Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi makes a headline visit to Syria, says Bashar al-Assad has emerged victorious after the devastating Syrian civil war despite the country being subject to Western sanctions. He is the first Iranian visit to step foot in Damascus since the war.

Economy in focus as Iran's president embarks on landmark visit to Syria

Lebanon is marred by economic and political crises. It has impacted millions. Many have been left hopeless. And in these times of despair, there is a duo who is humour to survive the hardships. @ghadifrancis brings you the full report on this week's #TheWestAsiaPost

Amid Lebanon crisis, humour offers glimmer of light

<p>Emirati astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi scripted history on Friday by completing the first spacewalk for an Arab astronaut outside the International Space Station (ISS).&nbsp;AlNayedi held the UAE flag with "Impossible is Possible" written on his spacesuit sleeve.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At 5.11 p.m. (UAE time), AlNeyadi and veteran NASA astronaut Stephen Bowen began their more than six-hour spacewalk. They were helped into their gear by NASA flight engineers Woody Hoburg and Frank Rubio, who were present on board the ISS. "Sultan, congratulations, you are making history today." Hoburg said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Al Neyadi participated in the NASA SpaceX Crew-6 mission, which sent him to the International Space Station, on March 2.&nbsp;The UAE astronaut al Neyadi also celebrated Eid al-Fitr this year at the ISS whereby he sent his wishes to everyone from sky-high on Friday with a video message shared on his social media account. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-nations-reach-deal-in-principle-to-transit-grain-from-ukraine-587170">EU nations reach deal 'in principle' to transit grain from Ukraine</a></p>

<p>UAE astronaut Hazzaa AlMansoori served as the point of contact between the ISS crew and the ground crew during Expedition 69. He was the first Emirati to travel to space in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From the NASA Johnson Space Centre in Houston, he kept an eye on the mission. Following all the action from the ISS, the Emirati crew at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) was also quite active.</p>

<p>Bowen, who was the lead spacewalker on his eighth spacewalk. He was the first to exit the Joint Quest Airlock on the ISS in red stripes spacesuit. AlNeyadi took the first step outside the ISS at 5:39 p.m. (UAE time).&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="ar">رائد الفضاء سلطان النيادي ينجز أول مهمة سير في الفضاء بتاريخ العرب.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%B7%D9%85%D9%88%D8%AD_%D8%B2%D8%A7%D9%8A%D8%AF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#طموح_زايد</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%A3%D9%88%D9%84_%D9%85%D9%87%D9%85%D8%A9_%D8%B9%D8%B1%D8%A8%D9%8A%D8%A9_%D9%84%D9%84%D8%B3%D9%8A%D8%B1_%D9%81%D9%8A_%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%81%D8%B6%D8%A7%D8%A1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#أول_مهمة_عربية_للسير_في_الفضاء</a> <a href="https://t.co/A3rXBr6WBS">pic.twitter.com/A3rXBr6WBS</a></p>
— MBR Space Centre (@MBRSpaceCentre) <a href="https://twitter.com/MBRSpaceCentre/status/1652043289187459092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>During the live transmission, AlNeyadi can be heard receiving praise from the NASA crew in Houston for his excellent work. "That was impressive, Sultan. You have a surgeon's hands,” the ground controller told the Emirati astronaut.</p>

<p>The two astronauts and the NASA ground controller were in continual contact. AlNeyadi and Bowen were further instructed to inspect their gloves and helmet absorption pad (HAP) after every 90 minutes to make sure there was no moisture inside of their helmets or rips in their gloves.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | After Russia's winter assault, Ukraine prepares for summer attack</strong></p>

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<p>The oxygen levels, water use for cooling, battery power, and carbon dioxide removal were all observed by the ground teams.&nbsp;The first assignment, prepping a section of the ISS for the construction of a future solar array, was successfully finished by Al Neyadi and Bowen.</p>

<p>However, they were unable to complete the second task, removing an outdated component of the Radio Frequency Group. They faced trouble trying to remove the bolts which were holding the ISS antenna in place. Even after exerting pressure and being told to use a hammer, the two astronauts were unable to remove it.</p>

<p>Then, NASA gave them the go-ahead to forego retrieving the unit that was intended to be retrieved from space and returned to the station for refurbishment.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Emirati astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi scripted history on Friday by completing the first spacewalk for an Arab astronaut outside the International Space Station (ISS).

Emirati astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi scripted history on Friday by completing the first spacewalk for an Arab astronaut outside the International Space Station (ISS). AlNayedi held the UAE flag with "Impossible is Possible" written on his spacesuit sleeve. At 5.11 p.m. (UAE time), AlNeyadi and veteran NASA astronaut Stephen Bowen began their more than six-hour spacewalk. They were helped into their gear by NASA flight engineers Woody Hoburg and Frank Rubio, who were present on board the ISS. "Sultan, congratulations, you are making history today." Hoburg said. Al Neyadi participated in the NASA SpaceX Crew-6 mission, which sent him to the International Space Station, on March 2. The UAE astronaut al Neyadi also celebrated Eid al-Fitr this year at the ISS whereby he sent his wishes to everyone from sky-high on Friday with a video message shared on his social media account. Also Read | EU nations reach deal 'in principle' to transit grain from Ukraine UAE astronaut Hazzaa AlMansoori served as the point of contact between the ISS crew and the ground crew during Expedition 69. He was the first Emirati to travel to space in 2019. From the NASA Johnson Space Centre in Houston, he kept an eye on the mission. Following all the action from the ISS, the Emirati crew at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) was also quite active. Bowen, who was the lead spacewalker on his eighth spacewalk. He was the first to exit the Joint Quest Airlock on the ISS in red stripes spacesuit. AlNeyadi took the first step outside the ISS at 5:39 p.m. (UAE time). رائد الفضاء سلطان النيادي ينجز أول مهمة سير في الفضاء بتاريخ العرب.#طموح_زايد #أول_مهمة_عربية_للسير_في_الفضاء pic.twitter.com/A3rXBr6WBS — MBR Space Centre (@MBRSpaceCentre) April 28, 2023 × Also Read | Indian Air Force uses night vision goggles, bravely rescues 121 people from Sudan airstrip During the live transmission, AlNeyadi can be heard receiving praise from the NASA crew in Houston for his excellent work. "That was impressive, Sultan. You have a surgeon's hands,” the ground controller told the Emirati astronaut. The two astronauts and the NASA ground controller were in continual contact. AlNeyadi and Bowen were further instructed to inspect their gloves and helmet absorption pad (HAP) after every 90 minutes to make sure there was no moisture inside of their helmets or rips in their gloves. Watch | After Russia's winter assault, Ukraine prepares for summer attack × The oxygen levels, water use for cooling, battery power, and carbon dioxide removal were all observed by the ground teams. The first assignment, prepping a section of the ISS for the construction of a future solar array, was successfully finished by Al Neyadi and Bowen. However, they were unable to complete the second task, removing an outdated component of the Radio Frequency Group. They faced trouble trying to remove the bolts which were holding the ISS antenna in place. Even after exerting pressure and being told to use a hammer, the two astronauts were unable to remove it. Then, NASA gave them the go-ahead to forego retrieving the unit that was intended to be retrieved from space and returned to the station for refurbishment. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | UAE astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi scripts history, becomes first Arab to take spacewalk

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) achieved a new milestone on Friday when astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi ventured out of the International Space Station (ISS) and completed his spacewalk.

Sultan AlNeyadi makes history, becomes first Arab to complete spacewalk on ISS

<p>New construction was detected in December by the American spy services at a suspected Chinese military facility located in the United Arab Emirates, more than a year after the country announced that the project was being stopped because of concerns raised by the United States, revealed 'The Discord Leaks' according to The Washington Post.</p>

<p>Activities carried out at a port close to Abu Dhabi falls among the list of developments in the UAE which involved the Chinese military. The US intelligence was monitoring this as it was concerned that the UAE, which has been a longtime security partner of the United States, is developing closer ties with China at the expense of Washington's interests, stated the report published in The Washington Post.</p>

<p>The revelations were made in the documents and interviews related to the senior officials in the Biden administration. The US officials were also concerned after Chinese military personnel were seen around other sensitive construction sites.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/argentina-moves-away-from-us-dollar-for-trade-in-chinese-currency-586465">Argentina moves away from US dollar for trade in Chinese currency</a></p>

<p>The efforts made by Beijing in the UAE are part of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army's (PLA) ambitious campaign to build a global military network which includes 10 logistical support sites and five overseas bases by 2030, stated one of the documents which included a map of other facilities planned in Southeast Asia, Middle East and throughout Africa.</p>

<p>The initiative was called by the Chinese military officials as “Project 141,” stated the leaked materials. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“There are some people in the administration who think the UAE has fundamentally decided to work with us. I do not believe that,” a senior administration official was quoted as saying in the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UAE’s leaders “think that China is hugely important right now and rising in the Middle East,” the official added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Chinese Embassy's spokesman in Washington Liu Pengyu said that concerns of the US about the military facilities of China are misplaced.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | China’s Xi Jinping calls Ukrainian President Zelensky, US and EU hails the talks</strong></p>

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<p>“As a principle, China conducts normal law enforcement and security cooperation with other countries on the basis of equality and mutual benefit,” said Liu.</p>

<p>“The U.S. runs more than 800 overseas military bases, which has caused concern by many countries around the world. It is in no position to criticize other countries,” he further stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The officials of the US insisted that they won't let a Chinese base become operational in the UAE, stating that this kind of facility would jeopardise sensitive activities of the US military activities in the Middle East.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“UAE is a close partner, and we are regularly engaged with its senior leadership on a number of regional and global matters,” said a second senior administration official.&nbsp;</p>

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New construction was detected in December by the American spy services at a suspected Chinese military facility located in the United Arab Emirates, more than a year after the country announced that the project was being stopped because of concerns raised by the United States, revealed 'The Discord Leaks' according to The Washington Post.

New construction was detected in December by the American spy services at a suspected Chinese military facility located in the United Arab Emirates, more than a year after the country announced that the project was being stopped because of concerns raised by the United States, revealed 'The Discord Leaks' according to The Washington Post. Activities carried out at a port close to Abu Dhabi falls among the list of developments in the UAE which involved the Chinese military. The US intelligence was monitoring this as it was concerned that the UAE, which has been a longtime security partner of the United States, is developing closer ties with China at the expense of Washington's interests, stated the report published in The Washington Post. The revelations were made in the documents and interviews related to the senior officials in the Biden administration. The US officials were also concerned after Chinese military personnel were seen around other sensitive construction sites. ALSO READ | Argentina moves away from US dollar for trade in Chinese currency The efforts made by Beijing in the UAE are part of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army's (PLA) ambitious campaign to build a global military network which includes 10 logistical support sites and five overseas bases by 2030, stated one of the documents which included a map of other facilities planned in Southeast Asia, Middle East and throughout Africa. The initiative was called by the Chinese military officials as “Project 141,” stated the leaked materials. “There are some people in the administration who think the UAE has fundamentally decided to work with us. I do not believe that,” a senior administration official was quoted as saying in the report. The UAE’s leaders “think that China is hugely important right now and rising in the Middle East,” the official added. The Chinese Embassy's spokesman in Washington Liu Pengyu said that concerns of the US about the military facilities of China are misplaced. WATCH | China’s Xi Jinping calls Ukrainian President Zelensky, US and EU hails the talks “As a principle, China conducts normal law enforcement and security cooperation with other countries on the basis of equality and mutual benefit,” said Liu. “The U.S. runs more than 800 overseas military bases, which has caused concern by many countries around the world. It is in no position to criticize other countries,” he further stated. The officials of the US insisted that they won't let a Chinese base become operational in the UAE, stating that this kind of facility would jeopardise sensitive activities of the US military activities in the Middle East. “UAE is a close partner, and we are regularly engaged with its senior leadership on a number of regional and global matters,” said a second senior administration official. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US spies detected construction at suspected Chinese military site in UAE, reveals Discord Leaks

<p>UAE astronaut Sultan al Neyadi, who is celebrating the occasion of Eid al-Fitr this year at the International Space Station, sent his wishes to everyone from sky-high on Friday with a video message shared on his social media account.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a video he posted on Twitter, Al Neyadi was seen floating in zero gravity at the ISS alongside his companion ‘astro’ Suhail. Suhail is a mascot for the nation's space mission. Suhail tagged along Dr Al Neyadi and his crewmates as they took off from the Kennedy Space Centre early March.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his special message from zero gravity, the astronaut was seen making jokes about how Suhail and he both are wearing their best attire for the feast for Eid al-Fitr.&nbsp;He sent his wishes to his family, his country, and everyone across the world.</p>

<p>On March 2, Al Neyadi took part in NASA's SpaceX Crew-6 mission, which sent him to the International Space Station. On April 28, he is slated to go for a spacewalk.</p>

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<p>Al Neyadi was seen wearing a white kandura, a traditional dress men wear in UAE. The one-minute video also had some celebratory Arabic music playing in the background.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the caption, Al Neyadi wrote, “Usually, Eid is with my family and children. But today, I’ll be celebrating Eid with my trusty companion Suhail."</p>

<p>“On this blessed occasion, I send my warmest greetings to my family, friends, and everyone back on Earth. May this special occasion bring you peace, happiness, and prosperity. Eid Mubarak!,”</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/tesla-secures-big-win-in-crash-case-court-says-autopilot-feature-did-not-fail-584976">Tesla secures big win in crash case, court says autopilot feature did not fail</a></p>

<p>Saeed Al Emadi, an Emirati artist is behind Suhail, the space mascot.&nbsp;Al Emadi from the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre sketched this character to pique everyone's interest in space.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video shows the Al Nayedi and Suhail inside the Cupola observatory module of the International Space Station.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Suhail, in the video, can be seen wearing a grey kandura. It is interesting as Suhail is usually seen wearing a SpaceX spacesuit.</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="ar">بالعادة العيد مع أهلي وعيالي لكن اليوم أنا مع صديقي سهيل وكاشخين كشخة العيد في محطة الفضاء الدولية.<br />
<br />
وفي هذه المناسبة، أرسل سلامي إلى قادة الوطن وعائلتي وأصدقائي ولكم جميعًا. عسى أن يحمل هذا العيد السلام والسعادة والخير للعالم أجمع. 🌍<br />
كل عام وانتم بألف خير وعساكم من عوّاده. 🌙 <a href="https://t.co/YX7x1tOYrn">pic.twitter.com/YX7x1tOYrn</a></p>
— Sultan AlNeyadi (@Astro_Alneyadi) <a href="https://twitter.com/Astro_Alneyadi/status/1649288902665031680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Al Neyadi also provided a brief tour of the dome-shaped bay window. It was a breathtaking view of the planet from a height of 400 km.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Oliver Dowden named UK deputy pm after Dominic Raab's resignation</strong></p>

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<p>Al Neyadi has been doing scientific research throughout the whole month of Ramadan. He is presently on a half-year assignment atop the orbiting space station.</p>

<p>It is not the first time Al Nayedi shared a&nbsp;video from sky-high. The trailblazing Emirati astronaut has been posting gorgeous and amazing photographs of Earth from orbit. Early this week, AlNeyadi published a stunning video shot from the orbiting laboratory that displayed Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah, the three Saudi Arabian cities, gleaming at night.</p>

<p>"This is the city to which Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) immigrated with his beloved people," AlNeyadi wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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UAE astronaut Sultan al Neyadi, who is celebrating the occasion of Eid al-Fitr this year at the International Space Station, sent his wishes to everyone from sky-high on Friday with a video message shared on his social media account.

UAE astronaut Sultan al Neyadi, who is celebrating the occasion of Eid al-Fitr this year at the International Space Station, sent his wishes to everyone from sky-high on Friday with a video message shared on his social media account. In a video he posted on Twitter, Al Neyadi was seen floating in zero gravity at the ISS alongside his companion ‘astro’ Suhail. Suhail is a mascot for the nation's space mission. Suhail tagged along Dr Al Neyadi and his crewmates as they took off from the Kennedy Space Centre early March. In his special message from zero gravity, the astronaut was seen making jokes about how Suhail and he both are wearing their best attire for the feast for Eid al-Fitr. He sent his wishes to his family, his country, and everyone across the world. On March 2, Al Neyadi took part in NASA's SpaceX Crew-6 mission, which sent him to the International Space Station. On April 28, he is slated to go for a spacewalk. Also Read | Jack Dorsey's Twitter alternative Bluesky makes debut on Android Al Neyadi was seen wearing a white kandura, a traditional dress men wear in UAE. The one-minute video also had some celebratory Arabic music playing in the background. In the caption, Al Neyadi wrote, “Usually, Eid is with my family and children. But today, I’ll be celebrating Eid with my trusty companion Suhail." “On this blessed occasion, I send my warmest greetings to my family, friends, and everyone back on Earth. May this special occasion bring you peace, happiness, and prosperity. Eid Mubarak!,” Also Read | Tesla secures big win in crash case, court says autopilot feature did not fail Saeed Al Emadi, an Emirati artist is behind Suhail, the space mascot. Al Emadi from the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre sketched this character to pique everyone's interest in space. The video shows the Al Nayedi and Suhail inside the Cupola observatory module of the International Space Station. Suhail, in the video, can be seen wearing a grey kandura. It is interesting as Suhail is usually seen wearing a SpaceX spacesuit. بالعادة العيد مع أهلي وعيالي لكن اليوم أنا مع صديقي سهيل وكاشخين كشخة العيد في محطة الفضاء الدولية. وفي هذه المناسبة، أرسل سلامي إلى قادة الوطن وعائلتي وأصدقائي ولكم جميعًا. عسى أن يحمل هذا العيد السلام والسعادة والخير للعالم أجمع. 🌍 كل عام وانتم بألف خير وعساكم من عوّاده. 🌙 pic.twitter.com/YX7x1tOYrn — Sultan AlNeyadi (@Astro_Alneyadi) April 21, 2023 × Al Neyadi also provided a brief tour of the dome-shaped bay window. It was a breathtaking view of the planet from a height of 400 km. Watch | Oliver Dowden named UK deputy pm after Dominic Raab's resignation × Al Neyadi has been doing scientific research throughout the whole month of Ramadan. He is presently on a half-year assignment atop the orbiting space station. It is not the first time Al Nayedi shared a video from sky-high. The trailblazing Emirati astronaut has been posting gorgeous and amazing photographs of Earth from orbit. Early this week, AlNeyadi published a stunning video shot from the orbiting laboratory that displayed Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah, the three Saudi Arabian cities, gleaming at night. "This is the city to which Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) immigrated with his beloved people," AlNeyadi wrote. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | UAE astronaut sends Eid-al-Fitr wishes with breathtaking view from space

Abdul Rahim Al Zarooni, an emirate businessman, is the most recent billionaire to join a distinguished group of supporters who have given significant quantities of money to eradicate hunger throughout the world. Al Zarooni has given 1.3 million dollars to the UAE's 1 billion meals endowment campaign.

U.A.E's Ramadan Initiative: One billion meals endowment campaign

On his way back from a trip to China, Brazilian President Lula de Silva stopped in the West Asian nation and met with UAE Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. During their discussion, the two leaders addressed a variety of topics, including trade, technology, defence, air travel and food safety.

Brazilian President Lula Da Silva meets UAE's Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi

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<p>A week after a United Arab Emirates court rejected South Africa's request to extradite the fugitive Gupta brothers, a damning report has named a well-known launderer that helped the Guptas siphon off state assets. The report published by Al-Jazeera named&nbsp;one Mohamed Khan, also known as Mo Dollars, as the one who allegedly pulled the strings from behind.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khan is dubbed as the missing link in the case and the one who helped the Guptas bleed the country's exchequer dry. He is part of the gold mafia that is into smuggling and money laundering gangs operating in Southern Africa, the publication claimed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the lid was blown over the corruption saga of the Gupta brothers, the South African government formed an investigation panel named the 'Zondo Commission' in 2018. The panel identified three companies viz., Varlozone, Zokubyte and Coral General Traders as the epicentre of the fraud and capture of state funds.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Money vanished in thin air</strong></h2>

<p>However, the investigators never managed to identify the lynchpin who operated these fraudulent companies. Notably, the report claims that Khan, through his companies, transferred the looted money abroad on behalf of the Guptas. The money used to vanish soon and the investigators were left chasing nothing but invisible air.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The investigators made a connection when they found out that money funnelled through Varlozone went to Griffin Line General Trading — a Dubai-based company which was reportedly owned by the Gupta brothers. However, upon investigation, they found Varlozone was owned by Shah Bukhari who was only a frontman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We were basically looking at the flow of money into this network from the state capture and we knew it was going through a money laundering network,” a Zondo Commission investigator was quoted as saying by the publication.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report alleged that Varlozone managed to launder as much as $1.8m of state capture money over a six-month period while Zokubyte laundered at least $600,000. Coral General Traders,&nbsp;the third company, acted as a temporary safe space for the funds which was parked there before being moved offshore.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gupta-brothers-nabbed-in-uae-duo-wanted-in-16mn-fraud-485962"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gupta Brothers nabbed in UAE | Duo wanted in $1.6mn fraud</strong></a></p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-court-dismisses-south-africas-request-to-extradite-corruption-accused-gupta-brothers-580157#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<p>The money was moved using a process called 'merchanting' wherein fake invoices are created to insinuate that advance payment is being made in lieu of the import of goods. The reports claims that&nbsp;Sasfin Bank and its employees were in on the money laundering scheme. Khan had allegedly bribed the bank employees and the money used to flow through it without any hassle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Varlozone, Zokubyte, Coral, they all played the same role.&nbsp;You couldn’t utilise the same account on a daily basis. So, you would spread your funds across different accounts at different times across the week or a month," said&nbsp;Dawood Khan, Mohamed’s brother.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When the publication approached&nbsp;Mohamed Khan, he denied&nbsp;the allegations saying&nbsp;he had never met the Gupta brothers and declined using any of the companies identified to launder money.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The Gupta brothers</strong></h2>

<p>The two brothers named Atul and Rajesh Gupta were arrested in the UAE last year and face charges of political corruption involving former South African president Jacob Zuma. However, last week, South Africa's&nbsp;Justice Minister Ronald Lamola informed that the Arab nation had refused to hand them over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the evening of the 6th of April 2023, we were provided with a note verbale from the UAE in which we learnt with shock and dismay that an extradition hearing had been concluded in the UAE courts on the 13th of February 2023 and our extradition request was unsuccessful," said Lamola.</p>

<p>The UAE court noted it had the jurisdiction to prosecute the Guptas for money laundering offences that were carried out in the Arab country as well as South Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-court-dismisses-south-africas-request-to-extradite-corruption-accused-gupta-brothers-580157" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | UAE court dismisses South Africa's request to extradite corruption-accused Gupta brothers</strong></a></p>

<p>The Gupta brothers have been accused of building a huge business empire in myriad fields such as media, mining and&nbsp;computer equipment — primarily due to the help of Zuma who also helped siphon off state assets from South Africa. According to reports, Gupta's cauldron of corruption may have cost the South African exchequer as much as $3.2 billion.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A week after a United Arab Emirates court rejected South Africa's request to extradite the fugitive Gupta brothers, a damning report has named a well-known launderer that helped the Guptas siphon off state assets.

A week after a United Arab Emirates court rejected South Africa's request to extradite the fugitive Gupta brothers, a damning report has named a well-known launderer that helped the Guptas siphon off state assets. The report published by Al-Jazeera named one Mohamed Khan, also known as Mo Dollars, as the one who allegedly pulled the strings from behind. Khan is dubbed as the missing link in the case and the one who helped the Guptas bleed the country's exchequer dry. He is part of the gold mafia that is into smuggling and money laundering gangs operating in Southern Africa, the publication claimed. After the lid was blown over the corruption saga of the Gupta brothers, the South African government formed an investigation panel named the 'Zondo Commission' in 2018. The panel identified three companies viz., Varlozone, Zokubyte and Coral General Traders as the epicentre of the fraud and capture of state funds. Money vanished in thin air However, the investigators never managed to identify the lynchpin who operated these fraudulent companies. Notably, the report claims that Khan, through his companies, transferred the looted money abroad on behalf of the Guptas. The money used to vanish soon and the investigators were left chasing nothing but invisible air. The investigators made a connection when they found out that money funnelled through Varlozone went to Griffin Line General Trading — a Dubai-based company which was reportedly owned by the Gupta brothers. However, upon investigation, they found Varlozone was owned by Shah Bukhari who was only a frontman. “We were basically looking at the flow of money into this network from the state capture and we knew it was going through a money laundering network,” a Zondo Commission investigator was quoted as saying by the publication. The report alleged that Varlozone managed to launder as much as $1.8m of state capture money over a six-month period while Zokubyte laundered at least $600,000. Coral General Traders, the third company, acted as a temporary safe space for the funds which was parked there before being moved offshore. WATCH | Gupta Brothers nabbed in UAE | Duo wanted in $1.6mn fraud × The money was moved using a process called 'merchanting' wherein fake invoices are created to insinuate that advance payment is being made in lieu of the import of goods. The reports claims that Sasfin Bank and its employees were in on the money laundering scheme. Khan had allegedly bribed the bank employees and the money used to flow through it without any hassle. “Varlozone, Zokubyte, Coral, they all played the same role. You couldn’t utilise the same account on a daily basis. So, you would spread your funds across different accounts at different times across the week or a month," said Dawood Khan, Mohamed’s brother. When the publication approached Mohamed Khan, he denied the allegations saying he had never met the Gupta brothers and declined using any of the companies identified to launder money. The Gupta brothers The two brothers named Atul and Rajesh Gupta were arrested in the UAE last year and face charges of political corruption involving former South African president Jacob Zuma. However, last week, South Africa's Justice Minister Ronald Lamola informed that the Arab nation had refused to hand them over. "In the evening of the 6th of April 2023, we were provided with a note verbale from the UAE in which we learnt with shock and dismay that an extradition hearing had been concluded in the UAE courts on the 13th of February 2023 and our extradition request was unsuccessful," said Lamola. The UAE court noted it had the jurisdiction to prosecute the Guptas for money laundering offences that were carried out in the Arab country as well as South Africa. ALSO READ | UAE court dismisses South Africa's request to extradite corruption-accused Gupta brothers The Gupta brothers have been accused of building a huge business empire in myriad fields such as media, mining and computer equipment — primarily due to the help of Zuma who also helped siphon off state assets from South Africa. According to reports, Gupta's cauldron of corruption may have cost the South African exchequer as much as $3.2 billion. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

South Africa-based gold mafia helped corruption-accused Gupta brothers launder money: Report

<p>Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday said it was Army Chief General Asim Munir who had been working behind the scenes&nbsp;to secure bilateral financing&nbsp;from friendly countries such as UAE and Saudi Arabia&nbsp;to meet the pre-condition set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to secure a bailout package.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharif, while addressing a ceremony, said he was now hopeful that the IMF will not delay in releasing the $1.1 billion payment as part of the bailout package agreed upon in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir has contributed to the government's efforts to secure funds from Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Hopefully the IMF will now have no excuse to delay the agreement (to release a tranche of USD 1.1 billion)," said Sharif.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-pakistans-economic-crisis-getting-worse-550882"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Is Pakistan's economic crisis getting worse?</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>UAE and Saudi Arabia step up to help</strong></h2>

<p>The cash-strapped country has been looking to secure the IMF package for a long time. However, the international lender has been reluctant to open its wallet, unless Islamabad satisfies its pre-requisites.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After seeing no light at the end of the tunnel, UAE on Friday confirmed that it would provide a $1 billion loan to Islamabad. A week earlier,&nbsp;Saudi Arabia assured that it would provide $2 billion in the loan amount.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Realising our problems, China provided a rollover of $2 billion loan, besides returning back previous debt amount paid back by Pakistan. The UAE had committed a loan of $3 billion,"&nbsp;added Sharif.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement by Sharif come in stark contrast to the announcement made by the Pakistani Army wherein it was said that General Munir had no role in the politics of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pakistan-gets-a-step-closer-to-getting-imf-bailout-after-uae-saudi-arabia-pledge-billions-in-assistance-582451"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Pakistan a step closer to getting IMF bailout after UAE, Saudi Arabia pledge billions in assistance</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Pakistan needs IMF's help</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan is in dire need of funds. Last week, the World Bank and Asian Development Bank projected the&nbsp;country’s gross domestic product to grow by a measly 0.4 per cent and 0.6 per cent respectively. Additionally, the inflation for FY23 was projected at 29.5 per cent and 27.5 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, fresh readings issued by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) last month showed that yearly short-term inflation rose by 46.65 per cent during the week that ended on March 22 — the highest recorded in the country's history.</p>

<p>According to reports, Pakistan has less than a month’s worth of foreign exchange reserves.&nbsp; Moreover, the global credit rating agency Moody's downgraded Pakistan's local and foreign currency credit ratings from Caa1 to Caa3.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday said it was Army Chief General Asim Munir who had been working behind the scenes to secure bilateral financing from friendly countries such as UAE and Saudi Arabia to meet the pre-condition set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to secure a bailout package.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday said it was Army Chief General Asim Munir who had been working behind the scenes to secure bilateral financing from friendly countries such as UAE and Saudi Arabia to meet the pre-condition set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to secure a bailout package. Sharif, while addressing a ceremony, said he was now hopeful that the IMF will not delay in releasing the $1.1 billion payment as part of the bailout package agreed upon in 2019. "Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir has contributed to the government's efforts to secure funds from Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Hopefully the IMF will now have no excuse to delay the agreement (to release a tranche of USD 1.1 billion)," said Sharif. WATCH | Is Pakistan's economic crisis getting worse? × UAE and Saudi Arabia step up to help The cash-strapped country has been looking to secure the IMF package for a long time. However, the international lender has been reluctant to open its wallet, unless Islamabad satisfies its pre-requisites. After seeing no light at the end of the tunnel, UAE on Friday confirmed that it would provide a $1 billion loan to Islamabad. A week earlier, Saudi Arabia assured that it would provide $2 billion in the loan amount. "Realising our problems, China provided a rollover of $2 billion loan, besides returning back previous debt amount paid back by Pakistan. The UAE had committed a loan of $3 billion," added Sharif. The statement by Sharif come in stark contrast to the announcement made by the Pakistani Army wherein it was said that General Munir had no role in the politics of the country. ALSO READ | Pakistan a step closer to getting IMF bailout after UAE, Saudi Arabia pledge billions in assistance Pakistan needs IMF's help Pakistan is in dire need of funds. Last week, the World Bank and Asian Development Bank projected the country’s gross domestic product to grow by a measly 0.4 per cent and 0.6 per cent respectively. Additionally, the inflation for FY23 was projected at 29.5 per cent and 27.5 per cent. Notably, fresh readings issued by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) last month showed that yearly short-term inflation rose by 46.65 per cent during the week that ended on March 22 — the highest recorded in the country's history. According to reports, Pakistan has less than a month’s worth of foreign exchange reserves. Moreover, the global credit rating agency Moody's downgraded Pakistan's local and foreign currency credit ratings from Caa1 to Caa3. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan Army chief helped secure funds from UAE, Saudi to fulfill IMF pre-condition, says PM Sharif

<p>The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has confirmed that it would provide a $1 billion loan to Islamabad, said Pakistan Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, on Friday (April 14),&nbsp;getting the cash-strapped country one step closer to receiving the long-awaited bailout tranche from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This comes a week after Pakistan had said that Saudi Arabia had assured that it would provide a $2 billion loan after the Washington-based lender had asked Islamabad to get financing assurances before a loan can be disbursed.</p>

<p>Referring to the country’s central bank, Dar took to Twitter and wrote, “The State Bank of Pakistan is now engaged for needful documentation for taking the said deposit from UAE authorities.” The commitment by UAE is one of the last requirements of the IMF before it would release a tranche of $1.1 billion which is crucial for&nbsp;Pakistan’s acute balance of payments crisis.</p>

<p>Pakistan is facing soaring inflation at 35.37 per cent, the highest in over five decades, while prices of essential food items such as wheat flour, sugar, and edible oil rose significantly. This also comes nearly a week after a United States-based think tank released a report which said that Pakistan owes around $77 billion to several public and private entities in China, Saudi Arabia, and UAE.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The recent announcement makes UAE the third country after Saudi Arabia and China to have come to Pakistan’s assistance amid the country’s need for external financing to bridge the balance of payments gap for this fiscal year which ends in June. According to reports, Pakistan has less than a month’s worth of foreign exchange reserves.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As of December 2022, Islamabad also holds external debt and liabilities of $126.3 billion, at least 77 per cent of this debt, which amounts to around $97.5 billion, is directly owed by Pakistan’s government to various creditors, said a report by Washington-based think tank, United States Institute of Peace (USIP), earlier this month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking about Pakistan’s bailout, IMF managing director Kristalina Georgieva, on Thursday, said, “My hope is that with the goodwill of everyone, and the implementation of what has been already agreed by the Pakistan authorities, we can complete our current programme successfully.” She added that they are also in talks with friendly countries of Pakistan to provide financial assurances so it can complete the programme. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has confirmed that it would provide a $1 billion loan to Islamabad, said Pakistan Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, on Friday (April 14), getting the cash-strapped country one step closer to receiving the long-awaited bailout tranche from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has confirmed that it would provide a $1 billion loan to Islamabad, said Pakistan Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, on Friday (April 14), getting the cash-strapped country one step closer to receiving the long-awaited bailout tranche from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This comes a week after Pakistan had said that Saudi Arabia had assured that it would provide a $2 billion loan after the Washington-based lender had asked Islamabad to get financing assurances before a loan can be disbursed. Referring to the country’s central bank, Dar took to Twitter and wrote, “The State Bank of Pakistan is now engaged for needful documentation for taking the said deposit from UAE authorities.” The commitment by UAE is one of the last requirements of the IMF before it would release a tranche of $1.1 billion which is crucial for Pakistan’s acute balance of payments crisis. Pakistan is facing soaring inflation at 35.37 per cent, the highest in over five decades, while prices of essential food items such as wheat flour, sugar, and edible oil rose significantly. This also comes nearly a week after a United States-based think tank released a report which said that Pakistan owes around $77 billion to several public and private entities in China, Saudi Arabia, and UAE. The recent announcement makes UAE the third country after Saudi Arabia and China to have come to Pakistan’s assistance amid the country’s need for external financing to bridge the balance of payments gap for this fiscal year which ends in June. According to reports, Pakistan has less than a month’s worth of foreign exchange reserves. As of December 2022, Islamabad also holds external debt and liabilities of $126.3 billion, at least 77 per cent of this debt, which amounts to around $97.5 billion, is directly owed by Pakistan’s government to various creditors, said a report by Washington-based think tank, United States Institute of Peace (USIP), earlier this month. Speaking about Pakistan’s bailout, IMF managing director Kristalina Georgieva, on Thursday, said, “My hope is that with the goodwill of everyone, and the implementation of what has been already agreed by the Pakistan authorities, we can complete our current programme successfully.” She added that they are also in talks with friendly countries of Pakistan to provide financial assurances so it can complete the programme. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan a step closer to getting IMF bailout after UAE, Saudi Arabia pledge billions in assistance

<p><strong>Eid Al Fitr 2023 holiday:</strong> The UAE government has announced the official holiday for Eid Al Fitr. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) of UAE has declared private sector employees could get five days off during the festival. As per Khaleej Times, the holidays will last from Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 3 as per the Islamic calendar. Ramadan 29 falls on Thursday, April 20.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Check Eid Al Fitr holiday details in UAE</strong></h2>

<p>The holiday could last for four or five days, depending on when the moon is spotted. The Eid break begins on Ramadan 29, that is April 20. On the same day, UAE’s moon-sighting committee will confirm the dates of the Eid holidays. If the moon is spotted on the night of April 20, then April 21 will be the first day of Eid. That will give residents and employees of private and public sector employees a four-day holiday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, if the moon is not spotted on the night of April 20, then April 22 will be taken as the first day of the Eid festival. In that case, residents will enjoy a 5-day-long break.</p>

<p>The most likely scenario is that people will get Eid break from Thursday, April 20, to Sunday, April 23. This year, according to astronomical estimations, Ramadan will last for 29 days. In most Islamic nations, including the UAE, the first day of Eid Al Fitr is anticipated to fall on Friday, April 21, meaning there will be a four-day holiday for locals.</p>

<h2><strong>Same holiday break for the public and private sector</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) of UAE had announced that both public and private sector employees will get the same number of holidays for the Eid festival. It means that both private and public sector employees will most likely get a 4-day long break.</p>

<h2><strong>Eid Al Fitr full holiday list (Most likely scenario)</strong></h2>

<p>April 20, Thursday<br />
April 21, Friday<br />
April 22, Saturday<br />
April 23, Sunday</p>

<p>Regular work will resume on Monday, April 24.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Eid Al Fitr 2023 holiday: The UAE government has announced the official holiday for Eid Al Fitr. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) of UAE has declared private sector employees could get five days off during the festival.

Eid Al Fitr 2023 holiday: The UAE government has announced the official holiday for Eid Al Fitr. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) of UAE has declared private sector employees could get five days off during the festival. As per Khaleej Times, the holidays will last from Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 3 as per the Islamic calendar. Ramadan 29 falls on Thursday, April 20. Check Eid Al Fitr holiday details in UAE The holiday could last for four or five days, depending on when the moon is spotted. The Eid break begins on Ramadan 29, that is April 20. On the same day, UAE’s moon-sighting committee will confirm the dates of the Eid holidays. If the moon is spotted on the night of April 20, then April 21 will be the first day of Eid. That will give residents and employees of private and public sector employees a four-day holiday. However, if the moon is not spotted on the night of April 20, then April 22 will be taken as the first day of the Eid festival. In that case, residents will enjoy a 5-day-long break. The most likely scenario is that people will get Eid break from Thursday, April 20, to Sunday, April 23. This year, according to astronomical estimations, Ramadan will last for 29 days. In most Islamic nations, including the UAE, the first day of Eid Al Fitr is anticipated to fall on Friday, April 21, meaning there will be a four-day holiday for locals. Same holiday break for the public and private sector Earlier, the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) of UAE had announced that both public and private sector employees will get the same number of holidays for the Eid festival. It means that both private and public sector employees will most likely get a 4-day long break. Eid Al Fitr full holiday list (Most likely scenario) April 20, Thursday April 21, Friday April 22, Saturday April 23, Sunday Regular work will resume on Monday, April 24.

Eid Al Fitr 2023 holiday: UAE announces long weekend break for private and public sector

<p>A video of Pakistan ex-prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s daughter, Maryam Nawaz, stopping a journalist from airing a question and her response about allegedly possessing a BMW car is making waves on social media platforms.</p>

<p>The viral clip, which has been widely circulating on social media since Monday, allegedly didn’t make it into the final cut when the interview was aired.</p>

<p>It begins with Maryam saying, "One second, cut it out," while ordering the TV anchor to stop. "Did you never have a BMW car in 2009-10?'' the interviewer asked to which Maryam responded, "No."</p>

<p>It was at this moment, Maryam’s facial expression changed and she started appearing perturbed when the interviewer pressed with the questions on possession of the BMW car.</p>

<p>"Are you taking a video of this? Please shut it down," Maryam said.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Honestly, I don't know about this. I will check the facts and figures," she said, adding she will get back.</p>

<p>The anchor responds by saying, "Please don't worry." When he started asking another question, Maryam promptly responded, "Don't do it [record it], let me hear the question first. I don't have any vehicle brother."</p>

<p>But when she was pressed about her alleged possession of a BMW vehicle, Maryam interrupts and asks him, "Where is it? Is it in the record?" The anchor responds, "This is in JIT findings. This is in record."</p>

<p>The anchor was quoting a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) report against Nawaz Sharif's family assets&nbsp;about a BMW car which was gifted to her by the UAE Royal Family, adding that the car was sold at a profit in 2011-12.</p>

<p>A disturbed Maryam then asked, "What?"&nbsp; The anchor then tells her that it is declared in her income tax returns. Maryam, however, denied having any BMW vehicle and asks the TV staff to "shut it down please."</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="ur">بریکنگ نیوز ،<br />
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سنیئے وہ کلپ جو مریم نواز صاحبہ نے ریکارڈ کرنے سے روک دیا تھا <a href="https://t.co/ChCKZsWGXC">pic.twitter.com/ChCKZsWGXC</a></p>
— Siddique Jan (@SdqJaan) <a href="https://twitter.com/SdqJaan/status/1645381530968096768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>It is alleged that the journalist was pressured by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz's (PML-N) leader to “cut out” the portions of the interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Pakistani media, the value of the BMW car was declared as Rs 3.5 million in her income tax returns for the year 2009-10. And the same car was declared to be sold for Rs 19.66 million in 2011-12. It raised the eyebrows of many as such price escalation was considered abnormal.</p>

<h2><strong>Alleged audio leak of PM Shehbaz Sharif goes viral, talks about Maryam Nawaz's son-in-law</strong></h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/alleged-audio-leak-of-pm-shehbaz-sharif-goes-viral-talks-about-maryam-nawazs-son-in-law-519560/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The video clip of the interview has since garnered reactions from several users.</p>

<p>Sharing a clipping of the interview on Twitter, the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Fawad Chaudhry said, "I wish I was rich enough to own a BMW and didn't even know I had such an expensive car. But for this, it is necessary to be polite and dumb."</p>

<p>"Best part of the interview how come this part was excluded from the original script?" Chaudhry added.</p>

<p>Hitting back at the PTI leader, the PML-N said the only thing Maryam said was she did not have information at the moment instead of lying blatantly. "Her honesty is what has won her millions of proud fans.”</p>

<p>Maryam later clarified while responding to the PTI&nbsp;leader's tweet that she did not have adequate information and hence, couldn’t answer the question on the car.</p>

<p>"Probably they are used to lying &amp; expect others to do that too. I did not have the required info and did not want to say anything that was factually&nbsp;not&nbsp;correct."</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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A video of Pakistan ex-prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s daughter, Maryam Nawaz, stopping a journalist from airing a question and her response about allegedly possessing a BMW car is making waves on social media platforms.

A video of Pakistan ex-prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s daughter, Maryam Nawaz, stopping a journalist from airing a question and her response about allegedly possessing a BMW car is making waves on social media platforms. The viral clip, which has been widely circulating on social media since Monday, allegedly didn’t make it into the final cut when the interview was aired. It begins with Maryam saying, "One second, cut it out," while ordering the TV anchor to stop. "Did you never have a BMW car in 2009-10?'' the interviewer asked to which Maryam responded, "No." It was at this moment, Maryam’s facial expression changed and she started appearing perturbed when the interviewer pressed with the questions on possession of the BMW car. "Are you taking a video of this? Please shut it down," Maryam said. "Honestly, I don't know about this. I will check the facts and figures," she said, adding she will get back. The anchor responds by saying, "Please don't worry." When he started asking another question, Maryam promptly responded, "Don't do it [record it], let me hear the question first. I don't have any vehicle brother." But when she was pressed about her alleged possession of a BMW vehicle, Maryam interrupts and asks him, "Where is it? Is it in the record?" The anchor responds, "This is in JIT findings. This is in record." The anchor was quoting a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) report against Nawaz Sharif's family assets about a BMW car which was gifted to her by the UAE Royal Family, adding that the car was sold at a profit in 2011-12. A disturbed Maryam then asked, "What?" The anchor then tells her that it is declared in her income tax returns. Maryam, however, denied having any BMW vehicle and asks the TV staff to "shut it down please." بریکنگ نیوز ، ایک اور کلپ سامنے آگیا، سنیئے وہ کلپ جو مریم نواز صاحبہ نے ریکارڈ کرنے سے روک دیا تھا pic.twitter.com/ChCKZsWGXC — Siddique Jan (@SdqJaan) April 10, 2023 × It is alleged that the journalist was pressured by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz's (PML-N) leader to “cut out” the portions of the interview. According to the Pakistani media, the value of the BMW car was declared as Rs 3.5 million in her income tax returns for the year 2009-10. And the same car was declared to be sold for Rs 19.66 million in 2011-12. It raised the eyebrows of many as such price escalation was considered abnormal. Alleged audio leak of PM Shehbaz Sharif goes viral, talks about Maryam Nawaz's son-in-law The video clip of the interview has since garnered reactions from several users. Sharing a clipping of the interview on Twitter, the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Fawad Chaudhry said, "I wish I was rich enough to own a BMW and didn't even know I had such an expensive car. But for this, it is necessary to be polite and dumb." "Best part of the interview how come this part was excluded from the original script?" Chaudhry added. Hitting back at the PTI leader, the PML-N said the only thing Maryam said was she did not have information at the moment instead of lying blatantly. "Her honesty is what has won her millions of proud fans.” Maryam later clarified while responding to the PTI leader's tweet that she did not have adequate information and hence, couldn’t answer the question on the car. "Probably they are used to lying & expect others to do that too. I did not have the required info and did not want to say anything that was factually not correct." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch | Pak ex-PM’s daughter Maryam Nawaz asks interviewer to stop airing when confronted with tough questions

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has completed one year in office. Sharif replaced Imran Khan after he was ousted from power in a vote of no confidence a year ago. Sharif promised to revive the economy and bring political stability.

Pakistan: Lookback at Shehbaz Sharif's year as Prime Minister

<p>At the "Most Noble Numbers" charity auction for unique licence plates, Emirates Auction broke its own record by selling the most expensive licence plate ever, the P7. The plate P7 was sold for a staggering Dh55 million, which made it the most expensive licence plate in the world. The "1 Billion Meals Endowment" initiative, which aims to create the biggest Ramadan sustainable food relief endowment fund, will receive 100% of the auction's revenues.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/is-there-a-medicine-to-stop-this-naz-founder-anjali-gopalan-shares-internal-battles-homosexuals-fight-580795">'Is there a medicine to stop this...?' Indian activist Anjali Gopalan shares internal battles homosexuals fight</a></p>

<p>The price bid increased swiftly until the bid was closed by the panel, who preferred anonymity, to be Dh55 million (INR1,226,144,700).</p>

<p>There was also an auction of several additional VIP licence plates and phone numbers which brought in over Dh100 million ($27 million) for a Ramzan food appeal.</p>

<p>At the Four Seasons hotel in Jumeirah, the sale of special mobile phone numbers and licence plates brought in a total of Dh97,920,000 ($26662313).</p>

<p>This is followed by a bidding battle between many parties looking to beat the previous record established in 2008 when a businessman spent Dh52.2 million for Abu Dhabi's number one (P1). But "P 7" plat that record too.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-massive-fire-engulfs-faith-lutheran-church-in-cambridge-after-easter-service-580818">Massive fire engulfs Faith Lutheran Church in Cambridge after Easter service</a></p>

<p>The "Most Noble Numbers" charity auction was held on Saturday at the Four Seasons Resort Dubai, Jumeirah Beach, by Emirates Auction in association with the Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority.</p>

<p>In addition to the ten two-digit numbers AA19, AA22, AA80, O71, X36, W78, H31, Z37, J57, and N41, the sale also featured the unique plate numbers Y900, Q22222, and Y6666. O 71 sold for Dh2.150 million, Q22222 for Dh975,000, and AA19 for Dh4.9 million.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | President Vladimir Putin may visit India for G20 summit ?</strong></p>

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<p>The first Most Noble Numbers auction, which was held in conjunction with the "100 Million Meals" campaign in Ramadan 2021, brought in about Dh50.45 million in just one night. Auctions have proven to be a cutting-edge, creative source of funding for charitable and humanitarian efforts.</p>

<p>During the Ramadan 2022 "1 Billion Meals" campaign, the Most Noble Numbers charity auction in Dubai raised Dh53 million. The Abu Dhabi Police, Most Noble Number in-person and online auctions contributed Dh111 million.</p>

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At the "Most Noble Numbers" charity auction for unique licence plates, Emirates Auction broke its own record by selling the most expensive licence plate ever, the P7.

At the "Most Noble Numbers" charity auction for unique licence plates, Emirates Auction broke its own record by selling the most expensive licence plate ever, the P7. The plate P7 was sold for a staggering Dh55 million, which made it the most expensive licence plate in the world. The "1 Billion Meals Endowment" initiative, which aims to create the biggest Ramadan sustainable food relief endowment fund, will receive 100% of the auction's revenues. Also Read | 'Is there a medicine to stop this...?' Indian activist Anjali Gopalan shares internal battles homosexuals fight The price bid increased swiftly until the bid was closed by the panel, who preferred anonymity, to be Dh55 million (INR1,226,144,700). There was also an auction of several additional VIP licence plates and phone numbers which brought in over Dh100 million ($27 million) for a Ramzan food appeal. At the Four Seasons hotel in Jumeirah, the sale of special mobile phone numbers and licence plates brought in a total of Dh97,920,000 ($26662313). This is followed by a bidding battle between many parties looking to beat the previous record established in 2008 when a businessman spent Dh52.2 million for Abu Dhabi's number one (P1). But "P 7" plat that record too. Also Read | Massive fire engulfs Faith Lutheran Church in Cambridge after Easter service The "Most Noble Numbers" charity auction was held on Saturday at the Four Seasons Resort Dubai, Jumeirah Beach, by Emirates Auction in association with the Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority. In addition to the ten two-digit numbers AA19, AA22, AA80, O71, X36, W78, H31, Z37, J57, and N41, the sale also featured the unique plate numbers Y900, Q22222, and Y6666. O 71 sold for Dh2.150 million, Q22222 for Dh975,000, and AA19 for Dh4.9 million. Watch | President Vladimir Putin may visit India for G20 summit ? × The first Most Noble Numbers auction, which was held in conjunction with the "100 Million Meals" campaign in Ramadan 2021, brought in about Dh50.45 million in just one night. Auctions have proven to be a cutting-edge, creative source of funding for charitable and humanitarian efforts. During the Ramadan 2022 "1 Billion Meals" campaign, the Most Noble Numbers charity auction in Dubai raised Dh53 million. The Abu Dhabi Police, Most Noble Number in-person and online auctions contributed Dh111 million. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Dubai P7, world's most expensive number plate, sold for a record breaking amount

<p>Abdulnasser Alshaali, the ambassador of UAE to India, expressed his country's honour at being invited to the G20 Summit by the Indian government. As the president of the grouping, India has extended the invitation to UAE, and Ambassador Alshaali praised the Indian government's efforts in organizing the summit.</p>

<p>Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, the ambassador said, "We are honoured by the invitation by the Indian government and the Indian government has been doing great and I'm sure they will continue to do so until the Summit in September."</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="UK invites international community, including India, to King Charles III and Camilla's coronation">Three injured in shooting at Christiana Mall in US state of Delaware: Police</a></p>

<p>Regarding investments in India, including in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Ambassador Alshaali noted that the private sector and businesses have their own strategies and ways of investing. He spoke to WION at a mega iftar hosted by the UAE embassy which has the entire diplomatic community converging and breaking bread together as the month of Ramzan is celebrated. The Iftar saw the participation of India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar as well showing the strong momentum in ties between the 2 countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-uk-invites-international-community-including-india-to-king-charles-iii-and-camillas-coronation-580555">UK invites international community, including India, to King Charles III and Camilla's coronation</a></p>

<p><em>Here is the complete interview:</em></p>

<p><strong>WION: You hosted this iftar, which saw the participation of Delhi's diplomatic community, and the EAM Jaishankar. Truly a momentous occasion...</strong></p>

<p><strong>Abdulnasser Alshaali: </strong>My special thanks to everyone who made it here today, especially to Dr Jaishankar for taking the time out of his busy schedule to make it here. Ramadan is about bringing people together and this is what the words behind me say. It's just about bringing everyone together. And so, we all fast in our different ways, regardless of where we come from, and Ramadan is the month of fasting for us. So there are quite a few things that we can connect in and nothing is better to connect than during breaking fast together or having a meal together.</p>

<p><strong>WION: So how do you characterize India UAE relationship because this is a relationship which has really grown in the last five years.</strong></p>

<p><strong>Abdulnasser Alshaali: </strong>That has, I can tell you that we're only starting. There will be so many exciting things that will come up. We've been working on quite a few things. There are multiple tracks in different sectors that we are keen on. India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) was the beginning of putting some sort of an economic framework to increase bilateral trade and to achieve certain targets. But CEPA is not everything and there are quite a few things coming up in the pipeline.</p>

<p><strong>World at War | Russia welcomes Finland's NATO membership with nuclear Iskander missiles</strong></p>

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<p><strong>WION: I2U2 has been the outcome of the Abrahim accords, given it led to the normalization of relations between Israel and UAE and then the emergence of this grouping. Where do you see this grouping? Going ahead and do you see a summit-level meeting happening, or an in-person summit happening very soon?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Abdulnasser Alshaali: </strong>Well, I2U2 is an economic platform and so there are quite a few projects that are being discussed among the four countries and a couple of them would see the light of day soon enough. In terms of a summit. I cannot confirm this at this moment, but I'm sure the details will come out whenever that has been decided.</p>

<p><strong>WION: So the Abraham Accords, were talking about that there have been a lot of dividends but today we are seeing a conflict that has happened in West Asia in terms of Israel and Palestine and other countries as well. Do you think that it's going to impact the Abraham accord, the good vibe that it has created?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Abdulnasser Alshaali: </strong>Well, the Abraham Accords have been joined by countries who are keen on establishing bilateral ties with Israel and expanding their economic relations with that country. That being said, this means that we are still interested in the same things that we have been always interested in. We still believe in a two-state solution. We're still going to pursue that and push for that. Whenever there is some sort of escalation, our main purpose and our main goal is&nbsp;to make sure that the region does not go through such escalation, and does not go into turmoil, because it isn't the region's interest and in our interest that we are in a neighbourhood that is peace, prosperous and stable.</p>

<p><strong>WION: So, India is the president of the G 20 and as the President of the grouping, it has invited your country as well. How do you see India the invitation and India hosting the meetings under its mega presidency?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Abdulnasser Alshaali: </strong>We are honoured by the invitation from the Indian government. The Indian government has been doing great and I'm sure they will continue to do so until the Summit in September. We have been invited as a guest country in the past and I can tell you that the work that we have seen on the ground, and I have attended a few of those meetings myself, is just phenomenal. It's a testament to the work, effort and time that the Indian government has been putting into this.</p>

<p><strong>WION: So my last question is you we have been investing a lot in India, including in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir recently. We saw the mega investment plan that has been announced, what more we can expect from UAE for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in terms of investment are also for the people of the Union Territory?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Abdulnasser Alshaali: </strong>Well, I cannot speak on behalf of the private sector, on behalf of businesses. Businesses and the private sector they have their own strategies or their own way of doing things. And it will also depending on the investment initiatives, incentives, whatever facilities are being given to investors. So yes, there have been a couple of businesses present. But whether this will mean that will be higher, that there will be higher investments in the future is up to the businesses themselves.</p>

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Abdulnasser Alshaali, the ambassador of UAE to India, expressed his country's honour at being invited to the G20 Summit by the Indian government. As the president of the grouping, India has extended the invitation to UAE, and Ambassador Alshaali praised the Indian government's efforts in organizing the summit.

Abdulnasser Alshaali, the ambassador of UAE to India, expressed his country's honour at being invited to the G20 Summit by the Indian government. As the president of the grouping, India has extended the invitation to UAE, and Ambassador Alshaali praised the Indian government's efforts in organizing the summit. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, the ambassador said, "We are honoured by the invitation by the Indian government and the Indian government has been doing great and I'm sure they will continue to do so until the Summit in September." Also Read | Three injured in shooting at Christiana Mall in US state of Delaware: Police Regarding investments in India, including in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Ambassador Alshaali noted that the private sector and businesses have their own strategies and ways of investing. He spoke to WION at a mega iftar hosted by the UAE embassy which has the entire diplomatic community converging and breaking bread together as the month of Ramzan is celebrated. The Iftar saw the participation of India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar as well showing the strong momentum in ties between the 2 countries. Also Read | UK invites international community, including India, to King Charles III and Camilla's coronation Here is the complete interview: WION: You hosted this iftar, which saw the participation of Delhi's diplomatic community, and the EAM Jaishankar. Truly a momentous occasion... Abdulnasser Alshaali: My special thanks to everyone who made it here today, especially to Dr Jaishankar for taking the time out of his busy schedule to make it here. Ramadan is about bringing people together and this is what the words behind me say. It's just about bringing everyone together. And so, we all fast in our different ways, regardless of where we come from, and Ramadan is the month of fasting for us. So there are quite a few things that we can connect in and nothing is better to connect than during breaking fast together or having a meal together. WION: So how do you characterize India UAE relationship because this is a relationship which has really grown in the last five years. Abdulnasser Alshaali: That has, I can tell you that we're only starting. There will be so many exciting things that will come up. We've been working on quite a few things. There are multiple tracks in different sectors that we are keen on. India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) was the beginning of putting some sort of an economic framework to increase bilateral trade and to achieve certain targets. But CEPA is not everything and there are quite a few things coming up in the pipeline. World at War | Russia welcomes Finland's NATO membership with nuclear Iskander missiles × WION: I2U2 has been the outcome of the Abrahim accords, given it led to the normalization of relations between Israel and UAE and then the emergence of this grouping. Where do you see this grouping? Going ahead and do you see a summit-level meeting happening, or an in-person summit happening very soon? Abdulnasser Alshaali: Well, I2U2 is an economic platform and so there are quite a few projects that are being discussed among the four countries and a couple of them would see the light of day soon enough. In terms of a summit. I cannot confirm this at this moment, but I'm sure the details will come out whenever that has been decided. WION: So the Abraham Accords, were talking about that there have been a lot of dividends but today we are seeing a conflict that has happened in West Asia in terms of Israel and Palestine and other countries as well. Do you think that it's going to impact the Abraham accord, the good vibe that it has created? Abdulnasser Alshaali: Well, the Abraham Accords have been joined by countries who are keen on establishing bilateral ties with Israel and expanding their economic relations with that country. That being said, this means that we are still interested in the same things that we have been always interested in. We still believe in a two-state solution. We're still going to pursue that and push for that. Whenever there is some sort of escalation, our main purpose and our main goal is to make sure that the region does not go through such escalation, and does not go into turmoil, because it isn't the region's interest and in our interest that we are in a neighbourhood that is peace, prosperous and stable. WION: So, India is the president of the G 20 and as the President of the grouping, it has invited your country as well. How do you see India the invitation and India hosting the meetings under its mega presidency? Abdulnasser Alshaali: We are honoured by the invitation from the Indian government. The Indian government has been doing great and I'm sure they will continue to do so until the Summit in September. We have been invited as a guest country in the past and I can tell you that the work that we have seen on the ground, and I have attended a few of those meetings myself, is just phenomenal. It's a testament to the work, effort and time that the Indian government has been putting into this. WION: So my last question is you we have been investing a lot in India, including in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir recently. We saw the mega investment plan that has been announced, what more we can expect from UAE for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in terms of investment are also for the people of the Union Territory? Abdulnasser Alshaali: Well, I cannot speak on behalf of the private sector, on behalf of businesses. Businesses and the private sector they have their own strategies or their own way of doing things. And it will also depending on the investment initiatives, incentives, whatever facilities are being given to investors. So yes, there have been a couple of businesses present. But whether this will mean that will be higher, that there will be higher investments in the future is up to the businesses themselves. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UAE envoy Abdulnasser Alshaali praises India's G20 leadership, says honoured by New Delhi's invitation

Indian ambassador to the UAE Abdulnasser Alshaali spoke to WION's Chief Diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal expressed his admiration for India's G20 meeting presidency. The ambassador stated that the UAE was honoured to attend the meeting at India's invitation.

UAE Ambassador Abdulnasser Alshaali on India-UAE relationship: Exciting things coming up

The Guptas, arrested in the UAE in 2022, are accused of siphoning state funds using connections with ex-President Zuma. A United Arab Emirates court has dismissed South Africa's request to extradite Atul and Rajesh Gupta, brothers who face charges of political corruption, Justice Minister Ronald Lamola said on Friday.

UAE court dismisses South Africa request to extradite Gupta brothers

<p>Iran on Tuesday (April 4) named an ambassador to the United Arab Emirates after nearly eight years, a development which was indicative of further thaw in relations with the Gulf Arab states.</p>

<p>"After some eight years, the foreign ministry has named Reza Ameri as the Islamic Republic of Iran's new ambassador to the United Arab Emirates," Iran's official IRNA news agency reported late Tuesday.</p>

<p>A veteran diplomat who served most recently as director general of the foreign ministry's diaspora affairs department, Ameri's career had previously taken him to Algeria, Sudan and Eritrea.</p>

<p>Iran has appointed an ambassador to UAE after welcoming an Emirati ambassador last September.</p>

<p>The UAE had cut the level of its diplomatic representation after neighbouring Saudi Arabia severed ties in 2016 following the ransacking of its diplomatic missions in Iran by protesters angered by its execution of a leading Shiite cleric.</p>

<p>After several of its Gulf allies led the way, Riyadh restored diplomatic relations with Tehran last month in a fence-mending deal brokered by Beijing.</p>

<p>First Vice President of Iran Mohammed Mokhber confirmed on Monday that Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has accepted an invitation from Saudi Arabia's King Salman to visit Riyadh.</p>

<p>Iran and the United Arab Emirates have long had close economic ties which continued even during the diplomatic chill.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Iran on Tuesday (April 4) named an ambassador to the United Arab Emirates after nearly eight years, a development which was indicative of further thaw in relations with the Gulf Arab states.

Iran on Tuesday (April 4) named an ambassador to the United Arab Emirates after nearly eight years, a development which was indicative of further thaw in relations with the Gulf Arab states. "After some eight years, the foreign ministry has named Reza Ameri as the Islamic Republic of Iran's new ambassador to the United Arab Emirates," Iran's official IRNA news agency reported late Tuesday. A veteran diplomat who served most recently as director general of the foreign ministry's diaspora affairs department, Ameri's career had previously taken him to Algeria, Sudan and Eritrea. Iran has appointed an ambassador to UAE after welcoming an Emirati ambassador last September. The UAE had cut the level of its diplomatic representation after neighbouring Saudi Arabia severed ties in 2016 following the ransacking of its diplomatic missions in Iran by protesters angered by its execution of a leading Shiite cleric. After several of its Gulf allies led the way, Riyadh restored diplomatic relations with Tehran last month in a fence-mending deal brokered by Beijing. First Vice President of Iran Mohammed Mokhber confirmed on Monday that Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has accepted an invitation from Saudi Arabia's King Salman to visit Riyadh. Iran and the United Arab Emirates have long had close economic ties which continued even during the diplomatic chill. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

After eight-year hiatus, Iran appoints ambassador to UAE

UAE'S President has named his son Sheikh Khaled as the crown prince of Abu Dhabi. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

UAE President names son as new Crown Prince

The President of United Arab Emirates and the ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan appointed his eldest son, Khalid, as the crown prince of Abu Dhabi. This was announced by the state news agency.

UAE ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan announces heir, his brothers get top positions

<p>Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the president of the United Arab Emirates, has named his son Sheikh Khaled as the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, the nation's capital and an important player in the region and the Gulf Arab state that is a member of OPEC, state media reported on Wednesday (March 29).</p>

<p>Sheikh Mohammed, who is also the ruler of Abu Dhabi and is known by his initials MBZ, named Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan to serve as vice president of the UAE alongside Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, reported Reuters.</p>

<p>He designated Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan as deputy rulers of Abu Dhabi.</p>

<p>In May, upon the death of his half-brother, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, who had ruled Abu Dhabi, MBZ assumed control of the emirate and assumed the presidency of the UAE, which unites the seven rulers of the UAE federation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;Gravitas: Will Saudi Arabia pull out of the Yemen War? Is China behind the big decision?</strong></p>

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<p>Years of MBZ's power behind the scenes resulted in a new anti-Iran axis with Israel and a reconfiguration of the Middle East.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Abu Dhabi, which oversees a number of sovereign wealth funds and is one of the richest state investors in the world, announced a leadership change for its two largest state funds earlier this month.</p>

<p>As chairman of Mubadala, Abu Dhabi's second-largest sovereign wealth fund, MBZ was also replaced by Sheikh Mansour, owner of Manchester City football club.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the president of the United Arab Emirates, has named his son Sheikh Khaled as the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, the nation's capital and an important player in the region and the Gulf Arab state that is a member of OPEC, state media reported on Wednesday (March 29).

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the president of the United Arab Emirates, has named his son Sheikh Khaled as the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, the nation's capital and an important player in the region and the Gulf Arab state that is a member of OPEC, state media reported on Wednesday (March 29). Sheikh Mohammed, who is also the ruler of Abu Dhabi and is known by his initials MBZ, named Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan to serve as vice president of the UAE alongside Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, reported Reuters. He designated Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan as deputy rulers of Abu Dhabi. In May, upon the death of his half-brother, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, who had ruled Abu Dhabi, MBZ assumed control of the emirate and assumed the presidency of the UAE, which unites the seven rulers of the UAE federation. ALSO WATCH: Gravitas: Will Saudi Arabia pull out of the Yemen War? Is China behind the big decision? Years of MBZ's power behind the scenes resulted in a new anti-Iran axis with Israel and a reconfiguration of the Middle East. Abu Dhabi, which oversees a number of sovereign wealth funds and is one of the richest state investors in the world, announced a leadership change for its two largest state funds earlier this month. As chairman of Mubadala, Abu Dhabi's second-largest sovereign wealth fund, MBZ was also replaced by Sheikh Mansour, owner of Manchester City football club. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UAE president names son Sheikh Khaled as next crown prince of Abu Dhabi

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<p>The UAE President,<strong> Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan,</strong> appointed Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan as the new Vice-President of the United Arab Emirates. The UAE President issued the decision with the authorisation of the UAE Federal Supreme Council. Sheikh Mansour, the Deputy Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Minister of the Presidential Court, was appointed the UAE Vice-President alongside Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice president, prime minister of UAE and ruler of Dubai. In 2004, the UAE President appointed Sheikh Mansour as Minister of Presidential affairs. Previously, he handled the Presidential court and the Ministry of Presidential Affairs. In 2006, he became the head of the Ministerial Development council and the Emirates Investment Authority in 2007.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here's everything you need to know about the new vice president of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Mansour.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sheikh Mansour: Vice-President of UAE</strong></h2>

<p>Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan was born on November 20, 1970, in Abu Dhabi (now the United Arab Emirates). He is a senior member of the Nahyan dynasty of Abu Dhabi and one of the foremost businessmen in the nation. Previously, he has served as the Chief Adviser to the UAE President and as Minister of Presidential affairs. Sheikh Mansour's father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, was the ruler of Abu Dhabi from 1966 to 2004 and the UAE President from 1971 to 2004. He married Alia bint Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed in 1995 and Manal bint Mohammed Al Maktoum in 2005.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sheikh Mansour: Net Worth</strong></h2>

<p>Sheikh Mansour has chaired various Abu Dhabi's financial entities, like the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, the First Gulf Bank and the International Petroleum Investment Company. According to Celebrity Net Worth, the newly appointed Vice-President of UAE has a net worth of $30-40 billion. However, the official number is not known.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sheikh Mansour: Football Clubs</strong></h2>

<p>Sheikh Mansour is best known for his investments in professional football. He bought the controlling share of Manchester City FC in 2008 using his investment vehicle, Abu Dhabi United Group for Development and Investment. In 2013, Sheikh Mansour also became the primary investor in New York City FC. He also has majority stakes in Melbourne City FC (2014) and Mumbai City FC (2019).&nbsp;<br />
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The UAE President, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, appointed Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan as the new Vice-President of the United Arab Emirates. The UAE President issued the decision with the authorisation of the UAE Federal Supreme Council.

The UAE President, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, appointed Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan as the new Vice-President of the United Arab Emirates. The UAE President issued the decision with the authorisation of the UAE Federal Supreme Council. Sheikh Mansour, the Deputy Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Minister of the Presidential Court, was appointed the UAE Vice-President alongside Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice president, prime minister of UAE and ruler of Dubai. In 2004, the UAE President appointed Sheikh Mansour as Minister of Presidential affairs. Previously, he handled the Presidential court and the Ministry of Presidential Affairs. In 2006, he became the head of the Ministerial Development council and the Emirates Investment Authority in 2007. Here's everything you need to know about the new vice president of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Mansour. Sheikh Mansour: Vice-President of UAE Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan was born on November 20, 1970, in Abu Dhabi (now the United Arab Emirates). He is a senior member of the Nahyan dynasty of Abu Dhabi and one of the foremost businessmen in the nation. Previously, he has served as the Chief Adviser to the UAE President and as Minister of Presidential affairs. Sheikh Mansour's father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, was the ruler of Abu Dhabi from 1966 to 2004 and the UAE President from 1971 to 2004. He married Alia bint Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed in 1995 and Manal bint Mohammed Al Maktoum in 2005. Sheikh Mansour: Net Worth Sheikh Mansour has chaired various Abu Dhabi's financial entities, like the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, the First Gulf Bank and the International Petroleum Investment Company. According to Celebrity Net Worth, the newly appointed Vice-President of UAE has a net worth of $30-40 billion. However, the official number is not known. Sheikh Mansour: Football Clubs Sheikh Mansour is best known for his investments in professional football. He bought the controlling share of Manchester City FC in 2008 using his investment vehicle, Abu Dhabi United Group for Development and Investment. In 2013, Sheikh Mansour also became the primary investor in New York City FC. He also has majority stakes in Melbourne City FC (2014) and Mumbai City FC (2019). WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Who is Sheikh Mansour? Here's everything you need to know about UAE's new vice president, his net worth & more

As the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the president of the United Arab Emirates, has put his eldest son Khaled in line to succeed him as the head of the federation.

UAE President Sheikh Mohammed appoints his son as crown prince

According to reports, the United Arab Emirates is considering reducing the level of its diplomatic representation in Israel following Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's remarks that "the Palestinian people do not exist".

UAE considering reducing diplomatic contact with Israel: Report | WION Dispatch

As per a Reuters report, India is resisting giving more air traffic rights to the UAE. What are the implications? What's in store for India's aviation sector? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: What's in store for India's aviation sector?

Is the Arab world finally uniting? The President of Syria recently visited UAE. The President of Iran could visit Saudi Arabia soon. Molly Gambhir reports on the shifting sands in West Asia.

Gravitas: Syrian President visits UAE | Iran's President to visit Saudi Arabia

India is not looking at increasing air traffic rights for the United Arab Emirates, said Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia. The UAE has urged India to increase the maximum number of seats between the two countries by 50,000 a week.

India rejects UAE request for more air traffic rights

<p data-testid="paragraph-0">India is not looking at increasing air traffic rights for the United Arab Emirates, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia told Reuters in an interview on Tuesday.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-1">The UAE has urged India to increase the maximum number of seats between the two countries by 50,000 a week but Scindia said, "at this point, we're not looking at increasing it".</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2">India is one of the world's fastest-growing aviation markets where demand for air travel is outstripping the supply of planes. Air India last month placed a record order for 470 jets.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">The bulk of India's international air traffic is carried by Gulf carriers powered by efficient hubs.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-4">Scindia said he wants Indian carriers to order more wide-body planes and offer non-stop flights to international destinations, adding India was mobilising to handle the transportation needs of its population of 1.3 billion.</p>

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India is not looking at increasing air traffic rights for the United Arab Emirates, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia told Reuters in an interview on Tuesday.

India is not looking at increasing air traffic rights for the United Arab Emirates, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia told Reuters in an interview on Tuesday. The UAE has urged India to increase the maximum number of seats between the two countries by 50,000 a week but Scindia said, "at this point, we're not looking at increasing it". India is one of the world's fastest-growing aviation markets where demand for air travel is outstripping the supply of planes. Air India last month placed a record order for 470 jets. The bulk of India's international air traffic is carried by Gulf carriers powered by efficient hubs. Scindia said he wants Indian carriers to order more wide-body planes and offer non-stop flights to international destinations, adding India was mobilising to handle the transportation needs of its population of 1.3 billion. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Syrian President Bashar al Assad arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Sunday for an official visit, accompanied by his wife Asma al Assad, at a time when more Arab states have signalled openness to easing the isolation of Damascus.

Syria’s Assad arrives in UAE for second post-quake Gulf visit

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