The BRICS club of emerging market countries is expected to double on January 1st when Saudi Arabia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia and Egypt join the group. In August the current members of the group Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa invited six other countries to join them.

BRICS group to double in 2024 after Saudi, Iran, UAE, Egypt, Ethiopia join ranks

PM Narendra Modi is all set to launch the grand BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi next month. The temple is said to be an architectural wonder & will be located in Abu Dhabi's Mureikha area. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas | PM Modi to inaugurate BAPS temple in Abu Dhabi

To show solidarity with the people of Gaza, Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has banned all New Year's Eve firework&nbsp;displays and celebrations. Sharjah Police issued the diktat on Tuesday (Dec 26), urging all members of the public and organisations to comply with the regulations.&nbsp;

The police in a statement released said the ban is a "sincere&nbsp;expression of solidarity and humanitarian cooperation with our siblings in the Gaza Strip".&nbsp;

Sharjah is the UAE’s third-largest emirate by size and population behind Abu Dhabi and Dubai. There are seven emirates. Fireworks are a major part of New Year's Eve&nbsp;celebrations across the UAE, especially in Sharjah where tourists flock to spend the end-of-year holidays

Since the war first started in October, a number of live events and concerts have been cancelled or postponed in the Emirates. The debut performance of American singer-songwriter Khalid, due to be held at Dubai's Coca-Cola Arena on October 27 was shelved.

Last month,&nbsp;Tanweer Sacred Hearts Festival in Sharjah, scheduled to be held from November 24 to 26 was also binned due to the same reason.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-why-are-houthi-rebels-attacking-vessels-in-red-sea-world-news-wion-671794">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Why are Houthi rebels attacking vessels in Red Sea?</a>

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<h2>UAE calls for ceasefire</h2>

The UAE and Israeli bilateral relations were forged in 2020 after the signing of the Abraham Accords.&nbsp;As a result, since the beginning of the war, UAE has repeatedly urged Israel for a humanitarian ceasefire, whilst also condemning the terrorist attacks by Hamas and bombardment by Israeli forces.&nbsp;

UAE has also warned against a risk of regional spillover if the war between Israel-Hamas continues into the new year.

"As we continue working to stop this war, we cannot ignore the wider context and the necessity to turn down the regional temperature that is approaching a boiling point," said Noura Al Kaabi, a minister of state at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-informs-arab-states-it-wants-a-buffer-zone-in-gaza-post-war-report-665400">Also read |&nbsp;Israel informs Arab states it wants a buffer zone in Gaza post war: Report</a>

Despite the insistence by the Gulf&nbsp;regional power, Tel Aviv and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have made it clear that the war would only end with the elimination of Hamas.&nbsp;

"We won't stop fighting until we've achieved all the objectives we've set ourselves: the elimination of Hamas, the release of our hostages and the end of the threat from Gaza," Netanyahu said earlier this month.&nbsp;

Notably,&nbsp;Israel has informed several Arab states, including Egypt, Jordan and the UAE, that it&nbsp;wants a buffer zone in the Gaza Strip once its conflict with Hamas ends.

(With inputs from agencies)

To show solidarity with the people of Gaza, Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has banned all New Year's Eve firework displays and celebrations. Sharjah Police issued the diktat on Tuesday (Dec 26), urging all members of the public and organisations to comply with the regulations.

To show solidarity with the people of Gaza, Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has banned all New Year's Eve firework displays and celebrations. Sharjah Police issued the diktat on Tuesday (Dec 26), urging all members of the public and organisations to comply with the regulations. The police in a statement released said the ban is a "sincere expression of solidarity and humanitarian cooperation with our siblings in the Gaza Strip". Sharjah is the UAE’s third-largest emirate by size and population behind Abu Dhabi and Dubai. There are seven emirates. Fireworks are a major part of New Year's Eve celebrations across the UAE, especially in Sharjah where tourists flock to spend the end-of-year holidays Since the war first started in October, a number of live events and concerts have been cancelled or postponed in the Emirates. The debut performance of American singer-songwriter Khalid, due to be held at Dubai's Coca-Cola Arena on October 27 was shelved. Last month, Tanweer Sacred Hearts Festival in Sharjah, scheduled to be held from November 24 to 26 was also binned due to the same reason. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Why are Houthi rebels attacking vessels in Red Sea? UAE calls for ceasefire The UAE and Israeli bilateral relations were forged in 2020 after the signing of the Abraham Accords. As a result, since the beginning of the war, UAE has repeatedly urged Israel for a humanitarian ceasefire, whilst also condemning the terrorist attacks by Hamas and bombardment by Israeli forces. UAE has also warned against a risk of regional spillover if the war between Israel-Hamas continues into the new year. "As we continue working to stop this war, we cannot ignore the wider context and the necessity to turn down the regional temperature that is approaching a boiling point," said Noura Al Kaabi, a minister of state at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Also read | Israel informs Arab states it wants a buffer zone in Gaza post war: Report Despite the insistence by the Gulf regional power, Tel Aviv and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have made it clear that the war would only end with the elimination of Hamas. "We won't stop fighting until we've achieved all the objectives we've set ourselves: the elimination of Hamas, the release of our hostages and the end of the threat from Gaza," Netanyahu said earlier this month. Notably, Israel has informed several Arab states, including Egypt, Jordan and the UAE, that it wants a buffer zone in the Gaza Strip once its conflict with Hamas ends. (With inputs from agencies)

Sharjah in UAE bans New Year’s Eve celebrations in solidarity with Gaza

Iran has summoned Russia's envoy following a recent statement by Moscow and Arab countries calling for talks over three islands controlled by Tehran but claimed by the United Arab Emirates.

The summoning of Moscow's charge d'affaires comes days after Iran's key ally Russia signed a joint declaration with Arab countries which "supported peaceful solutions and initiatives" to resolve the dispute over the islands.

Iran's foreign ministry on Saturday (Dec 23) said that it summoned Moscow's charge d'affaires in Tehran, in the absence of its ambassador, to submit a "note of protest" on the contents of the joint statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-feel-sad-bethlehem-the-birthplace-of-jesus-marks-sombre-christmas-celebration-with-vigil-amid-gaza-war-673157">Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war</a>

"The Islamic Republic of Iran considers any claim from any side in this regard as rejected and unacceptable," Iran's foreign ministry said in a statement.

Iran's top diplomat Hossein Amir-Abdollahian also called the islands "an integral part of Iran's territorial integrity"&nbsp;in a telephonic conversation with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov on Friday (Dec 22).

"Tehran will not compromise with any side on the issue of respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-responds-swiftly-to-maritime-incident-in-arabian-sea-673183">Indian Navy responds swiftly to maritime incident in Arabian Sea</a>

Iran, in July, had summoned the Russian ambassador to oppose a similar joint statement signed by Moscow and Arab countries on the islands.

Located in the Gulf, the three strategic islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb and Abu Musa are located near the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of world oil output passes.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran has summoned Russia's envoy following a recent statement by Moscow and Arab countries calling for talks over three islands controlled by Tehran but claimed by the United Arab Emirates.

Iran has summoned Russia's envoy following a recent statement by Moscow and Arab countries calling for talks over three islands controlled by Tehran but claimed by the United Arab Emirates. The summoning of Moscow's charge d'affaires comes days after Iran's key ally Russia signed a joint declaration with Arab countries which "supported peaceful solutions and initiatives" to resolve the dispute over the islands. Iran's foreign ministry on Saturday (Dec 23) said that it summoned Moscow's charge d'affaires in Tehran, in the absence of its ambassador, to submit a "note of protest" on the contents of the joint statement. Also read: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war "The Islamic Republic of Iran considers any claim from any side in this regard as rejected and unacceptable," Iran's foreign ministry said in a statement. Iran's top diplomat Hossein Amir-Abdollahian also called the islands "an integral part of Iran's territorial integrity" in a telephonic conversation with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov on Friday (Dec 22). "Tehran will not compromise with any side on the issue of respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty," he added. Also read: Indian Navy responds swiftly to maritime incident in Arabian Sea Iran, in July, had summoned the Russian ambassador to oppose a similar joint statement signed by Moscow and Arab countries on the islands. Located in the Gulf, the three strategic islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb and Abu Musa are located near the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of world oil output passes. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran summons Russian envoy, registers displeasure over statement on disputed Gulf islands

Artificial Rain technology was reportedly deployed in Pakistan's Lahore city on Saturday (Dec 16) in an unprecedented first. The move was targeted to address perilous smog levels in Lahore.

UAE 'gifts' bankruptcy-hit Pakistan artificial rain

Sudan on Sunday (Dec 10) declared at least 15 members of the UAE’s diplomatic staff in the country persona non grata, giving them 48 hours to leave the country.

According to the Sudanese state news agency, the acting UAE Chargé d’affairs was summoned on Sunday by the foreign ministry and informed about the decision.

The news agency or the Sudanese government gave no further explanation behind the move.

Earlier, the UAE had declared three Sudanese diplomats persona non grata and ordered them to leave the country within 48 hours.

<h2>UAE-Sudan tensions</h2>

Over the past few weeks, pro-army loyalists and demonstrators have stepped up verbal attacks on the UAE, accusing it of backing the rival Rapid Support Forces by supplying arms and weapons.

Watch:&nbsp;Resilient pastoralists of South Sudan

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Rapid Support Forces (RSF) is led by Army Chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo.

The two sides have been fighting a bloody war since April 15 in which more than 12,000 people have been killed. Efforts of negotiations have yielded no results, with neither side managing to seize a decisive advantage on the battlefield.

<h2>Sudan’s scathing remarks against UAE</h2>

Sudanese Assistant Commander-in-Chief Lt Gen Yasir al-Atta has pulled no punches in blasting UAE for its alleged support to the RSF.

In his Nov 27 speech, Al-Atta outrightly labelled the UAE as a “mafia state.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-warring-parties-in-sudan-committed-crimes-against-humanity-ethnic-cleansing-667102">Also read:&nbsp;US says warring parties in Sudan committed crimes against humanity, ethnic cleansing</a>

Previously, it was reported in foreign media that the UAE had been providing material and financial support to the RSF in its ongoing conflict with the Sudanese military. &nbsp;

<h2>Allegations against UAE</h2>

A Wall Street Journal report claimed that the UAE had been accused of funnelling arms and support to the RSF, which controls much of the country's lucrative gold mining sector.

However, UAE authorities have consistently denied these allegations.

Experts and world leaders including United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres have said unnamed actors supplying "financial and weapons" support to both warring sides have contributed to the ongoing carnage.

It is to be noted that Egypt and Turkey openly side with the Sudanese Army in their conflict against the RSF.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sudan on Sunday (Dec 10) declared at least 15 members of the UAE’s diplomatic staff in the country persona non grata, giving them 48 hours to leave the country. According to the Sudanese state news agency, the acting UAE Chargé d’affairs was summoned on Sunday by the foreign ministry and informed about the decision.

Sudan on Sunday (Dec 10) declared at least 15 members of the UAE’s diplomatic staff in the country persona non grata, giving them 48 hours to leave the country. According to the Sudanese state news agency, the acting UAE Chargé d’affairs was summoned on Sunday by the foreign ministry and informed about the decision. The news agency or the Sudanese government gave no further explanation behind the move. Earlier, the UAE had declared three Sudanese diplomats persona non grata and ordered them to leave the country within 48 hours. UAE-Sudan tensions Over the past few weeks, pro-army loyalists and demonstrators have stepped up verbal attacks on the UAE, accusing it of backing the rival Rapid Support Forces by supplying arms and weapons. Watch: Resilient pastoralists of South Sudan × Rapid Support Forces (RSF) is led by Army Chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. The two sides have been fighting a bloody war since April 15 in which more than 12,000 people have been killed. Efforts of negotiations have yielded no results, with neither side managing to seize a decisive advantage on the battlefield. Sudan’s scathing remarks against UAE Sudanese Assistant Commander-in-Chief Lt Gen Yasir al-Atta has pulled no punches in blasting UAE for its alleged support to the RSF. In his Nov 27 speech, Al-Atta outrightly labelled the UAE as a “mafia state.” Also read: US says warring parties in Sudan committed crimes against humanity, ethnic cleansing Previously, it was reported in foreign media that the UAE had been providing material and financial support to the RSF in its ongoing conflict with the Sudanese military. Allegations against UAE A Wall Street Journal report claimed that the UAE had been accused of funnelling arms and support to the RSF, which controls much of the country's lucrative gold mining sector. However, UAE authorities have consistently denied these allegations. Experts and world leaders including United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres have said unnamed actors supplying "financial and weapons" support to both warring sides have contributed to the ongoing carnage. It is to be noted that Egypt and Turkey openly side with the Sudanese Army in their conflict against the RSF. (With inputs from agencies)

Sudan expels 15 UAE diplomats amid tensions over alleged support to army rivals

The issue at the heart of COP28 in Dubai is...whether or not a worldwide agreement to phase out fossil fuels will be reached at this year's UN Climate summit. Approximately 80% of the world's energy still comes from fossil fuels, which are the primary climate change driver. Take a look at this report to understand which countries are in favor of that agreement and those that are not.

COP28: Fossil fuel debate divides members at COP28 summit | World Business Watch

The United Nations' largest-ever climate conference the COP28 meeting is now in its last week. For the first time, the question of whether the world should put an end to the oil age has been Central to the COP28 Summit. Watch to know more.

COP28 Summit: 200 countries to hash out solutions for climate change

UAE Ambassador to India, Abdulnasser Alshaali, conveyed his optimism about the ongoing COP28 climate summit in Dubai, emphasizing the UAE's proactive approach. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said, "We make things happen. And this is something that the UAE has been known for. So we don't just come out with big announcements or big initiatives that we want to work on or we want to target". The summit has seen several declarations so far, including agreement on loss and damage fund for which UAE contributed $100 million. He dismissed concerns about an oil-producing nation hosting such a summit, asserting, "by being able to achieve such a milestone...we can be both and we can make sure that all countries can have some sort of an agreement with those multiple declarations." On the Indian PM's participation in the climate summit, Alshaali stated it was a "testament to the relationship between the two countries," particularly with both nations co-hosting the Global Green Credit Initiative. He also extended his country's support to India's bid to host the 2028 COP33 summit.

"We make things happen", UAE Envoy Abdulnasser Alshaali upbeat on COP28's progress

Russian President Vladimir Putin got a royal welcome in Abu Dhabi, the first leg of his blitz gulf tour. UAE staged a lavish welcome ceremony with jets flying over the city leaving contrails in the colours of the Russian flag. Camel and horse cavalry guards lined the route of Putin's motorcade from the airport to the presidential palace.

Putin in UAE: Russia asserts its power

The Barclay family has successfully regained control of the influential Telegraph newspaper in the UK, following a collaboration with Abu Dhabi-backed RedBird IMI. 

The family managed to repay the 1.2-billion-pound debt to Lloyds Bank, securing the newspaper and the Spectator political magazine.

<o:p></o:p>The&nbsp;successful debt resolution is expected to translate into a higher pay-out for shareholders in February, as Lloyds anticipates writing back more than 500 million pounds on the value of the loans.<o:p></o:p>

While the Barclay family&nbsp;celebrated their successful bid to regain control of the media outlets closely read by the governing Conservative Party, a proposed transfer of the newspaper to RedBird IMI now faces uncertainty. 

RedBird IMI is led by former CNN executive Jeff Zucker and backed by Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a member of the ruling family of Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;

Under the initial plan, RedBird IMI was poised to swiftly gain control of the assets through a debt-for-equity swap.

The British government intervened last week, officially blocking the move and initiating an investigation into whether any takeover would impede freedom of expression under the new owner. <o:p></o:p>

Reuters cited Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer, who expressed the need for examinations by competition and media regulators, stating, "With the UAE's increasingly influential position...the risk for interference in Britain's national conversation seems self-evident if the acquisition is allowed to go ahead."<o:p></o:p> <o:p></o:p>

The planned auction had attracted interest from potential buyers, including DMGT, Mediahuis, and notable individuals like Paul Marshall and Daniel Kretinsky.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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The Barclay family has successfully regained control of the influential Telegraph newspaper in the UK, following a collaboration with Abu Dhabi-backed RedBird IMI.

The Barclay family has successfully regained control of the influential Telegraph newspaper in the UK, following a collaboration with Abu Dhabi-backed RedBird IMI. The family managed to repay the 1.2-billion-pound debt to Lloyds Bank, securing the newspaper and the Spectator political magazine. The successful debt resolution is expected to translate into a higher pay-out for shareholders in February, as Lloyds anticipates writing back more than 500 million pounds on the value of the loans. While the Barclay family celebrated their successful bid to regain control of the media outlets closely read by the governing Conservative Party, a proposed transfer of the newspaper to RedBird IMI now faces uncertainty. RedBird IMI is led by former CNN executive Jeff Zucker and backed by Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a member of the ruling family of Abu Dhabi. Under the initial plan, RedBird IMI was poised to swiftly gain control of the assets through a debt-for-equity swap. The British government intervened last week, officially blocking the move and initiating an investigation into whether any takeover would impede freedom of expression under the new owner. Reuters cited Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer, who expressed the need for examinations by competition and media regulators, stating, "With the UAE's increasingly influential position...the risk for interference in Britain's national conversation seems self-evident if the acquisition is allowed to go ahead." The planned auction had attracted interest from potential buyers, including DMGT, Mediahuis, and notable individuals like Paul Marshall and Daniel Kretinsky. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Barclay family reclaims Telegraph newspaper after suport from Abu Dhabi investor

The UAE Ambassador to India, Abdulnasser Alshaali, conveyed his optimism about the ongoing COP28 climate summit in Dubai, emphasising the UAE's proactive approach.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said, "We make things happen. And this is something that the UAE has been known for. So, we don't just come out with big announcements or big initiatives that we want to work on, or we want to target".&nbsp;

The ongoing mega climate meet has seen several declarations so far, including agreement on loss and damage fund for which UAE contributed $100 million.

Also watch |&nbsp;COP28: US, worst greenhouse gas emitter pledge just $17.5 mn of $700 mn for loss &amp; damage fund

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He dismissed concerns about an oil-producing nation hosting such a summit, asserting, "by being able to achieve such a milestone...we can be both and we can make sure that all countries can have some sort of an agreement with those multiple declarations."

On the Indian PM Modi's participation in the climate summit, Alshaali stated it was a "testament to the relationship between the two countries," particularly with both the nations co-hosting the Global Green Credit Initiative.&nbsp;

He also extended his country's support to India's bid to host the 2028 COP33 summit.

The full interview can be found here:

Sidhant Sibal: We are halfway through COP28, a lot of things which are expected as well. But if you can talk about the key priorities and key developments which have happened so far.

Abdulnasser Alshaali: Thank you for having me. Let me tell you about what has been achieved. So as you have seen, we have made the loss and damage fund operational with a pledge of over $700 million, $100 million from those coming from the UAE alone. There have been a few declarations, with quite a few signatories. So the Agriculture and Food charter has more than 130 countries signed on to it. The climate health one has 120 countries who have signed on to it. We have 50 companies who have signed on the oil and gas decarbonisation charter, and India has supported us on climate finance charter with 13 countries so far.

Sidhant Sibal: Lots of developments. There are some pledges as well, if you could talk about that, and also something that developing countries have been talking about is that the developed world should contribute more to climate finance, if you can elaborate what has been achieved on that front from the COP Summit.

Abdulnasser Alshaali: As I mentioned, there are 13 countries now so far who have signed on the climate finance, as you have seen from the numbers, the loss and damage Fund, which has been an issue of debate or conversation that has been ongoing for quite some time has moved ahead with significant amount. There are more amounts coming in, to different initiatives and different projects that are being launched during the COP28 presidency, what you could see overall and this I believe is one of the success metrics of the COP28 presidency is that this is one COP summit where countries have come forward and have put money on the table. And what we would do as the UAE is obviously, is to follow up on the outcomes coming out of the presidency and to make sure that they keep the momentum into the next COP presidencies as well.

Sidhant Sibal: So every country when it hosts the COP Summit, likes to have its own imprint. So what is that Emirati imprint on this year's summit, the climate summit, which is still underway?

Abdulnasser Alshaali: &nbsp;We make things happen. And this is something that the UAE has been known for. So, we don't just come out with big announcements or big initiatives that we want to work on, or we want to target but we actually make sure that we can get out of something with very tangible outcomes that everyone could feel, and everyone could say that yes, we have felt those impacts. We can see that things are changing; we can see that things are moving. I believe the fact that there are 50 companies who have signed on to the oil and gas decomposition structure says a lot. The UAE has been leading, let's say on that front. Because if you look back at a time before the COP28 presidency, one of the main criticisms was that how can an oil produce and an exporter lead countries and lead the globe on climate and be the president of COP28 and I believe by being able to achieve such a milestone, we have proven that this does not undermine that and that we can be both and we can make sure that all countries can have some sort of an agreement with those multiple declarations on the way forward to mitigate climate risk.

Sidhant Sibal: You started your answer by saying make things happen and perhaps that reverberated well here in New Delhi. We saw the Indian Prime Minister traveling there just for one day but still traveling there, amidst this busy schedule, so how do you see the Indian Prime Minister's presence there taking part in so many meetings, bilateral with your leadership as well.&nbsp;

Abdulnasser Alshaali: It was great and very productive. As you mentioned, I attended a bilateral meeting, you cannot not see the special bond between the two leaders. They have a very good friendship. They discuss various topics, obviously COP28 was the most important but they also discuss other bilateral and multilateral related topics and issues. And you can see that this if anything adds and keeps momentum going in the relationship, as you mentioned, the honorable Prime Minister has participated in quite a few sessions. You also have had his own bilateral meetings, had conversations on the sidelines, even a selfie that went viral. So as I said earlier, quite productive and I hope for the hon. The Prime Minister's visit was quite successful.

Sidhant Sibal: Many outcomes including that selfie as well. But talking about the India UAE, co chairing an important event on green Credit Initiative. How do you see both countries coming together on this crucial issue of climate change?

Abdulnasser Alshaali: It's a testament to the relationship between the two countries. His Excellency Dr Sultan Al Jaber, President of COP28 came to new Delhi and met with a few senior government officials and also met with the G20 Sherpa and the whole idea is that we understand that there is this overlap between G20 priorities and the outcomes that came out of the summit as well as what we are trying to do with COP28 presidency. And we want to make sure that those tangible outcomes and that overlap are being carried forward in the COP 28 presidency whether through the green credit that you saw or other initiatives and projects that the two countries were working on.

Sidhant Sibal: One of the key announcements made by the Indian Prime Minister was that India has pitched that it will also host the COP 33 in 2028. How do you see this announcement and that coming from the territory of UAE, the Indian Prime Ministers chose to make the announcements from UAE?

Abdulnasser Alshaali: &nbsp;Well, I'm confident that India will host it successfully, hopefully, once this has been confirmed, that they will do a great job just like they have done in the G20 presidency. The fact that the honourable Prime Minister has announced it from the UAE, says a lot about the relationship and the fact that he has chosen being in the UAE means that this relationship is one that you can count on in terms of support and in terms of you know, making sure that your priorities and what you're trying to achieve in terms of climate or anything else is being supported as well.

Sidhant Sibal: Just to understand again, because you've already answered it, but still to highlight it more. How does UAE plan to give shape to the global narrative on climate change? Because there are still questions that the world is still not taking it seriously. The leaders come, they talk , there is nothing concrete. So what do you have to say on that and what UAE is doing to shape this, this entire debate around climate change?

Abdulnasser Alshaali: If you just look at what has been achieved so far in the COP28 presidency, the fact that you have the highest youth participation level, the fact that this is the largest COP28 in all kinds of measures and matrices. The fact that governments and countries have come forward with pledges and commitments to all kinds of initiatives, to all kinds of declarations is already a testament that there is a way to bring everyone to agree on certain matters. And there is a way forward for mitigating climate risk and making sure that we are planning for climate change and that we are adjusting and modifying our national goals to make sure that we can accommodate that and that we can actually achieve those goals

Sidhant Sibal: Also rise of UAE as a regional and perhaps a global superpower as because so many leaders you hosted, how do you see I'm not talking about the climate debate but hosting so many leaders is not an easy job, climate change. I mean summits are usually logistically as difficult as well.

Abdulnasser Alshaali: Well, we don't only look at bilateral relations, but we also look at various multilateral platforms and even mini multilateral platforms. We have been active overall in all of those. But I believe that the past few years you have seen this level of activity more visible, with quite a few heads of governments and presidents and prime ministers coming to the UAE and doing courses in the UAE, taking part in COP28. The UAE is also doing its own state visit and so the so forth, what you see now is probably it becoming more visible but UAE has been active in all of those that I have mentioned for a long period of time.

Sidhant Sibal: And of course India as well coming back again to India and my final question as well. The Indian Prime Minister in UAE for the second time this year. We have seen key outcomes during his first visit earlier this year, including on trading in the national currencies as well. So how do you see the India UAE relationship going forward? Any key deliverables both sides are working on? What next for this relationship?

Abdulnasser Alshaali: Well what's next is always a question to the two leaders and as I told you, whenever they sit and talk, they discuss various topics and various matters. There are always new ideas that are put on the table for myself and for my colleague in Abu Dhabi to follow up on. And the matter of fact is to everyone it seems like we have achieved quite a bit in this relationship, especially after the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. But the way we see it from the UAE and I believe also from my Indian colleagues is that there is always more to be done. And there's absolutely more that will be done.

Sidhant Sibal: &nbsp;What is that almost more to be done? What are the new ideas this time around? We saw your visual as well meeting with the Prime Minister when the Prime Minister was departing. So any conversation, any anecdotes you'd like to share with us?

Abdulnasser Alshaali: Well, he asked me personally to pass on his regards to the President and the words he used was please do pass my regards to my "brother" His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and that he had a very successful, very nice visit.&nbsp;

And I told him you know, he should not expect any less whenever he visits the UAE.

Sidhant Sibal: Many times we’ve seen the Indian Prime Minister use the specific word brother has been a leave your leadership made an exception as well, so that he can speak first at the COP summit as well. So these initiatives show how essentially the relationship has been going forward.

Abdulnasser Alshaali: Exactly. And I think the fact that you can see this and everyone can see this, it just says a lot about where the relationship stands. And it's up to us now to keep pushing onto new frontiers and to explore various fields of cooperation, increase investments and new sectors, support the startup and SME ecosystem and make sure that the relationship is growing at the state level and also at the Emirate level.

The UAE Ambassador to India, Abdulnasser Alshaali, conveyed his optimism about the ongoing COP28 climate summit in Dubai, emphasising the UAE's proactive approach.

The UAE Ambassador to India, Abdulnasser Alshaali, conveyed his optimism about the ongoing COP28 climate summit in Dubai, emphasising the UAE's proactive approach. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said, "We make things happen. And this is something that the UAE has been known for. So, we don't just come out with big announcements or big initiatives that we want to work on, or we want to target". The ongoing mega climate meet has seen several declarations so far, including agreement on loss and damage fund for which UAE contributed $100 million. Also watch | COP28: US, worst greenhouse gas emitter pledge just $17.5 mn of $700 mn for loss & damage fund × He dismissed concerns about an oil-producing nation hosting such a summit, asserting, "by being able to achieve such a milestone...we can be both and we can make sure that all countries can have some sort of an agreement with those multiple declarations." On the Indian PM Modi's participation in the climate summit, Alshaali stated it was a "testament to the relationship between the two countries," particularly with both the nations co-hosting the Global Green Credit Initiative. He also extended his country's support to India's bid to host the 2028 COP33 summit. The full interview can be found here: Sidhant Sibal: We are halfway through COP28, a lot of things which are expected as well. But if you can talk about the key priorities and key developments which have happened so far. Abdulnasser Alshaali: Thank you for having me. Let me tell you about what has been achieved. So as you have seen, we have made the loss and damage fund operational with a pledge of over $700 million, $100 million from those coming from the UAE alone. There have been a few declarations, with quite a few signatories. So the Agriculture and Food charter has more than 130 countries signed on to it. The climate health one has 120 countries who have signed on to it. We have 50 companies who have signed on the oil and gas decarbonisation charter, and India has supported us on climate finance charter with 13 countries so far. Sidhant Sibal: Lots of developments. There are some pledges as well, if you could talk about that, and also something that developing countries have been talking about is that the developed world should contribute more to climate finance, if you can elaborate what has been achieved on that front from the COP Summit. Abdulnasser Alshaali: As I mentioned, there are 13 countries now so far who have signed on the climate finance, as you have seen from the numbers, the loss and damage Fund, which has been an issue of debate or conversation that has been ongoing for quite some time has moved ahead with significant amount. There are more amounts coming in, to different initiatives and different projects that are being launched during the COP28 presidency, what you could see overall and this I believe is one of the success metrics of the COP28 presidency is that this is one COP summit where countries have come forward and have put money on the table. And what we would do as the UAE is obviously, is to follow up on the outcomes coming out of the presidency and to make sure that they keep the momentum into the next COP presidencies as well. Sidhant Sibal: So every country when it hosts the COP Summit, likes to have its own imprint. So what is that Emirati imprint on this year's summit, the climate summit, which is still underway? Abdulnasser Alshaali: We make things happen. And this is something that the UAE has been known for. So, we don't just come out with big announcements or big initiatives that we want to work on, or we want to target but we actually make sure that we can get out of something with very tangible outcomes that everyone could feel, and everyone could say that yes, we have felt those impacts. We can see that things are changing; we can see that things are moving. I believe the fact that there are 50 companies who have signed on to the oil and gas decomposition structure says a lot. The UAE has been leading, let's say on that front. Because if you look back at a time before the COP28 presidency, one of the main criticisms was that how can an oil produce and an exporter lead countries and lead the globe on climate and be the president of COP28 and I believe by being able to achieve such a milestone, we have proven that this does not undermine that and that we can be both and we can make sure that all countries can have some sort of an agreement with those multiple declarations on the way forward to mitigate climate risk. Sidhant Sibal: You started your answer by saying make things happen and perhaps that reverberated well here in New Delhi. We saw the Indian Prime Minister traveling there just for one day but still traveling there, amidst this busy schedule, so how do you see the Indian Prime Minister's presence there taking part in so many meetings, bilateral with your leadership as well. Abdulnasser Alshaali: It was great and very productive. As you mentioned, I attended a bilateral meeting, you cannot not see the special bond between the two leaders. They have a very good friendship. They discuss various topics, obviously COP28 was the most important but they also discuss other bilateral and multilateral related topics and issues. And you can see that this if anything adds and keeps momentum going in the relationship, as you mentioned, the honorable Prime Minister has participated in quite a few sessions. You also have had his own bilateral meetings, had conversations on the sidelines, even a selfie that went viral. So as I said earlier, quite productive and I hope for the hon. The Prime Minister's visit was quite successful. Sidhant Sibal: Many outcomes including that selfie as well. But talking about the India UAE, co chairing an important event on green Credit Initiative. How do you see both countries coming together on this crucial issue of climate change? Abdulnasser Alshaali: It's a testament to the relationship between the two countries. His Excellency Dr Sultan Al Jaber, President of COP28 came to new Delhi and met with a few senior government officials and also met with the G20 Sherpa and the whole idea is that we understand that there is this overlap between G20 priorities and the outcomes that came out of the summit as well as what we are trying to do with COP28 presidency. And we want to make sure that those tangible outcomes and that overlap are being carried forward in the COP 28 presidency whether through the green credit that you saw or other initiatives and projects that the two countries were working on. Sidhant Sibal: One of the key announcements made by the Indian Prime Minister was that India has pitched that it will also host the COP 33 in 2028. How do you see this announcement and that coming from the territory of UAE, the Indian Prime Ministers chose to make the announcements from UAE? Abdulnasser Alshaali: Well, I'm confident that India will host it successfully, hopefully, once this has been confirmed, that they will do a great job just like they have done in the G20 presidency. The fact that the honourable Prime Minister has announced it from the UAE, says a lot about the relationship and the fact that he has chosen being in the UAE means that this relationship is one that you can count on in terms of support and in terms of you know, making sure that your priorities and what you're trying to achieve in terms of climate or anything else is being supported as well. Sidhant Sibal: Just to understand again, because you've already answered it, but still to highlight it more. How does UAE plan to give shape to the global narrative on climate change? Because there are still questions that the world is still not taking it seriously. The leaders come, they talk , there is nothing concrete. So what do you have to say on that and what UAE is doing to shape this, this entire debate around climate change? Abdulnasser Alshaali: If you just look at what has been achieved so far in the COP28 presidency, the fact that you have the highest youth participation level, the fact that this is the largest COP28 in all kinds of measures and matrices. The fact that governments and countries have come forward with pledges and commitments to all kinds of initiatives, to all kinds of declarations is already a testament that there is a way to bring everyone to agree on certain matters. And there is a way forward for mitigating climate risk and making sure that we are planning for climate change and that we are adjusting and modifying our national goals to make sure that we can accommodate that and that we can actually achieve those goals Sidhant Sibal: Also rise of UAE as a regional and perhaps a global superpower as because so many leaders you hosted, how do you see I'm not talking about the climate debate but hosting so many leaders is not an easy job, climate change. I mean summits are usually logistically as difficult as well. Abdulnasser Alshaali: Well, we don't only look at bilateral relations, but we also look at various multilateral platforms and even mini multilateral platforms. We have been active overall in all of those. But I believe that the past few years you have seen this level of activity more visible, with quite a few heads of governments and presidents and prime ministers coming to the UAE and doing courses in the UAE, taking part in COP28. The UAE is also doing its own state visit and so the so forth, what you see now is probably it becoming more visible but UAE has been active in all of those that I have mentioned for a long period of time. Sidhant Sibal: And of course India as well coming back again to India and my final question as well. The Indian Prime Minister in UAE for the second time this year. We have seen key outcomes during his first visit earlier this year, including on trading in the national currencies as well. So how do you see the India UAE relationship going forward? Any key deliverables both sides are working on? What next for this relationship? Abdulnasser Alshaali: Well what's next is always a question to the two leaders and as I told you, whenever they sit and talk, they discuss various topics and various matters. There are always new ideas that are put on the table for myself and for my colleague in Abu Dhabi to follow up on. And the matter of fact is to everyone it seems like we have achieved quite a bit in this relationship, especially after the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. But the way we see it from the UAE and I believe also from my Indian colleagues is that there is always more to be done. And there's absolutely more that will be done. Sidhant Sibal: What is that almost more to be done? What are the new ideas this time around? We saw your visual as well meeting with the Prime Minister when the Prime Minister was departing. So any conversation, any anecdotes you'd like to share with us? Abdulnasser Alshaali: Well, he asked me personally to pass on his regards to the President and the words he used was please do pass my regards to my "brother" His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and that he had a very successful, very nice visit. And I told him you know, he should not expect any less whenever he visits the UAE. Sidhant Sibal: Many times we’ve seen the Indian Prime Minister use the specific word brother has been a leave your leadership made an exception as well, so that he can speak first at the COP summit as well. So these initiatives show how essentially the relationship has been going forward. Abdulnasser Alshaali: Exactly. And I think the fact that you can see this and everyone can see this, it just says a lot about where the relationship stands. And it's up to us now to keep pushing onto new frontiers and to explore various fields of cooperation, increase investments and new sectors, support the startup and SME ecosystem and make sure that the relationship is growing at the state level and also at the Emirate level.

'We make things happen', UAE Envoy Abdulnasser Alshaali upbeat on COP28 progress

Putin visits Saudi & UAE on West Asia tour; Putin all set to host Iran's Raisi in Moscow | World DNA

Putin: UAE is Russia's main trading partner in the Arab world

Hailed as a breakthrough agreement at the COP 28 Summit pledges to the loss and damage funds have proved a major disappointment. So far the developed Nations have pledged a total of just $700 million towards the loss and damage fund at COP 28 that amount covers less than 2% of the economic losses that developing nations are facing due to climate change.

COP28 Summit | Experts: Financial pledges fall short of what is need

Nearly 20&nbsp;months after Vladimir Putin announced a military offensive against Ukraine by describing them as 'special military operations', the Russian president landed in the United Arab Emirates in a rare visit outside the countries of former Soviet Union as well as China.&nbsp;

Putin was welcomed in the UAE with a 21-gun salute and a stunning flypast by Al Fursan, the UAE Air Force aerobatics team, showcasing Russian flag colours in smoke.

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Watch: Russian President Vladimir Putin gets a grand welcome in the UAE with a 21-gun salute and a stunning flypast by Al Fursan, the UAE Air Force aerobatics team, showcasing Russian flag colors in smoke. <a href="https://t.co/M7VVQ38q2X">pic.twitter.com/M7VVQ38q2X</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1732396269371543937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Putin's West Asia itinerary&nbsp;includes a visit to Saudi Arabia next.

The visit is rare because since December 2021 when the Russian president visited New Delhi for an annual India-Russia summit, he has not visited any other country except China and the countries of the erstwhile Soviet Union.&nbsp;

This is only the Russian leader's third trip outside the former Soviet Union since February 2022, after visits to Iran and China.

<h2>Putin's West Asia visit: Immediate backdrop</h2>

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has already conceded that the country's much-anticipated summer counteroffensive aimed to regain territories gained by Russia since February 2022, has not yielded expected results.

Besides, Russia has been able to withstand the impact of the economic sanctions by the US and European Union through straightforward oil exports to the countries such as India. While the European countries have been clandestinely buying Russian oil, and thus, are partly neutralising the impact of the sanctions.

With a wartime economy boosted by Russia's indigenous military-industry complex, the country recently proposed its biggest-ever defence budget.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trumps-wests-sanctions-as-moscow-proposes-largest-ever-federal-budget-659280">Putin trumps West's sanctions as Moscow proposes largest-ever federal budget with focus on defence</a> 
 
In West Asia, Putin is now expected to court his allies. The oil, trade as well as the Israel-Hamas conflict also feature in Putin's priorities during his current visit.

"Vladimir Putin has arrived in the United Arab Emirates for a working visit," the Kremlin said, before he was scheduled to travel onwards to Saudi Arabia.

Russian state television showed UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and other officials greeting Putin on the runway.&nbsp;

Trade and oil will be on the agenda in the UAE, which is "Russia's main economic partner in the Arab world," according to a statement issued by the Kremlin ahead of the visit.

Also watch |&nbsp;Must think on how to stop the tragedy, says Putin | WION

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Bilateral trade turnover between the two countries reached a record level $9bn in 2022, the Kremlin said.

Putin is expected to meet with the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman when he arrives in Saudi Arabia later on Wednesday (Dec 6).

Putin, since March, has been wanted for war crimes by the International Criminal Court (ICC) which has accused him of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children.

Putin skipped the BRICS summit in South Africa in August and G20 summit in New Delhi in September.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Nearly 20 months after Vladimir Putin announced a military offensive against Ukraine by describing them as 'special military operations', the Russian president landed in the United Arab Emirates in a rare visit outside the countries of former Soviet Union as well as China.

Nearly 20 months after Vladimir Putin announced a military offensive against Ukraine by describing them as 'special military operations', the Russian president landed in the United Arab Emirates in a rare visit outside the countries of former Soviet Union as well as China. Putin was welcomed in the UAE with a 21-gun salute and a stunning flypast by Al Fursan, the UAE Air Force aerobatics team, showcasing Russian flag colours in smoke. Watch: Russian President Vladimir Putin gets a grand welcome in the UAE with a 21-gun salute and a stunning flypast by Al Fursan, the UAE Air Force aerobatics team, showcasing Russian flag colors in smoke. pic.twitter.com/M7VVQ38q2X — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 6, 2023 × Putin's West Asia itinerary includes a visit to Saudi Arabia next. The visit is rare because since December 2021 when the Russian president visited New Delhi for an annual India-Russia summit, he has not visited any other country except China and the countries of the erstwhile Soviet Union. This is only the Russian leader's third trip outside the former Soviet Union since February 2022, after visits to Iran and China. Putin's West Asia visit: Immediate backdrop Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has already conceded that the country's much-anticipated summer counteroffensive aimed to regain territories gained by Russia since February 2022, has not yielded expected results. Besides, Russia has been able to withstand the impact of the economic sanctions by the US and European Union through straightforward oil exports to the countries such as India. While the European countries have been clandestinely buying Russian oil, and thus, are partly neutralising the impact of the sanctions. With a wartime economy boosted by Russia's indigenous military-industry complex, the country recently proposed its biggest-ever defence budget. Also read | Putin trumps West's sanctions as Moscow proposes largest-ever federal budget with focus on defence In West Asia, Putin is now expected to court his allies. The oil, trade as well as the Israel-Hamas conflict also feature in Putin's priorities during his current visit. "Vladimir Putin has arrived in the United Arab Emirates for a working visit," the Kremlin said, before he was scheduled to travel onwards to Saudi Arabia. Russian state television showed UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and other officials greeting Putin on the runway. Trade and oil will be on the agenda in the UAE, which is "Russia's main economic partner in the Arab world," according to a statement issued by the Kremlin ahead of the visit. Also watch | Must think on how to stop the tragedy, says Putin | WION × Bilateral trade turnover between the two countries reached a record level $9bn in 2022, the Kremlin said. Putin is expected to meet with the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman when he arrives in Saudi Arabia later on Wednesday (Dec 6). Putin, since March, has been wanted for war crimes by the International Criminal Court (ICC) which has accused him of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children. Putin skipped the BRICS summit in South Africa in August and G20 summit in New Delhi in September. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin enters West Asia powerplay in rare wartime visit to UAE, Saudi Arabia

According to those familiar with the plans, Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. This will be his first international trip since his invasion of Ukraine.

Putin make rare abroad visit to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates

This year’s COP28 Summit is currently underway in the UAE, and it has been riddled with controversies right from the word go.

On November 21, Al Jaber—who happens to be the president and host of the Dubai-based COP28 as well as the CEO of the United Arab Emirates’ state oil company, Adnoc, set the cat among the pigeons with a string of incendiary comments that didn’t go down well with international climate activists.

“There is no science out there, or no scenario out there, that says that the phaseout of fossil fuel is what’s going to achieve 1.5C,” Al Jaber made this explosive statement after he challenged former Irish President Mary Robinson during a She Changes Climate event.

“Please help me, show me the roadmap for a phaseout of fossil fuel that will allow for sustainable socioeconomic development, unless you want to take the world back into caves,” he had added.

<h2>UAE’s damage control</h2>

The comments triggered a major global backlash, which has now prompted the all-powerful UAE leader to desperately win the confidence of the international community back.

“I respect the science in everything I do. I have repeatedly said that it is the science that has guided the principles or strategy as COP28 president. We have always built everything, every step of the way, on the science, on the facts,” Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber said during a press conference on Monday (Dec 4).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop28-presidents-no-science-behind-oil-phase-out-statement-causes-alarm-666064">Also read:&nbsp;COP28 president`s `no science` behind oil phase-out statement causes alarm</a>

“I know that there are strong views among some [countries], about the phase-down or phaseout of fossil fuels. Allow me to say this again: This is the first [COP] presidency ever to actively call on parties to come forward with language on all fossil fuels for the negotiated text,” he said.

<h2>UAE trying to strike oil deals during COP28?</h2>

To UAE’s further embarrassment, a bombshell report released last week claimed that the host nation was utilising its hosting of the COP28 summit as an opportunity to strike oil and gas deals with at least 15 nations.

Watch:&nbsp;Africa | Tanzania floods claims 63 lives, 116 injured; President cuts short COP28 visit

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A report by BBC claimed that UAE’s COP28 team was preparing to hold meetings with foreign governments, with intentions of furthering fossil fuel collaborations.

(With inputs from agencies)

This year’s COP28 Summit is currently underway in the UAE, and it has been riddled with controversies right from the word go. On November 21, Al Jaber—who happens to be the president and host of the Dubai-based COP28 as well as the CEO of the United Arab Emirates’ state oil company, Adnoc, set the cat among the pigeons with a string of incendiary comments that didn’t go down well with international climate activists.

This year’s COP28 Summit is currently underway in the UAE, and it has been riddled with controversies right from the word go. On November 21, Al Jaber—who happens to be the president and host of the Dubai-based COP28 as well as the CEO of the United Arab Emirates’ state oil company, Adnoc, set the cat among the pigeons with a string of incendiary comments that didn’t go down well with international climate activists. “There is no science out there, or no scenario out there, that says that the phaseout of fossil fuel is what’s going to achieve 1.5C,” Al Jaber made this explosive statement after he challenged former Irish President Mary Robinson during a She Changes Climate event. “Please help me, show me the roadmap for a phaseout of fossil fuel that will allow for sustainable socioeconomic development, unless you want to take the world back into caves,” he had added. UAE’s damage control The comments triggered a major global backlash, which has now prompted the all-powerful UAE leader to desperately win the confidence of the international community back. “I respect the science in everything I do. I have repeatedly said that it is the science that has guided the principles or strategy as COP28 president. We have always built everything, every step of the way, on the science, on the facts,” Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber said during a press conference on Monday (Dec 4). Also read: COP28 president`s `no science` behind oil phase-out statement causes alarm “I know that there are strong views among some [countries], about the phase-down or phaseout of fossil fuels. Allow me to say this again: This is the first [COP] presidency ever to actively call on parties to come forward with language on all fossil fuels for the negotiated text,” he said. UAE trying to strike oil deals during COP28? To UAE’s further embarrassment, a bombshell report released last week claimed that the host nation was utilising its hosting of the COP28 summit as an opportunity to strike oil and gas deals with at least 15 nations. Watch: Africa | Tanzania floods claims 63 lives, 116 injured; President cuts short COP28 visit × A report by BBC claimed that UAE’s COP28 team was preparing to hold meetings with foreign governments, with intentions of furthering fossil fuel collaborations. (With inputs from agencies)

UAE leader holds damage control conference after making ‘no-science’ fossil claim

In line with a global initiative to reduce emissions that fuel climate change, the Biden administration unveiled final regulations on Saturday that aim to severely restrict methane emissions from the US oil and gas industry. US officials unveiled the regulations, which had been in the works for two years, during the COP28 climate change conference held in Dubai.

COP28 UAE: US unveils strategy at COP 28 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from gas and oil

COP28 President is facing backlash from climate activist over his comments on fossil fuels. Al Jaber says that there is no science behind phase out of fossil fuels.

COP28 President's fossil fuel claim causes outcry

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday wrapped up his day-long visit to the UAE after successfully attending the World Climate Action Summit.

COP-28 Summit: After engagements with leaders, Indian PM wraps up UAE visit

As world leaders convene in Dubai for COP 28, discussing climate change in the comfort of private jets and lavish venues, Kenya battles a harsh reality. The nation, contributing less than 0.1% to global emissions, faces devastating floods and severe droughts, with lives lost and thousands displaced. This stark contrast highlights the gap between global climate talks and the urgent, life-threatening challenges faced by countries like Kenya.

Gravitas: Kenya climate crisis rages on as world leaders Cop-out

In an exclusive conversation, Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav tells Vikram Chandra about India's expectations from the ongoing COP28 climate summit in Dubai.

Expectations for the COP 28 Summit in Dubai

Day 2 of the 28th Annual UN Climate Summit begins with discussions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and effectively combat climate change will continue over the next two weeks. World leaders gathered for a family photo on the first day of the Leader Summit.

COP28 Summit: Indian PM stresses on use of hydrogen as alternate fuel

Day 2 of the 28th Annual UN climate Summit and discussions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and effectively combat climate change will go on over the next two weeks. World leaders gathered for a family photo on the first day of the leader Summit.

COP28 Summit: Indian PM stresses on use hydrogen as alternate fuel

With eighty-thousand attendees, COP28 is the largest ever climate summit in united nation's history. As the summit's 28th edition kick-started in Dubai, a climate disaster fund has been established with Germany & UAE pledging 100 million U.S. Dollar each. Indian prime minister proposed to host thirty-third edition of climate summit in India in the year 2028.

Cop28: India offers to host next summit, announces green fund

On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was looking forward to constructive talks and cooperation for a sustainable future at the COP-28 Summit in Paris.

COP28 summit in Dubai: India offers to host climate talks in 2028 | World News | WION

Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Monday (Nov 27) signed the Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in many sectors including energy and food security. According to a post by Pakistan Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar's office, these MoUs will unlock multi-billion dollars of investment from the UAE into Pakistan and will help realise various initiatives envisioned under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).

"Prime Minister termed the signing of MoUs as a historic event that will usher in a new era of Pak-UAE economic partnership," the post said. The signing of the MoUs comes as Pakistan's economy has been reeling under pressure for the last few years, and the country is battling an acute balance of payments crisis and falling foreign exchange reserves.&nbsp;

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Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar today held a bilateral meeting with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates in Abu Dhabi. Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M) was also present at the occasion. 
 
The… <a href="https://t.co/y5RGQNE5jz">pic.twitter.com/y5RGQNE5jz</a>
— Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/PakPMO/status/1729179934730391607?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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On Monday, PM Kakar held a bilateral meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. "The leaders underlined that Pakistan and the UAE have historic and deep-rooted fraternal ties which have stood the test of time. They reaffirmed the resolve to further strengthen bilateral strategic cooperation and dialogue between Pakistan and the UAE," the PMO post on X added.

During the meeting, regional and global developments were also discussed with particular reference to the deteriorating human rights and humanitarian situation in Palestine.&nbsp;

PM Kakar expressed Islamabad's support for a just and durable solution to the Palestinian question anchored in international law and in line with relevant United Nations and OIC resolutions.

He also reiterated the country's full support for the upcoming COP28 in the UAE, underlining its importance as an opportunity for meaningful progress towards effective and result-oriented global actions in key areas to mitigate climate impact including the establishment of the Loss and Damage Fund.

Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Monday (Nov 27) signed the Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in many sectors including energy and food security. According to a post by Pakistan Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar's office, these MoUs will unlock multi-billion dollars of investment from the UAE into Pakistan and will help realise various initiatives envisioned under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).

Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Monday (Nov 27) signed the Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in many sectors including energy and food security. According to a post by Pakistan Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar's office, these MoUs will unlock multi-billion dollars of investment from the UAE into Pakistan and will help realise various initiatives envisioned under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC). "Prime Minister termed the signing of MoUs as a historic event that will usher in a new era of Pak-UAE economic partnership," the post said. The signing of the MoUs comes as Pakistan's economy has been reeling under pressure for the last few years, and the country is battling an acute balance of payments crisis and falling foreign exchange reserves. Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar today held a bilateral meeting with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates in Abu Dhabi. Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M) was also present at the occasion. The… pic.twitter.com/y5RGQNE5jz — Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) November 27, 2023 × On Monday, PM Kakar held a bilateral meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. "The leaders underlined that Pakistan and the UAE have historic and deep-rooted fraternal ties which have stood the test of time. They reaffirmed the resolve to further strengthen bilateral strategic cooperation and dialogue between Pakistan and the UAE," the PMO post on X added. During the meeting, regional and global developments were also discussed with particular reference to the deteriorating human rights and humanitarian situation in Palestine. PM Kakar expressed Islamabad's support for a just and durable solution to the Palestinian question anchored in international law and in line with relevant United Nations and OIC resolutions. He also reiterated the country's full support for the upcoming COP28 in the UAE, underlining its importance as an opportunity for meaningful progress towards effective and result-oriented global actions in key areas to mitigate climate impact including the establishment of the Loss and Damage Fund.

Pakistan, UAE sign MoUs for investments in energy, food security, other sectors

As COP28 convenes in Dubai, leaked documents raise concerns over its focus. Will the summit truly address climate action, or are oil and gas deals overshadowing environmental priorities? The world watches as COP28 faces a critical test of its commitment to sustainable solutions.

Gravitas | COP28: Climate commitment or oil opportunism?

The United Nations chief urges world leaders to take decisive action to tackle ever-worsening climate change when they gather at the COP28 summit in Dubai starting this week. "We are trapped in a deadly cycle," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres says. "The solutions are well known."

COP 28 UAE: UN Chief calls fossil fuel production poisonous root of climate crisis

It has revealed that an investor from the United Arab Emirates has been approached to participate in the Suffolk nuclear power plant project, Sizewell C. With deteriorating Anglo-Sino relations and security worries over UK infrastructure last year, ministers are looking for new investors for the project, which may cost between £20 billion and £44 billion. The Chinese state-owned CGN was removed from the project.

UAE approached to invest in UK's key nuclear power plant

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