THE LIFE NEWS SINGAPORE FEB 1, 2021 by The Life News

News from World, Worldwide readership. Vol. 03 Issue 43 Feb 01, 2021

State of Emergency declared in Myanmar, Military takes power, Aung San Suu Kyi detained

TL Bureau & Sources, Naypyitaw

Myanmar’s military has taken force and proclaimed a highly sensitive situation subsequent to keeping regular citizen pioneer Aung San Suu Kyi and other senior government authorities in a progression of early morning strikes that followed long periods of raising strain over the result of the November political race, which the decision party won by an embarrassing margin. A video address broadcast on militaryclaimed TV said power had been given to the president of the military, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. Myo Nyunt, the representative for the administering National League for Democracy (NLD) said prior on Monday, that Aung San Suu Kyi, President Win Myint and different pioneers had been “taken” in the early hours of the morning. “I need to advise our kin not to react impulsively and I need them to act as indicated by the law,” he said. Myanmar’s Parliament, where the military is given a fourth

of seats and uses more force through its intermediary Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), was because of open in the country’s capital Naypyidaw from Monday. Legislators from states and areas, just as unmistakable political activists, were likewise kept, while versatile and

telephone networks were seeing disturbance. State media was additionally taken behind closed doors. Monday’s advancements drew quick judgment from the United States, the United Nations and Australia. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the improvements were a “genuine hit to majority rule changes” and asked all pioneers to shun viciousness and regard common freedoms, a UN representative said. “We approach Burmese military pioneers to deliver all administrative authorities and common society pioneers and regard the desire of the individuals of Burma as communicated in fair decisions on November 8,” US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in an explanation. Australia said it was “profoundly worried” at the circumstance. “We approach the military to regard the standard of law, to determine debates through legal systems and to deliver quickly all regular citizen pioneers and other people who have been kept unlawfully,” Foreign Minister Marise Payne said in a proclamation.

Opposition leader’s wife among more than 3,000 detained in Russia

TL Bureau, Moscow

In any event 3,000 individuals, including the spouse of resistance pioneer Alexei Navalny, were kept Sunday at conventions all through Russia in chilly climate fighting the confinement of her better half. Fights occurred in at any rate 120 urban communities the country over. Exhibits additionally occurred a weekend ago. In Moscow, revolt police and public gatekeeper troops close focal metro stations and square off roads as thousands recited “Putin is a hoodlum” regarding Russian President Vladimir Putin and “opportunity” and walked toward Matrosskaya Tishina prison where Navalny is being held before a parole hearing Tuesday. He is confronting jail for quite a long time on whether his suspended sentence on misrepresentation charges in a 2014 theft case should turn into a

prison term. “Yulia Navalnaya was confined by the police during a serene stroll in Moscow,” Vyacheslav Gimadi, top of the legitimate branch of Navalny’s Anti-Corruption Foundation, posted

on Twitter. “The guard lawyer was not permitted to see her, [police officers] didn’t present themselves, didn’t show any IDs, didn’t give any motivation to the confinement.” In the wake of getting back to

Russia after a speculated FSB harming on Jan. 17, Navalny was captured. “Moscow resembles a fortification today,” Maria Lazareva, a nonconformist was caught between two lines of uproar police simply off

of Komsomolskaya Square, disclosed to The Guardian. “They can stop us when there are insufficient of us but rather as more come it will be difficult to keep us wrote in.” In St Petersburg, police shut Nevsky Prospekt, the city’s primary road, to keep dissenters from get-together there. Police had kept at any rate 3,0313 individuals in 81 urban communities as of 4:24 p.m., as per the OVD-Info fight observing site. The Biden organization denounced the crackdown on fights, which is a difference from the Trump organization. “The US censures the determined utilization of brutal strategies against quiet dissidents and columnists by Russian experts for a second week in a row,” said Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in an explanation on Twitter. “We restore our call for Russia to deliver those kept for practicing their basic freedoms, including Aleksey Navalny.”

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News from World, Worldwide readership. Vol. 02 Issue 15 Feb 01, 2021

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State of Emergency declared in Myanmar, Military takes power, Aung San Suu Kyi detained

TL Bureau & Sources, Naypyitaw

Opposition leader’s wife among more than 3,000 detained in Russia

TL Bureau, Moscow

prison term. “Yulia Navalnaya was confined by the police during a serene stroll in Moscow,” Vyacheslav Gimadi, top of the legitimate branch of Navalny’s Anti-Corruption Foundation, posted

he Covid pandemic, which has asserted more than 2.2 million lives and nauseated in any event 103 individuals around the world, is dying down from record levels as countries have ordered limitations, including lockdowns, and are inclining up inoculations. On Jan. 20, there were a record 17,554 passings revealed, which was among 99,135 that kicked the bucket from Jan. 16-23, as indicated by following by Worldometers.info. In the previous week, the high was 16,624 Thursday with a week by week absolute of 97,720. Cases had just started a decrease right on time with passings slacking a long time. On Jan. 8, there were a record 845,285 cases, which was among 4,886,927 diseases the seven day stretch of Jan. 1-9. In the previous week, the high was 607,830 Thursday with a week by week absolute of 3,791,960. Sine the main casualty was declared in Wuhan, China, on Jan. 11, 2020, the absolute loss of life has move to 2,235,185. Also, the quantity of cases is 103,425,946 with the primary contaminations, initially portrayed as pneumonia of an obscure reason, given an account of Dec. 31, 2019. In the wake of beginning in Mainland, China, the infection spread to Europe, at that point the Western Hemisphere with the infection now on each landmass, including Antarctica. After over one year, the main three countries for most passings are in the Western Hemisphere: the United States with 440,843, Brazil second with 224,124 and Mexico third with 158,074. Likewise, the United States leads in cases, passing 26 million Saturday. A week ago, Mexico overwhelmed India, which is at 154,274, including 127 new fatalities Sunday. Mexico hadn’t revealed its information at this point Sunday. Europe stays No. 1 in passings at 702,557 and is around 300,000 behind North American in cases at 30,274,772. Europe has five countries in the main 10: Britain at 106,158 in fifth, Italy 6th at 88,516, France seventh at 76,057, Russia eighth at 73,182 and Spain 10th at 58,319. Germany is eleventh with 57,576 so far Sunday, which is 383 behind No. 10 Iran, which revealed 70 Sunday. England has revealed in any event 1,000 passings for four days straight through Saturday, including 1,725 Wednesday, which is behind the record of 1,820 Jan. 20. Until the flood toward the beginning of the year, fatalities had last outperformed 1,000 with a record 1,166 on April 21. Sunday’s demises were 587 and cases were 21,088. England’s cases have settled from a pinnacle of 68,053 Jan. 8 to 23,275 Saturday. The realm is amidst a third cross country lockdown. On Saturday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson recognized the penances of individuals, particularly guardians. In an open letter to guardians and others, Johnson stated: “While the previous a year have been intense for us all, the requests of this pandemic likewise drew out the absolute best in a large number individuals. What’s more, I’m especially in amazement of the way the guardians, carers and watchmen of youngsters have adapted to the situation with which you have been confronted.” Further, he noted: “In light of the fact that you are remaining at home you are assuming an indispensable part in getting this terrible infection back leveled out. You are purchasing time for our multitude of vaccinators to secure the defenseless. You are preparing back to ordinariness and you are, plainly, saving lives. What’s more, for that I can’t thank you enough.” A sum of 8,977,329 immunizations had now occurred in Britain, and 491,053 have gotten the two shots since the program started Dec.

COVID-19 easing caused to deaths passed 2.2 million, cases crossed 103 million worldwide

8, as per government information. England has a populace of 66.7 million. Quite a bit of Italy has been under solid limitations however on Monday, portions of the nation, including the Lazio locale around Rome and the Lombardia district around Milan, will be downsized from medium-hazard orange zones to bring down danger yellow zones. The districts of Puglia, Sardegna, Sicilia, Umbria and the independent area of Bolzano stay orange zones and no areas in Italy’s most noteworthy danger red zones. Italy, which at one time was the world’s focal point, announced 237 passings Sunday, contrasted and a record 993 Dec. 3 and 11,252 cases after record 40,896 on Nov. 13. France isn’t in a cross country lockdown however on Saturday the country forced new COVID-19 boundary limitations with everything except fundamental travel from outside the European Union prohibited and testing necessities on those from inside the EU has been fixed. Additionally, Prime Minister Jean Castex said the night time limitation would be all the more firmly authorized and huge retail plazas would be shut. France announced 195 passings Saturday after 932 on Nov. 13 that was the most since a record of 1,437 in April. Furthermore, there were 19,235 cases after a record 86,852 on Oct. 31 Russia reported 485 passings and 18,539 cases after records of 635 fatalities and 29,935 contaminations on Dec. 4, positioning fourth by and large in cases with 3,850,439. Russia has built up its own immunization, called Sputnik 5. Spain doesn’t report information throughout the end of the week with 513 passings revealed Friday with the record 996 and 38,118 cases after record 44,357 Jan. 21. Albeit new diseases have topped, authorities are preparing for a flood. “We can expect that the strain identified in the UK will be the prevailing one in Spain before the finish of February or the main fortnight of March,” Fernando Simon, the overseer of the Health Ministry’s Coordination Center for Health Alerts said Thursday at a news meeting. Spain doesn’t have public limitations however a few locales have extreme limitations, including a check in time, in the wake of facilitating the guidelines during the special seasons. Other than Europe, Latin America has been hard-hit, including Mexico and South America. South America has five countries in the main 20: Colombia in twelfth with 53,650, Argentina in thirteenth with 47,931, and Peru in fifteenth with 40,857. By and large, the mainland has detailed 414,653 passings and 15,839,303 cases. On Saturday, Brazil revealed 1,196 passings contrasted and a record of 1,554 on July 29. Cases were 57,498 after record 87,134 Jan. 7 in third spot at 9,176,975. Recently, specialists recognized a COVID-19 variation in the Amazon city of Manaus, Brazil.

Nine youngsters with Covid indications passed on in the Yanomami Indigenous Territory in the Amazonas province of Brazil, a wellbeing official detailed. “We are mentioning the public authority to send help promptly,” Júnior Hekurari Yanomami, the President of the Yanomami and Ye’kuana District Council for Indigenous Health, said in a CNN report. “The wellbeing experts we have inside the Yanomami region are inadequate. The subsequent wave is being unforgiving on us, it has spread all through the entire region.” On week prior, Brazil started turning out 2 million dosages of immunization made by AstraZeneca in India. A week ago, the Biden organization reestablished a prohibition on most non-U.S. explorers coming from Brazil just as Britain, Ireland and the 26 nations that contain the Schengen Area of Europe. Additionally, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Friday that Air Canada and WestJet had consented to suspend travel to the Caribbean and Mexico. Furthermore, there will test and three-day isolate periods upon appearance in Canada. The movement boycott between Mexico, the United States and Canada for insignificant travel is in actuality through Feb. 21. It’s been that path since March. Cases and passings have been flooding in Brazil.On Saturday, Mexico revealed 1,495 passings after record 1,803 Jan. 21. Cases were 15,337 after record 22,339 Jan. 21. Until Dec. 31, passings had just outperformed 1,000 twice, both in the late spring. Mexico’s President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador is among those that gotten the infection yet said Friday in a video message he is past the “basic stage” of his Covid contamination and is recuperating. Concerning antibody, the president likewise said Mexico will get 6 million immunization portions in February and an extra 12 million

editorial

in March. Mexico has a consent to buy 34.4 million dosages of the Pfizer-BioNTech shot and in excess of 78 million portions of the AstraZeneca antibody from India. The country has a populace of 130 million with 15 million individuals beyond 60 years old. Canada is 21st on the planet with 20,024 passings, including 82 so far Sunday, just as 3,453 cases. Canada set the precedent for passings, 257 on Dec. 29, and cases, 11,383 on Jan. 3. Canada has requested 362 million dosages of immunization, which comes out to 9.6 per individual, which is the most on the planet, as indicated by a Guardian investigation of the most recent accessible information. The U.S. is at 3.7, the European Union at 3.5 and Britain at 5.5 Up until now, Canada has inoculated 2.22 percent of the populace with 1.1 million got, as per following by CTV. Canada has approved the Pfizer and Moderna immunizations. Everything except around 23,000 of the complete passings in North America are in Mexico, Canada and the U.S. North America has the second-most passings of the mainlands, 652,981, behind Europe, and the most cases, 30,585,888. In Asia the loss of life is 372,729, the fourththe greater part of the mainlands, and cases are 23,083,117, which positions third. China is presently positioned 50th on the planet with 4,636 behind Slovakia. China detailed one demise Tuesday and an additional seven days back in the wake of declaring just one since April 27, another check on May 17. China added 92 cases Sunday. World Health Organization examiners have visited two emergency clinics at the focal point of the underlying COVID-19 flare-up in Wuhan, China, determined to decide the birthplace of the infection. China has been on high caution for another COVID-19 episode wave, in front of the Lunar New Year, which is Feb. 12. In India, the infection has been dying down. The country set a public record 1,283 passings this mid year and cases tops at 97,859 in September however dropped to 13,052 Sunday. India managed the pandemic obviously superior to different nations, Health Minister Harsh Vardhan told the British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin Wales at their yearly meeting vial video interface on Saturday night. “With the ‘entire of government’ and ‘entire of society’ approach, we had the option to battle the pandemic obviously superior to different nations,”

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The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Iraq and Syria.

A Royal Air Force Typhoon departs on a mission supporting Operation Shader in support of the Counter-Daesh operations in Summary : Sunday 24 Iraq and Syria. Crown Copyright. January - Typhoons A Royal Air Force Typhoon departs on a mission supporting struck two groups of Operation Shader in support of the Counter-Daesh operations in Daesh terrorists in caves in northern Iraq. Iraq and Syria. Crown Copyright. TL Bureau, London

Detail Notwithstanding the global impact of the coronavirus pandemic, Royal Air Force aircraft have been able to continue regular armed reconnaissance missions to support the enduring work of the Iraqi security forces to prevent any resurgence of the Daesh terrorist movement within their country. On Sunday 24 January, a coalition surveillance aircraft located a number of Daesh fighters based in two caves some ten miles north of Bayji, and two Typhoon FGR4s were tasked to strike them. Our aircraft conducted a careful check of the area around the caves, which were a mile and a half apart, for any signs of civilians who might be at risk, before conducting simultaneous attacks, using two Paveway IV guided bombs against each group. All four of the bombs struck their targets accurately and the strike was assessed to have been a success in eliminating the

terrorist threat. Previous update UK Armed Forces continue to provide a significant contribution to the global coalition ensuring the Daesh terrorist group does not become resurgent in Syria and Iraq, with Royal Air Force aircraft flying daily armed reconnaissance patrols. On Tuesday 6 October, a small group of Daesh extremists attacked Iraqi security forces in the desert of Anbar province, west of Baghdad. A coalition air strike

provided immediate support to the Iraqi troops, and succeeded in destroying half the attacking Daesh group. An RAF Reaper was then tasked to deal with the remaining terrorists. The crew of the Reaper successfully located them, and at an appropriate moment, with no sign of a strike posing any risks to friendly forces or any civilians, conducted a carefully planned attack with a GBU-12 guided bomb. The Iraqi forces subsequently reported that the threat had been eliminated.

world

Royal Court: Death of Prince Turki bin Nasser bin Abdulaziz

TL Bureau, Cairo

The Arab Republic of Egypt has expressed its strong condemnation of the continued attempts to target the territory of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by the Iranian-backed terrorist Houthi militia, which today targeted Al-Harth Governorate Jazan Region with a military projectile. It also tried to target the Kingdom with a bomb-laden UAV that the Joint Forces of the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy successfully intercepted and destroyed in Yemeni airspace. n a statement issued by the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Egypt affirmed its support for all measures taken by the Kingdom to ensure

• The Royal Court announced today that Prince Turki bin Nasser bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has passed away. • Funeral prayer will be performed for the deceased tomorrow, Sunday, 18/6/1442AH in Riyadh. • Egypt Condemns Terrorist Houthi Militia Targeting of Al-Harth Governorate in Jazan Region

its security and stability, as well as the safety of its citizens in facing these cowardly terrorist attacks, and in order to confront terrorism and its supporters.

Proposal to enter Alvar Aalto’s architecture on the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list TL Bureau, Helsinki

Finland proposes listing a set of 13 sites representing Alvar Aalto’s humane architecture as a cultural heritage site on the tentative list of UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The holy place of worship of Ukonsaari by the Saami people in Inari will remain on the list of sites on the national tentative list. Decisions on the sites to be

included on the tentative list are made nationally. The decision is made by the Ministry of Education and Culture in the case of cultural heritage sites and by the Ministry of the Environment in the case of natural heritage sites. Decisions made by the Ministry of Education and Culture are based on a proposal prepared by the Finnish Heritage Agency. The national tentative list was last updated in 2004.

UK applies to join huge Pacific free trade area CPTPP The UK is formally applying to join one of the world’s largest free-trade areas, deepening trade ties with some of the fastest-growing markets in the world

TL Bureau, London International Trade Secretary Liz Truss will speak to ministers in Japan and New Zealand on Monday morning (1 February 2021) to request to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), with formal negotiations set to start this year. The announcement comes as the UK today celebrates one year since leaving the EU and becoming an independent trading nation. Joining the CPTPP would deepen the UK’s access to fast-growing markets and major economies, including Mexico, Malaysia and Vietnam, for the benefit of UK business. Joining the £9 trillion partnership will cut tariffs for UK industries including food and drink, and cars, while also creating new opportunities for modern industries like tech and services, ultimately supporting and creating high-value jobs across the UK. Unlike EU membership, joining does not require the UK to cede control over our laws, borders, or money. UK trade with the group was worth £111 billion last year, growing by 8% a year since 2016. Benefits that CPTPP membership will bring for businesses include: Modern digital trade rules that

allow data to flow freely between members, remove unnecessary barriers for businesses, and protect commercial source code and encryption. Eliminating tariffs quicker on UK exports including whisky (down from 165% to 0% in Malaysia) and cars (reducing to 0% in Canada by 2022, two years earlier than through the UK-Canada trade deal). Rules of Origin that allow content from any country within CPTPP to count as ‘originating’. For example, this would mean that cars made in the UK could use more Japanese-originating car parts, such as batteries. Easier travel for businesspeople between CPTPP countries, such as the potential for faster and cheaper visas. The Prime Minister, Boris Johnson said “One

year after our departure from the EU we are forging new partnerships that will bring enormous economic benefits for the people of Britain. “Applying to be the first new country to join the CPTPP demonstrates our ambition to do business on the best terms with our friends and partners all over the world and be an enthusiastic champion of global free trade.” International Trade Secretary Liz Truss said “Joining CPTPP will create enormous opportunities for UK businesses that simply weren’t there as part of the EU and deepen our ties with some of the fastest-growing markets in the world. “It will mean lower tariffs for car manufacturers and whisky producers, and better

access for our brilliant services providers, delivering quality jobs and greater prosperity for people here at home. “We’re at the front of the queue and look forward to starting formal negotiations in the coming months.” The UK will publish its negotiation objectives, scoping analysis, and consultation response in advance of negotiations expected to start this Spring. CPTPP membership is a key part of the Government’s plan to position the UK at the centre of a network of modern free trade deals that support jobs and drive economic growth at home. Julian David, CEO of techUK, said “Today marks an important step in the UK’s path to developing a modern trade policy that creates new opportunities for the UK tech sector. Building on our recent agreements with Japan and the European Union, the accession to the CPTPP will allow us to join a group of ambitious countries breaking the newest ground in digital trade.“The UK has been a major beneficiary of the rise of digital trade with over 67% of service exports worth £190.3 billion being digitally delivered. CPTPP will open up new markets for innovative tech SMEs looking to grow and expand beyond our

borders. We are looking forward to working with the government throughout the process.” Mike Cherry, Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) Chair, said “Membership of the CPTPP would be a hugely welcome development to all small businesses looking to either expand or begin their trading journeys. “Crucially, at the very heart of this agreement is an SME chapter, something that we have lobbied for the inclusion of in every FTA, ensuring that no business is left behind. “This is truly a worldleading agreement and one that will genuinely help small firms to thrive and succeed more than ever.” CBI President, Lord Karan Bilimoria, said “This ambition marks a new chapter for our independent trade policy. As one of the largest free trade agreements in the world, these 11 countries contribute over £100 billion to our economy. “Membership of the bloc has the potential to deliver new opportunities for UK business across different sectors. The CBI will continue to work with the Government to ensure that firms get the most out of an agreement that will create jobs and deliver wideranging benefits to communities across the country.”

world

261 New Confirmed Covid-19 Cases, 274 UK announces humanitarian aid for Recoveries Reported, in Saudi Arabia Balochistan to help recovery from COVID-19

TL Bureau, Riyadh

Official spokesperson of the ministry of health Dr. Mohammed Al-Abdulaali attributed the recent surge in coronavirus cases in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to negative behavior during practicing social gatherings. In a statement today, he said statistics revealed that more than three thirds of the cases since mid January took place after the victims went out of social gatherings either exceeding the number of 50 or committing wrong behavior like not adhering to the prescribed

distancing or mask wearing or so. The statement, released here today said that 261 new confirmed cases of the novel Coronavirus (Covid-19) have been reported, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, bringing the total number to 368074, including 2,126 active cases undergoing treatment. Of these, there are 362 critical cases, while the health condition of the rest is stable. It added that three new deaths have been reported, putting the tally of fatalities, at 6,375. Meanwhile, as many as 274 cases have recovered, raising recoveries’ toll to 359,573.

Burmese Military Arrests of Civilian Government Leaders

TL Bureau, Washington D.C.

The United States expresses grave concern and alarm regarding reports that the Burmese military has detained multiple civilian government leaders, including State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, and civil society leaders. We call on Burmese military leaders

Royal Court Announces Death of Princess Noura bint Fahd bin Mohammed bin Abdurrahman TL Bureau, Riyadh

The Royal Court announced today that Princess Noura bint Fahd bin Mohammed bin Abdurrahman Al Saud has passed away. Funeral prayer will be performed for the deceased tomorrow, Monday, 19/6/1442H in Riyadh.

Oman extends to another week the closure of its land exits TL Bureau, Muscat

The Sultanate of Oman today announced extending to another week the closure of its land exits due to coronavirus COVID-19. In a statement, the supreme committee in charge of dealing with the developments resulting from the spread of coronavirus COVID-19 said that, according to recommendations of the technical team in charge of the matter, it was decided to extend as of tomorrow at 6 p.m. local time, the closure of land cross points for another week that ends at 6 p.m. on Monday, February 8, 2021.

to release all government officials and civil society leaders and respect the will of the people of Burma as expressed in democratic elections on November 8. The United States stands with the people of Burma in their aspirations for democracy, freedom, peace, and development. The military must reverse these actions immediately.

TL Bureau, London/Islamabad Rates of malnutrition and food insecurity in Balochistan were already high before the COVID-19 global pandemic, but the virus has affected livelihoods and made the problem worse. UK aid will help over 41,000 women and children get vital nutrients they need, through a therapeutic food programme. It will support community outreach workers to identify and help malnourished children, pregnant women and new mothers. British High Commissioner Christian Turner CMG said: The COVID-19 pandemic has hit the global economy hard, and this has had a knock-on effect on food security in Balochistan. UK aid announced today will provide lifesaving nutrition and humanitarian aid to vulnerable women and children when they need it most – giving the next generation the

Bahrain Condemns Houthi Terrorist Militia’s Launching of A Bomb-Laden UAV towards Saudi Arabia

TL Bureau, Manama

The Kingdom of Bahrain has condemned Iran-backed terrorist Houthi militia’s launching of a bomb-laden UAV towards the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, stressing that this cowardly terrorist act represents a flagrant attack on Saudi Arabia’s stability and a threat to the security and safety of civilians. Bahrain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs commended the vigilance

of the Forces of the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen in intercepting and destroying the UAV, stressing the Kingdom of Bahrain’s solidarity with the Kingdom Saudi Arabia in all measures it takes to defend its security and the safety of its citizens and residents. It also called upon the international community to take deterrent action against the practices of the Houthi militia that threaten regional security and stability.

TL Bureau, Rabat

Morocco reported 466 new cases of coronavirus COVID-19 over the past 24 hours, bringing to 471157 the total number of those who contracted the

Christian Turner Quetta visit best start in life. UK investment will be split between the World Food Programme (WFP) and International Rescue Committee (IRC). Part of the package will also help with humanitarian cash transfers to help with food and essential living costs. In total, UK aid will help over 164,000 people in Balochistan.

During his visit, the British High Commissioner met the Chief Minister of Balochistan, Jam Kamal Khan, and discussed a variety of matters including the Balochistan economy. He also met Chris Kaye, country director for WFP. Finally, Dr Turner also gave his condolences on the terrorist attack on January 2nd, in which 11 miners were killed.

FSO - Swiss retail trade turnover rose in December by 3.5% – total figure for 2020 remained stable despite pandemic

TL Bureau, Neuchâtel

Retail trade turnover adjusted for sales days and holidays showed nominal growth of 3.5% in December 2020 compared with the same month of the previous year. Seasonally adjusted, nominal turnover grew by 2.2% compared with the previous month.

Despite the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the whole of 2020, provisional results show nominal growth of 0.1%. This positive growth consists of contrasting developments in the sectors with some strong turnover losses and gains. These are provisional findings from the Federal Statistical Office (FSO)

ISF call for proposals launched – about EUR 4.2 million available

TL Bureau, Helsinki

disease to date. In a statement today, the ministry of health of Morocco said that 16 persons have died of the pandemic to bring to 8275 the number of the death toll while the number of recoveries reached 449160.

Today the Ministry of the Interior has opened a call for proposals under the Internal Security Fund (ISF). About EUR 4.2 million in EU financial support will be made available for projects that meet the objectives of the Fund. The call for proposals will be open until 31 March at 16.15. As regards the management of the Union’s external borders and visa policy (ISF-B), funding is mainly intended for the implementation of the EU Entry/ Exit System (EES) and the European

Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). Funding will also be available for developing the national visa information system, renewing border check equipment and developing border control technology that utilises unmanned aircraft. As for police cooperation, preventing and combating crime as well as crisis management (ISF-P), funding will be available for the integration of the authorities’ joint emergency response centre information system, the field command system and the command centres.

tier scheme, in the greater Seoul area and Level 2 in other regions until Feb. 14, according to health authorities. It will also continue to ban private gatherings of five or more people in an effort to rein in the spread of the new coronavirus ahead of the holiday, set for Feb. 11-14. The move is apparently aimed at helping the country smoothly

begin COVID-19 vaccinations next month and start the school spring semester in March. The country will also strictly ban private gatherings of five or more people during the holiday in a bid to discourage people from traveling across the nation to meet their family members and relatives. Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said the country will get

enough Pfizer vaccine doses for 60,000 people in mid-February and enough AstraZeneca vaccine doses for up to 2.19 million people in the first half of this year. The country added 355 more COVID-19 cases Sunday, including 325 local infections, raising the total caseload to 78,205, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).

Morocco reports 466 new cases of coronavirus

S. Korea Extends Tougher Virus Curbs for 2 Weeks ahead of Holiday

Italy Reports 11,252 New Cases of Covid-19

TL Bureau, Seoul

Italy reported 11,252 new cases of the novel Coronavirus (Covid-19), during the past 24 hours. In a statement, Italian health ministry indicated that the total number of Covid-19 infections has risen to 2553032, while the death toll in the country has reached 88,516 cases.

South Korea decided Sunday to extend tougher social distancing measures for another two weeks, as it is wary of a pileup in cluster infections ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday, Yonhap News Agency reported. The country will maintain the Level 2.5 measures, the second-highest in its five-

TL Bureau, Rome

British High Commissioner Dr Christian Turner CMG announced £3.5 million UK humanitarian aid for Balochistan during his first visit to Quetta today.

Singapore

Two Men Charged With Cheating And Forgery APPOINTMENT OF BOARD MEMBERS Offences In Relation To Covid-19 Support Grant FOR THE MARITIME AND PORT AUTHORITY OF SINGAPORE And Temporary Relief Fund Applications Minister for Transport, Mr Ong Ye Kung, has appointed 14 persons to the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) Board for a period of three years from 2 February 2021 to 1 February 2024. The Board will continue to be chaired by Mr Niam Chiang Meng, and will comprise members from relevant sectors such as offshore and marine, shipping, finance and investments, technology, as well as the union. 2 Of the 14 members, five are newly appointed. They are: • Mr Abu Bakar Bin Mohd Nor Group Chairman, Infofabrica Holdings Pte Ltd • Ms Mary Liew, President, NTUC Central Committee and General Secretary, Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union • Mr Jermaine Loy, Senior Director (Strategic Planning), Ministry of National Development • Mr Sng Seow Wah, Corporate Advisor, Temasek International • Ms Patricia Yim, General Manager, Technology Group, IBM APAC 3 The following members will step down from the MPA Board with effect from 2 February 2021: • Mr Carl Krogh Arnet Chief Executive Officer, BW Energy Limited • Mr Walter Fernandez Editor-in-Chief, Mediacorp Pte Ltd • Mr Luke Goh, Deputy Secretary (Trade), Ministry of Trade and Industry 2 • Mr Ishak Ismail Regional Director, Business

Development (APAC), BAE Systems Hägglunds AB • Mr Kam Soon Huat, President & Chief Operating Officer, Singapore Organisation of Seamen 5 The full list of the 15-member MPA Board is as follows: Mr Niam Chiang Meng, Chairman, Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore Members Mr Abu Bakar Bin Mohd Nor* Group Chairman, Infofabrica Holdings Pte Ltd RADM Aaron Beng, Chief of Navy, Ministry of Defence Mr Chan Cheow Hoe, Deputy Chief Executive, Government Technology Agency of Singapore and Government Chief Digital Technology Officer, Smart Nation and Digital Government Office Mr Han Kok Juan, Deputy Secretary (Hub Strategy), Ministry of Transport Dr Vincent Lien, Managing Director, Lien Properties Private Limited Ms Mary Liew*, President, NTUC Central Committee and General Secretary, Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union Mr Jermaine Loy*, Senior Director (Strategic Planning), Ministry of National Development Mr Chris Ong, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director (Offshore), Keppel Offshore & Marine Mr Esben Poulsson Executive Chairman, Enesel Pte Ltd 3 Ms Quah Ley Hoon1 , Chief Executive, Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore Mr Sng Seow Wah*, Corporate Advisor to Temasek International .

He also referred to readers as a “great audience”, in reference to his intention to livestream his attacks. The second document, which was still unfinished when the youth was arrested, was a manifesto detailing his hatred for Islam and his belief that “violence should never be solved with peace”, because peace, while “moral”, is “nowhere near effective” as violence. He also expressed hope that “my act of extremism or some would call ‘a justifiable act of violence’… would cause a change in those who believe that Islamic extremism is right”. The draft borrowed heavily from Tarrant’s manifesto and referred to Tarrant as a “saint” and the Christchurch attacks as a “justifiable killing of Muslims”. The detailed planning and preparation attests to the youth’s determination to follow through with his attack plan. He admitted during the investigation that he could only foresee two outcomes to his plan – that he is arrested before he is able to carry out the attacks, or he executes the plan and is thereafter killed by the Police. ISD’s investigation to-date indicates that the youth had acted alone. There was also no indication that he had tried

to influence anyone with his extreme outlook or involve others in his attack plans. His immediate family and others in his social circles were not aware of his attack plans and the depth of his hatred for Islam. This case demonstrates yet again that extreme ideas can find resonance among and radicalise Singaporeans, regardless of race or religion. It is a threat to all of us and our way of life. We must remain vigilant to signs that someone around us may have become radicalised, so that we can intervene early to avert a tragedy. Anyone with information in this regard should promptly contact the ISD Counter-Terrorism Centre hotline 1800-2626-473 (1800-2626ISD). The public is also urged to stay alert to suspicious items and individuals and to inform the authorities by calling 999, sending an SMS to 71999 or using the “Report” function in the SGSecure application. Members of the public are also encouraged to familiarise themselves with SGSecure advisories such as “Run, Hide, Tell” and “Press, Tie, Tell”. These advisories provide important information on what to do in the event of a terror attack, and how to render first aid to those around you.

TL Bureau, Singapore City

TL Bureau, Singapore City Two men, aged 43 and 48, were charged in court today for separate cases of cheating and forgery offences involving the COVID-19 Support Grant (“CSG”) and the Temporary Relief Fund (“TRF”). The CSG and TRF were launched to provide financial support to Singaporeans affected by the economic impact of COVID-19 and were administered by the Ministry of Social and Family Development (“MSF”). The 43-year-old man was charged for allegedly attempting to cheat MSF into disbursing the CSG by falsely declaring in his application that he had lost his job due to

COVID-19. He is also alleged to have submitted a forged retrenchment letter and provided additional false information to MSF to support the false declaration in his CSG application. MSF did not approve his CSG application. The 48-year-old man was charged for allegedly cheating MSF into disbursing the $500 TRF payout by falsely declaring in his application that he had lost at least 30% of his income. The man was also charged for allegedly providing false information to an MSF officer regarding his TRF application. If convicted, the two men face the following punishments: The offence of cheating under Section

420 of the Penal Code carries an imprisonment term of up to 10 years and a fine. The prescribed punishment for attempted cheating is the same; The offence of forgery for the purpose of cheating under Section 468 of the Penal Code carries an imprisonment term of up to 10 years and a fine; and The offence of giving false information to a public servant under Section 182 of the Penal Code carries an imprisonment term of up to two years, a fine, or both. The Police take a serious view against any person involved in dishonest or fraudulent conduct pertaining to applications for Government grants. Offenders will be dealt with severely in accordance with the law.

SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE AND MONETARY AUTHORITY OF SINGAPORE INVESTIGATE COMPANIES UNDER COASSETS GROUP

TL Bureau, Singapore City

On 12 January 2021, the Commercial Affairs Department (CAD) of the Singapore Police Force and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) launched a joint an investigation into various companies under CoAssets Ltd

(CoAssets Group Companies) for possible offences under the Penal Code (Cap. 224) and the Securities and Futures Act (Cap. 289) (SFA). The joint investigation stems from complaints and feedback received from members of the public regarding suspected misconduct by CoAssets Group Companies. 2

Of the CoAssets Group Companies, only CA Funding Pte Ltd (CAFPL) is regulated by MAS, as capital markets services licensee. In March 2020, MAS issued a direction to CAFPL to prohibit the company from listing new issuances, onboarding new investors and accepting subscription of securities.

Detention of Singaporean Youth Who Intended to Attack Muslims on the Anniversary of Christchurch Attacks in New Zealand

TL Bureau, Singapore City

A 16-year-old male Singaporean was detained in December 2020 under the Internal Security Act (ISA). A secondary school student at the time, he was found to have made detailed plans and preparations to conduct terrorist attacks using a machete against Muslims at two mosques in Singapore. This youth, a Protestant Christian of Indian ethnicity, is the first detainee to be inspired by farright extremist ideology. He is also the youngest individual todate dealt with under the ISA for terrorism-related activities. He was self-radicalised, motivated by a strong antipathy towards Islam and a fascination with violence. He watched the livestreamed video of the terrorist attack on the two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, on 15 March 2019, and read the manifesto of the Christchurch attacker, Brenton Tarrant (Tarrant). He had also watched Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) propaganda videos, and came to the erroneous conclusion that ISIS represented Islam, and that Islam called on its followers to kill non-believers. It was clear from the attack plans and preparations that this youth

was influenced by Tarrant’s actions and manifesto. First, he planned to carry out his attacks on 15 March 2021, the anniversary of the Christchurch attacks. He chose Assyafaah Mosque and Yusof Ishak Mosque as his targets, because they were near his home. He conducted online reconnaissance and research on both mosques to prepare for the attack. Second, like Tarrant, the youth intended to drive between the two attack sites, and therefore devised a plan to procure a vehicle to use during the attack. Third, he bought a tactical vest (see Annex A) from an online platform, and intended to adorn the vest with right-wing extremist symbols, and modify it so that he could strap on his mobile device to livestream the attack, just like Tarrant. Before deciding on the machete as his attack weapon, the youth had explored various other options. His original plan was to use a rifle similar to that used by Tarrant. He managed to find a prospective seller via a private chat platform, but did not follow through with the purchase when he suspected it was a scam. He nevertheless persisted to search for firearms online, and only gave up the idea when he realised that it would

be difficult to get his hands on one given Singapore’s strict guncontrol laws. He also explored making a Triacetone Triperoxide (TATP) bomb, and mimicking Tarrant’s plan of setting fire to the mosques with gasoline. He eventually dropped both ideas due to logistical and personal safety concerns. To prepare himself for the knifing attack, the youth had watched YouTube videos, and was confident that he would be able to hit the arteries of his targets by randomly slashing at the neck and chest areas. At the point of his arrest by ISD, the youth had found his choice machete on Carousell (see Annex B) but had not purchased it yet. In further imitation of Tarrant, the youth had prepared two documents which he intended to disseminate prior to his attacks. The first was a message to the people of France, which he drafted after the attack against Christians in a church in Nice, France, on 29 Oct 2020. In the message, he called on the French people to “stand up for what is right”, claiming that “we cannot let them [i.e. Muslims] lurk in our bushes and wait for them to attack”. He referred to his intended attacks as a “massacre”, an “act of vengeance” and a “call for war” against Islam.

CONTINUATION OF INTERMITTENT ROAD CLOSURE ALONG PERSIARAN APEC (PUCHONG AND CYBERJAYA BOUND)

MALAYSIA & NEARBY

Notice by MRT Corp

Date: 01 February 2021 30 June 2021 Time: 9:00PM – 6:00AM

CONTINUATIONOFTWOLEFTLANE CLOSURESATJALANRAYASATU, SERIKEMBANGAN Date: 30 January 2021 – 30 April 2021 Time: 10:00pm – 5:00am Duration: 3 Months Reason: To facilitate station construction works and any other related works.

CONTINUATION OF RIGHT LANE CLOSURE AT JALAN RAYA SATU, SERI KEMBANGAN Date: 30 January 2021 – 31 July 2021 Time: 24 Hours Duration: 6 Months Reason: To facilitate utilities relocation works and any other related works.

CONTINUATION OF LONG-TERM RIGHT LANE CLOSURE FOR BOTH BOUNDS AT JALAN RAYA TIGA, SERI KEMBANGAN

Date: 30 January 2021 – 31 August 2021 Time: 24 Hours

CONTINUATION OF INTERMITTENT LANE CLOSURES BY STAGES FOR BOTH BOUNDS AT KL-SEREMBAN HIGHWAY (KM310.80 - KM309.40)

Date: 02 February 2021 – 10 February 2021 Time: 10:00pm – 5:00am

BUSINESS

Introducing Natursan – Welcome Support needed after To The Future Of Hand Sanitisation March for governmentrestricted businesses

TL Bureau, Birmingham

(Courtesy- EINPresswire.com) Today, Natursan is delighted to announce the launch of its ‘Smart’ Hand Sanitiser, a revolutionary hygiene product designed to help restart the economy in a post-Covid environment. The innovative product uses smart safe technology to deliver a sanitiser that not only smells great but is alcohol free, 100% Natural and Vegan, is made with only the best organic and halal approved ingredients this sanitiser is providing customers with peace of mind as workplaces, retail outlet and restaurants reopen. The global Covid-19 outbreak has caused the demand for hand hygiene products to exceed supply channels worldwide in a short time span. In a post-Covid environment, technology and speed will be critical to addressing the hygiene concerns of customers. With the hygiene industry growing at an incredible rate, Natursan will be continuing to scale out its deployments worldwide. Already utilized by companies such as NHS Trust, The Irish FA, NFL, LEXON Pharmaceuticals, Amazon and more. Natursan continues to expand globally,

TL Bureau, Canberra

pursuing new opportunities with partnerships in Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia and Dubai, among many others. Co Founder and head of International Developments Mahmudur Jaigiridar states, “Hand sanitisers have been around for decades, but now, due to Covid-19, they are in the front line in the fight against

Once in a decade chance for reform

TL Bureau, Canberra

“Professor Graeme Samuel’s final report on Australia’s environmental protection laws shows that protecting the environment and major project approvals are not mutually exclusive,” Business Council President Tim Reed said. “This is a once in a decade opportunity to deliver better environmental outcomes and let businesses do what they do best - create new jobs. “The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act is an outdated handbrake on investment and it isn’t working to protect Australia’s natural environment. “Significantly, these reforms represent a way forward. We all agree, lifting environmental standards and promoting economic development is a win-win. “To avoid a stop-start approach to reform, we’ll need to continue building on the unprecedented co-operation we’ve achieved with industry and environmental groups throughout this process. “Reducing duplication by

accrediting state and territory processes alongside national environmental standards will make it easier to do business across the country and will provide the clear accountability and transparency needed to protect the environment. “Crucially, this plan means we can build a modern, fit-forpurpose system by learning and collaborating as we work together to improve the national standards over the next two years. “Confidence in national standards and accreditation agreements must also be delivered through strong, independent oversight that helps build public trust. “We look forward to working with the government as it delivers its response to the final report to ensure the EPBC Act is fit for purpose to deliver the environmental standards all Australians want alongside the new jobs big projects can deliver. “The Minister should be applauded for her work bringing everyone to the table to drive consensus around durable and effective reform.

this terrible disease. We are proud to state that Natursan have developed a liquid that has been independently tested to kill Covid-19 on both surfaces and skin…” Jaigiridar goes on to state “… Alongside the work we have secured with The Commonwealth Games we are set to take Natursan global, watch this space.”

The Australian Chamber of Commerce & Industry has submitted a proposal to the Federal Government this week for a new financial support mechanism for businesses who continue to be significantly impacted by government restrictions, following the end of JobKeeper in March. The proposal comes following in-depth consultation with member organisations across the country in response to the many businesses, particularly in tourism and events, who are facing a dire future after acrosseconomy support ends. “The most important thing governments can do to provide support for business is to address the uncertainty and disproportionality of restrictions, offer a pathway to reopen international travel, and roll out the vaccine effectively”, ACCI’s acting CEO Jenny Lambert said. “In the meantime, it is only fair that businesses receive support to prevent them going under through no fault of their own. “Our proposal is targeted specifically to those businesses

who are struggling under the movement and gathering restrictions, including the ban on international travel, governments imposed in response to COVID-19. “Airlines,airports, accommodation in the CBDs, travel agents and tour operators, event venues and performers are examples of businesses that are still deeply affected. So are their supply chains. “It’s important to remember that when restrictions lift and we need more planes in the air, or venues to hold our events this year, we’ll need the businesses ready to go, with the skills and infrastructure to get back to work immediately.” ACCI is proposing a two-tiered financial support package with turnover thresholds higher than the current JobKeeper scheme, recognising that many businesses are experiencing turnover impacts over twothirds down. “These businesses were highly successful prior to COVID and were responsible for Australia’s global competitive advantage in tourism, business events and major events – in other words we are preserving future jobs.”

Small businesses urged to register assets before insolvency explosion

TL Bureau, Canberra

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) Kate Carnell says it is essential for small business owners to secure their assets and business loans, with economists predicting a steep rise in insolvencies this year. Ms Carnell says small businesses need to secure their assets through the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) so they are better protected in the event of an insolvency. “Given the incredibly tough past 12 months we’ve had and predictions of a wave of insolvencies to come, PPSR has never been more important,” Ms Carnell says. “The greatest pity is that many small businesses find it too difficult to use.” Releasing ASBFEO’s PPSR Research Paper today, Ms Carnell said the PPSR, if used correctly, is a powerful tool that can deliver significant

benefits to small businesses. “Many small businesses are not aware that correctly registering their interests can save them a world of pain in the long run,” Ms Carnell says. “So many small businesses have invested heavily in their businesses over the past 12 months, but few know that they can secure these loans, pushing them higher up the security chain if there’s an insolvency. “More importantly, small businesses that register their interests won’t need to fight tooth and nail to retain title to their goods if a business customer winds up. The Ombudsman’s research paper found an urgent overhaul of the PPSR system is required to make it accessible to small businesses. “Unfortunately the PPSR in its current form is not making life easier for small businesses,” Ms Carnell says. “The name is confusing, the language is overly technical

and the operation of the register is very complicated. “Many small businesses we spoke to said they would need a lawyer to help them register their interests – an additional cost burden for struggling small businesses. “Put simply - systems and regulations imposed on small businesses by government need to be easy to get right and hard to get wrong. At the moment PPSR is hard to get right and easy to get wrong. “Our report recommends streamlining the system, including encouraging small business cloud accounting platforms in to provide regtech solutions such as pop-up reminders to small business owners who record a personal loan to the balance sheet, alerting them to register it on the PPSR. “I urge the government to implement the recommendations in our report, to build a system that works for the small business community and provides them with the certainty they need.”

FEATURE

Biden administration must find ways to both cooperate with and constrain Putin regime, says Stanford scholar

BY MELISSA DE WITTE TL Bureau, California

When it comes to President Biden’s response to recent events in Russia, the new administration has been swift to act. Recent protests in Russia are an opportunity for the Biden administration to engage with Russians who want trust and transparency in government, but it must also find ways to work with Putin to advance critical treaties and agreements, says Stanford political scientist Kathryn Stoner. (Image credit: Rod Searcey) In less than a week in office, the Biden administration has demanded that Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny be released from prison and condemned the “harsh tactics” used against his supporters. It has also called for an investigation into the Russia-linked cyberattack on U.S. businesses and federal agencies, sought an extension to the New START nuclear treaty and declared the United States’ support for Ukraine’s sovereignty. What do these actions reveal about the new direction the Biden administration is taking with Russia? Here, in the first of a two-part Q&A, Stanford scholar Kathryn Stoner talks with Stanford News Service about what to expect from U.S.-Russia diplomacy moving forward and what the Biden administration can do to advance global security abroad. Stoner also discusses how the recent protests in Russia differ from previous demonstrations and how this is an opportunity for President Biden to engage with a part of the Russian population that seeks trust and accountability from their government. Stoner has authored many articles and books about contemporary Russia, including the forthcoming book Russia Resurrected: Its Power and Purpose in a New Global Order (Oxford University Press, 2021), which examines Russia’s international reach and influence. Stoner is the deputy director of the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies and is a senior fellow at the Center on Democracy, Development and the Rule of Law (CDDRL) and the Center on International Security and Cooperation (CISAC).

In the first of a two-part Q&A, Stanford political scientist Kathryn Stoner discusses how Biden’s foreign policy in Russia is a departure from the Trump administration.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Let’s start with the arrest of Alexei Navalny. What does he represent to Putin and his government, but also to the Russian people? Yes, it’s an interesting question as to why Vladimir Putin finds Navalny, a man banned from Russian airwaves and television, and who does not head any kind of large, official political opposition movement, so threatening to his regime. Indeed, Putin so detests Navalny that neither he, nor his spokesman, will even utter his name in public! His poisoning, evidently state sponsored, and then his re-arrest upon returning to Moscow from Germany has made him more prominent within Russia than he was before. That’s probably not the outcome the regime had intended! I think Navalny has returned with an even deeper commitment to exposing the corruption and cravenness of Vladimir Putin’s regime. As he was hauled off to jail for 30 days, his office released a new video called A Palace For Putin, exposing a billion-dollar compound of 17,691 square meters (190,424 square feet) in southern Russia with overthe-top accoutrements like its own movie theater, gym, twostory swimming pool, pub complete with a pole dancing stage for exotic dancers and a subterranean hockey rink – purportedly all built for the enjoyment of the Russian president using money stolen from the Russian taxpayer. This video, as well as Navalny’s arrest,

Kathryn Stoner portrait helped bring people out on the streets by the thousands demanding Putin’s ouster and Navalny’s freedom. Since 2011, Navalny has led peaceful demonstrations – some large, and many small – against Putin’s corrupt regime. Navalny’s tools of protest have been Twitter, YouTube and other social media platforms. Through access to their ubiquitous cellphones and the still relatively open domestic internet, young Russians in particular have begun to question official versions of the rosy Russian reality presented by state-controlled television. This is why his activities are so problematic for Putin’s regime. Even for an electoral autocracy such as Putin’s, the appearance of legitimacy and stability depends to some degree, even superficially, on societal acceptance or at least compliance. In the last few years, however, there have been stirrings of disapproval. How are the most recent Russian protests different from previous public action? What makes them particularly significant? A few things: They took place across Russia, not just in big cities like Moscow or St. Petersburg. People were incredibly determined to protest too – some braved minus-60Fdegree weather to show their anger at Putin’s corruption and they turned out even when they were told explicitly by the government not to do so. These protests were also huge – hundreds of thousands of people took part and they were led by young people. This is a new demographic of protester and

they represent Russia’s future. Why is the Biden administration interested in these recent demonstrations? I think they point out that there is some fragility in Russian domestic politics, despite the perception of Putin as in complete control. This is an opportunity for the United States to appreciate the difference between the regime under Putin and a segment of the Russian population that wants honesty and accountability in government. It suggests that we find ways to reengage with Russian society, including making it easier for younger Russians to study in the United States and Europe. How is President Biden’s response to these recent events in Russia different than that under former President Donald Trump? American policy on Russia was largely frozen during the Trump administration, while Mr. Putin has pushed Russian interests forward globally. President Biden is stuck with Putin for the foreseeable future and Russia’s resurrection as a truly global power. Washington must, therefore, find a way to cooperate with Putin’s regime where it can and constrain it globally where it must. I think we are seeing a pretty quick change to a policy that is more traditional and far more favorable to American security interests and values when it comes to Russia. On Tuesday of this week, Biden spoke to Putin directly for the first time as U.S. president, but it wasn’t to establish some sort of personal “friendship”

that Trump pursued and that got us nothing in return. Biden immediately discussed extending the New START arms control agreement and its really important verification scheme. Calling out the Navalny poisoning and calling for his release from prison currently is also a major departure from the Trump policy of saying nothing critical to Putin. As a scholar of Russian politics and international relations, what do you think needs to happen with U.S.-Russia diplomacy moving forward? Beyond arms control and the extension of New START, Biden’s administration must move quickly to reestablish strong relations with our European allies and to work with them and with Russia to find a replacement for the JCPOA agreement with Iran. Russia is pivotal there – it has established a pretty strong relationship with Iran’s leadership over the last five or so years, and we won’t get an agreement without Russia’s strong backing and involvement. Other less obvious areas of potential U.S.-Russian collaboration are equally urgent – areas like climate change, where Putin has recently expressed grave concern, especially for the Arctic, and also global public health, where Russia has become increasingly active and in some areas quite capable. Regulating and limiting the further militarization of space is another avenue for pressing cooperation. Reforming U.S. immigration laws that make it easier for talented young Russians to immigrate to the United States would be beneficial for us while detrimental to Putin’s regime. Russians are well educated and immensely talented – witness the success of Russian emigres here in Silicon Valley. Finally, and particularly vital, we must find a solution to the Ukraine conflict with Russia. This means more than attempting to restore Crimea to Ukraine – at best, a longterm goal – but restoring the security of Ukraine’s eastern border with Russia. Beyond this, making Ukraine a success developmentally could demonstrate to an increasingly restive Russian society that democracy can work and that they too would be better off under a more liberal regime.

life and real estate

HOW PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS HERALD BUILDING DESIGNS WITH THE PANDEMIC IN MIND

The P3 Group Inc is the nations largest African American owned pubic private partnership developer.”— Dee Brown, President & CEO TL Bureau, Memphis, TN While 2020 was a year of unprecedented challenges, it was also a year that presented many new opportunities. This has been especially true among those of us developers and architects who are part of robust public-private partnership (P3) collaboratives. The vast majority of P3s use an integrated project delivery (IPD) method. Delivering public facilities and infrastructure using an IPD method allows the integration of processes, practices and systems in a collaborative approach that captures the collective intelligence of all stakeholders. P3s that use an IPD method tend to result in the best value to the public sector by maximizing overall productivity through the reduction of delivery time and waste. The current pandemic is forcing design teams to think outside the box to deliver projects in an

accelerated time frame. Using an IPD method in conjunction with powerful online collaborative platforms enables design firms to execute unique concepts that must adhere to rigorous budgetary constraints and timelines. Design firms that are part of P3s are also finding it necessary to hire staff members who are determined and nimble, possess an acute technical vocabulary, have excellent listening skills and are highly collaborative. The value of an IPD method in P3 projects is that it allows facilities to be designed and delivered in record time. A design-buildfinance collaborative can have a project under construction in less than 90 days when the team can deliver a guaranteed maximum price, construction documents and financing virtually simultaneously. Rapid project delivery is paramount during a pandemic because access to essential services such as healthcare is critically important. The current

pandemic has forced design and construction firms to operate outside of their comfort zones and trust their teams’ ability to create highly collaborative designs during these very challenging times. Meanwhile, now more than ever before, agencies realize that new facilities must be responsive to the challenges and needs of the community during a pandemic. P3 collaboratives have the unique ability to assist public agencies in addressing weaknesses in public infrastructure that were made painfully obvious over the last year. Government agencies should look at developing communitybased facilities, such as health and wellness centers, that can contribute to the public’s long-term health and safety. Health and wellness centers can be crafted specifically to help combat risk factors in the community and region. These facilities can provide a place for the community to engage in health

and wellness activities and receive education on nutrition and other related programs. These facilities can be designed to be converted into medical space that can support temporary hospital beds and can also integrate drive-through infectious disease testing facilities with associated laboratories. The additional hospital bed capacity may be critical for the communities when more capacity is needed to save lives or to address routine healthcare needs during a pandemic. For instance, my firm is involved with two Arkansas projects. A health unit was designed to respond to the current pandemic, featuring elements like a drivethrough test site and laboratory, HVAC and mechanical systems meant to prevent airborne disease transmission, and a courtyard where staff could find fresh air and respite. The coroner’s office was designed to feature a decontamination unit that provides

an area for the coroner and staff to decontaminate after encountering a deceased individual who may have had an infectious disease. The morgue also has washable walls and floors to allow for easy decontamination. These are all essential elements of designing these types of facilities in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The current pandemic has forced P3 collaborative teams to be forward-thinking in their approach to designing public facilities. The integration of design, construction, financing, people, processes and systems is leading to designs that are more robust and can be delivered quickly and efficiently. The pandemic has also increased the efficiency of holding design charrettes, which are now hosted remotely via Zoom, Teams and other similar platforms. Having all stakeholders at the table from the beginning of the process creates outcomes that can only be achieved through collective intelligence.

The Covid Pandemic and Unprofessional Repairs Left This Popular Upstate NY Haunted House in Precarious Condition TL Bureau, Troy, New York

The Covid pandemic has created not only early and tragic fatalities but has also caused other damages. The latter case is well illustrated by the experience of the six generation original homeowners great-great granddaughter, Author and Award Winning Screenwriter, who recently lost her mother at the inception of COVID (April 2020), and is now left with her ancestral home – a haunted house in the historical Lansingburgh, which has been featured in movies and TV series - in a precarious and unusable condition. The Enslin Haunted House is popular with tourists, filmmakers, and those who want to spend an unforgettable day or night exploring and moving around its spooky rooms and spaces. The luxurious amenities and great ambiance make the Enslin Haunted Mansion a popular destination for short term stays. Past guests have included A-list actors, musicians, celebrity friends, and paranormal investigators. Daughter and her mother lived a normal life before the pandemic broke out. She hired a well-known (trusted since 1915) local contractor shortly after her mom died to fix porch. Michele was devastated after she found out they started working without a permit for the City. The house needed a porch renovation due to previous

• Daughter and her mother lived a normal life before the pandemic broke out. She hired a well-known contractor shortly after her mom died to fix porch. • Distraught homeowner in tears after well-known contractor made no attempt to resolve damages to make up for lack of work ethics.”— Frederick Feyl

contractor negligence causing major water damage, and so the repairs did not go well. After an unprofessional attempt, the house has been left in a vulnerable position. The contractor was fired after two more attempts to keep them on, now resulting in more damages. To fix the house would require more money, and Michele can’t afford it, nor is there any option for

a full demolition, as that would cost even more. “The whole situation was played out unprofessionally. This home cannot be fixed without full demolition. I can’t even sell or rent the house,” says Michele. The homeowner policy was currently revoked from her insurance company, leaving her even more vulnerable. Her haunted Upstate NY house is now for sale,

home to six generations, hosted an attractive Cabaret restaurant when her great grandfather ran the affairs, and subsequently became a hospice and funeral home after the arrival of her great grandmother from Bavaria. With the current situation of the house, Michele is worried that the house will lose its attraction, and she will not be able to rent or even sell it out.

The United Paddling Management project benefits clubs and members

TL Bureau, Bruce

The project, which began in June 2019, focused on reducing duplication and improving efficiency by introducing whole-of-sport processes, procedures, and systems. “We’d already established a philosophy which was around doing things once where we could and doing them well,” Paddle Australia CEO Phil Jones said. “UPM allowed us to accelerate that into the areas of strategic planning, finance and workforce… taking away some of the administrative, management and compliance burdens from our State Paddle Associations and looking after those once, nationally.” Paddle Australia President Andrea McQuitty said efficiency was a priority. “Overall, it was about using our limited combined resources in the most effective, efficient and strategic manner so that we could achieve our goals for paddling in Australia,” she said. “If you were to step back and look at how we operated with the levels of duplication and lack of alignment, you could only conclude that wasn’t the best way to run the business.” By reducing duplication and improving efficiencies, Paddle Australia and the State Paddle Associations can now place greater focus on delivering its strategically aligned initiatives in the areas of participation, sport development, marketing and promotion and advocacy. Paddle Tasmania’s John Borojevic described the project as “extremely worthwhile with a range of benefits especially for a small organisation like ours”. With a national strategic plan developed cooperatively by Paddle Australia and the states, Mr Borojevic said Paddle Tasmania no longer needs to duplicate the work of Paddle Australia and other states or allocate time and resources each year to writing their strategic plan as they have a national plan to work towards. Paddle Western Australia

With the support of Sport Australia, Paddle Australia and its six State Paddle Associations are delivering enhanced outcomes for clubs and members thanks to the United Paddling Management (UPM) project.

Executive Officer Rosalie Evans said Paddle Australia’s approach to the process had been important. “What has made this process so successful is the communication, transparency and hard work, not just from our national office, but from all the state offices working together,” she said. By working together, Paddle Australia and the State Paddle Associations were also able to support clubs and members impacted by COVID-19 by developing a Paddle Support Package. Announced in May last year, key elements of the Paddle Support Package included: A 25 per cent discount on 2020-21 State and Paddle Australia fees for club members on renewals and new memberships The establishment of a Paddle On Foundation to assist those in need to keep paddling and remain members of their Club Free member access to a new online Introduction to Coaching course A three-month extension for Paddle

Australia qualification holders Sport Australia congratulates Paddle Australia and the State Paddle Associations on working together to deliver a range of initiatives that will benefit the paddling community for years to come. Read more about how Sport Australia is supporting sports to implement modern, effective and efficient governance at https://www. sportaus.gov.au/sport-industry/onemanagement Key outcomes The UPM project has already delivered the following outcomes: Strategy Refinement and alignment of the whole of sport strategy including key strategic pillars, and performance measures at both national and state level Defined and documented roles and responsibilities for key stakeholders in delivering the whole of sport strategy The implementation of an enhanced framework to monitor and evaluate progress against the whole of sport strategy

Finance The implementation of an aligned whole of sport finance system A standardised chart of accounts across Paddle Australia and the State Paddle Associations The ability to undertake whole of sport financial budgeting and performance reporting, and present this information at both whole of sport and State Paddle Associations level Increased efficiency through increased automation and the adoption of standard policies and procedures Workforce The adoption of consistent, fit for purpose employment contracts and HR policies and procedures Defined role descriptions aligned to the whole of sport strategy The implementation of a whole of sport HR information management system to support alignment and enhance the ability of the sport to engage and manage people, improve compliance and safety and maintain appropriate records

SPORTS X Games Aspen 2021 Day Three News and Results TL Bureau, Olivia Wilson

X Games Aspen 2021 wrapped up today, with a jam-packed Sunday filled with Jeep Men’s Snowboard Slopestyle, Jeep Men’s Ski Slopestyle, Pacifico Women’s Snowboard Big Air, Monster Energy Men’s Snowboard SuperPipe, The Real Cost Men’s Snowboard Big Air and Wendy’s Ski Knuckle Huck. The 20th annual event, live from Buttermilk Mountain, was the first-ever with no spectators in attendance. The day began with sunny skies and perfect conditions for the Jeep Men’s Snowboard Slopestyle competition. For the first time since 2009, an American topped the podium as rookie Dusty Henrickson earned his second gold medal in his rookie X Games event. At just 17 years old, Dusty became the first snowboarder to win two gold medals in his rookie appearance. His second run was highlighted by technical rails and stylish jumps, including a Cab hardway 270 bringback, a backside 1440 Weddle grab and a double crippler double grab melon to stalefish. Stylemaster Rene Rinnekangas took silver and Mons Roisland took bronze, landing his switch backside double cork 1620 tailgrab for the first time at X Games. American Nick Goepper is one of only three skiers who have won Jeep Men’s Ski Slopestyle more than once, and he returned to the top of the podium for the first time since 2015 today. Nick took an early lead and watched the rest of the field shuffle below him after that. Goepper had the most technical rail sections of the competition and spun his jumps in all four directions. His third run was his best with a left 270 to forward right 450 pretzel, 270 switch on pretzel 450, switch left 270 pretzel 450, left double cork 1260 tail grab, switch right double 1260 Weddle grab, right double cork 1260 tailgrab and switch left double cork 900 Japan. Norwegian Ferdinand Dahl took silver and Canadian Evan McEachran bronze.

ASC welcomes new Chair, Josephine Sukkar TL Bureau, Bruce Ms Sukkar brings extensive corporate and commercial experience to the role as Principal of Buildcorp and is a passionate advocate for Australian sport. In 2019, she was appointed Chair of the Sports Diplomacy Advisory Council to spearhead the Government’s Sports Diplomacy 2030 strategy. Ms Sukkar has also been a driving force behind the unprecedented growth in women’s Rugby across the country in her role as President of Australian Women’s Rugby. Sport Australia Acting CEO Rob Dalton said Ms Sukkar joins the ASC Board at a pivotal time for sport in Australia. “We congratulate Josephine on her

The Australian Sports Commission (ASC), comprising Sport Australia and the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), welcomes the appointment of Josephine Sukkar AM as ASC Chair. appointment and look forward to working with her to confront the challenges that our industry is facing now and into the future,” Mr Dalton said. “Josephine’s career in sport extends from the community level right through to the Boardroom and when coupled with her outstanding

record in business she is well positioned to lead the rebuild of sport as we look to emerge from the pandemic in a position of strength.” AIS CEO Peter Conde said: “The AIS is celebrating 40 years in 2021, we’ve achieved an incredible amount and we have the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympic

Josephine Sukkar AM Games on our immediate horizon. But the future is what excites us most, especially with a decade of major events coming to Australia like the women’s World Cups of Basketball and Football and even a potential bid for the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics. So our focus remains on getting

ahead of sporting trends and being a world-leader. We look forward to the leadership Josephine and the ASC Board will provide, which will be instrumental in the ongoing evolution of the AIS and Australian sport.” Ms Sukkar’s lifelong connection with Rugby has seen her serve in a range of volunteer, administrative and Board roles within the sport. The Sukkar family, through Buildcorp, has been a sponsor of Rugby in Australia for 30 years. Ms Sukkar’s broad experience also includes private, public and notfor-profit Boards, including Opera Australia, the Australian Museum, Melbourne University Infrastructure Advisory Board and the Sydney University Football Club Foundation

tech/auto

WayKen’s engineering teams specialize in a variety of automotive prototyping developments and rapid manufacturing technology that can match customer’s needs. As one of the best auto prototype lighting prototype experts in China, our core objective is to well serve each customer and provide the best solutions for them. 100% Responsibility! 100% Quality!”— Founder Raymond

TL Bureau, Shenzhen

WayKen is a prototype expert of automotive lighting with outstanding success and confidence that stem from the team’s hard work and strength. The company provides complete automotive lighting prototypes, increasing their knowledge and experience in this field. Several wellknown automotive OEMs and suppliers worldwide avail themselves of varying professional prototype lighting services. WayKen provides auto lighting assembly, ranging from proof-of-concept design reviews and optical system development engineering tests to show car projects. Also, the top specialized manufacturer covers other client’s demands, from lamp lens prototyping to optical prototyping. There is support for all levels of automotive product development processes. Another area WayKen caters to is overmolding plastic parts. Over there, engineering teams specialize in a variety of automotive prototyping developments and rapid manufacturing technology. Services include 3D printing, CNC machining, vacuum casting, lowvolume injection molding, rapid aluminum tooling, and sheet metal processing. Auto Lamp Lens Prototype It is worth noting that WayKen’s expertise spans comprehensive CNC machining, effective split and bond solutions, and highly skilled handpolishing. Hence, the manufacturer has no problem handling headlight prototype and prototype tail lights productions. • Comprehensive CNC Machining. WayKen

combines 3-, 4-, 5-axis CNC milling machines, equipped with machine tools, having a stroke of more than 1 meter. As such, it is easy to machine clear plastic parts without blemishes. Explore more prototype lamp lens projects • Effective Split and Bond Solutions. Split and bond solutions can respond to machining costs saving and machining limitations. The visible bonding line on the acrylic surface can be invisible by applying a suitable splitting solution and fine finish. • Highly Skilled HandPolishing. To ensure the delicate transparency for auto lenses, WayKen strictly processes polish from coarse to fine sand-polish and from polish paste to polish liquid, to achieve the highest transparency on the Lens. • Prototype Achieves 2K Molding. Additionally, WayKen can provide a variety of optional costeffective 2K molding solutions. Urethane Casting achieves the integrated 2K lens over-molding in two or more materials. WayKen Creating a Balance Between Optics and Aesthetics In implementing precision machining of optical components, WayKen uses 5-axis CNC machining for the complex surface features. Diamond cutting tools are available to achieve top surface quality.

It is worth noting that the minimum tool can machine to R0.1mm to perfectly present the designer’s optical details. This methodology does not only address aesthetics but also helps the optical designer to verify the luminosity. Using Mirror-Milling on Complex Surfaces and Optical details for the Best Result One of WayKen’s focal points is the CNC aluminum reflector. Improved reflectivity, enhanced illumination intensity, and light range are critical for vehicle light reflectors (reflector cups). As such, the manufacturer Utilizes precision 5-axis CNC machining equipment and highspeed cutting techniques for machining complex geometry aluminum reflectors. In the same vein, it is a priority to focus on every engineering detail and design specification to help designers with every challenging project. Here are the areas WayKen thrive at that makes them successful in automotive lighting prototype manufacturing. • CNC manufacturing team of professional engineers and machinists can optimize NC programming and efficient tool paths. • Availability and application of 5-axis continuous CNC machining for greater

machining accuracy and flexibility. • WayKen pays attention to every design detail. Optical pattern details are machined to a minimum radius of R0.10mm. • The company provides excellent surface quality with a finished surface finish of Ra (μm) 0.2 and a surface tolerance of ±0.025mm. • Auxiliary EDM machining is necessary to meet the overall machining requirements of the part. • With highly professional hand polishing, the final reflector sample surface will have an optical mirror effect. Explore more prototype light guide project here. WayKen takes into consideration customers’ needs at each stage, ranging from small-batch customization to preproduction. The company occupies the top spot in the following areas: • Small Batch Urethane Casting. WayKen Rapid Manufacturing uses low volume vacuum casting parts for optical

prototyping. Such components play pivotal roles in loading and unloading tests to check working mechanisms and manufacturability. Hence, it is easy for customers to get productionlike results within two weeks (in most cases), including mechanical characteristics, color, and surface finish. But that is not all there is to such this service. WayKen achieves this using accurate and detailed prototypes, fast and inexpensive silicone molds, and a vast range of engineering-grade polyurethane materials. • Rapid Tooling. Another aspect worth noting is that WayKen’s expertise and commitment help to provide rapid tooling of both aluminum, soft steel, and low volume injection molding to deliver customers’ end-use molded parts within 2-5 weeks. The manufacturer provides cost-effective and rationalized advice from designs, materials, production processes, manufacturability, and many more.

12 South Korea Reports 355 New Coronavirus Cases TL Bureau, Seoul

South Korea reported today 355 more COVID-19 cases, including 325 local infections, raising the total caseload to 78,205, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), Yonhap News Agency reported. The figure was lower than 458 cases Saturday and compared with 469 on Friday and 497 Thursday, the report added.

Tokyo Reports 633 New Cases of Coronavirus TL Bureau, Tokyo

The Tokyo metropolitan government reported today 633 new cases of the novel Coronavirus in Tokyo, Kyodo News Agency reported. The total number for January reached 39,664 and the cumulative tally reached 99,841, the report said.

Egypt Reports 533 New COVID-19 Cases TL Bureau, Cairo

Egypt reported today 533 new cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The Spokesman for the Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population, Dr. Khaled Mujahid said that the total number of COVID-19 infections in Egypt reached 165,951 cases, including 129,636 recovered cases. He further said that the total number of deaths increased to 9316 after reporting 53 new deaths.

world

COVID-19 blog, 31 January: 468 new positive test results have been added in the past 24 hours TL Bureau, Tallinn

The last 24 hours have seen 3,696 tests being analysed in Estonia in relation to coronavirus, of which the results of 468 (12.6%) of the initial tests were positive. Based on the data in the population register, the highest number of new positive test results came from Harju County, where 209 further individuals were found to have been infected. A total of 154 of the new cases from Harju County were from Tallinn. A further seventyseven new positive coronavirus test results were added from IdaViru County, fifty-nine from Tartu County, twenty-six from Saare County, twenty-four from Pärnu County, ten from Jõgeva County, and nine each from Järva County, Rapla County, and Valga County. A further seven new cases each were added from Lääne-Viru County and Võru County, six from Põlva County, five each from Viljand County and Lääne County, and one from Hiiu County. On five occasions the places of residence of those individuals who tested positive were not specified in the population register. The number of cases for every 100,000 people in the last fourteen days is 536.8, and 10.9% of all initial tests have been found to be positive.

Thirty new COVID-19 cases were opened within the past 24 hours, and a total of 408 patients are being treated in hospital As of the morning of 31 January, hospital treatment is being supplied to 408 patients who have COVID-19. Thirty-seven of those patients require intensive care, with twenty-two patients on a ventilator. Thirty new COVID-19 cases were opened in total, including three cases which were opened retrospectively. Nine patients were discharged from hospital, and six individuals were transferred to a non-COVID-19 unit. Eight new coronavirus deaths were registered within the past 24 hours, involving a 94 year-old woman, a 92 year-old woman, a 90 year-old woman, an 89 year-old woman, an 84 year-old woman, an 81 year-old woman, an 80 year-old man, and a 71 year-old man. Coronavirus has claimed the lives of 419 people in Estonia in total. As of today, 31 January, hospitals have closed a total of 2,471 cases relating to COVID-19 which involved 2,426 people. Also as of 31 January, a total of 33,741 people have recovered from COVID-19. The cases of 23,829 people have been closed (70.6% of the total) and, in the case of 9,912 people (29.4%), more than twenty-eight days have passed

NATO Secretary-General to discuss “New Ideas for NATO 2030” with students and young leaders

TL Bureau, Brussels

On Thursday 4 February 2021, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg will engage with students and young leaders on their ideas and vision for NATO, as part of the event “New Ideas for NATO 2030”, organized by NATO and Chatham House. This is part of the Secretary General’s initiative “NATO 2030” to make sure the Alliance remains ready to face tomorrow’s challenges, and keep its citizens safe in the next

decade and beyond. Mr. Stoltenberg will engage and react to the recommendations presented by the NATO 2030 Young Leaders. The Secretary General has asked this group of 14 young professionals to develop new ideas for NATO’s role in areas including new technologies, climate change, and defending democratic values. In the second part of the event, university teams from across the Alliance will pitch their ideas on how to make NATO’s policies future-proof.

Africa and two from Brazil, the KDCA said, according to Yonhap News Agency. The authorities have said they remain vigilant against the possibility that highly transmissible new variants could spark another uptick in virus cases.South Korea has extended the ban on passenger flights arriving from Britain, which has been in place since Dec. 23, until Feb. 11 to block the new virus variant that was first identified in Britain. The KDCA has conducted further tests, known as next-

generation sequencing, on arrivals from Britain and South Africa. The method provides an effective way to identify coronavirus strains and other pathogens without prior knowledge of the organisms. Also, all foreign entrants must present papers showing negative PCR tests taken within 72 hours of their departure for South Korea. The country added 305 more COVID-19 cases on Monday, the smallest number in over two months, to stay in the 300s for the second straight day,

S. Korea Confirms 7 More Cases of COVID-19 Variants

TL Bureau, Seoul

South Korea has confirmed seven more cases of contagious variants of the new coronavirus, bringing the total caseload to 34, according to health authorities on Monday. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) said the seven people were confirmed to have been infected with three kinds of variants that are known to be more transmissible over the past week. Of them, four variants were from Britain, followed by one from South

since they tested positive and the individuals concerned are not being treated in hospital, meaning that they are awaiting confirmation of their recovery. Since developing the capability of testing for coronavirus in spring 2020, a total of 774,529 tests have been analysed in Estonia in relation to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The number of positive initial test results amounts to 44,208 individuals, or 5.7% of the total. Detailed statistical data from the coronavirus tests is available at: www.terviseamet.ee/ en/coronavirus-dataset. In total, 38,055 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in Estonia, and 10,155 individuals have received two doses As of this morning, a total of 38,055 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in Estonia. In total, 27,900 individuals have been vaccinated, of whom 10,155 individuals have received both doses. Statistical data about vaccinations is available from the Health Board’s coronavirus database. Patients can view their vaccination information in the ‘Patient Portal’ at digilugu.ee. The Health Board received a new shipment from Pfizer/BioNTech on Monday, which consisted of 11,700 vaccine doses. Vaccination continues in care homes this week,

while vaccination of the staff of dental care practices and specialised medical care providers is also about to begin. The vaccines are highly tolerable, with only 0.6% of those individuals who have been vaccinated having exhibited some passing side-effects. The aim of vaccinating against COVID-19 is to protect risk groups who are likelier to be infected or who are at a higher risk of developing severe symptoms in the event of being infected, as well as to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to reduce the number of deaths that are caused by the disease, while also alleviating the load on the healthcare system and the economy, and to enable society to function normally. The first recipients of the vaccination are healthcare professionals and employees of healthcare institutions, the employees and residents of care homes, and individuals who are over seventy years old and who suffer from certain health conditions which may increase the severity of COVID-19 symptoms that could be experienced in the event of their falling ill. As soon as Estonia receives a sufficient number of doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, vaccination will also become available to other target groups, as well as to the general population.

NOK 825 million for mandatory border testing TL Bureau, Oslo From 18 January, all travellers to Norway from countries on the travel quarantine list are obliged to get tested before entering the country. Capacity at existing testing centres has been expanded and more testing centres have been established. Mandatory testing was introduced with effect from 2 January 2012. Travellers were then required to get tested as soon as possible and no later than 24 hours after arriving in Norway. From 18 January, the requirement for testing within 24 hours has been replaced by mandatory testing at the border. ‘The establishment and running of testing centres at the border is a very important measure for combating imported infection. I’m therefore pleased that the capacity has now been expanded so that everyone crossing the border will be tested before continuing their journey,’ says Minister of Health and Care Services Bent Høie. Testing centres have been established at 33 border crossings, and the Government is now proposing to allocate NOK 825 million to border testing centres. This means a proposed increase in allocations for testing centres

and testing in quarantine hotels of NOK 203 million compared with the balanced budget for 2021, in which NOK 650 million were allocated for these two purposes. Border testing was made mandatory to delay the spread of the more contagious variants of the coronavirus. Rapid tests are also used so that those infected by the virus can be identified already at the border and be isolated immediately. National phone centre for followup of entry quarantine NOK 75 million is being allocated to the establishment of a national phone centre that will relieve the municipalities in their work to follow up and check travellers arriving in Norway. The phone centre’s staff will contact and provide guidance to incoming travellers so that they understand and comply with the quarantine regulations. The overriding goal is to prevent imported infection. The phone centre will also help to check whether incoming travellers comply with the quarantine regulations. If they suspect that someone is violating the quarantine provisions, the phone centre will inform the municipality and the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority so that local measures can be implemented.