Emphasizing the cooperative role of the I2U2 summit, Israel's ambassador to India Naor Gilon has said that the grouping is "not against anyone,” adding that “it's for our people and for making the world a better place".

The grouping of India, Israel, UAE &amp; US held its first summit level meeting last week with two key projects being announced. Both projects, one on food projects and one on renewal energy will be undertaken in India.

Speaking to WION’s Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, envoy Gilon said I2U2 or West Asian Quad is a "very, very positive initiative that will help, change the reality and cooperation and friendships in the region.".

The grouping first met at the foreign ministers level last year during EAM Jaishankar's Israel visit and since then has taken off significantly. Full interview.

&nbsp;

WION: How do you see the I2U2 summit happening and the role of Israel in this major West Asian quad

Naor Gilon: I think it's a very important and interesting imitative in the sense that none of the 4 countries involved, India, Israel, United States and United Arab Emirates (UAE). They have no common border, but they only have common values and interests, and we are going to unite together and work together to implement these values and interests. It is not against anyone, it's for our people, for making the world a better place. There are two projects we will work together to implement, one in the field of food security, food corridors in India and another one is clean tech, and clean energy, also in India. With the implementation of technologies, funding from different actors including Israel. So, I think, it's a very very positive initiative that will help, change the reality and cooperation and friendships in the region.

&nbsp;

WION: Do you think it's because of the Abraham accords that this grouping has emerged.

Naor Gilon: Of course, there is no doubt that the basis of everything for the big change we are seeing in the middle east is the Abraham accords. Without the Abraham accords, we would not see for example the UAE not joining it with such enthusiasm. I think&nbsp;the Abraham accords, is really huge change for the middle east, because although we had very important peace accords with important Neighbours like Jordan and Egypt, but these were based on land problems, land swaps etc. But now we are doing peace with countries that are far away from Israel and really don't have an issue with Israel as well.&nbsp;Morrocco, Bahrain, UAE, and this is a change. I must say, probably, we have to thank Iran also because the fear of Iran for these countries undoubtfully is one of the elements that is uniting them, pushing them to be closer to Israel, which is considered the biggest opponent, I guess, of the Iranian behaviour, destabilizing, supporting terrorism. I think they deserve a lot of credit for the Abraham accords, and then I2U2, which is really a continuation of that.

&nbsp;

WION: How does India benefit or is central to I2U2?

Naor Gilon: I think the first two&nbsp;projects are in India. Their collaboration on high technology&nbsp;and health is very important. US, Israel, and UAE are there, so it's a good neighbourhood partnership, and brings abilities in different fields on the table, be it technology be it financial, be it both. It is a huge opportunity also for India.

Emphasizing the cooperative role of the I2U2 summit, Israel's ambassador to India Naor Gilon has said that the grouping is "not against anyone,” adding that “it's for our people and for making the world a better place".

Emphasizing the cooperative role of the I2U2 summit, Israel's ambassador to India Naor Gilon has said that the grouping is "not against anyone,” adding that “it's for our people and for making the world a better place". The grouping of India, Israel, UAE & US held its first summit level meeting last week with two key projects being announced. Both projects, one on food projects and one on renewal energy will be undertaken in India. Speaking to WION’s Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, envoy Gilon said I2U2 or West Asian Quad is a "very, very positive initiative that will help, change the reality and cooperation and friendships in the region.". The grouping first met at the foreign ministers level last year during EAM Jaishankar's Israel visit and since then has taken off significantly. Full interview. WION: How do you see the I2U2 summit happening and the role of Israel in this major West Asian quad Naor Gilon: I think it's a very important and interesting imitative in the sense that none of the 4 countries involved, India, Israel, United States and United Arab Emirates (UAE). They have no common border, but they only have common values and interests, and we are going to unite together and work together to implement these values and interests. It is not against anyone, it's for our people, for making the world a better place. There are two projects we will work together to implement, one in the field of food security, food corridors in India and another one is clean tech, and clean energy, also in India. With the implementation of technologies, funding from different actors including Israel. So, I think, it's a very very positive initiative that will help, change the reality and cooperation and friendships in the region. WION: Do you think it's because of the Abraham accords that this grouping has emerged. Naor Gilon: Of course, there is no doubt that the basis of everything for the big change we are seeing in the middle east is the Abraham accords. Without the Abraham accords, we would not see for example the UAE not joining it with such enthusiasm. I think the Abraham accords, is really huge change for the middle east, because although we had very important peace accords with important Neighbours like Jordan and Egypt, but these were based on land problems, land swaps etc. But now we are doing peace with countries that are far away from Israel and really don't have an issue with Israel as well. Morrocco, Bahrain, UAE, and this is a change. I must say, probably, we have to thank Iran also because the fear of Iran for these countries undoubtfully is one of the elements that is uniting them, pushing them to be closer to Israel, which is considered the biggest opponent, I guess, of the Iranian behaviour, destabilizing, supporting terrorism. I think they deserve a lot of credit for the Abraham accords, and then I2U2, which is really a continuation of that. WION: How does India benefit or is central to I2U2? Naor Gilon: I think the first two projects are in India. Their collaboration on high technology and health is very important. US, Israel, and UAE are there, so it's a good neighbourhood partnership, and brings abilities in different fields on the table, be it technology be it financial, be it both. It is a huge opportunity also for India.

I2U2 summit is not against anyone, says Israel envoy Naor Gilon

United States President Joe Biden extended an invitation to his counterpart from the United Arab Emirates - Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan – to visit the White House. The two world leaders met during the Arab Summit in Saudi Arabia and Biden said that he hopes Sheikh Mohamed will visit the US this year as he looks forward “to another period of strong and growing cooperation”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-would-like-about-anything-new-book-quotes-former-white-house-strategist-497970" hreflang="en">Donald Trump 'would lie about anything', new book quotes former White House strategist</a>

"We both understand that the challenges we face today only make it a heck of a lot more important that we spend more time together. And I want to formally invite you to the States," Biden said.

The summit is being considered to be an opportunity for Biden to set United States’ agenda in the middle east and to bolster relations with different countries. During his address at the summit, the US President said that they “will not walk away” from the region as efforts continue to stabilise the precarious situation in major parts of the middle east amid growing civil war and oil prices.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-raised-jamal-khashoggis-murder-during-meeting-with-saudi-crown-prince-497807">Joe Biden tells Saudi Crown Prince he is responsible for Khashoggi's Murder</a>

“We will not walk away and leave a vacuum to be filled by China, Russia or Iran,” Biden was quoted by AFP. “We will seek to build on this moment with active, principled, American leadership.”

Biden insisted that the United States will be taking the different approach following learnings from both Afghanistan and Iraq. “Today, I’m proud to be able to say that the eras of land wars in the region, wars that involved huge numbers of American forces, is not under way,” he said.

Biden also made it clear that the US is committed to making sure that Iran "never gets a nuclear weapon".

"And as we continue to work closely with many of you to counter the threats posed by — posed to the region by Iran, we’re also pursuing diplomacy to return constraints on Iran’s nuclear program. But no matter what, the United States is committed to ensuring that Iran never gets a nuclear weapon," he said. 
&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden extended an invitation to his counterpart from the United Arab Emirates - Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan – to visit the White House.

United States President Joe Biden extended an invitation to his counterpart from the United Arab Emirates - Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan – to visit the White House. The two world leaders met during the Arab Summit in Saudi Arabia and Biden said that he hopes Sheikh Mohamed will visit the US this year as he looks forward “to another period of strong and growing cooperation”. Also read | Donald Trump 'would lie about anything', new book quotes former White House strategist "We both understand that the challenges we face today only make it a heck of a lot more important that we spend more time together. And I want to formally invite you to the States," Biden said. The summit is being considered to be an opportunity for Biden to set United States’ agenda in the middle east and to bolster relations with different countries. During his address at the summit, the US President said that they “will not walk away” from the region as efforts continue to stabilise the precarious situation in major parts of the middle east amid growing civil war and oil prices. Also read | Joe Biden tells Saudi Crown Prince he is responsible for Khashoggi's Murder “We will not walk away and leave a vacuum to be filled by China, Russia or Iran,” Biden was quoted by AFP. “We will seek to build on this moment with active, principled, American leadership.” Biden insisted that the United States will be taking the different approach following learnings from both Afghanistan and Iraq. “Today, I’m proud to be able to say that the eras of land wars in the region, wars that involved huge numbers of American forces, is not under way,” he said. Biden also made it clear that the US is committed to making sure that Iran "never gets a nuclear weapon". "And as we continue to work closely with many of you to counter the threats posed by — posed to the region by Iran, we’re also pursuing diplomacy to return constraints on Iran’s nuclear program. But no matter what, the United States is committed to ensuring that Iran never gets a nuclear weapon," he said. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden formally invites UAE President to the United States

The leaders of the I2U2 countries met virtually for the first-ever heads of state-level summit. The I2U2 pledged to build food parks and renewable energy plants in India as part of their joint mission. Palki Sharma tells you how India could benefit from the West Asian QUAD.

Gravitas: PM Modi attends West Asia QUAD leaders' summit

US President Joe Biden, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan attended the first-ever I2U2 virtual summit. The meeting aimed to encourage joint investments in six mutually identified areas such as water, energy, transportation, space, health, and food security.

First I2U2 Summit: Leaders aims to encourage investments in mutually identified areas

India, Israel, the United States of America, and the United Arab Emirates agreed to boost investments in water, energy, transport, space, health, and food security sectors in the first I2U2 leaders' summit. Molly Gambhir tells you all about India's growing role in the world order.

WION Fineprint | India's growing influence in the world order

Premiers of US, UAE, Israel and India all set to hold their first virtual meet today. The I2U2 grouping that was formed last year will witness its maiden meet.

I2U2 meet: Leaders of US, Israel, UAE, India all set to attend virtual meet

US President Joe Biden, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan attended the first-ever I2U2 virtual summit. During the summit, the leaders discussed joint economic projects to bolster economic cooperation under the framework of the coalition.

First I2U2 Summit: Leaders announce joint venture partnership in key sectors

US President Joe Biden, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan attended the first-ever I2U2 virtual summit. Watch in

First I2U2 Summit: Leaders of Israel, India, US and UAE meet virtually

US President Joe Biden is all set to host the first I2U2 virtual summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The proposed I2U2 summit is being projected as the QUAD for West Asia.

Leaders of US, Israel, UAE, India set to attend virtual I2U2 meet today

Premiers of US, UAE, Israel and India all set to hold their first virtual meet today. The I2U2 grouping that was formed last year will witness its maiden meet. WION's principal correspondent Siddhant Sibbal brings in more on this.

I2U2 summit: Maiden meet of leaders of 4 nations, forum to address mutual interest issues

The United Arab Emirates is preparing for the future of agriculture in its arid climate. The country is cultivating Salicornia a plant that grows in Saline conditions. The asparagus-like superfood has already made its way to the UAE's food industry.

WION Climate Tracker | UAE on front-line of climate change | Cultivates Salicornia superfood

President Joe Biden will host the first four-way virtual summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan with a focus on food security during his visit to Israel this week.

I2U2 virtual summit during Biden's West Asia trip

Sustainable agriculture's potential in the toughest conditions is at display in the UAE's desert farms, where a hardy plant is growing using salt water and is thriving and helping create "healthy" burgers. Salicornia, a succulent, is already being used as a salt replacement in burger patties -- a rare farming success in the oil-rich United Arab Emirates, which imports nearly all of its food, as reported by AFP. "You have the salty flavour with less sodium, but you also have other benefits," said Tina Siegismund, head of marketing and innovation at UAE-based Global Food Industries, a frozen food manufacturer.

The asparagus-like plant reduces sodium content by 40 per cent in the company's healthy burgers, which also contain chicken, quinoa and kale. Native to parts of North America, Europe, South Africa and South Asia, the plant is ideal for the UAE's inhospitable climate, and contains anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, according to Siegismund. Agriculture produces less than one per cent of GDP in the UAE, a country on the frontline of climate change with temperatures regularly topping 50 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit) and rising rapidly.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-develops-remotely-operated-snake-shaped-robots-for-disaster-site-inspection-496872">Japan develops remotely operated snake-shaped robots for disaster site inspection</a>

Salicornia cultivation began last year on a number of farms across the UAE as part of an experiment using brine run-off from desalination plants by the Dubai-based International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA). &nbsp;Augusto Becerra Lopez-Lavalle, the chief scientist at ICBA, said the research was now underway into generating more of the "high-value crop", which sells for $20 a kilo (2.2 pounds) in France. "We went from... building this prototype, to piloting at scale with eight farmers, and now the question is how to scale up," Lopez-Lavalle told AFP.

In the future, salicornia could "become a really important food ingredient. If there is an economic value and the production system is developed for this, it can become a replacement for salt and any other micronutrients that are added today artificially to processed food." For now, salicornia remains a niche product, its health benefits unknown to most, admits Siegismund. "It's not a product that makes big, big profit, but we believe in it and we will continue," she said, as reported by AFP.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Sustainable agriculture's potential in the toughest conditions is at display in the UAE's desert farms, where a hardy plant is growing using salt water and is thriving and helping create "healthy" burgers.

Sustainable agriculture's potential in the toughest conditions is at display in the UAE's desert farms, where a hardy plant is growing using salt water and is thriving and helping create "healthy" burgers. Salicornia, a succulent, is already being used as a salt replacement in burger patties -- a rare farming success in the oil-rich United Arab Emirates, which imports nearly all of its food, as reported by AFP. "You have the salty flavour with less sodium, but you also have other benefits," said Tina Siegismund, head of marketing and innovation at UAE-based Global Food Industries, a frozen food manufacturer. The asparagus-like plant reduces sodium content by 40 per cent in the company's healthy burgers, which also contain chicken, quinoa and kale. Native to parts of North America, Europe, South Africa and South Asia, the plant is ideal for the UAE's inhospitable climate, and contains anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, according to Siegismund. Agriculture produces less than one per cent of GDP in the UAE, a country on the frontline of climate change with temperatures regularly topping 50 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit) and rising rapidly. Also Read: Japan develops remotely operated snake-shaped robots for disaster site inspection Salicornia cultivation began last year on a number of farms across the UAE as part of an experiment using brine run-off from desalination plants by the Dubai-based International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA). Augusto Becerra Lopez-Lavalle, the chief scientist at ICBA, said the research was now underway into generating more of the "high-value crop", which sells for $20 a kilo (2.2 pounds) in France. "We went from... building this prototype, to piloting at scale with eight farmers, and now the question is how to scale up," Lopez-Lavalle told AFP. In the future, salicornia could "become a really important food ingredient. If there is an economic value and the production system is developed for this, it can become a replacement for salt and any other micronutrients that are added today artificially to processed food." For now, salicornia remains a niche product, its health benefits unknown to most, admits Siegismund. "It's not a product that makes big, big profit, but we believe in it and we will continue," she said, as reported by AFP. (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.

Ever heard about healthy salt? This UAE desert plant can replace salt in burger patties

In a big development coming from Afghanistan, reports suggest that UAE and Taliban are going to seal a major deal about who is going to run the Kabul Airport. The announcement is expected within weeks.

Report: UAE to run Kabul Airport | Taliban looks to make allies in Gulf

A new set of sanctions are being imposed by the US in Hong Kong and the United Arab Emirates-based companies for violating the oil sanctions that are being put on Iran.

US targets companies for violating Iran oil sanctions

Eid al Adha celebrates&nbsp;prophet Ibrahim's devotion to Allah for his willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail.&nbsp;This year it will begin in the evening of&nbsp;9th July and end in the evening of 10th July. Eid al Adha&nbsp;means the "festival of sacrifice". It is one of the biggest and important festival in UAE.&nbsp;It is also popularly known as Bakra Eid. A day before the festival, Haj is conducted, which is the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. It is celebrated by sacrificing any animal in order to prove devotion to Allah, after which the offerings are distributed among family and friends and the poor or needy people. A special prayer is conducted in Mosques before sacrificing the animal and huge number of people gather and pray together.

<h2>Four Days Long Weekend Holidays in UAE for Eid Al Adha 2022</h2>

With Eid al Adha being one of the most auspicious festivals, people in UAE have started the preparations for the same. The 4-day holiday would be from July 8 to July 11. This is a good break for the employees for both private and public sectors and they can enjoy the festival and relax. Places like Yas Island, Yas Waterworld, Al Qana and Beaches can be visited in Abu Dhabi, the capital of UAE. People are very happy and excited to celebrate the festival as well as the long weekend holidays. Khaleej times also tweeted and confirmed the same.&nbsp;

See the tweet by Khaleej Times below:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICYMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICYMI</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EidAlAdha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EidAlAdha</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAE</a>: The UAE private sector will get a four-day break as official Eid Al Adha holidays which will be from Friday, July 8, to Monday, July 11<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/holidays?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#holidays</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/privatesector?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#privatesector</a><a href="https://t.co/UJ2m2IWWn1">https://t.co/UJ2m2IWWn1</a>
— Khaleej Times (@khaleejtimes) <a href="https://twitter.com/khaleejtimes/status/1542748754490556416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<h2>Eid Al Adha 2022 Prayer Timings in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other parts of UAE</h2>

Prayer timings for Eid al Adha, which will be celebrated on July 9 in UAE have been announced. Prayer will be offered across UAE in Mosques as well as Musallahs, which are open-air places for worship. With the timings being released, some COVID-19 guidelines are also released. See the timings below:-&nbsp;

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>CITIES</td>
			<td>EID PRAYER TIMINGS</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Dubai</td>
			<td>5:53 am</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Abu Dhabi</td>
			<td>5:57 am</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Al Ain</td>
			<td>5:51 am</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sharjah</td>
			<td>5:52 am</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ajman</td>
			<td>5:52 am</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Madinat Zayed</td>
			<td>6:02 am</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<h2>UAE Government Issue COVID-19 Guidelines for Eid Al Adha Celebration</h2>

Eid al Adha will be celebrated on July 9, across UAE and seeing the rising COVID-19 cases, the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) has announced some guidelines for the same. See them below,

1. No handshakes are allowed.

2. Prayer time is set to 20 minutes.

3. Wearing masks and following social distancing is mandatory.

4. Ensuring active Green pass for hospitals.&nbsp;

See other guidelines in the below tweet by NCEMA,&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NCEMA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NCEMA</a>: Today, we are announcing the policies for Eid al-Adha prayers in the country’s mosques and related preventive measures.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TogetherWeRecover?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TogetherWeRecover</a> <a href="https://t.co/ky26eY09Dn">pic.twitter.com/ky26eY09Dn</a>
— NCEMA UAE (@NCEMAUAE) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCEMAUAE/status/1544006171538882561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Everyone is excited for the festival and looking forward to the long weekend holiday. The only concern of the authorities is the rising COVID-19 cases, but if the guidelines are followed, everything may remain fine. People are sharing their opinions on social media as well regarding the same.&nbsp;

Eid al Adha celebrates prophet Ibrahim's devotion to Allah for his willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail. This year it will begin in the evening of 9th July and end in the evening of 10th July.

Eid al Adha celebrates prophet Ibrahim's devotion to Allah for his willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail. This year it will begin in the evening of 9th July and end in the evening of 10th July. Eid al Adha means the "festival of sacrifice". It is one of the biggest and important festival in UAE. It is also popularly known as Bakra Eid. A day before the festival, Haj is conducted, which is the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. It is celebrated by sacrificing any animal in order to prove devotion to Allah, after which the offerings are distributed among family and friends and the poor or needy people. A special prayer is conducted in Mosques before sacrificing the animal and huge number of people gather and pray together. Four Days Long Weekend Holidays in UAE for Eid Al Adha 2022 With Eid al Adha being one of the most auspicious festivals, people in UAE have started the preparations for the same. The 4-day holiday would be from July 8 to July 11. This is a good break for the employees for both private and public sectors and they can enjoy the festival and relax. Places like Yas Island, Yas Waterworld, Al Qana and Beaches can be visited in Abu Dhabi, the capital of UAE. People are very happy and excited to celebrate the festival as well as the long weekend holidays. Khaleej times also tweeted and confirmed the same. See the tweet by Khaleej Times below: #ICYMI#EidAlAdha in #UAE: The UAE private sector will get a four-day break as official Eid Al Adha holidays which will be from Friday, July 8, to Monday, July 11#holidays #privatesectorhttps://t.co/UJ2m2IWWn1 — Khaleej Times (@khaleejtimes) July 1, 2022 × Eid Al Adha 2022 Prayer Timings in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other parts of UAE Prayer timings for Eid al Adha, which will be celebrated on July 9 in UAE have been announced. Prayer will be offered across UAE in Mosques as well as Musallahs, which are open-air places for worship. With the timings being released, some COVID-19 guidelines are also released. See the timings below:- CITIES EID PRAYER TIMINGS Dubai 5:53 am Abu Dhabi 5:57 am Al Ain 5:51 am Sharjah 5:52 am Ajman 5:52 am Madinat Zayed 6:02 am UAE Government Issue COVID-19 Guidelines for Eid Al Adha Celebration Eid al Adha will be celebrated on July 9, across UAE and seeing the rising COVID-19 cases, the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) has announced some guidelines for the same. See them below, 1. No handshakes are allowed. 2. Prayer time is set to 20 minutes. 3. Wearing masks and following social distancing is mandatory. 4. Ensuring active Green pass for hospitals. See other guidelines in the below tweet by NCEMA, #NCEMA: Today, we are announcing the policies for Eid al-Adha prayers in the country’s mosques and related preventive measures.#TogetherWeRecover pic.twitter.com/ky26eY09Dn — NCEMA UAE (@NCEMAUAE) July 4, 2022 × Everyone is excited for the festival and looking forward to the long weekend holiday. The only concern of the authorities is the rising COVID-19 cases, but if the guidelines are followed, everything may remain fine. People are sharing their opinions on social media as well regarding the same.

When is Eid al Adha 2022 in Dubai and across UAE? Holidays, prayer timings, covid celebration guidelines

The United Arab Emirates has offered to buy shares in Pakistan's publicly listed companies with certain terms and conditions; this comes after Pakistan had requested for a multi-billion dollar loan from the UAE.

UAE offers to acquire 10-12% shares of cash-starved Pakistani firms

The UAE has offered to buy minority shares in publicly-listed government-owned enterprises at a negotiated price and a seat on each of the firms' boards in response to cash-strapped Pakistan's request for further loans. China has decided to extend another $2 billion of Pakistani debt that is due between June 27 and July 23, giving Islamabad some much-needed respite after sending $2.3 billion the previous week.

If accepted, the offer would deviate from Islamabad and Abu Dhabi's usual lender-borrower relationship and provide a significant boost to the cash-strapped administration, according to The Express Tribune daily.

According to sources cited by The Express Tribune, the UAE government has offered to use its sovereign wealth funds to buy 10–12% of the stock in government-owned firms that are publicly traded.

The report quoted Finance Minister Miftah Ismail as adding that there is a proposal from a friendly nation to buy shares of Pakistani companies on a buy-back basis, which entails buying securities with secured loans as collateral.

According to the sources, the UAE had made a clear offer to buy holdings in the companies. However, they claimed, the government wants to include a clause in any such deal giving it the right to repurchase these holdings after a specified amount of time.

When Shehbaz Sharif, the prime minister of Pakistan, visited the UAE in April, he requested a multibillion dollar bailout package. According to the sources, the UAE had dispatched a delegation to Pakistan in response to the prime minister's request, and they held a meeting with Sharif in Lahore during the first week of May.

Prior to negotiating a deal at the staff level with the IMF, Pakistan is attempting to resuscitate the IMF programme and is awaiting the draught Memorandum for Economic and Financial Policies (MEFP) document.

According to the sources, Pakistan did not repay the $2 billion loan it received in February 2019, therefore the UAE was not prepared to provide Islamabad another $2 billion check this time. 
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The UAE has offered to buy minority shares in publicly-listed government-owned enterprises at a negotiated price and a seat on each of the firms' boards in response to cash-strapped Pakistan's request for further loans.

The UAE has offered to buy minority shares in publicly-listed government-owned enterprises at a negotiated price and a seat on each of the firms' boards in response to cash-strapped Pakistan's request for further loans. China has decided to extend another $2 billion of Pakistani debt that is due between June 27 and July 23, giving Islamabad some much-needed respite after sending $2.3 billion the previous week. If accepted, the offer would deviate from Islamabad and Abu Dhabi's usual lender-borrower relationship and provide a significant boost to the cash-strapped administration, according to The Express Tribune daily. According to sources cited by The Express Tribune, the UAE government has offered to use its sovereign wealth funds to buy 10–12% of the stock in government-owned firms that are publicly traded. The report quoted Finance Minister Miftah Ismail as adding that there is a proposal from a friendly nation to buy shares of Pakistani companies on a buy-back basis, which entails buying securities with secured loans as collateral. According to the sources, the UAE had made a clear offer to buy holdings in the companies. However, they claimed, the government wants to include a clause in any such deal giving it the right to repurchase these holdings after a specified amount of time. When Shehbaz Sharif, the prime minister of Pakistan, visited the UAE in April, he requested a multibillion dollar bailout package. According to the sources, the UAE had dispatched a delegation to Pakistan in response to the prime minister's request, and they held a meeting with Sharif in Lahore during the first week of May. Prior to negotiating a deal at the staff level with the IMF, Pakistan is attempting to resuscitate the IMF programme and is awaiting the draught Memorandum for Economic and Financial Policies (MEFP) document. According to the sources, Pakistan did not repay the $2 billion loan it received in February 2019, therefore the UAE was not prepared to provide Islamabad another $2 billion check this time. 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.

Shares in listed companies: UAE's Pakistan loan seeks a grip on corporates

At least five people were killed and 44 others injured after a 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck southern Iran early Saturday, state news agency IRNA reported.

The quake hit 100 kilometres (60 miles) southwest of the port city of Bandar Abbas in Hormozgan province at 1.32 am, the US Geological Survey said.

Iranian media put the strength of the quake at 6.1 while the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) said it had a 6.0 magnitude. The quake was at a depth of 10 km (6.21 miles), EMSC said.

It was followed by at least 7 more minor quakes with magnitudes ranging from 4.3 to 6, USGS said.

All the injured have been taken to hospitals.

Three people were killed in Sayeh Khosh village close to the epicentre of the quake, IRNA reported, citing a member of the village Islamic council who said three bodies had been pulled from the rubble.

The quake was so strong that it was felt in various parts of UAE, Khaleej Times reported. However, no loss of life or property damage has been reported yet.

Distressed residents took to social media to share videos of the quake and its effects.

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Just experienced the mother of all earthquakes and it was one of the longest ones in my 20 years of living in UAE and a really strong one here in Dubai…. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dubai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dubai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/uae?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#uae</a> praying for everyone’s safety. May Allah have mercy. <a href="https://t.co/iCELmDggIZ">pic.twitter.com/iCELmDggIZ</a>
— Fakhr-e-Alam (@falamb3) <a href="https://twitter.com/falamb3/status/1542987618102697984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Earthquake</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dubai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dubai</a> twice in one night. Both were strong and long stretched. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAE</a>. Hope everyone is safe. <a href="https://t.co/Nfmm6TbNEY">pic.twitter.com/Nfmm6TbNEY</a>
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Iran is an area of strong seismic activity as it is situated on the edge of several tectonic plates and crossing various fault lines.

Iran's deadliest quake was a 7.4-magnitude tremor that struck in 1990, killing 40,000 people in the north of the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least five people were killed and 44 others injured after a 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck southern Iran early Saturday, state news agency IRNA reported. The quake hit 100 kilometres (60 miles) southwest of the port city of Bandar Abbas in Hormozgan province at 1.

At least five people were killed and 44 others injured after a 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck southern Iran early Saturday, state news agency IRNA reported. The quake hit 100 kilometres (60 miles) southwest of the port city of Bandar Abbas in Hormozgan province at 1.32 am, the US Geological Survey said. Iranian media put the strength of the quake at 6.1 while the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) said it had a 6.0 magnitude. The quake was at a depth of 10 km (6.21 miles), EMSC said. It was followed by at least 7 more minor quakes with magnitudes ranging from 4.3 to 6, USGS said. All the injured have been taken to hospitals. Three people were killed in Sayeh Khosh village close to the epicentre of the quake, IRNA reported, citing a member of the village Islamic council who said three bodies had been pulled from the rubble. The quake was so strong that it was felt in various parts of UAE, Khaleej Times reported. However, no loss of life or property damage has been reported yet. Distressed residents took to social media to share videos of the quake and its effects. Just experienced the mother of all earthquakes and it was one of the longest ones in my 20 years of living in UAE and a really strong one here in Dubai…. #Dubai #earthquake #uae praying for everyone’s safety. May Allah have mercy. pic.twitter.com/iCELmDggIZ — Fakhr-e-Alam (@falamb3) July 1, 2022 × #Earthquake in #Dubai twice in one night. Both were strong and long stretched. #UAE. Hope everyone is safe. pic.twitter.com/Nfmm6TbNEY — Dr Prithvi priya (@drprithvipriya) July 1, 2022 × Iran is an area of strong seismic activity as it is situated on the edge of several tectonic plates and crossing various fault lines. Iran's deadliest quake was a 7.4-magnitude tremor that struck in 1990, killing 40,000 people in the north of the country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

6.3 magnitude earthquake jolts southern Iran, 5 killed, 44 injured; tremors felt in UAE too

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has concluded his visit to Germany where he attended the G7 summit on Monday at the invite of German chancellor Olaf Scholz, the Indian PM has reached United Arab Emirates for a day-long visit.

PM Narendra Modi visits UAE after Prophet Muhammad row, offer condolences on Sheikh Khalifa's demise

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met UAE’s newly-appointed President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan here and the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further deepen ties.

Indian PM Modi Meets UAE President MBZ, both underline ties

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the UAE to reset ties after the Prophet row. How has the UAE responded to India's outreach? Can both countries put the controversy behind them? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Indian PM Modi visits the UAE

In order to make a prisoner exchange possible, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has offered its assistance to Russia and Ukraine, reported Russian news agency RIA Novosti citing sources. The UAE’s proposal is being considered by both nations as they are finalising the lists of prisoners, which may be swapped, said RIA Novosti’s report. Both nations, Russia and Ukraine, have been claiming to capture hundreds of prisoners of war (POWs) since the invasion began on February 24. In the first week of June, Russian defense minister Sergei Shoigu said that Russian forces have captured over 6,500 Ukrainian fighters. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-send-advanced-weapons-system-to-ukraine-report-492359" hreflang="en">US to send advanced weapons system to Ukraine: Report</a>

Earlier this month, the Ukrainian government also said that 11 rounds of prisoner swaps have been held since the war has started. In these rounds, several prisoners have been swapped. Each nation has accused the other’s forces of committing war crimes and atrocities on civilians and POWs. &nbsp;

Watch | G7 pledges to stand with Ukraine: 'With Ukraine as long as it takes'

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Meanwhile, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky told G7 nations "now is not the time for negotiations" referring to Russia. The Ukraine president also asked G7 nations to "limit the price of Russian oil" and to "intensify sanctions" against Russia over its invasion of his country, reports said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

In order to make a prisoner exchange possible, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has offered its assistance to Russia and Ukraine, reported Russian news agency RIA Novosti citing sources.

In order to make a prisoner exchange possible, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has offered its assistance to Russia and Ukraine, reported Russian news agency RIA Novosti citing sources. The UAE’s proposal is being considered by both nations as they are finalising the lists of prisoners, which may be swapped, said RIA Novosti’s report. Both nations, Russia and Ukraine, have been claiming to capture hundreds of prisoners of war (POWs) since the invasion began on February 24. In the first week of June, Russian defense minister Sergei Shoigu said that Russian forces have captured over 6,500 Ukrainian fighters. Also Read | US to send advanced weapons system to Ukraine: Report Earlier this month, the Ukrainian government also said that 11 rounds of prisoner swaps have been held since the war has started. In these rounds, several prisoners have been swapped. Each nation has accused the other’s forces of committing war crimes and atrocities on civilians and POWs. Watch | G7 pledges to stand with Ukraine: 'With Ukraine as long as it takes' × Meanwhile, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky told G7 nations "now is not the time for negotiations" referring to Russia. The Ukraine president also asked G7 nations to "limit the price of Russian oil" and to "intensify sanctions" against Russia over its invasion of his country, reports said. (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. ×

UAE offers assistance to make prisoner exchange possible between Russia, Ukraine

In a major step towards food security, the United Arab Emirates has suspended re-export of Indian wheat for the period of 4 months. India has been sending the key food commodity to the west Asian country on a regular basis. The 4-month period begins from May 13th, and it applies to all Indian wheat varieties (hard, ordinary, and soft) as well as wheat flour.

The UAE economy ministry decision sends out a message that Indian wheat is for the domestic population of the country and deters traders from exporting it further amid skyrocketing prices of the global staple. The UAE economy ministry in its release appreciated the "solid and strategic relations that bind the UAE and India" and "Indian government's approval to export wheat to the UAE for domestic consumption."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nord-stream-gas-deliveries-to-be-cut-by-a-third-announces-gazprom-488496">Gazprom makes more cuts in Nord Stream gas supplies, Germany fumes</a>

Remember during the peak of covid crisis, India sent essential food items to the west Asian country using the air bridge. This even as supply chains with China collapsed. Food Items like Cereals, Sugar, Fruits &amp; Vegetables, Tea, Meat, and Seafood are a major component of Indian exports to the country.

Dubai is a major hub for re-export, and concerns have been raised around the city as a hub for further outward flow. But traders are allowed to export non-Indian wheat but must take permission. The UAE economy ministry in the release has pointed that it "in the case of wheat and wheat flour products of non-Indian origin, companies wishing to export/re-export it may do so after applying to the Ministry for export permission outside the country".

While food exports from India may be one of the key areas of engagement, people to people connect forms a key pillar of the ties between the 2 countries. 3.5 million Indian passport holders are in the west Asian country and form 35% of the local population, which is the largest proportion anywhere in the Gulf. The country also hosts the largest number of Indians anywhere in the world.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-shanghai-to-paris-here-are-worlds-most-expensive-cities-to-live-in-for-rich-people-488479" hreflang="en">From Shanghai to Paris: Here are world's most expensive cities to live in for rich people</a>

Mega Yoga Day celebrations are planned in the country on 21st June. Louvre Abu Dhabi will host Yoga Day celebration where UAE's Minister of State for Tolerance Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan will be the chief guest &amp; Indian Ambassador to UAE Sunjay Sudhir will be present.

The Yoga at Louvre, Abu Dhabi, which is the largest art museum in the Arabian Peninsula and only Louvre outside of France, is expected to be a spectacular affair. Later in the evening yoga will be performed at the famous Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi with an approximate participation of 8-10 thousand people.

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In a major step towards food security, the United Arab Emirates has suspended re-export of Indian wheat for the period of 4 months. India has been sending the key food commodity to the west Asian country on a regular basis.

In a major step towards food security, the United Arab Emirates has suspended re-export of Indian wheat for the period of 4 months. India has been sending the key food commodity to the west Asian country on a regular basis. The 4-month period begins from May 13th, and it applies to all Indian wheat varieties (hard, ordinary, and soft) as well as wheat flour. The UAE economy ministry decision sends out a message that Indian wheat is for the domestic population of the country and deters traders from exporting it further amid skyrocketing prices of the global staple. The UAE economy ministry in its release appreciated the "solid and strategic relations that bind the UAE and India" and "Indian government's approval to export wheat to the UAE for domestic consumption." Also read | Gazprom makes more cuts in Nord Stream gas supplies, Germany fumes Remember during the peak of covid crisis, India sent essential food items to the west Asian country using the air bridge. This even as supply chains with China collapsed. Food Items like Cereals, Sugar, Fruits & Vegetables, Tea, Meat, and Seafood are a major component of Indian exports to the country. Dubai is a major hub for re-export, and concerns have been raised around the city as a hub for further outward flow. But traders are allowed to export non-Indian wheat but must take permission. The UAE economy ministry in the release has pointed that it "in the case of wheat and wheat flour products of non-Indian origin, companies wishing to export/re-export it may do so after applying to the Ministry for export permission outside the country". While food exports from India may be one of the key areas of engagement, people to people connect forms a key pillar of the ties between the 2 countries. 3.5 million Indian passport holders are in the west Asian country and form 35% of the local population, which is the largest proportion anywhere in the Gulf. The country also hosts the largest number of Indians anywhere in the world. Also read | From Shanghai to Paris: Here are world's most expensive cities to live in for rich people Mega Yoga Day celebrations are planned in the country on 21st June. Louvre Abu Dhabi will host Yoga Day celebration where UAE's Minister of State for Tolerance Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan will be the chief guest & Indian Ambassador to UAE Sunjay Sudhir will be present. The Yoga at Louvre, Abu Dhabi, which is the largest art museum in the Arabian Peninsula and only Louvre outside of France, is expected to be a spectacular affair. Later in the evening yoga will be performed at the famous Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi with an approximate participation of 8-10 thousand people. 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 prefers Indian wheat for its population, suspends re-exports in a message to traders

This year will see the return of the ACC Women`s T20 Championship after a hiatus of over nine years. And, Malaysian Cricket Association will play host to the Championship that commences on June 17, with the finals scheduled to be held on June 25. Ten nations will be vying to win this tournament that will take two of them to the ACC Women`s T20 Asia Cup.

The matches will be played at Kinrara Oval and YSD UKM Oval."I`m pleased to announce the commencement of the ACC Women`s T20 Championship in Malaysia. Good luck to all ten participating teams! We`re playing against each other, but playing as one. May the best team win. @ACCMedia1, " tweeted Jay Shah, President of the Asian Cricket Council. The participating countries are UAE, Malaysia, Oman, Qatar, Nepal, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Bahrain, Singapore and Bhutan. Teams will be divided into two groups and shall play a single round-robin leading to top two teams from each group to qualify for the semi-finals followed by the finals. Jay Shah also spoke about the development of women`s cricket programmes.

"The last time the ACC Women`s T20 Championship was in 2013. The revival is long overdue, and this, I believe, will set the tone for us to move faster towards the development of women`s pathway programmes in Asia. The development of women`s cricket programmes is an integral component that must be pushed forward," he said in a statement. "With this tournament, in addition to India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Thailand, two more countries will be awarded the opportunity to make it to the Asia Cup," he added. This is the first occasion in the history of ACC Women`s T20 Championship in which the top two qualifying teams will make it to the Women`s T20 Asia Cup.&nbsp;

This year will see the return of the ACC Women`s T20 Championship after a hiatus of over nine years. And, Malaysian Cricket Association will play host to the Championship that commences on June 17, with the finals scheduled to be held on June 25.

This year will see the return of the ACC Women`s T20 Championship after a hiatus of over nine years. And, Malaysian Cricket Association will play host to the Championship that commences on June 17, with the finals scheduled to be held on June 25. Ten nations will be vying to win this tournament that will take two of them to the ACC Women`s T20 Asia Cup. The matches will be played at Kinrara Oval and YSD UKM Oval."I`m pleased to announce the commencement of the ACC Women`s T20 Championship in Malaysia. Good luck to all ten participating teams! We`re playing against each other, but playing as one. May the best team win. @ACCMedia1, " tweeted Jay Shah, President of the Asian Cricket Council. The participating countries are UAE, Malaysia, Oman, Qatar, Nepal, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Bahrain, Singapore and Bhutan. Teams will be divided into two groups and shall play a single round-robin leading to top two teams from each group to qualify for the semi-finals followed by the finals. Jay Shah also spoke about the development of women`s cricket programmes. "The last time the ACC Women`s T20 Championship was in 2013. The revival is long overdue, and this, I believe, will set the tone for us to move faster towards the development of women`s pathway programmes in Asia. The development of women`s cricket programmes is an integral component that must be pushed forward," he said in a statement. "With this tournament, in addition to India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Thailand, two more countries will be awarded the opportunity to make it to the Asia Cup," he added. This is the first occasion in the history of ACC Women`s T20 Championship in which the top two qualifying teams will make it to the Women`s T20 Asia Cup.

After a nine-year hiatus, ACC Women's T20 Championship returns

A new West Asian Quad has been established and it is called as the I2U2. It comprises of 4 nations; India, Israel, United States & UAE. US President Joe Biden will host a virtual first I2U2 summit with Indian PM Narendra Modi, Israel PM Naftali Bennett and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

West Asian Quad Leaders' summit: Indian PM Narendra Modi to attend virtually

The first meeting of the India, Israel, US and UAE leaders' summit will take place next month during President Biden's in person visit to Israel. The US President will be in West Asia from July 13th to July 16th with stops in Israel, the West Bank, and Saudi Arabia. The new grouping of the 4 countries is known as I2U2 with I standing for India, Israel and U for US, UAE. The grouping is sometime referred to as the West Asian Quad.

A senior US administration official said, "President will hold a virtual summit with the I2U2 heads of state for discussions of the food security crisis and other areas of cooperation across hemispheres where UAE and Israel serve as important innovation hubs". The official added, "President looks forward to this unique engagement with Prime Minister Bennett of Israel, with Prime Minister Modi of India, and President Mohammed bin Zayed of the UAE.'

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-to-hold-meeting-over-declaring-monkeypox-an-international-health-emergency-488191" hreflang="en">WHO to hold meeting over declaring monkeypox an international health emergency</a>

So far, the I2U2 has met only at foreign minister's level. The first meet took place during EAM Jaishankar's Israel visit in October of last year. During that visit, United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed and US Secretary of state Antony Blinken joined virtually while Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid and Indian EAM were together in person. One of the key focus areas of the grouping has been issues like trade, climate, and maritime security.

The Quad meeting is seen as one of the key dividends of the Abraham accords that saw the normalization of ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates. UAE was the first country in the Persian Gulf to normalize ties with Israel.&nbsp;India has strong ties with both Israel and UAE in West Asia and since the accords were signed, they have worked in a trilateral arrangement. PM Modi will be traveling to UAE later this month as part 2 nation visit, which includes his visit to Germany.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-narendra-modi-directs-1-million-recruitments-in-next-15-years-488007">Indian PM Modi directs govt depts for 1 million recruitments in next 1.5 years</a>

The summit level meet of West Asian Quad comes even as the Quad between US, India, Japan and Australia has seen increased engagement. Last month Quad met for the 2nd&nbsp;time in-person in Tokyo. While the first in person meet took place in Washington in 2021, Australia will hold Quad summit in 2023, followed by India in 2024.

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The first meeting of the India, Israel, US and UAE leaders' summit will take place next month during President Biden's in person visit to Israel. The US President will be in West Asia from July 13th to July 16th with stops in Israel, the West Bank, and Saudi Arabia.

The first meeting of the India, Israel, US and UAE leaders' summit will take place next month during President Biden's in person visit to Israel. The US President will be in West Asia from July 13th to July 16th with stops in Israel, the West Bank, and Saudi Arabia. The new grouping of the 4 countries is known as I2U2 with I standing for India, Israel and U for US, UAE. The grouping is sometime referred to as the West Asian Quad. A senior US administration official said, "President will hold a virtual summit with the I2U2 heads of state for discussions of the food security crisis and other areas of cooperation across hemispheres where UAE and Israel serve as important innovation hubs". The official added, "President looks forward to this unique engagement with Prime Minister Bennett of Israel, with Prime Minister Modi of India, and President Mohammed bin Zayed of the UAE.' Also read | WHO to hold meeting over declaring monkeypox an international health emergency So far, the I2U2 has met only at foreign minister's level. The first meet took place during EAM Jaishankar's Israel visit in October of last year. During that visit, United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed and US Secretary of state Antony Blinken joined virtually while Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid and Indian EAM were together in person. One of the key focus areas of the grouping has been issues like trade, climate, and maritime security. The Quad meeting is seen as one of the key dividends of the Abraham accords that saw the normalization of ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates. UAE was the first country in the Persian Gulf to normalize ties with Israel. India has strong ties with both Israel and UAE in West Asia and since the accords were signed, they have worked in a trilateral arrangement. PM Modi will be traveling to UAE later this month as part 2 nation visit, which includes his visit to Germany. Also read | Indian PM Modi directs govt depts for 1 million recruitments in next 1.5 years The summit level meet of West Asian Quad comes even as the Quad between US, India, Japan and Australia has seen increased engagement. Last month Quad met for the 2nd time in-person in Tokyo. While the first in person meet took place in Washington in 2021, Australia will hold Quad summit in 2023, followed by India in 2024. 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.

First India, Israel, US, UAE or West Asian Quad leaders' Summit next month

Disney and Pixar 'Lightyear' has joined a long list of movies that have been banned in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over LGBTQ content. 
&nbsp; 
The animated movie will miss the date over a&nbsp;same-gender couple romance that features in the film. 'Lightyear' was set to release on June 16 in UAE.&nbsp; 
 
The film has reportedly featured a&nbsp;kiss between the two female characters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/with-pixars-lightyear-up-for-release-5-reasons-why-buzz-is-everyones-favourite-487652" hreflang="en">'Lightyear': 5 reasons why Buzz is everyone's favourite</a>

UAE's Media Regulatory Office noted that the film has ''violated the country`s media content standards', so will not release in the country.

"The Media Regulatory Office announced that the animated film Lightyear, which is scheduled for release on June 16, is not licensed for public screening in all cinemas in the UAE, due to its violation of the country's media content standards," the office tweeted without mentioning the real reason.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The film follows the story of a Buzz Lightyear, the popular character in the 'Toy Story' franchise. For the unversed, same-sex relationships are criminalised in the UAE.&nbsp;

The ban comes after the movie faced a backlash from the netizens on Twitter and an Arabic hashtag "Lightyear banned in the Emirates" was trending on Twitter.

This is not the first time when a Hollywood movie has faced a ban&nbsp;over LGBTQ&nbsp;content.&nbsp;In April, 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness' was banned and last year Chloé Zhao’s 'Eternals' and 'West Side Story' missed&nbsp;its date in Saudi Arabia for similar reasons.&nbsp;

(With inputs from the agency)

Disney and Pixar 'Lightyear' has joined a long list of movies that have been banned in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over LGBTQ content. The animated movie will miss the date over a same-gender couple romance that features in the film.

Disney and Pixar 'Lightyear' has joined a long list of movies that have been banned in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over LGBTQ content. The animated movie will miss the date over a same-gender couple romance that features in the film. 'Lightyear' was set to release on June 16 in UAE. The film has reportedly featured a kiss between the two female characters. 'Lightyear': 5 reasons why Buzz is everyone's favourite UAE's Media Regulatory Office noted that the film has ''violated the country`s media content standards', so will not release in the country. "The Media Regulatory Office announced that the animated film Lightyear, which is scheduled for release on June 16, is not licensed for public screening in all cinemas in the UAE, due to its violation of the country's media content standards," the office tweeted without mentioning the real reason. The film follows the story of a Buzz Lightyear, the popular character in the 'Toy Story' franchise. For the unversed, same-sex relationships are criminalised in the UAE. The ban comes after the movie faced a backlash from the netizens on Twitter and an Arabic hashtag "Lightyear banned in the Emirates" was trending on Twitter. This is not the first time when a Hollywood movie has faced a ban over LGBTQ content. In April, 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness' was banned and last year Chloé Zhao’s 'Eternals' and 'West Side Story' missed its date in Saudi Arabia for similar reasons. (With inputs from the agency)

UAE bans screening of  'Lightyear' over same-sex kiss scene

Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi will be travelling to United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the last week of this month. The visit will be part of his visit to Germany, where he will be going to take part in the G7 summit. The G7 summit is due to take place from 26 to 28 June 2022 at Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps. 
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High-level visits between India, and UAE have been taking place routinely. The last visit by the PM to UAE was in August 2019 during which he received the UAE’s highest award, the 'Order of Zayed’ conferred upon him by UAE leadership. The visit also witnessed the official launch of ‘RuPay Card’ in UAE and the release of a set of stamps commemorating the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Previously PM travelled to UAE in 2015 and 2018.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modis-secret-of-keeping-jetlag-away-during-busy-foreign-trips-revealed-416173">&nbsp;PM Narendra Modi's 'secret' of keeping jetlag away during busy foreign trips revealed</a>&nbsp;

In fact, PM was expected to travel to UAE earlier this year, to visit the "India Pavillion" at the Dubai Expo. &nbsp;This year has been important for both countries as they signed a key Free Trade Agreement or FTA pact. UAE is the second-largest export destination of India (after the US) with an amount of over US$ 30 billion for the year 2018-19. For UAE, India was the second-largest trading partner in 2018 with US$ 36 billion (non-oil trade).&nbsp; 
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The diaspora forms the main pillar of ties. Indian expatriate community of approximately 3.4 million is the largest ethnic community in UAE constituting roughly about 35 per cent of the country’s population. 15% of the diaspora is in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the rest in 6 Northern Emirates including Dubai.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-uae-counterpart-to-hold-virtual-meet-trade-pact-to-be-signed-452989">PM Modi, UAE counterpart to hold virtual meet; Trade pact to be signed</a>

During the visit, PM Modi will pay his condolences on the demise of UAE President Sheikh Khalifa. India had sent its vice President Naidu as world leaders gathered in the country to pay homage. India had also announced a day of mourning with the national flag at half-mast. 
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The visit of Indian PM Modi happens even as ties were tensed with Islamic countries last week over remarks by now suspended members of the ruling BJP party. The inflammatory remarks against the Prophet by suspended BJP leader Nupur Sharma &amp; expelled leader Naveen Jindal had led to the summoning of Indian envoys and statements by over 15 Islamic nations. UAE also issued a statement, even as its neighbouring country Qatar was the first to issue a statement and summon the Indian envoy.

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Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi will be travelling to United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the last week of this month. The visit will be part of his visit to Germany, where he will be going to take part in the G7 summit.

Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi will be travelling to United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the last week of this month. The visit will be part of his visit to Germany, where he will be going to take part in the G7 summit. The G7 summit is due to take place from 26 to 28 June 2022 at Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps. High-level visits between India, and UAE have been taking place routinely. The last visit by the PM to UAE was in August 2019 during which he received the UAE’s highest award, the 'Order of Zayed’ conferred upon him by UAE leadership. The visit also witnessed the official launch of ‘RuPay Card’ in UAE and the release of a set of stamps commemorating the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Previously PM travelled to UAE in 2015 and 2018. Also Read: PM Narendra Modi's 'secret' of keeping jetlag away during busy foreign trips revealed In fact, PM was expected to travel to UAE earlier this year, to visit the "India Pavillion" at the Dubai Expo. This year has been important for both countries as they signed a key Free Trade Agreement or FTA pact. UAE is the second-largest export destination of India (after the US) with an amount of over US$ 30 billion for the year 2018-19. For UAE, India was the second-largest trading partner in 2018 with US$ 36 billion (non-oil trade). The diaspora forms the main pillar of ties. Indian expatriate community of approximately 3.4 million is the largest ethnic community in UAE constituting roughly about 35 per cent of the country’s population. 15% of the diaspora is in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the rest in 6 Northern Emirates including Dubai. Also Read: PM Modi, UAE counterpart to hold virtual meet; Trade pact to be signed During the visit, PM Modi will pay his condolences on the demise of UAE President Sheikh Khalifa. India had sent its vice President Naidu as world leaders gathered in the country to pay homage. India had also announced a day of mourning with the national flag at half-mast. The visit of Indian PM Modi happens even as ties were tensed with Islamic countries last week over remarks by now suspended members of the ruling BJP party. The inflammatory remarks against the Prophet by suspended BJP leader Nupur Sharma & expelled leader Naveen Jindal had led to the summoning of Indian envoys and statements by over 15 Islamic nations. UAE also issued a statement, even as its neighbouring country Qatar was the first to issue a statement and summon the Indian envoy. 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.

PM Modi to travel to UAE this month

Israel PM Naftali Bennett embarked on a 'snap visit' to UAE, where he held talks with UAE President. Israel also lauded the UN's motion against Iran.

Israel PM Naftali Bennett holds talks with UAE President as Israel lauds UN's motion against Iran

Two fugitive brothers Rajesh Gupta and Atul Gupta have been arrested in the United Arab Emirates. The duo is wanted in South Africa where they allegedly orchestrated a web of state corruption.

Gupta brothers wanted in $1.6 million fraud nabbed in UAE

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