The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) said on Thursday that the country's economy will grow by 2.4 per cent this year and by 3.8 per cent in 2022.

UAE projects 2.4% economic growth in 2021

As war destroys Yemen's present, museums struggle to preserve its past

Just days after the Indian cricket board announced that it will be holding the remainder of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-remainder-of-ipl-2021-shifted-to-uae-call-on-t20-world-cup-to-be-taken-later-388203">Indian Premier League (IPL)</a> in the UAE in September, International Cricket Council(ICC) said it may shift T20 World Cup 2021 to the UAE with India reeling under the pandemic.

"The ICC board has requested management focus its planning efforts for the ICC men's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-jofra-archer-eyes-t20-world-cup-and-ashes-says-wont-rush-comeback-387756">T20 World Cup</a> 2021 on the event being staged in the UAE with the possibility of including another venue in the Middle East," the ICC said in a statement.

The Indian Premier League was earlier suspended on May 4 after the country was hit by the second wave of the virus as some players tested positive.

The ICC is set to decide on the host country for the October-November event later this month even as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly asked the cricket's governing body for more time to make a decision.

Reports say the ICC is likely to keep Oman's Muscat as the back-up venue for the preliminary round games of the T20 World Cup.

The governing body further said that the ICC men’s cricket World Cup will become a 14-team, 54 match event in 2027 and 2031 with the T20 men's World Cup to be expanded to 20 teams in 2024, 2026, 2028 and 2030

The ICC added that the Champions Trophy consisting of eight teams will take place in 2025 and 2029.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Just days after the Indian cricket board announced that it will be holding the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the UAE in September, International Cricket Council(ICC) said it may shift T20 World Cup 2021 to the UAE with India reeling under the pandemic.

Just days after the Indian cricket board announced that it will be holding the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the UAE in September, International Cricket Council(ICC) said it may shift T20 World Cup 2021 to the UAE with India reeling under the pandemic. "The ICC board has requested management focus its planning efforts for the ICC men's T20 World Cup 2021 on the event being staged in the UAE with the possibility of including another venue in the Middle East," the ICC said in a statement. The Indian Premier League was earlier suspended on May 4 after the country was hit by the second wave of the virus as some players tested positive. The ICC is set to decide on the host country for the October-November event later this month even as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly asked the cricket's governing body for more time to make a decision. Reports say the ICC is likely to keep Oman's Muscat as the back-up venue for the preliminary round games of the T20 World Cup. The governing body further said that the ICC men’s cricket World Cup will become a 14-team, 54 match event in 2027 and 2031 with the T20 men's World Cup to be expanded to 20 teams in 2024, 2026, 2028 and 2030 The ICC added that the Champions Trophy consisting of eight teams will take place in 2025 and 2029. (With inputs from Agencies)

Cricket: Amid virus surge in India, ICC may move T20 World Cup from India to UAE

The UAE and Bahrain will now offer a third shot of China's Sinopharm vaccine. This comes after a group of people didn't develop antibodies, even after two doses of the vaccine. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: UAE and Bahrain to offer a third dose of Chinese vaccine

The United Arab Emirates announced Wednesday it will lift a cap on non-local ownership and allow full foreign control of business ventures from June 1.

The reform, originally flagged in 2019, will make it easier to do business in the Gulf state and encourage investment, the economy ministry said.

"The amended Commercial Companies Law aims at boosting the country’s competitive edge and is a part of&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;government efforts to facilitate doing business," said Economy Minister Abdulla bin Touq al-Marri.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-urges-mideast-ceasefire-offers-condolences-to-all-victims-report-385151">UAE urges Mideast ceasefire, offers condolences to all victims: Report</a>&nbsp;

The decision abolishes a longstanding law that limits foreign ownership to just 49 per cent.

To dodge the limit, some of the seven emirates that make up the&nbsp;UAE, including Dubai, have for years established free trade zones where foreigners can own up to 100 per cent of their business.

The&nbsp;UAE's economy is the second-largest in the Arab world, behind Saudi Arabia.

It counts as the most diversified, particularly thanks to Dubai which gains 95 per cent of its income from outside the oil industry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-urges-israel-to-stop-jerusalem-violence-in-rare-rebuke-380585">UAE urges Israel to stop Jerusalem violence in rare rebuke</a>

The capital Abu Dhabi sits on the majority of the&nbsp;UAE's vast oil reserves.

The country ranks 16th in the World Bank's index on the ease of doing business.

The decision opens up 13 major economic sectors to unrestricted foreign investment, including renewable energy, agriculture, transport and e-commerce.

In 2019, the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;was the top destination for foreign direct investment in the Arab world, attracting nearly $13.8 billion, according to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

The United Arab Emirates announced Wednesday it will lift a cap on non-local ownership and allow full foreign control of business ventures from June 1. The reform, originally flagged in 2019, will make it easier to do business in the Gulf state and encourage investment, the economy ministry said.

The United Arab Emirates announced Wednesday it will lift a cap on non-local ownership and allow full foreign control of business ventures from June 1. The reform, originally flagged in 2019, will make it easier to do business in the Gulf state and encourage investment, the economy ministry said. "The amended Commercial Companies Law aims at boosting the country’s competitive edge and is a part of UAE government efforts to facilitate doing business," said Economy Minister Abdulla bin Touq al-Marri. Also read | UAE urges Mideast ceasefire, offers condolences to all victims: Report The decision abolishes a longstanding law that limits foreign ownership to just 49 per cent. To dodge the limit, some of the seven emirates that make up the UAE, including Dubai, have for years established free trade zones where foreigners can own up to 100 per cent of their business. The UAE's economy is the second-largest in the Arab world, behind Saudi Arabia. It counts as the most diversified, particularly thanks to Dubai which gains 95 per cent of its income from outside the oil industry. Also read | UAE urges Israel to stop Jerusalem violence in rare rebuke The capital Abu Dhabi sits on the majority of the UAE's vast oil reserves. The country ranks 16th in the World Bank's index on the ease of doing business. The decision opens up 13 major economic sectors to unrestricted foreign investment, including renewable energy, agriculture, transport and e-commerce. In 2019, the UAE was the top destination for foreign direct investment in the Arab world, attracting nearly $13.8 billion, according to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

UAE to allow full foreign ownership of firms

The United Arab Emirates foreign minister on Friday voiced his country's concern over the escalation of Israeli-Palestinian violence and called for a ceasefire and the start of a diplomatic dialogue, state news agency WAM reported.&nbsp;

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan offered condolences to all victims of the fighting, citing the promise of September accords that made the UAE and Bahrain the first Arab states in a quarter century to establish formal ties with Israel.&nbsp;

"The UAE is alarmed by the escalating spiral of violence in Israel and Palestine. We express our condolences to all victims of the recent fighting, and join others in calling for an immediate cessation of violence and hostilities," he said. &nbsp;

"The UAE calls on all parties to take immediate steps to commit to a ceasefire, initiate a political dialogue, and exercise maximum restraint," the minister added.&nbsp;

"We reflect on the promise that the Abraham Accords hold for current and future generations, to live with their neighbours in peace, dignity and prosperity," he said, offering his country's support to all efforts to de-escalate tensions.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

The United Arab Emirates foreign minister on Friday voiced his country's concern over the escalation of Israeli-Palestinian violence and called for a ceasefire and the start of a diplomatic dialogue, state news agency WAM reported.

The United Arab Emirates foreign minister on Friday voiced his country's concern over the escalation of Israeli-Palestinian violence and called for a ceasefire and the start of a diplomatic dialogue, state news agency WAM reported. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan offered condolences to all victims of the fighting, citing the promise of September accords that made the UAE and Bahrain the first Arab states in a quarter century to establish formal ties with Israel. "The UAE is alarmed by the escalating spiral of violence in Israel and Palestine. We express our condolences to all victims of the recent fighting, and join others in calling for an immediate cessation of violence and hostilities," he said. "The UAE calls on all parties to take immediate steps to commit to a ceasefire, initiate a political dialogue, and exercise maximum restraint," the minister added. "We reflect on the promise that the Abraham Accords hold for current and future generations, to live with their neighbours in peace, dignity and prosperity," he said, offering his country's support to all efforts to de-escalate tensions. (With inputs from agencies)

UAE urges Mideast ceasefire, offers condolences to all victims: Report 

As India's government scrambles for supplies of oxygen and other emergency aid to control the raging coronavirus outbreak, donors around the world have come to the rescue including a Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates.

On Monday, volunteers from the country's Hindu community gathered at the Jebel Ali Port, here at the northern end of Dubai, to haul hundreds of cylinders of liquid oxygen and massive containers of compressed oxygen onto a ship, where it will head to crisis-wracked India.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="India covid crisis: International assistance delivered at AIIMS, Safdarjung, Lady Harding, ITBP, DRDO">India covid crisis: International assistance delivered at AIIMS, Safdarjung, Lady Harding, ITBP, DRDO</a>

The organisers, Indian owners of a Dubai helium factory, shifted production to oxygen when the latest surge in virus cases hit India.

As calls for help back home grew, the factory enlisted the help of the main Hindu temple based in the UAE's capital of Abu Dhabi, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, to send oxygen supplies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="Private jets in demand: Indians flee the country, fly to UAE to escape Covid surge">Private jets in demand: Indians flee the country, fly to UAE to escape Covid surge</a>

COVID-19 patients are suffocating in India's capital, New Delhi, and other cities because of the shortage.

Hindu spiritual leaders, dressed in saffron robes, came to bless the oxygen before sending it out, showering rose petals on the shipment and marking the cylinders with traditional orange dye.

The UAE's economy is powered by millions of foreign workers from Southeast Asia. Indian citizens make up nearly 30 per cent of the population.&nbsp;

As India's government scrambles for supplies of oxygen and other emergency aid to control the raging coronavirus outbreak, donors around the world have come to the rescue including a Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates.

As India's government scrambles for supplies of oxygen and other emergency aid to control the raging coronavirus outbreak, donors around the world have come to the rescue including a Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates. On Monday, volunteers from the country's Hindu community gathered at the Jebel Ali Port, here at the northern end of Dubai, to haul hundreds of cylinders of liquid oxygen and massive containers of compressed oxygen onto a ship, where it will head to crisis-wracked India. Also read | India covid crisis: International assistance delivered at AIIMS, Safdarjung, Lady Harding, ITBP, DRDO The organisers, Indian owners of a Dubai helium factory, shifted production to oxygen when the latest surge in virus cases hit India. As calls for help back home grew, the factory enlisted the help of the main Hindu temple based in the UAE's capital of Abu Dhabi, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, to send oxygen supplies. Also read | Private jets in demand: Indians flee the country, fly to UAE to escape Covid surge COVID-19 patients are suffocating in India's capital, New Delhi, and other cities because of the shortage. Hindu spiritual leaders, dressed in saffron robes, came to bless the oxygen before sending it out, showering rose petals on the shipment and marking the cylinders with traditional orange dye. The UAE's economy is powered by millions of foreign workers from Southeast Asia. Indian citizens make up nearly 30 per cent of the population.

Hindu community, temple in UAE help ship oxygen containers to Covid-hit India

Arab countries, including four that last year agreed to normalise relations with Israel, have condemned a weekend of violence after hundreds of Palestinians were wounded in clashes with Israeli security forces.

The violence around east Jerusalem's revered Al-Aqsa mosque compound and the Old City is the worst since 2017, fuelled by a years-long bid by Jewish settlers to take over Palestinian homes.

Criticism of Israeli conduct has poured in from Sudan, Morocco, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, all nations that last year agreed to normalise, or normalised, relations with the Jewish state.&nbsp;

Khartoum labelled Israeli measures in Jerusalem against Palestinians as "repression", and "coercive action" in a foreign ministry statement late Saturday.

It called on the Israeli government "to refrain from taking unilateral steps that diminish the chances for resuming peace negotiations."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stop-clashes-pope-francis-calls-for-end-to-violence-in-jerusalem-383901">'Stop Clashes': Pope Francis calls for end to violence in Jerusalem</a>

The UAE and Bahrain condemned Friday's storming of the Al-Aqsa mosque by Israeli security forces, and the ensuing crackdown on worshippers seeking to access the site.&nbsp;

Abu Dhabi urged Israeli authorities to "take responsibility for de-escalation" of violence at the holy site, while Manama called on the Israeli government "to stop these rejected provocations against the people of Jerusalem."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jerusalem-nightly-violent-encounter-injures-178-palestinians-and-6-police-officers-383586">Jerusalem: Nightly violent encounter injures 178 Palestinians and 6 police officers</a>

Meanwhile, Morocco expressed "deep concern" over the violence saying King Mohammed VI "considers these violations... (are) likely to fuel tensions."&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry said it "rejected" Israeli plans to evacuate Palestinian households from Jerusalem, and called for the reinstatement of the pre-1967 borders.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-erdogan-calls-israel-terror-state-over-palestinian-clashes-at-al-aqsa-383800">Turkey's Erdogan calls Israel 'terror state' over Palestinian clashes at Al-Aqsa&nbsp;</a>

Israel occupied east Jerusalem during the Six-Day War of 1967 and later annexed it, in a move not recognised by most of the international community. &nbsp;

Arab countries, including four that last year agreed to normalise relations with Israel, have condemned a weekend of violence after hundreds of Palestinians were wounded in clashes with Israeli security forces.

Arab countries, including four that last year agreed to normalise relations with Israel, have condemned a weekend of violence after hundreds of Palestinians were wounded in clashes with Israeli security forces. The violence around east Jerusalem's revered Al-Aqsa mosque compound and the Old City is the worst since 2017, fuelled by a years-long bid by Jewish settlers to take over Palestinian homes. Criticism of Israeli conduct has poured in from Sudan, Morocco, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, all nations that last year agreed to normalise, or normalised, relations with the Jewish state. Khartoum labelled Israeli measures in Jerusalem against Palestinians as "repression", and "coercive action" in a foreign ministry statement late Saturday. It called on the Israeli government "to refrain from taking unilateral steps that diminish the chances for resuming peace negotiations." Also read | 'Stop Clashes': Pope Francis calls for end to violence in Jerusalem The UAE and Bahrain condemned Friday's storming of the Al-Aqsa mosque by Israeli security forces, and the ensuing crackdown on worshippers seeking to access the site. Abu Dhabi urged Israeli authorities to "take responsibility for de-escalation" of violence at the holy site, while Manama called on the Israeli government "to stop these rejected provocations against the people of Jerusalem." Also read | Jerusalem: Nightly violent encounter injures 178 Palestinians and 6 police officers Meanwhile, Morocco expressed "deep concern" over the violence saying King Mohammed VI "considers these violations... (are) likely to fuel tensions." Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry said it "rejected" Israeli plans to evacuate Palestinian households from Jerusalem, and called for the reinstatement of the pre-1967 borders. Also read | Turkey's Erdogan calls Israel 'terror state' over Palestinian clashes at Al-Aqsa Israel occupied east Jerusalem during the Six-Day War of 1967 and later annexed it, in a move not recognised by most of the international community.

Arab nations hit out at Israel over Jerusalem violence

US President Joe Biden, in a phone call on Tuesday with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, underlined the strategic importance of the normalisation of relations between the United Arab Emirates and Israel, the White House said in a statement.&nbsp;

Israel established formal relations with the UAE in September as part of a US-brokered agreement. The UAE and Israel share common concerns about Iran.&nbsp;

Biden and Prince Mohammed discussed "the nuclear and regional dimensions of the threat posed by Iran, as well as the common quest for de-escalation and peace" in the Middle East, the statement said.&nbsp;

Biden "underlined the strategic importance of the normalisation of relations between the United Arab Emirates and Israel," it said. Biden "expressed his full support for strengthening and expanding these arrangements."&nbsp;

Biden and the crown prince also discussed Afghanistan and the humanitarian crisis in Ethiopia's Tigray region, the White House said. &nbsp;

(With input from agencies)&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden, in a phone call on Tuesday with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, underlined the strategic importance of the normalisation of relations between the United Arab Emirates and Israel, the White House said in a statement.

US President Joe Biden, in a phone call on Tuesday with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, underlined the strategic importance of the normalisation of relations between the United Arab Emirates and Israel, the White House said in a statement. Israel established formal relations with the UAE in September as part of a US-brokered agreement. The UAE and Israel share common concerns about Iran. Biden and Prince Mohammed discussed "the nuclear and regional dimensions of the threat posed by Iran, as well as the common quest for de-escalation and peace" in the Middle East, the statement said. Biden "underlined the strategic importance of the normalisation of relations between the United Arab Emirates and Israel," it said. Biden "expressed his full support for strengthening and expanding these arrangements." Biden and the crown prince also discussed Afghanistan and the humanitarian crisis in Ethiopia's Tigray region, the White House said. (With input from agencies)

Biden stresses importance of normalisation with Israel in call with Abu Dhabi crown prince 

Indians from the millions-strong expat community in the UAE, stranded in their homeland during a catastrophic coronavirus surge, are swamping private jet operators with requests to whisk them back to safety.

Indian expats hire private jets to escape COVID-19 crisis

The United Arab Emirates on Monday warned that any moves to change the historic identity of Jerusalem threaten peace, and called on Israel to put an end to violence following the latest clashes between Israelis and Palestinians in the city. &nbsp;

The statement was a rare rebuke of Israel by the UAE, which has welcomed tens of thousands of Israeli tourists and signed a slew of deals to strengthen bilateral ties since the administration of President Donald Trump brokered a historic and surprise deal to normalise relations between the two countries some seven months ago. &nbsp;

The UAE move laid the path for Bahrain and Sudan to also formalise ties with Israel.&nbsp;

The UAE Foreign Ministry said in a statement, carried on the Emirates' state news agency, that it was concerned over acts of violence committed by right-wing extremist groups in the occupied East Jerusalem. &nbsp;

The ministry called on Israeli authorities to assume responsibility toward de-escalation and putting an end to all aggressions and practices that perpetuate tension and hostility. &nbsp;

The UAE cautioned it was necessary to preserve Jerusalem's historical identity and maintain maximum self-restraint to avoid the region slipping into new levels of instability in a way that threatens peace. &nbsp;

The immediate spark for the unrest was Israel's decision to barricade a plaza outside of Jerusalem's Old City where Palestinian residents traditionally gather in the evenings during the Muslim holy month of Ramzan. &nbsp;

The move deepened Palestinian concerns about Israel's control over east Jerusalem, which is home to sacred Jewish and Muslim sites.&nbsp;

Hundreds of young Palestinians took to the streets each evening to protest the barricades. &nbsp;

Crowds hurled stones, firebombs and other objects at police, while officers used stun grenades and water cannons to disperse them. &nbsp;

The Israeli decision appeared to have been reversed on late Sunday, when the barricades were suddenly removed. &nbsp;

The violence had escalated to cross-border fighting between Israel and Gaza's militant Hamas group. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The United Arab Emirates on Monday warned that any moves to change the historic identity of Jerusalem threaten peace, and called on Israel to put an end to violence following the latest clashes between Israelis and Palestinians in the city.

The United Arab Emirates on Monday warned that any moves to change the historic identity of Jerusalem threaten peace, and called on Israel to put an end to violence following the latest clashes between Israelis and Palestinians in the city. The statement was a rare rebuke of Israel by the UAE, which has welcomed tens of thousands of Israeli tourists and signed a slew of deals to strengthen bilateral ties since the administration of President Donald Trump brokered a historic and surprise deal to normalise relations between the two countries some seven months ago. The UAE move laid the path for Bahrain and Sudan to also formalise ties with Israel. The UAE Foreign Ministry said in a statement, carried on the Emirates' state news agency, that it was concerned over acts of violence committed by right-wing extremist groups in the occupied East Jerusalem. The ministry called on Israeli authorities to assume responsibility toward de-escalation and putting an end to all aggressions and practices that perpetuate tension and hostility. The UAE cautioned it was necessary to preserve Jerusalem's historical identity and maintain maximum self-restraint to avoid the region slipping into new levels of instability in a way that threatens peace. The immediate spark for the unrest was Israel's decision to barricade a plaza outside of Jerusalem's Old City where Palestinian residents traditionally gather in the evenings during the Muslim holy month of Ramzan. The move deepened Palestinian concerns about Israel's control over east Jerusalem, which is home to sacred Jewish and Muslim sites. Hundreds of young Palestinians took to the streets each evening to protest the barricades. Crowds hurled stones, firebombs and other objects at police, while officers used stun grenades and water cannons to disperse them. The Israeli decision appeared to have been reversed on late Sunday, when the barricades were suddenly removed. The violence had escalated to cross-border fighting between Israel and Gaza's militant Hamas group. (With inputs from agencies)

UAE urges Israel to stop Jerusalem violence in rare rebuke 

Vaccines are effective in reducing caseloads and preventing death, according to evidence. There is a clear divide between those who got the jabs first, and those who did not. As a result, the global struggle to tame the virus continues.&nbsp;

The masks have come off in Israel and the people are back on the streets. The beaches are packed and friends can embrace, without fear. Most adults in Israel have got at least one jab. Now, kids could be next as Israel is gearing up for the second round of vaccinations. The focus this time is on 12 to 15 year olds.&nbsp;

Israel might have reached herd immunity but the rest of the world is still struggling to find its way out of this pandemic. New infections worldwide touched a new high last week with more than 5.2 million people testing positive, an increase of 12 per cent from a week earlier.&nbsp;

While Brazil and India are driving the global caseloads, European countries like France and Germany are experiencing large outbreaks too. France now plans to lift restrictions in May while in Germany, the government has come up with a new law to impose tougher restrictions on states. A move that triggered protests in Berlin. &nbsp;

But some other European nations are in much better shape, such as Belgium, Switzerland and Denmark, who have announced easing of restrictions as their caseloads reduce.&nbsp;

The case of Denmark stands out unlike the major European powers as it avoided a third wave. Its infection and death rates are among the lowest in Europe.&nbsp;

Now, Denmark is in a position to fully implement a vaccine passport, known as the Coronapas. The digital app shows a certificate of vaccination or a citizen's latest negative coronavirus test. &nbsp;

The European Union wants to implement such digital certificates across all 27 member states by June as it tries to allow free movement of Europeans again. Denmark could be the first to get there as the country lifts the restrictions. Citizens would now need a Coronapas to enjoy their freedoms again.&nbsp;

Those, who don't get their jabs, might struggle to move around in the future as countries mull movement restrictions for the unvaccinated. The UAE is one of them. After vaccinating 65 per cent of its eligible population, the UAE is considering strict measures to restrict the unvaccinated. This could include entry bans in some places and curbs on access to public services.&nbsp;

Israel's mass inoculation drive has given the rest of the world a glimpse into the future. Other countries are now betting on the jabs to end restrictions. With more than 925 million doses administered across 155 countries by now, it looks like the vaccines will be the only key you would need to leave the safety of your home. &nbsp;

Vaccines are effective in reducing caseloads and preventing death, according to evidence. There is a clear divide between those who got the jabs first, and those who did not.

Vaccines are effective in reducing caseloads and preventing death, according to evidence. There is a clear divide between those who got the jabs first, and those who did not. As a result, the global struggle to tame the virus continues. The masks have come off in Israel and the people are back on the streets. The beaches are packed and friends can embrace, without fear. Most adults in Israel have got at least one jab. Now, kids could be next as Israel is gearing up for the second round of vaccinations. The focus this time is on 12 to 15 year olds. Israel might have reached herd immunity but the rest of the world is still struggling to find its way out of this pandemic. New infections worldwide touched a new high last week with more than 5.2 million people testing positive, an increase of 12 per cent from a week earlier. While Brazil and India are driving the global caseloads, European countries like France and Germany are experiencing large outbreaks too. France now plans to lift restrictions in May while in Germany, the government has come up with a new law to impose tougher restrictions on states. A move that triggered protests in Berlin. But some other European nations are in much better shape, such as Belgium, Switzerland and Denmark, who have announced easing of restrictions as their caseloads reduce. The case of Denmark stands out unlike the major European powers as it avoided a third wave. Its infection and death rates are among the lowest in Europe. Now, Denmark is in a position to fully implement a vaccine passport, known as the Coronapas. The digital app shows a certificate of vaccination or a citizen's latest negative coronavirus test. The European Union wants to implement such digital certificates across all 27 member states by June as it tries to allow free movement of Europeans again. Denmark could be the first to get there as the country lifts the restrictions. Citizens would now need a Coronapas to enjoy their freedoms again. Those, who don't get their jabs, might struggle to move around in the future as countries mull movement restrictions for the unvaccinated. The UAE is one of them. After vaccinating 65 per cent of its eligible population, the UAE is considering strict measures to restrict the unvaccinated. This could include entry bans in some places and curbs on access to public services. Israel's mass inoculation drive has given the rest of the world a glimpse into the future. Other countries are now betting on the jabs to end restrictions. With more than 925 million doses administered across 155 countries by now, it looks like the vaccines will be the only key you would need to leave the safety of your home.

COVID-19: Vaccine a must for travel in future? 

The Indian foreign minister is in the UAE and so is the foreign minister of Pakistan. Is this a mere coincidence or part of a plan? What's cooking in Abu Dhabi?&nbsp;

The visits have come just days after a top Emirati diplomat confirmed that the UAE was playing a key role in bringing both countries, India and Pakistan, to the talking table. The diplomat in question is the UAE's ambassador to the United States, Yousef Al Otaiba.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-pakistan-signs-of-a-thaw-378691/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Saturday, Pakistan’s foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi embarked on a three-day trip to the UAE. India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar landed on Sunday.&nbsp;

Interestingly, this was the second time both foreign ministers were in the same country at the same time, that too in less than three weeks.&nbsp;

They both came face-to-face in Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe for the Heart of Asia summit on March 30, but no meeting took place. Did they happen to meet this time? Reports say they didn't.&nbsp;

In fact, there were no bilateral meetings on the agenda at all. So, what happened then?&nbsp;

In his day-long visit, Dr S Jaishankar met his UAE counterpart Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. They discussed bilateral cooperation, economic collaboration, community welfare, and post-pandemic economic recovery. &nbsp;&nbsp;

As for Qureshi, in his meeting with UAE's foreign minister, the discussions ranged from bilateral trade, investment to job opportunities for the Pakistani diaspora. &nbsp;

This is what we know officially and we don't want to make any assumptions but the last-minute nature of these visits and the events that lead to them and the accompanying statements from top diplomats leave very little scope for imagination. &nbsp;

The first indication came on February 25, the second anniversary of the Balakot airstrikes. Both India and Pakistan surprised the world and issued a joint statement, agreeing to strictly observe ceasefire along the Line of Control.&nbsp;

Then in March, the real rulers extended an olive branch, the Pakistan Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa called a stable Indo-Pak relationship, the key to unlocking South Asia's potential. &nbsp;

The same month, on March 31, Pakistan's economic coordination committee recommended that the ban on importing sugar and cotton from India be lifted. The positive headlines lasted barely 24 hours and the ban was imposed again due to domestic pressure but the recommendation gave a whiff of normalisation of ties. &nbsp;

This was followed by reports of Emirati officials facilitating back-channel talks between the two sides. Now, the coinciding visits of both foreign ministers have once again reignited speculation. &nbsp;

Both Islamabad and New Delhi maintain absolute silence on what's happening but as they say, sometimes silence itself speaks volumes, and especially when it comes to the India-Pakistan conundrum, nothing speaks louder than silence.&nbsp;

The Indian foreign minister is in the UAE and so is the foreign minister of Pakistan. Is this a mere coincidence or part of a plan? What's cooking in Abu Dhabi? The visits have come just days after a top Emirati diplomat confirmed that the UAE was playing a key role in bringing both countries, India and Pakistan, to the talking table.

The Indian foreign minister is in the UAE and so is the foreign minister of Pakistan. Is this a mere coincidence or part of a plan? What's cooking in Abu Dhabi? The visits have come just days after a top Emirati diplomat confirmed that the UAE was playing a key role in bringing both countries, India and Pakistan, to the talking table. The diplomat in question is the UAE's ambassador to the United States, Yousef Al Otaiba. On Saturday, Pakistan’s foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi embarked on a three-day trip to the UAE. India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar landed on Sunday. Interestingly, this was the second time both foreign ministers were in the same country at the same time, that too in less than three weeks. They both came face-to-face in Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe for the Heart of Asia summit on March 30, but no meeting took place. Did they happen to meet this time? Reports say they didn't. In fact, there were no bilateral meetings on the agenda at all. So, what happened then? In his day-long visit, Dr S Jaishankar met his UAE counterpart Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. They discussed bilateral cooperation, economic collaboration, community welfare, and post-pandemic economic recovery. As for Qureshi, in his meeting with UAE's foreign minister, the discussions ranged from bilateral trade, investment to job opportunities for the Pakistani diaspora. This is what we know officially and we don't want to make any assumptions but the last-minute nature of these visits and the events that lead to them and the accompanying statements from top diplomats leave very little scope for imagination. The first indication came on February 25, the second anniversary of the Balakot airstrikes. Both India and Pakistan surprised the world and issued a joint statement, agreeing to strictly observe ceasefire along the Line of Control. Then in March, the real rulers extended an olive branch, the Pakistan Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa called a stable Indo-Pak relationship, the key to unlocking South Asia's potential. The same month, on March 31, Pakistan's economic coordination committee recommended that the ban on importing sugar and cotton from India be lifted. The positive headlines lasted barely 24 hours and the ban was imposed again due to domestic pressure but the recommendation gave a whiff of normalisation of ties. This was followed by reports of Emirati officials facilitating back-channel talks between the two sides. Now, the coinciding visits of both foreign ministers have once again reignited speculation. Both Islamabad and New Delhi maintain absolute silence on what's happening but as they say, sometimes silence itself speaks volumes, and especially when it comes to the India-Pakistan conundrum, nothing speaks louder than silence.

Are India and Pakistan heading for normalisation of relations? 

EAM S. Jaishankar was in UAE this weekend, so was Pak Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi. What went down in Abu Dhabi? Are there signs of a thaw between New Delhi & Islamabad? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas | India & Pakistan: Signs of a thaw?

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. He mety his UAE counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The two leaders are expected to discuss bilateral economic co-opeartion and other issues of mutual and regional interest.

"Delighted to meet FM @ABZayed. Look forward to our discussions," Jaishankar tweeted.

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Delighted to meet FM <a href="https://twitter.com/ABZayed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ABZayed</a>. Look forward to our discussions. <a href="https://t.co/VdHlKryhzO">pic.twitter.com/VdHlKryhzO</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1383831359500611588?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Jaishankar's visit coincides with the ongoing trip of his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi to UAE. There have been media reports that UAE was holding back channel talks to restart dialogue between India and Pakistan.

Jaishankar had earlier visited UAE on November 25 and 26 amid coronavirus pandemic. He had met Al Nahyan at that time as well.

Jaishankar's current visit to Abu Dhabi comes days after the Emirati ambassador to the US Yousef al-Otaiba said that the UAE played a role in bringing down the tension between India and Pakistan and getting their bilateral ties back to a "healthy functional relationship".

"They might not sort of become best friends but at least we want to get it to a level where it's functional, where it's operational, where they are speaking to each other," al-Otaiba said during a virtual discussion with Stanford University's Hoover Institution on Wednesday.

Qureshi is in the UAE on a three-day visit during which he will hold discussions with the country's leadership on all areas of bilateral cooperation including collaboration in trade and investment.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. He mety his UAE counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The two leaders are expected to discuss bilateral economic co-opeartion and other issues of mutual and regional interest.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. He mety his UAE counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The two leaders are expected to discuss bilateral economic co-opeartion and other issues of mutual and regional interest. "Delighted to meet FM @ABZayed. Look forward to our discussions," Jaishankar tweeted. Delighted to meet FM @ABZayed. Look forward to our discussions. pic.twitter.com/VdHlKryhzO — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) April 18, 2021 × Jaishankar's visit coincides with the ongoing trip of his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi to UAE. There have been media reports that UAE was holding back channel talks to restart dialogue between India and Pakistan. Jaishankar had earlier visited UAE on November 25 and 26 amid coronavirus pandemic. He had met Al Nahyan at that time as well. Jaishankar's current visit to Abu Dhabi comes days after the Emirati ambassador to the US Yousef al-Otaiba said that the UAE played a role in bringing down the tension between India and Pakistan and getting their bilateral ties back to a "healthy functional relationship". "They might not sort of become best friends but at least we want to get it to a level where it's functional, where it's operational, where they are speaking to each other," al-Otaiba said during a virtual discussion with Stanford University's Hoover Institution on Wednesday. Qureshi is in the UAE on a three-day visit during which he will hold discussions with the country's leadership on all areas of bilateral cooperation including collaboration in trade and investment. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar arrives in Abu Dhabi

India's Minister for External Affairs S Jaishankar to visit Abu Dhabi today (18th April). Jaishankar's Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi will also be present on the same day.

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar will discuss economic cooperation, welfare

India's Minister for External Affairs S Jaishankar to visit Abu Dhabi on Sunday. Jaishankar's Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi will also be present on the same day.

Pak: India, Pakistan foreign ministers will not meet in UAE

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will embark on a three-day official visit to the UAE on Saturday during, which he will hold discussions with the country's leadership on all areas of bilateral cooperation including collaboration in trade and investment.&nbsp;

Foreign Office said that the Foreign Minister will meet his counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and other UAE dignitaries.&nbsp;

The UAE is home to the second-largest Pakistani community abroad.&nbsp;

"The Foreign Minister will hold consultations with the UAE's leadership on all areas of bilateral cooperation including collaboration in trade and investment, job opportunities for Pakistani workforce and the welfare of Pakistani diaspora," said the Foreign Office.&nbsp;

He will also discuss regional and global issues of mutual interest.&nbsp;

Pakistan and the UAE enjoy strong fraternal ties, rooted deep in common faith and shared history and values.&nbsp;

High-level visits between the two countries have played a pivotal role in providing further impetus to strengthening bilateral cooperation and collaboration on a wide range of issues.&nbsp;

But the visit got additional importance after reports by the local and international media that the UAE hosted secret talks in January between Pakistani and Indian officials. Weeks after this, the two sides agreed to restore the 2003 ceasefire agreement on the LoC in February, followed by reconciliatory messages sent by the leaders of the two countries.&nbsp;

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will embark on a three-day official visit to the UAE on Saturday during, which he will hold discussions with the country's leadership on all areas of bilateral cooperation including collaboration in trade and investment.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will embark on a three-day official visit to the UAE on Saturday during, which he will hold discussions with the country's leadership on all areas of bilateral cooperation including collaboration in trade and investment. Foreign Office said that the Foreign Minister will meet his counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and other UAE dignitaries. The UAE is home to the second-largest Pakistani community abroad. "The Foreign Minister will hold consultations with the UAE's leadership on all areas of bilateral cooperation including collaboration in trade and investment, job opportunities for Pakistani workforce and the welfare of Pakistani diaspora," said the Foreign Office. He will also discuss regional and global issues of mutual interest. Pakistan and the UAE enjoy strong fraternal ties, rooted deep in common faith and shared history and values. High-level visits between the two countries have played a pivotal role in providing further impetus to strengthening bilateral cooperation and collaboration on a wide range of issues. But the visit got additional importance after reports by the local and international media that the UAE hosted secret talks in January between Pakistani and Indian officials. Weeks after this, the two sides agreed to restore the 2003 ceasefire agreement on the LoC in February, followed by reconciliatory messages sent by the leaders of the two countries.

Qureshi to visit UAE, to discuss cooperation in trade 

A senior diplomat confirmed that the UAE is mediating between India and Pakistan on a lasting Kashmir resolution. Are the Emirati royals behind Islamabad's softening approach to India? WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Did the UAE broker Indo-Pak talks?

The United Arab Emirates’ envoy to US confirmed that the Gulf state is mediating between India and Pakistan to help the nuclear-armed rivals reach a “healthy and functional” relationship. Ambassador Yousef Al Otaiba said that the UAE played a role “in bringing Kashmir escalation down and created a ceasefire".

Emirates’ envoy to US confirmed UAE mediation between India and Pakistan

US&nbsp;President Joe Biden's administration has told Congress it is proceeding with more than $23 billion in weapons sales to the United Arab Emirates, including advanced F-35 aircraft, armed drones and other equipment, congressional aides said on Tuesday.

A State Department spokesperson said the administration would move forward with the proposed sales to the&nbsp;UAE, "even as we continue reviewing details and consulting with Emirati officials" related to the use of the weapons.

The Democratic president's administration had paused the deals agreed to by former Republican President Donald Trump in order to review them. The sales to the Gulf nation were finalised right before Trump left office.

The Trump administration told Congress in November it had approved the U.S. sale to the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;as a side deal to the Abraham Accords, a US-brokered agreement in September in which the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;agreed to normalise relations with Israel.

In the last months of the Trump administration, Israel reached deals with the&nbsp;UAE, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco as part of the accords.

The $23.37 billion package contained products from General Atomics, Lockheed Martin Corp and Raytheon Technologies Corp, including 50 F-35 Lighting II aircraft, up to 18 MQ-9B Unmanned Aerial Systems and a package of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions.

YEMEN CONFLICT

Some US&nbsp;lawmakers have criticised the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;for its involvement in the war in Yemen, a conflict considered one of the world's worst humanitarian disasters, and worried that the weapons transfers might violate US&nbsp;guarantees that Israel will retain a military advantage in the region.

Israel said it did not object to the sales.

A legislative effort to stop the sales failed in December, as Trump's fellow Republicans in Congress backed his plans.

The Trump administration then finalised the massive sale to the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;on Jan. 20, about an hour before Biden was sworn in as president.

The Biden administration announced the review in late January and the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;said then it had anticipated the review and welcomed joint efforts to de-escalate tensions and for renewed regional dialogue.

The State Department spokesperson said on Tuesday the estimated delivery dates on the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;sales, if implemented, were for after 2025 or later.

The government anticipated "a robust and sustained dialogue with the&nbsp;UAE" to ensure a stronger security partnership, the spokesperson said in an emailed statement.

"We will also continue to reinforce with the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;and all recipients of US&nbsp;defence articles and services that US-origin defence equipment must be adequately secured and used in a manner that respects human rights and fully complies with the laws of armed conflict," the statement said.

US President Joe Biden's administration has told Congress it is proceeding with more than $23 billion in weapons sales to the United Arab Emirates, including advanced F-35 aircraft, armed drones and other equipment, congressional aides said on Tuesday.

US President Joe Biden's administration has told Congress it is proceeding with more than $23 billion in weapons sales to the United Arab Emirates, including advanced F-35 aircraft, armed drones and other equipment, congressional aides said on Tuesday. A State Department spokesperson said the administration would move forward with the proposed sales to the UAE, "even as we continue reviewing details and consulting with Emirati officials" related to the use of the weapons. The Democratic president's administration had paused the deals agreed to by former Republican President Donald Trump in order to review them. The sales to the Gulf nation were finalised right before Trump left office. The Trump administration told Congress in November it had approved the U.S. sale to the UAE as a side deal to the Abraham Accords, a US-brokered agreement in September in which the UAE agreed to normalise relations with Israel. In the last months of the Trump administration, Israel reached deals with the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco as part of the accords. The $23.37 billion package contained products from General Atomics, Lockheed Martin Corp and Raytheon Technologies Corp, including 50 F-35 Lighting II aircraft, up to 18 MQ-9B Unmanned Aerial Systems and a package of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions. YEMEN CONFLICT Some US lawmakers have criticised the UAE for its involvement in the war in Yemen, a conflict considered one of the world's worst humanitarian disasters, and worried that the weapons transfers might violate US guarantees that Israel will retain a military advantage in the region. Israel said it did not object to the sales. A legislative effort to stop the sales failed in December, as Trump's fellow Republicans in Congress backed his plans. The Trump administration then finalised the massive sale to the UAE on Jan. 20, about an hour before Biden was sworn in as president. The Biden administration announced the review in late January and the UAE said then it had anticipated the review and welcomed joint efforts to de-escalate tensions and for renewed regional dialogue. The State Department spokesperson said on Tuesday the estimated delivery dates on the UAE sales, if implemented, were for after 2025 or later. The government anticipated "a robust and sustained dialogue with the UAE" to ensure a stronger security partnership, the spokesperson said in an emailed statement. "We will also continue to reinforce with the UAE and all recipients of US defence articles and services that US-origin defence equipment must be adequately secured and used in a manner that respects human rights and fully complies with the laws of armed conflict," the statement said.

Biden administration to proceed with $23 billion weapon sales to UAE

Emirati national Nora al-Matrooshi, a 27-year-old mechanical engineering graduate currently working at Abu Dhabi’s National Petroleum Construction Company

UAE selects first Arab woman for astronaut training

In a first, the UAE leader has named its first female astronaut for a space programme.

Noura al-Matroushi has been named as the first-ever female astronaut of the country, who has been selected out of 4,000 other applicants in the UAE.

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Space was her passion since childhood... Nora AlMatrooshi, the new member of the UAE Astronaut Programme.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAEAstronauts?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAEAstronauts</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAEAstronautProgramme?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAEAstronautProgramme</a><a href="https://twitter.com/Astronaut_Nora?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Astronaut_Nora</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheUAETRA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheUAETRA</a> <a href="https://t.co/TEW5uip0EK">pic.twitter.com/TEW5uip0EK</a>
— MBR Space Centre (@MBRSpaceCentre) <a href="https://twitter.com/MBRSpaceCentre/status/1380820144675508224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The announcement was made by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, through a Twitter post.

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We announce the first Arab female astronaut, among two new astronauts, selected from over 4,000 candidates to be trained with NASA for future space exploration missions. Congratulations Noura Al Matrooshi and Mohammed Al Mulla. <a href="https://t.co/bfyquyzqAJ">pic.twitter.com/bfyquyzqAJ</a>
— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) <a href="https://twitter.com/HHShkMohd/status/1380821550304223234?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"We announce the first Arab female astronaut, among two new astronauts, selected from over 4,000 candidates to be trained with NASA for future space exploration missions. Congratulations Noura Al Matrooshi and Mohammed Al Mulla,"&nbsp;he tweeted.

Noura al-Matroushi will be accompanied by Mohammed al-Mulla. Both of the chosen astronauts will undergo training at NASA’s&nbsp;Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.

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Space was her passion since childhood... Nora AlMatrooshi, the new member of the UAE Astronaut Programme.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAEAstronauts?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAEAstronauts</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAEAstronautProgramme?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAEAstronautProgramme</a><a href="https://twitter.com/Astronaut_Nora?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Astronaut_Nora</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheUAETRA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheUAETRA</a> <a href="https://t.co/TEW5uip0EK">pic.twitter.com/TEW5uip0EK</a>
— MBR Space Centre (@MBRSpaceCentre) <a href="https://twitter.com/MBRSpaceCentre/status/1380820144675508224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Born in 1993,&nbsp;Noura al-Matroushi holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the United Arab Emirates University&nbsp;and worked as&nbsp;an engineer at the Abu Dhabi-based National Petroleum Construction Co., according to a promotional video posted.

She has also headed several committees and has an excellent record of volunteer work, along with other achievements such as Mathematics Olympiad and more.

In a first, the UAE leader has named its first female astronaut for a space programme. Noura al-Matroushi has been named as the first-ever female astronaut of the country, who has been selected out of 4,000 other applicants in the UAE.

In a first, the UAE leader has named its first female astronaut for a space programme. Noura al-Matroushi has been named as the first-ever female astronaut of the country, who has been selected out of 4,000 other applicants in the UAE. Space was her passion since childhood... Nora AlMatrooshi, the new member of the UAE Astronaut Programme.#UAEAstronauts #UAEAstronautProgramme@Astronaut_Nora @TheUAETRA pic.twitter.com/TEW5uip0EK — MBR Space Centre (@MBRSpaceCentre) April 10, 2021 × The announcement was made by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, through a Twitter post. We announce the first Arab female astronaut, among two new astronauts, selected from over 4,000 candidates to be trained with NASA for future space exploration missions. Congratulations Noura Al Matrooshi and Mohammed Al Mulla. pic.twitter.com/bfyquyzqAJ — HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) April 10, 2021 × "We announce the first Arab female astronaut, among two new astronauts, selected from over 4,000 candidates to be trained with NASA for future space exploration missions. Congratulations Noura Al Matrooshi and Mohammed Al Mulla," he tweeted. Noura al-Matroushi will be accompanied by Mohammed al-Mulla. Both of the chosen astronauts will undergo training at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. Space was her passion since childhood... Nora AlMatrooshi, the new member of the UAE Astronaut Programme.#UAEAstronauts #UAEAstronautProgramme@Astronaut_Nora @TheUAETRA pic.twitter.com/TEW5uip0EK — MBR Space Centre (@MBRSpaceCentre) April 10, 2021 × Born in 1993, Noura al-Matroushi holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the United Arab Emirates University and worked as an engineer at the Abu Dhabi-based National Petroleum Construction Co., according to a promotional video posted. She has also headed several committees and has an excellent record of volunteer work, along with other achievements such as Mathematics Olympiad and more.

UAE names Noura al-Matroushi as its first female astronaut

On Monday, Dubai Ruler Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum announced the Emirates Development Bank is allocating 30 billion dirhams ($8.17 billion) to support companies regarded as a priority for the UAE economy.

According to a statement carried by WAM, the programme will benefit about 13,500 companies in industrial sectors, in turn creating 25,000 jobs.

Launched to support the UAE’s “Operation 300bn,” this 10-year strategy looks to expand the country’s industrial output, raising its contribution to GDP to 300 billion dirhams by 2031.

Sultan Al-Jaber, chairman, EDB, said, “The new EDB strategy will help accelerate industrial development and the adoption of advanced technology through dedicated financing programmes and will also provide dedicated investment funds that will support entrepreneurs, start-ups and SMEs.”&nbsp;

“EDB will prioritise creating partnerships with UAE banks to give small and medium-sized industrial companies access to financial services, and in increasing its direct financing by 73 per cent in 2021 for priority sectors,” added UAE minister.&nbsp;

The bank is also set to launch a one billion dirhams investment fund for start-ups and SMEs in 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Monday, Dubai Ruler Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum announced the Emirates Development Bank is allocating 30 billion dirhams ($8.17 billion) to support companies regarded as a priority for the UAE economy.

On Monday, Dubai Ruler Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum announced the Emirates Development Bank is allocating 30 billion dirhams ($8.17 billion) to support companies regarded as a priority for the UAE economy. According to a statement carried by WAM, the programme will benefit about 13,500 companies in industrial sectors, in turn creating 25,000 jobs. Launched to support the UAE’s “Operation 300bn,” this 10-year strategy looks to expand the country’s industrial output, raising its contribution to GDP to 300 billion dirhams by 2031. Sultan Al-Jaber, chairman, EDB, said, “The new EDB strategy will help accelerate industrial development and the adoption of advanced technology through dedicated financing programmes and will also provide dedicated investment funds that will support entrepreneurs, start-ups and SMEs.” “EDB will prioritise creating partnerships with UAE banks to give small and medium-sized industrial companies access to financial services, and in increasing its direct financing by 73 per cent in 2021 for priority sectors,” added UAE minister. The bank is also set to launch a one billion dirhams investment fund for start-ups and SMEs in 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

UAE announces $8.2bn stimulus for industrial sector

United States's climate envoy John Kerry is set to travel to the United Arab Emirates, India and Bangladesh ahead of a climate summit that Washington will host in April.

Kerry will visit Abu Dhabi, New Delhi and Dhaka between April 1 and 9, the State Department statement said.

The leaders of the three countries are among 40 invited to a two-day virtual meeting starting April 22 and meant to mark the US' return to the front lines of the climate crisis fight, after former president Donald Trump disengaged from the process.

The Paris Agreement left countries in charge of making their own promises and taking their own measurements of emission reductions, but requires them to regularly revise their Nationally Determined Contributions.

The agreement's goal is to limit the increase in global temperatures by the end of the century to around 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels -- or risk leaving much of the planet inhospitable to life.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-invites-40-world-leaders-including-xi-and-putin-to-virtual-climate-summit-373539">Also read |&nbsp;Biden invites 40 world leaders, including Xi and Putin, to virtual climate summit</a>

The United States, the world's top economy, is the second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, which trap heat in the atmosphere.

The trip announcement comes as the administration of President Joe Biden was preparing to seek a multi- trillion dollar package from Congress to modernise ageing infrastructure, while shifting to renewable energy and electric cars.

The US is expected to make ambitious new commitments to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions under the terms of the Paris climate accord soon, and will encourage others to boost their own goals.

(with inputs)

United States's climate envoy John Kerry is set to travel to the United Arab Emirates, India and Bangladesh ahead of a climate summit that Washington will host in April.

United States's climate envoy John Kerry is set to travel to the United Arab Emirates, India and Bangladesh ahead of a climate summit that Washington will host in April. Kerry will visit Abu Dhabi, New Delhi and Dhaka between April 1 and 9, the State Department statement said. The leaders of the three countries are among 40 invited to a two-day virtual meeting starting April 22 and meant to mark the US' return to the front lines of the climate crisis fight, after former president Donald Trump disengaged from the process. The Paris Agreement left countries in charge of making their own promises and taking their own measurements of emission reductions, but requires them to regularly revise their Nationally Determined Contributions. The agreement's goal is to limit the increase in global temperatures by the end of the century to around 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels -- or risk leaving much of the planet inhospitable to life. Also read | Biden invites 40 world leaders, including Xi and Putin, to virtual climate summit The United States, the world's top economy, is the second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, which trap heat in the atmosphere. The trip announcement comes as the administration of President Joe Biden was preparing to seek a multi- trillion dollar package from Congress to modernise ageing infrastructure, while shifting to renewable energy and electric cars. The US is expected to make ambitious new commitments to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions under the terms of the Paris climate accord soon, and will encourage others to boost their own goals. (with inputs)

US climate envoy to travel to UAE, India and Bangladesh

France is deploying its Carrier Battle Group to the Indian Ocean and participating in two major exercises– La Perouse a French Naval war game which will have the Quad countries and the other Ex Varuna a trilateral exercise with India and the UAE in the western Indian Ocean.

India and Quad nations to join France for naval exercises

Relations between India and United Arab Emirates strengthened during the COVID-19 pandemic,&nbsp;India's Ambassador Pavan Kapoor told&nbsp;WION Global Summit in Dubai on Wednesday.

During his welcome address to the summit on behalf of the host nation, Kapoor&nbsp;talked about the need for multilateral solutions and international solidarity during times of crises.

"It is natural that disruptions caused by the pandemic have led to a greater distrust about the merits of globalisation," he said. "At the same time, invisible challenges and the pandemic have highlighted more clearly the need &nbsp;for multilateral solutions, or at least working arrangements between countries with converging interests."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-it-happened-wion-global-summit-2021-372686">As it happened: WION Global Summit 2021</a>

He also highlighted the role of India in such difficult times. "As a pluralistic and open society with a market economy, India fits the role well. The choice for a nation to just focus on its own recovery is an easy one. However, the choice to build up its own capabilities including for the benefit of others is a difficult one. I would say, India has taken the latter path," he said.

Talking about Indians stuck in the UAE during the lockdown, he described how India has had to take the difficult decisions to face the unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/post-pandemic-world-will-be-a-different-place-than-just-wearing-masks-says-indian-external-affairs-minister-jaishankar-372721" hreflang="en">India's leadership capabilities stood out during pandemic, says Jaishankar</a>

"The decision by India to close its air space last March for 2.5 months even for its own citizens. I can say that the kind of problems that we had trying to explain to our people here, who are present in very large numbers, it was a very difficult decision to explain to them," Kapoor said.

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Pavan Kapoor (<a href="https://twitter.com/AmbKapoor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmbKapoor</a>), Indian Ambassador to the UAE, delivers the welcome note on behalf of the host nation, UAE, at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONGlobalSummit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONGlobalSummit</a> in Dubai 
 
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However, he also added that "this gave the government breathing space to control the numbers and create an impressive health infrastructure and deal with the anticipated surge in cases which proved very helpful subsequently."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-virus-and-the-travails-of-being-a-pro-china-hong-kong-lawmaker-372793">'Wuhan virus' and the travails of being a pro-China Hong Kong lawmaker</a>

Kapoor said that as soon as India started its massive repatriation mission in early May 2020, some 250,000 people registered for the process within three days of the registration link going live on the website.

He reminisced about May 7, 2020, when the first flight of Vande Bharat Mission took off from Abu Dhabi to Kochi. The Indian government was able to repatriate over 300,000 Indian nationals from UAE within three months of the Vande Bharat Mission, he recalled.

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"The numbers have since crossed over a million and a half, but a very large number of people who travel to India have since also come back, especially after we entered into a bilateral air bubble arrangement, which is still ongoing and supporting the strong people-to-people exchanges between the two countries."

The Indian ambassador also reported that the government is operating over 300 flights a week between the two countries, which is the largest of the air bubble arrangements that India has in place at present.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-global-summit-2021-pavan-kapoors-keynote-address-372777">Watch |</a>

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He also thanked the government of UAE, department of health, civil aviation, interior, and foreign ministry.&nbsp;

"The India-UAE comprehensive strategic partnership has truly emerged stronger since the start of the COVID pandemic," he said. "The constant high-level empathetic exchanges between our leadership have ensured this outcome."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-arab-reset-a-reflection-of-geopolitical-reality-aimed-at-iran-says-former-us-nsa-john-bolton-at-wion-global-summit-372738">Israel-Arab reset a geostrategic shift aimed at Iran: Bolton</a>

He talked about the strengthening relationships between the two countries in the post-pandemic world and increasing cooperation in new areas, brought about by several virtual and physical meetings between the leaders of the two nations.

In addition to the strengthening relationships in the defence area, the two countries have also established stronger bilateral cooperation in areas such as healthcare and food security during the coronavirus pandemic.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/respect-human-rights-and-dignities-taiwans-former-defence-minister-to-china-at-wion-global-summit-372787">Respect human rights and dignities: Taiwan's Former Defence Minister to China</a>

India also made sure that the food supplies to the UAE "remain uninterrupted, despite the lockdown in India," Kapoor said. He also reported that India supplied HCQ tablets to UAE on a priority basis and also facilitated&nbsp;the arrival of many more nurses and doctors from India to support the healthcare service providers in the country.

The South Asian country has also supplied 200,000 doses of the Covishield coronavirus vaccine to the UAE as a part of India's 'Vaccine metri' or vaccine friendship programme in February 2021.

Relations between India and United Arab Emirates strengthened during the COVID-19 pandemic, India's Ambassador Pavan Kapoor told WION Global Summit in Dubai on Wednesday.

Relations between India and United Arab Emirates strengthened during the COVID-19 pandemic, India's Ambassador Pavan Kapoor told WION Global Summit in Dubai on Wednesday. During his welcome address to the summit on behalf of the host nation, Kapoor talked about the need for multilateral solutions and international solidarity during times of crises. "It is natural that disruptions caused by the pandemic have led to a greater distrust about the merits of globalisation," he said. "At the same time, invisible challenges and the pandemic have highlighted more clearly the need for multilateral solutions, or at least working arrangements between countries with converging interests." Also read | As it happened: WION Global Summit 2021 He also highlighted the role of India in such difficult times. "As a pluralistic and open society with a market economy, India fits the role well. The choice for a nation to just focus on its own recovery is an easy one. However, the choice to build up its own capabilities including for the benefit of others is a difficult one. I would say, India has taken the latter path," he said. Talking about Indians stuck in the UAE during the lockdown, he described how India has had to take the difficult decisions to face the unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic. Also read | India's leadership capabilities stood out during pandemic, says Jaishankar "The decision by India to close its air space last March for 2.5 months even for its own citizens. I can say that the kind of problems that we had trying to explain to our people here, who are present in very large numbers, it was a very difficult decision to explain to them," Kapoor said. Pavan Kapoor (@AmbKapoor), Indian Ambassador to the UAE, delivers the welcome note on behalf of the host nation, UAE, at #WIONGlobalSummit in Dubai Follow LIVE updates here: https://t.co/KYZtALCh7N pic.twitter.com/lTc8d1Rx0O — WION (@WIONews) March 24, 2021 × However, he also added that "this gave the government breathing space to control the numbers and create an impressive health infrastructure and deal with the anticipated surge in cases which proved very helpful subsequently." Also read | 'Wuhan virus' and the travails of being a pro-China Hong Kong lawmaker Kapoor said that as soon as India started its massive repatriation mission in early May 2020, some 250,000 people registered for the process within three days of the registration link going live on the website. He reminisced about May 7, 2020, when the first flight of Vande Bharat Mission took off from Abu Dhabi to Kochi. The Indian government was able to repatriate over 300,000 Indian nationals from UAE within three months of the Vande Bharat Mission, he recalled. Also read | Israeli politician hints at peace accords with Oman, Indonesia "The numbers have since crossed over a million and a half, but a very large number of people who travel to India have since also come back, especially after we entered into a bilateral air bubble arrangement, which is still ongoing and supporting the strong people-to-people exchanges between the two countries." The Indian ambassador also reported that the government is operating over 300 flights a week between the two countries, which is the largest of the air bubble arrangements that India has in place at present. Watch | He also thanked the government of UAE, department of health, civil aviation, interior, and foreign ministry. "The India-UAE comprehensive strategic partnership has truly emerged stronger since the start of the COVID pandemic," he said. "The constant high-level empathetic exchanges between our leadership have ensured this outcome." Also read | Israel-Arab reset a geostrategic shift aimed at Iran: Bolton He talked about the strengthening relationships between the two countries in the post-pandemic world and increasing cooperation in new areas, brought about by several virtual and physical meetings between the leaders of the two nations. In addition to the strengthening relationships in the defence area, the two countries have also established stronger bilateral cooperation in areas such as healthcare and food security during the coronavirus pandemic. Also read | Respect human rights and dignities: Taiwan's Former Defence Minister to China India also made sure that the food supplies to the UAE "remain uninterrupted, despite the lockdown in India," Kapoor said. He also reported that India supplied HCQ tablets to UAE on a priority basis and also facilitated the arrival of many more nurses and doctors from India to support the healthcare service providers in the country. The South Asian country has also supplied 200,000 doses of the Covishield coronavirus vaccine to the UAE as a part of India's 'Vaccine metri' or vaccine friendship programme in February 2021.

India-UAE have strengthened relationship during pandemic: India's Ambassador Pavan Kapoor at WION Global Summit 2021

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he was deterred from flying to the United Arab Emirates through Saudi Arabian airspace last week because of the threat of missile fire from Iranian proxies in Yemen.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu's UAE trip cancelled due to threat of missile fire

With less than 12 days before another round of elections, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will pay his first visit to the United Arab Emirates on Thursday. Netanyahu is said to have updated Defense Minister Benny Gantz on the visit.

PM Netanyahu to visit UAE 12 days before Israel elections

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is to make his first official visit to the UAE on Thursday following an agreement between the two countries to establish ties, Israeli media reported.

A senior official in Netanyahu's office declined to comment on the reports by Israeli public radio, Haaretz newspaper and other outlets.&nbsp;

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The reported visit would take place less than two weeks before Netanyahu faces re-election, Israel's fourth vote in less than two years.&nbsp;

The veteran prime minister, in power since 2009, has sought to highlight his credentials as Israel's top statesman as part of his re-election pitch.&nbsp;

According to the Israeli reports, Netanyahu will meet with the UAE's leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan at Abu Dhabi's airport.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-bahrain-leaders-discuss-vaccine-plant-netanyahu-visit-to-gulf-state-366232">&nbsp;Israel, Bahrain leaders discuss vaccine plant, Netanyahu visit to Gulf state</a>

He will then return to Jerusalem for talks with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on the vaccination effort against Covid-19.

The United Arab Emirates normalised ties with the Jewish state last September, making it the first Arab country to sign on to the so-called Abraham Accords brokered by former US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

The deal made the UAE only the third majority Arab state to establish ties with Israel, following Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994.

Bahrain, Morocco and Sudan subsequently joined the Abraham Accords.&nbsp;

Netanyahu had been set to visit UAE and Bahrain in February, but the trip was put off after Israel imposed travel limitations to curb the coronavirus pandemic.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is to make his first official visit to the UAE on Thursday following an agreement between the two countries to establish ties, Israeli media reported.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is to make his first official visit to the UAE on Thursday following an agreement between the two countries to establish ties, Israeli media reported. A senior official in Netanyahu's office declined to comment on the reports by Israeli public radio, Haaretz newspaper and other outlets. Also read | Israel, Austria and Denmark establish vaccine-supply alliance The reported visit would take place less than two weeks before Netanyahu faces re-election, Israel's fourth vote in less than two years. The veteran prime minister, in power since 2009, has sought to highlight his credentials as Israel's top statesman as part of his re-election pitch. According to the Israeli reports, Netanyahu will meet with the UAE's leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan at Abu Dhabi's airport. Also read | Israel, Bahrain leaders discuss vaccine plant, Netanyahu visit to Gulf state He will then return to Jerusalem for talks with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on the vaccination effort against Covid-19. The United Arab Emirates normalised ties with the Jewish state last September, making it the first Arab country to sign on to the so-called Abraham Accords brokered by former US President Donald Trump. The deal made the UAE only the third majority Arab state to establish ties with Israel, following Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994. Bahrain, Morocco and Sudan subsequently joined the Abraham Accords. Netanyahu had been set to visit UAE and Bahrain in February, but the trip was put off after Israel imposed travel limitations to curb the coronavirus pandemic.

Israel's Netanyahu to make first official trip to UAE Thursday: Reports

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