Month: December 2024

The delegation comprised 17 young Emirati scientists participating in the BRICS Young Scientist Forum and Young Innovator Prize with 11 innovative projects nominated…reports Asian Lite News

The United Arab Emirates participated in the 9th BRICS Young Scientists Forum and the 7th BRICS Young Innovator Prize in Sochi, Russia. 

Through the forum, the young participants presented concepts and visions from an Emirati perspective, according to the UAE’s vision, which aims to consolidate the UAE’s position as an international destination for technology and innovation. 

The participation – the first of its kind since the UAE joined BRICS in January 2024 – highlighted the UAE’s commitment to empowering its young and emerging talent to collaborate and contribute to global discourse in science, technology, and innovation. 

Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), mandated to shape an R&D ecosystem that accelerates a knowledge-based economy, led the UAE delegation, which included representatives of entities and universities nationwide. 

The delegation comprised 17 young Emirati scientists participating in the BRICS Young Scientist Forum and Young Innovator Prize with 11 innovative projects nominated. These exceptional nominees presented pioneering projects categorised under the themes of the Young Scientist Forum: Environmental and Climate Technologies, Nature-like and Convergent Technologies, and Digital Humanities. Among the groundbreaking initiatives were autonomous drones designed for mangrove reforestation and advanced bioinformatics to improve immunotherapy. 

Additionally, UAE representatives competed for the BRICS Young Innovator Prize with transformative solutions such as IoT-enabled smart agriculture and sustainable biodiesel production. These projects reflect the UAE’s commitment to addressing pressing global challenges through youth-driven research and innovation. 

Furthermore, the UAE’s participation was marked by its strategic role on the Science, Technology and Innovation BRICS Steering Committee and its leadership in the Young Scientist Forum and Young Innovator Prize programs, led by members of ATRC. 

Aligned with the UAE’s Centennial 2071 vision, the delegation exemplified the nation’s strategic ambition to promote technological solutions that contribute to global advancements. The event, which included participants from countries such as Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, also underscored the UAE’s efforts to strengthen partnerships across the BRICS nations and beyond, promoting equitable access to innovation and technological progress. 

The BRICS Young Scientist Forum is critical for fostering global partnerships and driving cross-border innovation. Through its commitment to youth-driven research and development, the UAE is addressing local challenges while contributing to international advancements in science and technology. This initiative highlighted the importance of equipping young innovators with the resources, knowledge and networks required to lead the future. 

By supporting and participating in the BRICS Young Innovation Forum, the UAE demonstrated its belief that technology is the new oil, a vital resource for achieving sustainable development and long-term economic prosperity. 

ALSO READ: UAE President Receives Afghan Ambassador

Zayed International Airport crowned ‘World’s Most Beautiful Airport’…reports Asian Lite News

 

In just one year of operation, Zayed International Airport claimed the top spot in this highly coveted category amid strong global competition to set a new standard for airport excellence worldwide. 

The announcement was made at a ceremony in Paris at UNESCO’s Headquarters, coinciding with the airport’s first anniversary and the 53rd Eid Al Etihad celebrations. 

This accolade celebrates Zayed International Airport’s groundbreaking design, which seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology with the rich cultural heritage of the UAE. A symphony of design and excellence spanning 742,000 square meters, AUH boasts a distinctive X-shaped design, equipped to accommodate up to 11,000 travellers per hour and 79 aircraft simultaneously. 

This doubles the previous capacity with AUH primed to manage up to 45 million passengers annually, pioneering the world’s first nine biometric touchpoints by 2025. 

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports, said, “Zayed International Airport embodies the UAE’s vision for the future of aviation, blending ambition with innovation, and a commitment to shaping the future of airport experiences. This is a very proud moment for Abu Dhabi Airports.” 

This award complements the global recognition that AUH has achieved over the past twelve months, most notable being the fastest-growing airport in the Middle East in terms of international seat capacity. 

It has also achieved an excellent ACI ASQ satisfaction score that ranks AUH as one of the best airports in the world. This is against a backdrop of strong passenger traffic numbers that have seen a steady quarter-on-quarter increase to serve over 21 million passengers as of 30th September. 

The airport’s design seamlessly integrates elements of Emirati culture with cutting-edge technology, creating a stunning and efficient space for travellers. The award is testimony to the dedication of over 25,000 team members who contributed to the airport’s development and launch in November 2023. 

This Prix Versailles award further solidifies Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global destination and highlights the emirate’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the aviation industry. 

 ALSO READ: UAE President Receives Afghan Ambassador

Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed witnesses launch of autonomous mobility service…reports Asian Lite News

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs, has witnessed the launch of an autonomous mobility service on Uber. 

The service, launched in collaboration with WeRide, a global leader in autonomous driving technology, aims to provide smart mobility solutions through self-driving vehicles in various areas of Abu Dhabi, including Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and routes to and from Zayed International Airport. 

Under the guidance of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC), Tawasul Transport will be responsible for operating the WeRide fleet on the Uber platform, with the support of the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility). 

The launch marks a significant step in reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global leader in developing and applying intelligent transportation systems and autonomous vehicles. As one of the most innovative and environmentally sustainable solutions, this initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi’s vision of promoting innovation and integrating artificial intelligence technology across various key sectors. 

Uber passengers in Abu Dhabi can now choose an autonomous WeRide vehicle for specific journeys when booking UberX or Uber Comfort services. Initially, the service will be available in designated areas, with plans to expand operations to other regions within Abu Dhabi. 

During the initial phase of the launch, a safety operator will be present in each vehicle to ensure a secure and reliable experience for both passengers and pedestrians. This phase lays the groundwork for the full commercial launch of driverless services later in 2025. 

Uber users in Abu Dhabi interested in experiencing autonomous vehicles can increase their chances of being matched with a WeRide vehicle by opting in via the Ride Preferences section in their Uber application settings. 

Dr Abdulla Al Ghafli, Acting Director-General of the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), said, “This initiative is a significant step towards achieving our goals of enhancing transportation and adopting the latest advanced technologies. We are confident that using a smart transport service, such as self-driving vehicles, will offer passengers a unique and safe experience. 

“It will also significantly contribute to accelerating the shift towards more sustainable and efficient transportation solutions in Abu Dhabi. We will continue to work on enhancing Abu Dhabi’s ability to adopt smart solutions that contribute to improving the quality of life of our citizens. We look forward to further collaboration with our local and international partners to realise this vision.” 

Badr Al-Olama, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, said, “This initiative highlights Abu Dhabi’s commitment, under the guidance of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council, to advance sustainable mobility solutions. The introduction of this new, cutting-edge service confirms that the future of transportation is no longer an ambition, but a tangible reality in Abu Dhabi. 

“With every element of the Smart and Autonomous Vehicles ecosystem primed to integrate this new service, Abu Dhabi continues to reinforce its status as a global leader for autonomous, sustainable mobility solutions.” 

Ghena Jbour, General Manager of Tawasul Transport, stated, “This initiative reflects our commitment to aligning with Abu Dhabi’s vision and goals in keeping pace with technological advancements in artificial intelligence and the shift towards smart mobility through cooperation with strategic partners such as Uber and WeRide. This project reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a leader in innovation in smart and sustainable mobility and artificial intelligence.” 

“We’re thrilled to launch our partnership with WeRide and receive the support of Abu Dhabi’s Integrated Transport Centre. As we take this next step in Abu Dhabi, we are excited to build on the strength of the Uber platform, helping our partners make autonomous vehicles a part of everyday life,” Noah Zych, Global Head of Autonomous Mobility and Delivery Operations at Uber, said. 

Jennifer Li, Chief Financial Officer and Head of International Business at WeRide, said, “WeRideprioritises passenger and pedestrian safety through rigorously validated autonomous driving technology. As the first publicly listed Robotaxi company, WeRide has demonstrated its commitment to safety through over 1,800 days of public operational experience, setting new benchmarks for autonomous vehicle performance.” 

ALSO READ: UAE President Receives Afghan Ambassador

National Human Rights Institution joins global campaign to end violence against women, girls. As part of this initiative, the NHRI will light up its headquarters in orange this evening, symbolising solidarity with the campaign’s theme, “Orange the World” and its call to action, #NoExcuse. 

The National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) has announced its participation in the international campaign to end violence against women and girls, marking the global observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on 25th November each year. 

As part of this initiative, the NHRI will light up its headquarters in orange this evening, symbolising solidarity with the campaign’s theme, “Orange the World” and its call to action, #NoExcuse. 

This participation underscores the NHRI’s commitment to strengthening global efforts to eradicate violence against women and girls while raising awareness about the necessity of a future free from all forms of physical, psychological, digital and economic violence. 

The 16-day campaign, which ends on 10th December, coinciding with Human Rights Day 2024, aims to highlight the urgent need to end violence against women and girls as a vital step toward achieving justice and equality for them. 

In a statement, the National Human Rights Institution emphasised that eliminating violence against women and girls is crucial for advancing societal peace, equality, and justice. The institution also commended the UAE’s leadership for its exemplary role in empowering women and enacting robust legislation to protect their rights and uphold their dignity. 

The NHRI further noted that this campaign aligns with the UAE’s continuous efforts to enhance its legislative and social frameworks, ensuring that women are safeguarded from violence and empowered to contribute actively to society. These efforts reflect a steadfast belief in women’s central role in driving sustainable development and fostering community cohesion. 

The institution’s participation reaffirms the UAE’s commitment to regional initiatives, such as the Arab Declaration on Combatting all Forms of Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG), launched in Abu Dhabi in December 2022. 

ALSO READ: UAE President Receives Afghan Ambassador

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls for end to fighting in Syria, return to political process 

United Nations, Dec 6 (IANS) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for immediate humanitarian access to all civilians in Syria, and a return to political process to end the bloodshed.  

At a press meeting, Guterres said that he had just spoken with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to discuss the latest developments in Syria. 

During the phone conversation, he emphasised the urgent need for immediate humanitarian access to all civilians in need, and a return to the UN-facilitated political process to end the bloodshed, Xinhua news agency reported. 

The UN chief also stressed that all parties are obligated under international law to protect civilians. This latest offensive was launched into Syrian government-controlled areas by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a group sanctioned by the Security Council, along with a broad range of other armed opposition groups. 

“It has led to significant shifts in the frontlines. Tens of thousands of civilians are at risk in a region already on fire,” Guterres told reporters. 

“We are seeing the bitter fruits of a chronic collective failure of previous de-escalation arrangements to produce a genuine nationwide ceasefire or a serious political process to implement Security Council resolutions,” he said. “These must change.” 

The UN chief said that after 14 years of conflict, it is high time for all parties to engage seriously with Geir Pedersen, UN special envoy for Syria, to finally chart a new, inclusive and comprehensive approach to resolving this crisis, in line with Security Council resolution 2254. 

“It is time for serious dialogue,” Guterres noted, adding, “In other words, restoring Syria’s sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity — and meeting the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people.” 

‘It breaks my heart’ to see Syrians’ suffering grow, along with the threats to regional and international security, he said, urging all those with influence to do their part for the long-suffering people of Syria. 

Hezbollah vows  

Hezbollah will support the Syrian government amid escalating offensives by rebel forces, Hezbollah leader Sheikh Naim Qassem said in a televised speech. 

While Qassem did not clarify the form of support, he assured on Thursday that Hezbollah would “do what it could”. 

Qassem accused the US and Israel of instigating aggression against Syria due to their failure in Gaza. He also claimed that “terrorist groups” sought to shift Syria’s alignment from supporting the resistance to backing Israeli occupation, Xinhua news agency reported. 

“We face a very dangerous Israeli project against the Middle East,” he warned. 

His comments came hours after Syrian opposition forces captured the strategic city of Homs in central Syria, marking a significant advance in their offensive that started on November 27. The rebels had previously seized Aleppo, Syria’s second-largest city, in earlier assaults. 

The United Nations World Food Program reported that more than 280,000 people had been displaced by the recent violence, according to a post on X. 

Meanwhile, Syrian Defence minister emphasises army’s readiness to reclaim lost areas from rebel forces. The Minister has emphasised the army’s readiness to reclaim lost areas from rebel forces, describing the army’s withdrawal from the central city of Hama as a “tactic”. 

Ali Mahmoud Abbas made the remarks on Thursday night in a televised statement when addressing the ongoing battles against rebel groups, Xinhua news agency reported. 

“We have engaged in fierce and continuous battles against the most extreme terrorist organisations, which employ guerrilla tactics. This requires our armed forces to adopt appropriate strategies, including advances, withdrawals, and redeployments,” Abbas said. 

The Minister described the current field situation as “good,” stating that the recent redeployment of forces outside Hama was a “tactical” measure to protect civilians. 

“This is a temporary measure. Our forces remain on the outskirts of Hama, fully prepared to fulfill their national and constitutional duties,” he assured, reiterating that the military’s actions were part of a broader strategy to ensure long-term stability. 

Abbas also accused the rebel groups of spreading disinformation aimed at creating chaos amid the army’s withdrawal, calling on residents to rely solely on information disseminated through official channels. 

The Minister also expressed confidence in Syria’s ability to overcome the current challenges.  

“With our army, people, leadership, and the support from our allies and friends, Syria is capable of surmounting any difficulties, no matter how severe they are,” he said. 

ALSO READ: UAE President Receives Afghan Ambassador

ALSO READ: UAE Honours Fallen Heroes