for delaying the talks," he tweeted. "But the Taliban don't seem to be ready for the talks. We expect the Taliban to get ready and start the negotiations." The talks were initially due to begin in March as set out in a deal between the United States and the Taliban in February, from which Kabul was excluded. But disagreements over ongoing violence and the prisoner swap have seen the start repeatedly pushed back.

Taliban say team in Qatar for Afghan peace talks

Qatar's ruler Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani told White House adviser Jared Kushner on Wednesday that Doha supports a two-state solution, with East Jerusalem as the capital of a Palestinian state, to end the conflict with Israel, his cabinet said.

Kushner, the son-in-law of US&nbsp;President Donald Trump, is in Qatar after a US-brokered accord last month for the United Arab Emirates and Israel to normalise ties.

The UAE is the third Arab country to recah such an agreement with Israel after Egypt and Jordan.

Kushner hopes another Arab country will normalise ties within months. He visited the UAE this week with an Israeli delegation for normalisation talks before also travelling to Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

Sheikh Tamim told Kushner Qatar remains committed to the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative, in which Arab nations offered Israel normalised ties in return for a statehood deal with the Palestinians and full Israeli withdrawal from territory captured in the 1967 Middle East war.

Qatar's ruler Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani told White House adviser Jared Kushner on Wednesday that Doha supports a two-state solution, with East Jerusalem as the capital of a Palestinian state, to end the conflict with Israel, his cabinet said.

Qatar's ruler Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani told White House adviser Jared Kushner on Wednesday that Doha supports a two-state solution, with East Jerusalem as the capital of a Palestinian state, to end the conflict with Israel, his cabinet said. Kushner, the son-in-law of US President Donald Trump, is in Qatar after a US-brokered accord last month for the United Arab Emirates and Israel to normalise ties. The UAE is the third Arab country to recah such an agreement with Israel after Egypt and Jordan. Kushner hopes another Arab country will normalise ties within months. He visited the UAE this week with an Israeli delegation for normalisation talks before also travelling to Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Sheikh Tamim told Kushner Qatar remains committed to the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative, in which Arab nations offered Israel normalised ties in return for a statehood deal with the Palestinians and full Israeli withdrawal from territory captured in the 1967 Middle East war.

Qatar Emir tells Kushner two-state solution needed to end Palestine-Israel conflict

Qatar announced changes to its labour laws, raising the minimum wage by 25% a month and offering paternity leaves to private workers. Nation to host 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Qatar announced change in labour rules, raises minimum wages

In fresh news coming out of Qatar related to labour laws in the country, labourers may find some reprieve after changes in the pre-existing laws.

As part of country’s Kafala employment system, all labourers were required to fetch the permission of their ongoing employers before switching jobs.

International criticism for Kafala

This provision has been heavily criticised by international labour groups and organisations. Qatar has been for long in scathing hot water for its treatment of labourers and exploitation of cheap labour in the country, which is rich in oil and natural gas.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/qatar-enacts-key-worker-reforms-amid-criticism-324134" hreflang="en">Qatar enacts key worker reforms amid criticism</a>

After news of the country hosting the upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup broke out, fresh narratives of exploitation started spurring up from the country.

New labour laws in the country imply that the Kafala system is effectively ‘dismantled’, as a United Nations labour body put it on Sunday.

Starting now, migrant labourers will no longer require the permission of their employers to terminate the contract and begin a fresh job, the International Labor Organization said.

Change to follow

Another major change has taken shape in the country’s labour laws. Qatar now has a minimum monthly wage of 1,000 Riyals ($275). Once the new provisions are published in the country’s official gazette, the law will take effect, as per the ILO.

Additionally, employers will now be required to provide allowances for food and rent in case the wage is unable to cover it.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/qatar-wins-air-blockade-case-at-international-court-of-justice-313286" hreflang="en">Qatar wins air blockade case at International Court of Justice</a>

Kafala system has been heavily criticised for binding workers to employers, and saw a minor change in 2018 as well. Earlier, the employers could decide whether their worker could leave the job and/or their country.

At the same time, the country’s citizens have one of the world’s highest per-capita incomes owing to its rich reserves. Owing to the oil and natural gas reserves, the country is witnessing a boom in construction. Employees come from South Asian countries like India and Nepal, who fell within the ambit of the Kafala system until now.

Many activists felt that the system allowed for the abuse of foreign workers and denial of rights.

In fresh news coming out of Qatar related to labour laws in the country, labourers may find some reprieve after changes in the pre-existing laws. As part of country’s Kafala employment system, all labourers were required to fetch the permission of their ongoing employers before switching jobs.

In fresh news coming out of Qatar related to labour laws in the country, labourers may find some reprieve after changes in the pre-existing laws. As part of country’s Kafala employment system, all labourers were required to fetch the permission of their ongoing employers before switching jobs. International criticism for Kafala This provision has been heavily criticised by international labour groups and organisations. Qatar has been for long in scathing hot water for its treatment of labourers and exploitation of cheap labour in the country, which is rich in oil and natural gas. Also read: Qatar enacts key worker reforms amid criticism After news of the country hosting the upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup broke out, fresh narratives of exploitation started spurring up from the country. New labour laws in the country imply that the Kafala system is effectively ‘dismantled’, as a United Nations labour body put it on Sunday. Starting now, migrant labourers will no longer require the permission of their employers to terminate the contract and begin a fresh job, the International Labor Organization said. Change to follow Another major change has taken shape in the country’s labour laws. Qatar now has a minimum monthly wage of 1,000 Riyals ($275). Once the new provisions are published in the country’s official gazette, the law will take effect, as per the ILO. Additionally, employers will now be required to provide allowances for food and rent in case the wage is unable to cover it. Also read: Qatar wins air blockade case at International Court of Justice Kafala system has been heavily criticised for binding workers to employers, and saw a minor change in 2018 as well. Earlier, the employers could decide whether their worker could leave the job and/or their country. At the same time, the country’s citizens have one of the world’s highest per-capita incomes owing to its rich reserves. Owing to the oil and natural gas reserves, the country is witnessing a boom in construction. Employees come from South Asian countries like India and Nepal, who fell within the ambit of the Kafala system until now. Many activists felt that the system allowed for the abuse of foreign workers and denial of rights.

Qatar's heavily criticised kafala system officially 'dismantled', more labour reforms underway

Qatar on Sunday introduced a $275 monthly minimum wage and simplified the process for changing employers, the labour ministry said, following criticism of its treatment of foreign labourers.&nbsp;

It comes a week after a stinging Human Rights Watch (HRW) report highlighted the shortcomings of past efforts to improve conditions for the migrant labourers who make up almost 90 percent of the population.&nbsp;

The new rules, which were announced last October 16 but have only now been signed into law, abolish the requirement that workers obtain a "no objection" certificate from their employer to change jobs.&nbsp;

They require all workers, including domestic staff, be paid at least 1,000 riyals ($275) for a month of full-time work -- equivalent to around $1.30 an hour.&nbsp;

Employers are also required to either provide bed and board, or an additional 800 riyal a month allowance for food and accommodation and will have six months to implement the new minimum wage.&nbsp;

Previously, the temporary minimum wage was set at 750 riyals ($206) a month.&nbsp;

"The labour ministry has today taken a major step forward in its labour reform programme by introducing a non-discriminatory minimum wage and removing the no-objection certificate requirement," it said in a statement.&nbsp;

The ministry said the changes would "boost investment in the local economy and drive economic growth".&nbsp;

<h2>World Cup milestone&nbsp;</h2>

Qatar has made a series of reforms to its employment regulations since being selected to host the 2022 World Cup, which has required a vast programme of construction dependent on foreign workers.&nbsp;

"Qatar is the first country in the Middle East to have a minimum wage for all workers without discrimination, whether domestic workers or private sector workers," Qatar's assistant under-secretary for labour affairs, Mohammed Hassan al-Obaidly, told AFP.

Rights groups have long said Qatar's system -- the same one used across the Gulf -- of private companies rather than the state sponsoring individual workers fuels abuses.&nbsp;

Amnesty International said the requirement to have an employer's agreement before changing jobs had "left migrant workers in Qatar at the mercy of abusive employers".&nbsp;

"We welcome the enactment of these laws, and now call on the Qatari authorities to ensure they are swiftly and properly implemented," said Steve Cockburn, Amnesty's head of economic and social justice.

Vani Sarasawthi, director of projects at the Migrant Rights non-governmental group, said she had already received a flurry of messages about the changes from workers.

HRW said last week that some workers in Qatar were struggling to eat because employers were illegally withholding salaries as economic conditions worsen amid the coronavirus crisis.&nbsp;

The government insisted HRW's survey of 93 migrant workers at 60 companies or employers was not representative and that "nearly all individuals who come to Qatar for employment never experience any form of wage abuse".&nbsp;

Qatar said on Sunday that penalties for non-payment of wages had been increased.

The UN International Labour Organization welcomed the package of reforms, calling them a "historic move".&nbsp;

"Qatar has delivered on a commitment. One that will give workers more freedom and protection, and employers more choice," said Guy Ryder, the ILO director general.&nbsp;

More than two million foreigners work in Qatar, many employed directly or indirectly on vast infrastructure projects for the World Cup.&nbsp;

"The World Cup is a milestone in Qatar's long-term development strategy. In the interests of our country, we will continue to introduce new reforms that benefit the economy, businesses and the people who come to work here," Obaidly said.

Qatar on Sunday introduced a $275 monthly minimum wage and simplified the process for changing employers, the labour ministry said, following criticism of its treatment of foreign labourers.

Qatar on Sunday introduced a $275 monthly minimum wage and simplified the process for changing employers, the labour ministry said, following criticism of its treatment of foreign labourers. It comes a week after a stinging Human Rights Watch (HRW) report highlighted the shortcomings of past efforts to improve conditions for the migrant labourers who make up almost 90 percent of the population. The new rules, which were announced last October 16 but have only now been signed into law, abolish the requirement that workers obtain a "no objection" certificate from their employer to change jobs. They require all workers, including domestic staff, be paid at least 1,000 riyals ($275) for a month of full-time work -- equivalent to around $1.30 an hour. Employers are also required to either provide bed and board, or an additional 800 riyal a month allowance for food and accommodation and will have six months to implement the new minimum wage. Previously, the temporary minimum wage was set at 750 riyals ($206) a month. "The labour ministry has today taken a major step forward in its labour reform programme by introducing a non-discriminatory minimum wage and removing the no-objection certificate requirement," it said in a statement. The ministry said the changes would "boost investment in the local economy and drive economic growth". World Cup milestone Qatar has made a series of reforms to its employment regulations since being selected to host the 2022 World Cup, which has required a vast programme of construction dependent on foreign workers. "Qatar is the first country in the Middle East to have a minimum wage for all workers without discrimination, whether domestic workers or private sector workers," Qatar's assistant under-secretary for labour affairs, Mohammed Hassan al-Obaidly, told AFP. Rights groups have long said Qatar's system -- the same one used across the Gulf -- of private companies rather than the state sponsoring individual workers fuels abuses. Amnesty International said the requirement to have an employer's agreement before changing jobs had "left migrant workers in Qatar at the mercy of abusive employers". "We welcome the enactment of these laws, and now call on the Qatari authorities to ensure they are swiftly and properly implemented," said Steve Cockburn, Amnesty's head of economic and social justice. Vani Sarasawthi, director of projects at the Migrant Rights non-governmental group, said she had already received a flurry of messages about the changes from workers. HRW said last week that some workers in Qatar were struggling to eat because employers were illegally withholding salaries as economic conditions worsen amid the coronavirus crisis. The government insisted HRW's survey of 93 migrant workers at 60 companies or employers was not representative and that "nearly all individuals who come to Qatar for employment never experience any form of wage abuse". Qatar said on Sunday that penalties for non-payment of wages had been increased. The UN International Labour Organization welcomed the package of reforms, calling them a "historic move". "Qatar has delivered on a commitment. One that will give workers more freedom and protection, and employers more choice," said Guy Ryder, the ILO director general. More than two million foreigners work in Qatar, many employed directly or indirectly on vast infrastructure projects for the World Cup. "The World Cup is a milestone in Qatar's long-term development strategy. In the interests of our country, we will continue to introduce new reforms that benefit the economy, businesses and the people who come to work here," Obaidly said.

Qatar enacts key worker reforms amid criticism

Qatar is expecting the economy to contract this year after it shrank by 0.3% last year. Watch report.

Saudi Arabia faces 6.8% contraction: Qatar economy to contract

Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez on Wednesday said that he has recovered from the coronavirus and has returned home to resume his tenure in Qatar club Al Sadd's head coach.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-confident-positive-coronavirus-test-wont-affect-man-city-real-madrid-tie-316765" hreflang="en">UEFA confident positive coronavirus test won't affect Man City-Real Madrid tie</a>

He took to the social media platform of Instagram to reveal this news. He wrote: "Thank you so much for all the caring messages that I've received during these days."

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CDPHsQWK8gt/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Moltíssimes gràcies per tots els missatges i les mostres d'afecte que he rebut durant aquests dies. Vull compartir amb vosaltres que estic recuperat i de tornada a casa amb la meva família i l'equip @alsaddsc 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦⚽ ____ Muchísimas gracias por todos los mensajes y las muestras de cariño que he recibido durante estos días. Quiero compartir con vosotros que estoy recuperado y de vuelta en casa junto a mi familia y el equipo @alsaddsc 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦⚽ ____ Thank you so much for all the caring messages that I’ve received during these days. I want to share with you that I’m recovered and back home with my family and the @alsaddsc team 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦⚽</a>

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"I want to share with you that I'm recovered and back home with my family and the Al-Sadd team."

On Saturday, the 40-year-old had said that he tested positive for COVID-19 but was asymptomatic.

The former Barcelona and Spain midfielder, who renewed his contract with the Qatari club on July 5, had said that he would self-isolate as his team prepared for their first match after the Qatar Stars League (QSL) was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Today I won't be able to join my team on their comeback to the official competition," Xavi said in a statement after testing positive.

"David Prats will be there on my behalf as head of the technical staff - coach to the Al-Sadd reserves.

"A few days ago, following the QSL protocol, I tested positive in the last COVID-19 test. Fortunately, I'm feeling ok, but I will be isolated until I am given the all-clear.

"When the health services allow it, I will be very eager to return to my daily routine and to work."

The QSL resumed on Friday after being suspended since March due to the new coronavirus pandemic.

Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez on Wednesday said that he has recovered from the coronavirus and has returned home to resume his tenure in Qatar club Al Sadd's head coach.

Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez on Wednesday said that he has recovered from the coronavirus and has returned home to resume his tenure in Qatar club Al Sadd's head coach. Also read: UEFA confident positive coronavirus test won't affect Man City-Real Madrid tie He took to the social media platform of Instagram to reveal this news. He wrote: "Thank you so much for all the caring messages that I've received during these days." View this post on Instagram Moltíssimes gràcies per tots els missatges i les mostres d'afecte que he rebut durant aquests dies. Vull compartir amb vosaltres que estic recuperat i de tornada a casa amb la meva família i l'equip @alsaddsc 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦⚽ ____ Muchísimas gracias por todos los mensajes y las muestras de cariño que he recibido durante estos días. Quiero compartir con vosotros que estoy recuperado y de vuelta en casa junto a mi familia y el equipo @alsaddsc 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦⚽ ____ Thank you so much for all the caring messages that I’ve received during these days. I want to share with you that I’m recovered and back home with my family and the @alsaddsc team 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦⚽ A post shared by Xavi (@xavi) on Jul 29, 2020 at 11:35am PDT × "I want to share with you that I'm recovered and back home with my family and the Al-Sadd team." On Saturday, the 40-year-old had said that he tested positive for COVID-19 but was asymptomatic. The former Barcelona and Spain midfielder, who renewed his contract with the Qatari club on July 5, had said that he would self-isolate as his team prepared for their first match after the Qatar Stars League (QSL) was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. "Today I won't be able to join my team on their comeback to the official competition," Xavi said in a statement after testing positive. "David Prats will be there on my behalf as head of the technical staff - coach to the Al-Sadd reserves. "A few days ago, following the QSL protocol, I tested positive in the last COVID-19 test. Fortunately, I'm feeling ok, but I will be isolated until I am given the all-clear. "When the health services allow it, I will be very eager to return to my daily routine and to work." The QSL resumed on Friday after being suspended since March due to the new coronavirus pandemic.

Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez recovers from coronavirus

Qatar is likely to host the initial round of peace talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government after the two foes complete an ongoing prisoner swap, a minister said Thursday.

The talks were originally supposed to have started March 10, but there have been repeated delays amid continued fighting and as the prisoner exchange drags on.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/27-taliban-terrorists-killed-16-injured-in-afghanistan-313991">27 Taliban terrorists killed, 16 injured in Afghanistan</a>

"There is a consensus that the beginning of the talks be held in Qatar," acting Afghan foreign minister Mohamad Haneef Atmar told reporters.

The Taliban have a political office in Qatar's capital Doha.

Atmar said 12 countries have offered to host peace talks, including Iran, Turkey, Qatar, Indonesia, Japan, Norway and Turkey.

The peace negotiations hinge on the prisoner swap, in which Kabul is expected to free some 5,000 Taliban prisoners in return for around 1,000 Afghan security force captives held by the insurgents.

So far, Afghan authorities have released 4,400 Taliban inmates, Atmar said, calling it "significant progress".

"The Taliban must now show goodwill for the start of intra-Afghan talks," Atmar added.

"Otherwise, they will be held responsible for the killing of hundreds more Afghans due to violence or corona (virus) before a date is fixed for the talks."

Afghanistan is currently struggling to curb the spread of COVID-19 infections, with more than 35,000 confirmed cases and some 1,000 deaths.

The prisoner exchange was agreed in a landmark deal between the Taliban and Washington signed in February, which primarily stipulated that all US and foreign forces would quit Afghanistan by May 2021.

In return, the Taliban made several security promises and pledged to hold peace talks once the prisoner release was complete.

Experts expect the talks to be a lengthy and complicated process with several rounds of negotiations held in different countries. 
&nbsp;

Qatar is likely to host the initial round of peace talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government after the two foes complete an ongoing prisoner swap, a minister said Thursday.

Qatar is likely to host the initial round of peace talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government after the two foes complete an ongoing prisoner swap, a minister said Thursday. The talks were originally supposed to have started March 10, but there have been repeated delays amid continued fighting and as the prisoner exchange drags on. Also read | 27 Taliban terrorists killed, 16 injured in Afghanistan "There is a consensus that the beginning of the talks be held in Qatar," acting Afghan foreign minister Mohamad Haneef Atmar told reporters. The Taliban have a political office in Qatar's capital Doha. Atmar said 12 countries have offered to host peace talks, including Iran, Turkey, Qatar, Indonesia, Japan, Norway and Turkey. The peace negotiations hinge on the prisoner swap, in which Kabul is expected to free some 5,000 Taliban prisoners in return for around 1,000 Afghan security force captives held by the insurgents. So far, Afghan authorities have released 4,400 Taliban inmates, Atmar said, calling it "significant progress". "The Taliban must now show goodwill for the start of intra-Afghan talks," Atmar added. "Otherwise, they will be held responsible for the killing of hundreds more Afghans due to violence or corona (virus) before a date is fixed for the talks." Afghanistan is currently struggling to curb the spread of COVID-19 infections, with more than 35,000 confirmed cases and some 1,000 deaths. The prisoner exchange was agreed in a landmark deal between the Taliban and Washington signed in February, which primarily stipulated that all US and foreign forces would quit Afghanistan by May 2021. In return, the Taliban made several security promises and pledged to hold peace talks once the prisoner release was complete. Experts expect the talks to be a lengthy and complicated process with several rounds of negotiations held in different countries.

Qatar likely to hold peace talks between Afghanistan-Taliban: Minister

Qatar aims to further ease coronavirus curbs from July 1, allowing the limited reopening of restaurants, beaches and parks, as infections have passed their peak and the rate was subsiding, authorities said.

The nation of about 2.8 million people has the second highest tally of infections among the six Gulf Arab states, after its much larger neighbour, Saudi Arabia. It announced 750 new cases on Sunday, taking the total to 94,413, with 110 deaths.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/south-asia/uae-suspends-receiving-passengers-from-pakistan-over-covid-fears-309356" hreflang="en">UAE suspends receiving passengers from Pakistan over COVID fears</a>

In a statement late on Sunday, the Supreme Committee for Crisis Management said restaurants will reopen at limited capacity from July 1, as would public beaches and parks.

Public and private gatherings of a maximum of five people will be allowed, while employees in the public and private sector can work from the office at 50% capacity, it added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/uae-architects-use-salt-to-create-cement-307584" hreflang="en">UAE: Architects use salt to create cement</a>

As in other Gulf states, Qatar saw COVID-19 spread among low-income migrant workers living in crowded quarters, but the government did not impose curfew. This month, it allowed "essential flights" out of Doha, a partial reopening of malls and of some mosques.

Qatar has also announced that from Aug. 1, it will permit flights from low-risk countries to resume, malls to operate at full capacity and other markets at limited capacity.

Qatar aims to further ease coronavirus curbs from July 1, allowing the limited reopening of restaurants, beaches and parks, as infections have passed their peak and the rate was subsiding, authorities said.

Qatar aims to further ease coronavirus curbs from July 1, allowing the limited reopening of restaurants, beaches and parks, as infections have passed their peak and the rate was subsiding, authorities said. The nation of about 2.8 million people has the second highest tally of infections among the six Gulf Arab states, after its much larger neighbour, Saudi Arabia. It announced 750 new cases on Sunday, taking the total to 94,413, with 110 deaths. Also read: UAE suspends receiving passengers from Pakistan over COVID fears In a statement late on Sunday, the Supreme Committee for Crisis Management said restaurants will reopen at limited capacity from July 1, as would public beaches and parks. Public and private gatherings of a maximum of five people will be allowed, while employees in the public and private sector can work from the office at 50% capacity, it added. Also read: UAE: Architects use salt to create cement As in other Gulf states, Qatar saw COVID-19 spread among low-income migrant workers living in crowded quarters, but the government did not impose curfew. This month, it allowed "essential flights" out of Doha, a partial reopening of malls and of some mosques. Qatar has also announced that from Aug. 1, it will permit flights from low-risk countries to resume, malls to operate at full capacity and other markets at limited capacity.

Qatar to further ease coronavirus curbs as infections pass peak

Qatar has dedicated its brand new stadium to the frontline workers battling the coronavirus pandemic in the country. The stadium is set to host 2022 FIFA World Cup matches was presented virtually on Monday.&nbsp;

The stadium is called a `Diamond in the Desert` and can hold up to 40,000 people. The Al Rayyan Stadium, also with a 40,000 capacity, and the 60,000-seat Al Bayt Stadium is due to be completed by the end of this year.

FIFA's president, Gianni Infantino looks forward to time without fans and spectators during the matches due to the infectious pandemic.&nbsp;

"We must not forget, health comes first. In some parts of the world, it is already possible to look ahead to better times. In others, we still have to be extremely careful, stay strong and united.

"In the meantime, the new stadium in Education City reminds us that football will return and with more passion than ever," he said.

"When the time comes, we will be sharing the stands with families and friends. In this beautiful and modern stadium, we will come together to celebrate the FIFA World Cup in 2022."

"Three down, five to go. We`re on track," said 2022 World Cup chief executive Nasser Al Khater. "This is a virtual launch, not something that we ever imagined we`d do. But who would have imagined that the world would be where it is right now."

Qatar has dedicated its brand new stadium to the frontline workers battling the coronavirus pandemic in the country. The stadium is set to host 2022 FIFA World Cup matches was presented virtually on Monday.

Qatar has dedicated its brand new stadium to the frontline workers battling the coronavirus pandemic in the country. The stadium is set to host 2022 FIFA World Cup matches was presented virtually on Monday. The stadium is called a `Diamond in the Desert` and can hold up to 40,000 people. The Al Rayyan Stadium, also with a 40,000 capacity, and the 60,000-seat Al Bayt Stadium is due to be completed by the end of this year. FIFA's president, Gianni Infantino looks forward to time without fans and spectators during the matches due to the infectious pandemic. "We must not forget, health comes first. In some parts of the world, it is already possible to look ahead to better times. In others, we still have to be extremely careful, stay strong and united. "In the meantime, the new stadium in Education City reminds us that football will return and with more passion than ever," he said. "When the time comes, we will be sharing the stands with families and friends. In this beautiful and modern stadium, we will come together to celebrate the FIFA World Cup in 2022." "Three down, five to go. We`re on track," said 2022 World Cup chief executive Nasser Al Khater. "This is a virtual launch, not something that we ever imagined we`d do. But who would have imagined that the world would be where it is right now."

Qatar dedicates 2022 FIFA World Cup stadium to coronavirus frontline workers

Privacy concerns over Qatar's coronavirus contact tracing app, a tool that is mandatory on pain of prison, have prompted a rare backlash and forced officials to offer reassurance and concessions.

Like other governments around the world, Qatar has turned to mobile phones to trace people's movements and track who they come into contact with, allowing officials to monitor coronavirus infections and alert people at risk of contagion.

The apps use Bluetooth radio signals to "ping" nearby devices, which can be contacted subsequently if a user they have been near developing symptoms or tests positive, but the resultant unprecedented access to users' location data has prompted fears about state surveillance.

Qatar's version goes considerably further -- it forces Android users to permit access to their picture and video galleries, while also allowing the app to make unprompted calls.

"I can't understand why it needs all these permissions," wrote Ala'a on a Facebook group popular with Doha's large expat community -- one of several such forums peppered with concerns over the app.&nbsp;

Justin Martin, a journalism professor based in Qatar, warned authorities in a tweet not to "erode" trust by enforcing "an app with such alarming permissions".

The government launched the "Ehteraz" app, meaning "precaution", in April and on Friday it became mandatory for all citizens and legal residents to install it on their phones.

Non-compliance is punishable by up to three years in jail -- the same term as for failing to wear a mask in public -- in a state battling one of the world's highest per capita infection rates.

'Highly invasive'

Almost 44,000 of Qatar's 2.75 million people have tested positive for the respiratory disease -- 1.6 per cent of the population -- and 23 people have died.

Security forces manned checkpoints across Qatar on Sunday to ensure the use of the app, local media reported, alongside checking for use of masks.

Criticism of the government is rare in Qatar and laws to prohibit disrespect towards officials.

However, officials have said that the law on the app will be enforced with "understanding".

The app's simple interface displays coloured bar-codes containing the user's ID number -- green for healthy, red for COVID-19 positive and yellow for quarantined cases. Grey indicates suspected cases or those who have come into contact with infected individuals.

Mohamed bin Hamad Al-Thani, a director at Qatar's health ministry, said that data gathered is "completely confidential".

"There will be an update for the Ehteraz app to address the issues of concern and further improve its efficiency," he added in an interview on state television on Thursday.

A new version of the software was duly released for Apple and Android on Sunday, promising "minor bug fixes", but without indicating that the invasive aspects had been removed.

The app was introduced just as authorities across the Muslim world warned that gatherings during Ramadan and the Eid al-Fitr festival that marks the end of the holy fasting month could lead to a surge of infections.

'Burner' phones

"There are two key concerns... with the app," said Human Rights Watch researcher Hiba Zayadin.

It "is highly invasive, with a range of permissions allowing the government access to things that are not needed for the purpose of contact tracing, permissions that are unnecessary and present a concerning invasion of privacy."

But also "many migrant workers in the country don't have compatible phones that would allow them to download the app and comply".&nbsp;

Online reviews have also complained that the app drains battery power and cannot be installed on older iPhone handsets.&nbsp;

Some have looked for ways around the policy.

"People are spending money and waiting in queues just to get burner phones to protect their privacy," wrote expat engineer Janko on one forum, referring to cheap handsets that could subsequently be disposed of.

There have been reports of a few users being wrongly classified as "quarantined" or "suspected cases".

"There's no need for photo access and other things. But it could be a good tool. It is a good way to prioritise whom to test," technology lawyer Rahul Matthan told AFP.

But "to work, they need a large number of people to use it. If people are dissuaded because of the app's overreach, then that would be a worry."

Privacy concerns over Qatar's coronavirus contact tracing app, a tool that is mandatory on pain of prison, have prompted a rare backlash and forced officials to offer reassurance and concessions.

Privacy concerns over Qatar's coronavirus contact tracing app, a tool that is mandatory on pain of prison, have prompted a rare backlash and forced officials to offer reassurance and concessions. Like other governments around the world, Qatar has turned to mobile phones to trace people's movements and track who they come into contact with, allowing officials to monitor coronavirus infections and alert people at risk of contagion. The apps use Bluetooth radio signals to "ping" nearby devices, which can be contacted subsequently if a user they have been near developing symptoms or tests positive, but the resultant unprecedented access to users' location data has prompted fears about state surveillance. Qatar's version goes considerably further -- it forces Android users to permit access to their picture and video galleries, while also allowing the app to make unprompted calls. "I can't understand why it needs all these permissions," wrote Ala'a on a Facebook group popular with Doha's large expat community -- one of several such forums peppered with concerns over the app. Justin Martin, a journalism professor based in Qatar, warned authorities in a tweet not to "erode" trust by enforcing "an app with such alarming permissions". The government launched the "Ehteraz" app, meaning "precaution", in April and on Friday it became mandatory for all citizens and legal residents to install it on their phones. Non-compliance is punishable by up to three years in jail -- the same term as for failing to wear a mask in public -- in a state battling one of the world's highest per capita infection rates. 'Highly invasive' Almost 44,000 of Qatar's 2.75 million people have tested positive for the respiratory disease -- 1.6 per cent of the population -- and 23 people have died. Security forces manned checkpoints across Qatar on Sunday to ensure the use of the app, local media reported, alongside checking for use of masks. Criticism of the government is rare in Qatar and laws to prohibit disrespect towards officials. However, officials have said that the law on the app will be enforced with "understanding". The app's simple interface displays coloured bar-codes containing the user's ID number -- green for healthy, red for COVID-19 positive and yellow for quarantined cases. Grey indicates suspected cases or those who have come into contact with infected individuals. Mohamed bin Hamad Al-Thani, a director at Qatar's health ministry, said that data gathered is "completely confidential". "There will be an update for the Ehteraz app to address the issues of concern and further improve its efficiency," he added in an interview on state television on Thursday. A new version of the software was duly released for Apple and Android on Sunday, promising "minor bug fixes", but without indicating that the invasive aspects had been removed. The app was introduced just as authorities across the Muslim world warned that gatherings during Ramadan and the Eid al-Fitr festival that marks the end of the holy fasting month could lead to a surge of infections. 'Burner' phones "There are two key concerns... with the app," said Human Rights Watch researcher Hiba Zayadin. It "is highly invasive, with a range of permissions allowing the government access to things that are not needed for the purpose of contact tracing, permissions that are unnecessary and present a concerning invasion of privacy." But also "many migrant workers in the country don't have compatible phones that would allow them to download the app and comply". Online reviews have also complained that the app drains battery power and cannot be installed on older iPhone handsets. Some have looked for ways around the policy. "People are spending money and waiting in queues just to get burner phones to protect their privacy," wrote expat engineer Janko on one forum, referring to cheap handsets that could subsequently be disposed of. There have been reports of a few users being wrongly classified as "quarantined" or "suspected cases". "There's no need for photo access and other things. But it could be a good tool. It is a good way to prioritise whom to test," technology lawyer Rahul Matthan told AFP. But "to work, they need a large number of people to use it. If people are dissuaded because of the app's overreach, then that would be a worry."

Qatar coronavirus contact tracing app 'Ehteraz' stirs rare privacy backlash

Many countries might impose few penalties to punish people for not wearing facemasks but these Arab nations have taken this punishment to another level.&nbsp;

Kuwait and Qatar have decided to jail and impose hefty fines on people who forget to wear masks to fight the novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

According to Kuwait's health ministry, a defaulter might face up to three months of imprisonment, whereas, Qatar's state television reported that the punishment could last up to three years of a prison sentence.&nbsp;

Not only this, these countries have also decided to impose heavy fines too. In Kuwait, the maximum fine stood at 5,000 dinars ($16,200) and in Qatar, it stood approximately three times the amount that is 200,000 riyals ($55,000).

Six of these gulf states have reported 137,400 cases of coronavirus with 693 casualties. The region initially faced these cases due to people with travel history but the problem began to inculcate as the virus spread was noticed among the low-income migrant workers in cramped quarters.

Out of all cases in the Gulf, Saudi Arabia, with a population of around 30 million people, has the largest count at more than 54,700 cases with 312 deaths. Followed by Qatar, a nation of some 2.8 million, has the second-highest infection count at above 32,600, with 15 deaths.

In terms of death, the UAE recorded the second most deaths with 220. The country recorded over 23,350 cases.&nbsp;

Many countries might impose few penalties to punish people for not wearing facemasks but these Arab nations have taken this punishment to another level. Kuwait and Qatar have decided to jail and impose hefty fines on people who forget to wear masks to fight the novel coronavirus.

Many countries might impose few penalties to punish people for not wearing facemasks but these Arab nations have taken this punishment to another level. Kuwait and Qatar have decided to jail and impose hefty fines on people who forget to wear masks to fight the novel coronavirus. According to Kuwait's health ministry, a defaulter might face up to three months of imprisonment, whereas, Qatar's state television reported that the punishment could last up to three years of a prison sentence. Not only this, these countries have also decided to impose heavy fines too. In Kuwait, the maximum fine stood at 5,000 dinars ($16,200) and in Qatar, it stood approximately three times the amount that is 200,000 riyals ($55,000). Six of these gulf states have reported 137,400 cases of coronavirus with 693 casualties. The region initially faced these cases due to people with travel history but the problem began to inculcate as the virus spread was noticed among the low-income migrant workers in cramped quarters. Out of all cases in the Gulf, Saudi Arabia, with a population of around 30 million people, has the largest count at more than 54,700 cases with 312 deaths. Followed by Qatar, a nation of some 2.8 million, has the second-highest infection count at above 32,600, with 15 deaths. In terms of death, the UAE recorded the second most deaths with 220. The country recorded over 23,350 cases.

You'll be punished if you don't wear a mask in Kuwait and Qatar

Air India's first repatriation flight took off from Kochi for Abu Dhabi on Thursday afternoon. The flight will be bringing back Indian nationals to the country soon.

Air India Express IX419 is being used for the biggest repatriation operation of the Indian government to bring back the&nbsp;Indian nationals stranded in the Gulf countries due to the coronavirus pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-samudra-setu-ins-jalashwa-set-to-evacuate-stranded-indians-from-maldives-297209">Also read:&nbsp;Operation Samudra Setu: INS Jalashwa set to evacuate stranded Indians from Maldives</a>

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1st flight with 175 stranded Indians from abroad will land in Kochi from Abu Dhabi at around 2140 hrs. The second flight will also be to Kerala, having 175 stranded Indians. 
 
Location of pic: India's operation room, Dubai<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID</a> <a href="https://t.co/jbaDRQ31de">https://t.co/jbaDRQ31de</a> <a href="https://t.co/ARJTc71i3u">pic.twitter.com/ARJTc71i3u</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1258342149373952001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The first flight will land in Kerala&nbsp;around 9:40pm. The Kochi flight is bringing back 175 Indian nationals from Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;The second flight will also bring 175 stranded Indians from Dubai to Kozhikode, and will land around 10:30pm.

Air India will continue the rescue operation for Indians stranded in&nbsp;Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Kuwait, Muscat, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Malaysia, Philippines, UAE, Bangladesh, the US and the UK.

However, the focus remains on the Gulf countries, where around 3 lakh people are stranded, according to reports.

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Repatriation of Indian nationals begins from UAE<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid</a> <a href="https://t.co/rrbouSfDfo">https://t.co/rrbouSfDfo</a> <a href="https://t.co/rKCuADft7E">pic.twitter.com/rKCuADft7E</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1258360615246200832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shramik-trains-over-163-run-so-far-more-than-160-lakh-migrants-ferried-297207">Also read:&nbsp;Shramik Trains: Over 163 run so far, more than 1.60 lakh migrants ferried</a>

Around 14,600 citizens are expected to be brought back to the country in 64 flights within the first week of the operation.

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United Arab Emirates: 177 Indians, including 4 infants have boarded their flight from Abu Dhabi for Kochi, Kerala. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VandeBharatMission?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VandeBharatMission</a> <a href="https://t.co/8d5a4OrYO9">pic.twitter.com/8d5a4OrYO9</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1258382635497209859?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Around 60 pilots and 120 cabin crew members are providing their services in the&nbsp;operation. All the staff members and the workers have been asked to practice precaution and wear PPE suits during the flight.

Before take-off, passengers will be provided with two face masks, one 100ml sanitiser bottle, a snack box and a bottle of water at their respective seats. &nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

Air India's first repatriation flight took off from Kochi for Abu Dhabi on Thursday afternoon. The flight will be bringing back Indian nationals to the country soon.

Air India's first repatriation flight took off from Kochi for Abu Dhabi on Thursday afternoon. The flight will be bringing back Indian nationals to the country soon. Air India Express IX419 is being used for the biggest repatriation operation of the Indian government to bring back the Indian nationals stranded in the Gulf countries due to the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Operation Samudra Setu: INS Jalashwa set to evacuate stranded Indians from Maldives 1st flight with 175 stranded Indians from abroad will land in Kochi from Abu Dhabi at around 2140 hrs. The second flight will also be to Kerala, having 175 stranded Indians. Location of pic: India's operation room, Dubai#COVID https://t.co/jbaDRQ31de pic.twitter.com/ARJTc71i3u — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) May 7, 2020 × The first flight will land in Kerala around 9:40pm. The Kochi flight is bringing back 175 Indian nationals from Abu Dhabi. The second flight will also bring 175 stranded Indians from Dubai to Kozhikode, and will land around 10:30pm. Air India will continue the rescue operation for Indians stranded in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Kuwait, Muscat, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Malaysia, Philippines, UAE, Bangladesh, the US and the UK. However, the focus remains on the Gulf countries, where around 3 lakh people are stranded, according to reports. Repatriation of Indian nationals begins from UAE#Covid https://t.co/rrbouSfDfo pic.twitter.com/rKCuADft7E — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) May 7, 2020 × Also read: Shramik Trains: Over 163 run so far, more than 1.60 lakh migrants ferried Around 14,600 citizens are expected to be brought back to the country in 64 flights within the first week of the operation. United Arab Emirates: 177 Indians, including 4 infants have boarded their flight from Abu Dhabi for Kochi, Kerala. #VandeBharatMission pic.twitter.com/8d5a4OrYO9 — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2020 × Around 60 pilots and 120 cabin crew members are providing their services in the operation. All the staff members and the workers have been asked to practice precaution and wear PPE suits during the flight. Before take-off, passengers will be provided with two face masks, one 100ml sanitiser bottle, a snack box and a bottle of water at their respective seats. (With inputs from ANI)

India's biggest repatriation operation begins; Air India flight to land in Kochi tonight

Global aviation industry isbeing hammered because of the coronavirus outbreak. The Qatar Airways is now at risk of bankruptcy.

Global aviation industry hammered, Qatar Airways at risk of bankruptcy

A&nbsp;38-year-old man with travel history to Qatar succumbed to COVID-19&nbsp;at the AIIMS in Patna, hospital superintendent CM Singh said.

Saif Ali (38), a resident of Munger district in Bihar, was admitted to the hospital with kidney ailment on Friday, he said.

However, doctors noticed that he was also suffering from respiratory problems, following which they sent his swab samples to the Rajendra Memorial Research Institute (RMRI), Patna.

Ali, who was on dialysis, died on Saturday night, but his COVID-19 test results from RMRI came only on Sunday morning, Singh said.

Ali is the first case of COVID-19 death in Bihar.

Six more patients in AIIMS, suspected to have contracted the disease, are currently awaiting their test results from RMRI, he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

A 38-year-old man with travel history to Qatar succumbed to COVID-19 at the AIIMS in Patna, hospital superintendent CM Singh said. Saif Ali (38), a resident of Munger district in Bihar, was admitted to the hospital with kidney ailment on Friday, he said.

A 38-year-old man with travel history to Qatar succumbed to COVID-19 at the AIIMS in Patna, hospital superintendent CM Singh said. Saif Ali (38), a resident of Munger district in Bihar, was admitted to the hospital with kidney ailment on Friday, he said. However, doctors noticed that he was also suffering from respiratory problems, following which they sent his swab samples to the Rajendra Memorial Research Institute (RMRI), Patna. Ali, who was on dialysis, died on Saturday night, but his COVID-19 test results from RMRI came only on Sunday morning, Singh said. Ali is the first case of COVID-19 death in Bihar. Six more patients in AIIMS, suspected to have contracted the disease, are currently awaiting their test results from RMRI, he added. (With inputs from PTI)

First COVID-19 death in Bihar: Man with travel history to Qatar dies in Patna

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