FOR the last couple of months, the whole world has been reeling from the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). It has all the potential to change global geo-political situation once it ended its purge on humanity. In the modern times of globalisation, travelling from one country to another, whether near or far, has become something like a trip to one’s neighbourhood.
With all the fast modes of transport, not only the movement of people and goods, but a pandemic also can travel in lightning speed to any destination. That is exactly the world is witnessing right now. Some countries such as Italy are overwhelmed with COVID-19 cases so much that the entire healthcare system is literally reeling from the unprecedented outbreak. But it is heartening to see that there are some countries such as the State of Qatar, with their efficient and effective preventive and precautionary measures, have been able to harness the fast and furious stride of the virus to a very impressive extent.
From the very first day after the world heard about the virus’ outbreak in China’s Wuhan city, Qatar had put its machinery in motion anticipating the inevitable appearance of the same in its shores. The country’s healthcare system, with the most modern equipment and the world’s best crop of experts, was efficiently poised to confront any situation under the able guidance of the visionary leadership. The good news that 41 COVID-19 patients in the country were declared completely healed in a few days is ample evidence of the efficiency of the management of the outbreak. Right from the beginning, the government was able to adopt and implement the right strategies and every department, agencies and the private sector were working like a well-oiled machine. The unending support by the government is still pouring in.
On Monday, the General Authority of Customs, in implementation of the directive of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, exempted 905 items of foodstuff and medical supplies from customs duties. Other than essential foodstuff, the list included vital medical supplies such as face masks, sterilizers, soap products, hygiene items etc.
The Authority has put in a clause to the exemption to ensure the resulting benefit reaches the end user. The people of the country has been generally following the instructions and guidelines issued by the relevant departments, even though there were rare cases of black sheep, who were promptly dealt with.
Qatar has proven time and again that the country can manage and overcome any crisis with prompt actions. It may not be the time yet to say that the country has already beaten the virus, but the trajectory of progress heralds that Qatar will score over the virus scare.
