Day: April 3, 2024

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Sharjah Chamber explores trade and investment opportunities with India

SHARJAH: The Indian Business and Professional Council, affiliated with the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), has conducted an extensive business meeting to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation and boost bilateral trade volume and mutual investments between the business communities of Sharjah and India.

Discussions delved into prospects for enhancing coordination between the two business communities and exploring investment opportunities across diverse strategic economic sectors.

The meeting also focused on bolstering the exchange of information regarding investment prospects and building sustainable partnerships to fuel growth in trade exchanges and joint investments, leveraging the comprehensive economic partnership between the UAE and India.

Held during the Ramadan suhoor banquet at Sharjah’s Jazerat-al-alam, the meeting was attended by Dr. Khaled Omar Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Media City (Shams), and Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shu
rooq), as well as Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, and Abdul Aziz Al Shamsi, Assistant Director-General for Communication and Business Sector at SCCI.

Also present were Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India in Dubai and the Northern Emirates; Jamal Saeed Buzangal, Director of the Media Department at SCCI; Lalu Samuel, Chairman of the Indian Business and Professional Council, along with members of the Indian Business Council, business community representatives, and heads of major Indian companies operating in Sharjah.

The meeting underscored the facilitative measures and investment prospects extended to Indian companies within the emirate, emphasizing the pivotal role of periodic gatherings in bridging communication between investors, corporate heads, and business leaders from both Sharjah and India.

Moreover, the discussions highlighted the level of investment cooperation and the diverse opportunities available for Indian companies operating in Sharjah, particularly within st
rategic sectors such as energy, maritime industries, shipping services, and ship agencies. The meeting also delineated opportunities available for Indian companies specializing in commerce, food industries, tourism, real estate, and contracting.

Abdul Aziz Al Shamsi emphasised that the Indian Business Council’s meeting, which brought together all those concerned with consolidating ties between Sharjah and Indian business communities, stands as an essential component of the endeavours made by the Sharjah Chamber and its associated business councils to boost business relations between the two communities.

Stressing its pivotal role in catering to the needs of member companies affiliated with the Indian Business and Professional Council, Al Shamsi added that the meeting aligns with broader efforts to enhance economic and commercial cooperation with India.

He pointed out that such gatherings provide fruitful opportunities for fostering new business partnerships between Indian and Emirati companies, which in tu
rn serve as a fundamental pillar for fortifying bilateral trade and mutual investment.

For his part, Lalu Samuel noted that the Indian Business Council’s meeting aimed at bringing together leaders of Indian companies investing in Sharjah with their counterparts in the emirate, along with relevant entities, to develop cooperative relations and explore further opportunities to achieve the council’s objectives.

Underscoring the importance of fostering communication bridges between Indian companies and economic prospects in Sharjah, Samuel clarified that this initiative seeks to cement sustainable collaborative ties and create avenues for acquainting with efforts supporting investors, and thereby elevating economic activities in the emirate.

An estimated 17,500 Indian companies are currently operating in the Emirate of Sharjah, according to SCCI’s members. The Sharjah Chamber inaugurated the Indian Business and Professional Council in February 2023.

Source: Emirates News Agency

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MBRSG, APCO sign MoU to improve cooperation in GenAI, government communications


DUBAI: The Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG) and global advisory and advocacy firm APCO have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation and exchange expertise in areas including generative AI (GenAI) and government communications.

MBRSG and APCO will collaborate on developing education and training programmes focusing on enhancing the communication skills of leaders and managers in the government sector. The parties will also explore the use of advanced technologies in research and employing GenAI in government communications.

Dr. Ali bin Sebaa Al Marri, Executive President of MBRSG signed the MoU together with Mamoon Sbeih, President of APCO in the Middle East and North Africa. It was signed in the presence of Dr. Arthur King, Acting Dean and Director of Academic Affairs at MBRSG.

Dr. Al Marri said, ‘This memorandum reflects the Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government’s commitment to capacity building to strengthen government work and enable public sector employees t
o effectively address challenges. Our work contributes to leadership excellence and supports the UAE’s development journey, elevating its regional and global standing. The school is focused on uniting its efforts with prestigious international institutions to exchange knowledge and expertise to enrich the knowledge of government personnel and enhance their communication skills based on the latest techniques and technologies.’

Under the MoU, the school will work with APCO Institute, the company’s training arm that is specialised in building strategic communications capabilities and empowering professionals with tools, knowledge, exposure and international best practices in media communications. The collaboration will provide training courses in strategic planning, government communication, crisis management, internal communication management and change management. The courses will equip leaders and spokespersons with skills to more effectively engage with international media, manage individual and institution
al reputation, as well as manage the building, operation, and transfer of ownership system in government communication departments.

Source: Emirates News Agency

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UAHR praises UAE President as a leader and role model for promoting peace and coexistence worldwide


GENEVA: The Union Association for Human Rights (UAHR) has commended President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as a leader and role model for promoting peace and coexistence worldwide. It also noted His Highness’ role in advancing the UAE’s efforts to promote principles of human fraternity globally, solidifying its position as a leading hub for peace and human coexistence.

This came in UAHR statement which was delivered by Dr. Fatima Khalifa Al Kaabi, President of the UAHR, as part of the 8th item of the agenda of the United Nations Human Rights Council related to combating racism and racial discrimination, and following up on the implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action (DDPA). This was within the framework of its participation in the 55th session of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC55) held at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

As part of His Highness’ efforts, the statement highlighted that the UN General Assembly, backed by 34 nations, unanimously passed a resolution
designating the 4th of February annually as the International Day of Human Fraternity.

This coincides with the day on which His Eminence the Grand Imam, Professor Dr. Ahmed El-Tayeb, Sheikh of Al-Azhar, and His Holiness Pope Francis, Head of the Catholic Church, signed the Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together in Abu Dhabi in 2019, under the patronage and presence of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Al Kaabi stressed the importance of working to combat racism and racial discrimination, promote the values of tolerance and coexistence, and reject hate speech. She also stressed the importance of evaluating the commitment of states and measuring the progress made in this regard.

UAHR called on the UN Human Rights Council to promote international efforts to eradicate racism and the associated racial discrimination that contradicts human values and principles, as well as the associated forms of intolerance and non-acceptance of others.

UAHR emphasised the sig
nificance of following the UAE’s example in promoting peace, tolerance, and cultural diversity. The UAE serves as a model for hosting over 200 nationalities living together harmoniously, experiencing justice, equality, and fair opportunities. The country’s overarching vision aims to establish global peace, tolerance, and human coexistence, fostering a worldwide environment that upholds justice and equality for all, free from discrimination.

Source: Emirates News Agency

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Euro area annual inflation down to 2.4% in March

BRUSSELS: Euro area annual inflation is expected to be 2.4% in March 2024, down from 2.6% in February according to a flash estimate from Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union.

Looking at the main components of euro area inflation, services is expected to have the highest annual rate in March (4.0%, stable compared with February), followed by food, alcohol and tobacco (2.7%, compared with 3.9% in February), non-energy industrial goods (1.1%, compared with 1.6% in February) and energy (-1.8%, compared with -3.7% in February).

Source: Emirates News Agency

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Rulers of the Emirates congratulate Egyptian President on taking constitutional oath


EMIRATES: Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates have sent separate congratulatory message to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on the occasion of taking the constitutional oath for a new presidential term.

The messages were sent by Their Highnesses Supreme Council Members, the Rulers of the Emirates, Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi of Sharjah, Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi of Ajman, Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi of Fujairah, Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla of Umm Al Qaiwain, and Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi of Ras Al Khaimah.

Their Crown Princes and Deputy Rulers also sent similar messages to the Egyptian President.

Source: Emirates News Agency

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UAE partners with UN Climate Security Mechanism to advance climate, peace and security agenda


NEW YORK: The United Arab Emirates, a long-standing advocate for climate, peace and security and addressing global challenges related to climate change, announced a new US$1.2 million partnership with the United Nations Climate Security Mechanism (CSM).

The partnership entails a two-year annual contribution of US$600,000 from the UAE, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to strengthen the UN’s capacity to address the interlinkages between climate change, peace, and security. The UAE is the first donor from the Global South to contribute to the CSM.

Abdulla Balalaa, Assistant Minister for Energy Transition and Sustainability Affairs, said, ‘The UAE has consistently sought to address the enormous risks of climate change on the UN Security Council, and through the UAE’s presidency of COP28, to foster regional and global peace, justice, and sustainable development. Today, we take another important step in our commitment to proactive diplomacy and international collaboration on pressing global issues. This part
nership with the UN Climate Security Mechanism reinforces our support for the multilateral system by supporting vital climate peace and security programming around the world, as well as dedicated funding for a climate advisor in Afghanistan to assess and mitigate the serious climate security risks in the country.’

As part of this partnership, the UAE will fund a Climate Security Advisor position at the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), aiming to assess climate-related security risks and help develop risk prevention and management strategies. The initiative also includes unearmarked funding for the CSM itself, allowing for versatile use in supporting global efforts for climate, peace and security.

Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab, Deputy Permanent Representative of the UAE to the UN, said, ‘Afghanistan is one of the top 10 climate vulnerable countries on the globe – experiencing water shortages, floods, and other natural disasters that the country has little to no capacity to manage. We also know tha
t targeted policy interventions and scaling up of climate adaptation measures can help address food insecurity and decrease humanitarian needs that are driven by climate change. Our partnership with the CSM is a testament to the UAE’s long-term commitment to advancing climate, peace and security and fostering climate adaptation, especially in the areas most vulnerable to climate change. It is also in line with the UAE’s unwavering dedication to the stability and prosperity of Afghanistan and its people, particularly its women and girls.’

Rosemary DiCarlo, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, said, ‘We are delighted that the UAE is now part of the Climate Security Mechanism. This partnership promises a positive impact on global climate, peace and security initiatives, including those for Afghanistan. The commitment of the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and the Climate Security Mechanism to implementing the COP28 UAE Climate, Relief, Recovery and Pe
ace Declaration is steadfast.’

The UAE remains committed to advancing the climate, peace and security agenda across the UN system and around the world.

Source: Emirates News Agency

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Killing of seven members of a humanitarian team of World Central Kitchen by IDF is appalling: EU Officials


BRUSSELS: Josep Borrell Fontelles, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, and Janez Lenarcic, European Commissioner for Crisis Management, in a joint statement, said that the killing by the Israeli Defence Forces of seven members of a humanitarian team of World Central Kitchen, while they were travelling to deliver food to the most vulnerable in Gaza, is appalling.

The two European officials urged a swift implementation of the announced commitment by the Israeli authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure accountability for those who are responsible.

They recalled the Israeli obligation under International Humanitarian Law to protect humanitarian workers at all times. A high number of humanitarian workers have lost their lives since the beginning of the war in Gaza.

The EU commended the invaluable work of the UN and all humanitarian actors to deliver lifesaving aid in extremely dire conditions in Gaza. The EU officials urge Israel to fulfil the obl
igation to allow a full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to those in need.

The UNSC resolution 2728 has demanded an immediate ceasefire leading to a lasting sustainable ceasefire. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) also ordered provisional measures which are binding for the Parties. The EU expects their full, immediate and effective implementation.

Source: Emirates News Agency

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European Union condemns attack on Iranian diplomatic installation in Damascus


BRUSSELS: The European Union condemned the attack on an Iranian diplomatic installation in Damascus on 1 April, as well as the reported casualties.

According to a statement by Peter Stano, Lead Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the principle of the inviolability of diplomatic and consular premises and personnel must be respected in all cases and in all circumstances in accordance with international law.

Source: Emirates News Agency