The campaign aimed to raise fishermen’s awareness of unauthorised fishing locations and inform them about the authorised fishing areas within Al Bahia Beach, Al Shalila Beach, Al Sader Beach, Ghantoot, and Yas Beach…reports Asian Lite News
The City Municipality Centre and Al Shahama Municipality Centre, representing Abu Dhabi City Municipality, have recently organized an awareness campaign focusing on designated fishing spots in Abu Dhabi and its surrounding areas.
The five-day campaign, covering the geographic areas associated with both centres, falls under the “Darna” initiative. This initiative aims to preserve the general appearance and familiarise the community with laws and requirements related to fishing locations and protecting the marine environment.
The campaign aimed to raise fishermen’s awareness of unauthorised fishing locations and inform them about the authorised fishing areas within Al Bahia Beach, Al Shalila Beach, Al Sader Beach, Ghantoot, and Yas Beach.
The municipality noted that all beaches without fishing prohibition signs are considered available and authorised for fishing.
It also emphasised that fishing prohibition in some areas aligns with the goals of natural resource sustainability and the preservation of the general appearance, following the directives issued by relevant authorities, including the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD).
The awareness campaign included the dissemination of informative publications on the municipality’s social media platforms and “Freejna” app, as well as sending text messages and organising field visits to fishing sites.
Abu Dhabi Municipality called on all fishermen to adhere to the general cleanliness standards in the area, contribute to preserving the general appearance, and refrain from leaving behind any waste that might contaminate the marine environment or beaches. This call underscores the critical role of community responsibility in safeguarding and maintaining natural amenities.
Medeem, tailored for Abu Dhabi citizens, offers guidance to ensure every marriage is strong, fostering happy and healthy families for a stable society…reports Asian Lite News
As part of the Abu Dhabi Family Wellbeing Strategy The Department of Community Development (DCD) has unveils the ‘Medeem’ initiative. The initiative aims to encourage young Emiratis to embrace Emirati values, have simpler and more affordable weddings, and plan wisely for their married life.
Medeem, tailored for Abu Dhabi citizens, offers guidance to ensure every marriage is strong, fostering happy and healthy families for a stable society. It includes various projects for young people, couples-to-be, families, parents, and professionals in the wedding industry, supporting the Abu Dhabi Strategy for Quality of Family Life.
This initiative focuses on promoting wise decisions throughout a couple’s journey, from before to after marriage. By promoting traditional wedding customs, it inspires young people to plan weddings that emphasise moderation and simplicity.
Medeem consists of four main pillars: the Medeem Center for Family Flourishing, the Medeem Model for Women’s Weddings, the Medeem Benefits Programme, and the Medeem Digital Platform.
The Medeem Centre for Family Flourishing
The Medeem Centre for Family Flourishing offers various services and programmes for couples about to marry and new families. It will launch in the second quarter of this year, providing family guidance, mediation, and counseling by specialized staff in marital relations and family counseling. Additionally, couples can access the Medeem Benefits Programme, which includes exclusive offers from over 25 partners in the government and private sectors for savings on various services like hotels, weddings, real estate, and travel.
The Medeem Model for Women’s Weddings
The Medeem Model for Women’s Weddings is designed to guide the wedding industry and partners from both the public and private sectors, inspired by the local Emirati community. This model allows multiple families to share in the joy of the wedding experience over several days by using the same hall and equipment for multiple wedding parties. Couples can personalise the venue with simple décor selections, reducing expenses and promoting lasting and blessed marriages. The model reflects Emirati values of community, sustainability, and mutual support, essential to our cultural heritage.
Furthermore, the Medeem Digital Platform offers a range of services and educational materials for couples preparing for marriage. It helps couples establish their marital life securely and plan for cohesive families, raising children who contribute positively to society’s development.
Dr. Layla Al Hyas, Executive Director of the Community Development Sector at DCD, stressed that the Medeem initiative supports Abu Dhabi’s sustainable social development goals. It aims to create stable families and strong communities, and it encourages society to move away from the current trend for exaggerated and extravagant weddings. She said that the cost of marriage has become burdensome for families and young people in recent years, and that this is impacting the stability and cohesion of Emirati society.
She said that the Medeem initiative preserves the traditions associated with authentic Emirati weddings, and demonstrates pride in the heritage of the UAE. Medeem celebrates the true essence of marriage. It demonstrates how to show great hospitality without extravagance, and without wasting our precious resources. She noted that Medeem includes many projects, including the Medeem Center for Family Flourishing, an initiative that will play a major part in the future of our youth.
Medeem offers an integrated service that promotes the role of young people in society, and encourages them to form families and contribute to the overall strength and wellbeing of the nation.
She added that DCD, along with Medeem’s partner organizations, urges people who are about to get married to think in ways that are moderate, humble and wise. For instance, studies show that 1 in 3 couples exceed their initial wedding budget.
Medeem is a concept that reflects the authenticity of UAE society
Medeem, an initiative by the Abu Dhabi government, promotes moderation and traditional Emirati values in all aspects of marriage, encompassing marriage arrangements, weddings, setting up the marital home, and other crucial matters along the journey. The name “Medeem” comes from a traditional Emirati congratulatory phrase symbolising blessings and wishes for ongoing happiness and contentment.
This initiative embodies the wise values and vision of the UAE’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It encourages couples to embrace humble and authentic wedding customs, offers guidance to newlyweds on establishing a strong marital foundation, and empowers parents with knowledge on financial management, effective parenting, and sustaining marital harmony throughout their lives.
Inspired by the insightful words of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Medeem initiative aims to create an environment that supports family stability and emphasizes the essential role of families in our societal fabric and national identity.
Pavegen is planning to plant 1000 mangrove trees around the UAE to highlight the importance of sustainable development and environmental conservation in the fight against climate change…reports Asian Lite News
Pavegen, renowned for its fascinating technology that coverts human footsteps to renewable, made headlines by planting 279 mangrove plants during the third day of the World Future Energy Summit. Hosted by Masdar at ADNEC from April 16th to 18th, 2024, the summit provided the perfect platform for Pavegen’s innovative interactive installation. This initiative seamlessly converts human movement into a tangible means for mangrove tree planting, exemplifying the fusion of sustainability and cutting-edge technology.
Pavegen is planning to plant 1000 mangrove trees around the UAE to highlight the importance of sustainable development and environmental conservation in the fight against climate change.
Laurence Kemball-Cook, CEO of Pavegen, told the Emirates News Agency (WAM) that:’’As attendees walk over Pavegen’s tiles, their movements are converted into energy. The energy is used to illuminate LED lights, with a display providing real-time feedback on the real amount of energy generated. For this edition of the World Future Energy Summit, the footsteps and subsequent energy produced will be tied to an environmental cause – planting mangrove trees in the UAE. This will provide a tangible sense of the impact of each participant’s contribution.’’ This initiative is part of Pavegen’s broader mission to blend technological innovation with environmental stewardship, offering solutions that empower communities and promote sustainability. By focusing on smart energy generation and ecosystem conservation, Pavegen is paving the way towards a more sustainable future.
The mangrove planting initiative is part of the UAE’s Climate Change Strategy with a goal of planting 100 million mangrove trees by 2030 to achieve climate neutrality. Mangroves are critically important to many tropical and sub-tropical ecosystems, providing habitat for thousands of species, stabilising shorelines, preventing erosion, and protecting land from waves and storms. Their unique ability to absorb and capture carbon makes them a vital component in the fight against climate change.
‘’Our installation is more than a technological demonstration – it’s a call to action, inviting everyone to take a step towards improving our planet’s future,” he added.
This initiative is part of Pavegen’s broader mission to blend technological innovation with environmental stewardship, offering solutions that empower communities and promote sustainability. By focusing on smart energy generation and ecosystem conservation, Pavegen is paving the way towards a more sustainable future.
Manuel Tovar, Minister of Foreign Trade of Costa Rica
Manuel Tovar stressed the importance strengthening and expanding economic partnership with the UAE…reports Asian Lite News
Costa Rica signs Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with UAE. Following that, Manuel Tovar, Minister of Foreign Trade of Costa Rica highlights that UAE is a “reliable partner and trade gateway” to the Middle East and Gulf countries.
In statements to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) on the sidelines of the CEPA signing, Tovar said that the agreement marks a new era in promoting trade and investment relations between the two countries.
He stressed the importance of strengthening and expanding economic partnership with the UAE, recognising the country’s strategic economic weight, not only regionally but also in international markets.
He commended the UAE’s success in diversifying its economy beyond oil, leading to a developed and flexible economic structure, particularly in the service trade, a focus area for both nations to underscore and reinforce through the CEPA.
Tovar stressed the mutual interest in bolstering economic ties through the CEPA, emphasising sectors like renewable energy, where Costa Rica aims to fulfill over 90% of its electricity needs from sustainable sources. Tovar discussed potential collaboration and investment opportunities in renewable energy, presenting promising prospects for businesses in both countries.
Moreover, Tovar identified agriculture and food processing as key areas of cooperation, with a focus on expanding Costa Rica’s exports of various agricultural products such as apples and coffee. He also highlighted the potential for tourism growth between the two countries, noting the UAE’s diverse attractions.
Non-oil trade between the UAE and Costa Rica has shown consistent annual growth, with a remarkable 23% increase in 2022, reaching $60.4 million, more than double the value recorded in 2018.
Umm Al Emarat Park to organize ‘recycling workshop’
In line with Earth Day, Umm Al Emarat Park reaffirms its commitment to sustainability. Serving as a haven of greenery and diverse activities, the Park stands as a symbol of environmental stewardship…reports Asian Lite News
Umm Al Emarat Park joins forces with Vine Communities, organizing a recycling workshop as part of the celebration of Earth Day (22nd April).
Taking place at the Park’s Little Farm area on Sunday, 21st April, the workshop aims at instilling a profound understanding of environmental conservation.
Open to children aged 7 and above, this workshop offers an immersive and educational experience focused on the importance of recycling and sustainability. Participants can anticipate an interactive session filled with engaging activities and insightful discussions.
From transforming ordinary materials like plastics, cans, bottles and paper into innovative creations to crafting personalised wallets using recycled resources, young attendees will not only cultivate their creativity but also deepen their commitment to environmental stewardship.
In line with Earth Day, Umm Al Emarat Park reaffirms its commitment to sustainability. Serving as a haven of greenery and diverse activities, the Park stands as a symbol of environmental stewardship. Through eco-friendly initiatives and educational programmes, it encourages the community to adopt greener lifestyles.
The municipality employs all available resources, including its vehicle fleet, to minimise damage, improve traffic flow, and ensure the safety of residents and their belongings…reports Asian Lite News
As the part of handling the impact of heavy rainfall, Sharjah Municipality deploys 65 community service patrols to rain-affected areas.
The municipality employs all available resources, including its vehicle fleet, to minimise damage, improve traffic flow, and ensure the safety of residents and their belongings. A dedicated team is working round-the-clock to conduct fieldwork across all regions of Sharjah.
Obaid Saeed Al Tunaiji, Director-General of SM and Head of the High Committee for Rain Emergencies, underscored the municipality’s commitment to dealing with significant water accumulations caused by heavy rainfall. He commends the municipality’s swift response of mobilising committees and staff and declaring a state of emergency to effectively manage the situation.
Al Tunaiji highlighted the municipality’s proactive measures, including deploying field teams and 65 patrols to undertake essential communal and humanitarian tasks. These efforts involve aiding affected families in reaching authorised shelters, assisting stranded individuals in waterlogged areas, clearing obstructed vehicles, and providing support to vulnerable groups such as the elderly and others in need within the community.
Etihad WE is collaborating with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and will host a conference in May to unveil all details pertaining to EV chargers…reports Asian Lite News
CEO Yousif Al Ali announced that Etihad Water and Electricity (Etihad WE) is launching a significant initiative to expand the availability and construction of high-speed EV charging stations across the Northern Emirates.
In statements to Emirates News Agency (WAM) on the sidelines of the first day of the World Future Energy Summit, hosted by Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar), Al Ali stated that the company is actively replacing old chargers with high-speed alternatives and has ambitious expansion plans in this area.
Regarding the anticipated investment for this initiative, Al Ali explained that EtihadWE is collaborating with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and will host a conference in May to unveil all details pertaining to EV chargers.
Dubai’s luxury home market sees a 19 percent increase in sales, with Palm Jumeirah leading in both sales volume and total value, while Dubai Hills Estate emerges as a rising hotspot for luxury home buyers…reports Asian Lite News
According to the latest analysis from global property consultant Knight Frank, one hundred and five homes priced in excess of US$10 million were sold in Dubai during the first three months of the year. This marks a 19 percent increase compared to Q1 2023.
Faisal Durrani, Partner – Head of Research, MENA, explained, “The level of deal activity in Dubai continues to strengthen, particularly at the top end of the market, where the near constant stream of international high-net-worth-individuals vying for the city’s most expensive homes persists.
“The laser-like focus of the global wealthy on Dubai is best reflected in the rapid deterioration in the volume of $10 million+ homes for sale, which has fallen by 59 percent across the city over the last 12 months to just 864 homes.”
The total value of luxury homes sold during Q1 stands at $1.73 billion, up six percent from Q1 2023. This builds on Dubai’s emergence as the world’s busiest $10 million+ homes market.
Knight Frank says that last year, Dubai recorded 431 home sales above $10 million, nearly 80 percent higher than the next nearest contender—London (240). New York (211) rounded off the world’s top three most active luxury home markets in 2023.
Palm Jumeirah registered deals worth $628 million, and dominated the luxury homes market during Q1, accounting for 36.3 percent of sales by total value. Jumeirah Bay Island (11.1 percent) and Dubai Hills Estate (seven percent) followed in second and third place, respectively.
While Palm Jumeirah (39) also led the pack in terms of the total number of luxury homes sold, Palm Jebel Ali (ten) and Business Bay (seven) registered more high-end home sales than Jumeirah Bay Island or Dubai Hills Estate.
According to Knight Frank, other markets, away from the headline-grabbing Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Bay Island, and Emirates Hills, are fast rising in prominence among luxury home buyers, with Dubai Hills Estate, for instance, standing out as a market to watch. Will McKintosh, Regional Partner and Head of Prime Residential, MENA, said, “Dubai Hills Estate has quietly for some time been rising up the ranks as not only one of Dubai’s most sought-after markets for domestic buyers, but now luxury home buyers are increasingly active here too.
“The relative proximity to both Downtown and New Dubai, combined with access to an international school, excellent neighbourhood facilities and amenities, and, of course, its abundance of green space, is quickly making Dubai Hills Estate one of Dubai’s most desirable neighbourhoods. Prices have unsurprisingly responded to the growing demand to live here and have risen by almost 11 percent in the last 12 months, while the number of homes available for sale has fallen by 75 percent to just over 1,000 units this past March.” Knight Frank has previously found in its Destination Dubai 2023 report that access to parks and green space ranks as the most important consideration amongst global HNWI when considering an investment in the emirate.
According to Knight Frank, Dubai’s prime residential market, which includes Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Bay Island, and Emirates Hills, has also experienced a surge in performance.
Durrani concluded, “After growing by 16.3 percent in 2023, following an extraordinary 44.4 percent increase during 2022, Dubai’s prime residential market has grown by 26.3 percent over the last 12 months, easily making it one of, if not the fastest growing prime residential market globally. While these startling growth rates are phenomenal, it does not take away from the fact that Dubai’s luxury homes market still remains one of the most affordable in the world.
“Indeed, $1 million secures some 980 square feet of prime residential space in Dubai, compared to just 366 square feet in New York, 355 square feet in London, or 172 square feet in Monaco.”
The talks were centered on strengthening ties, with special attention given to sectors such as the diamond industry, semiconductors, and sustainable growth…reports Asian Lite News
In a notable gathering held in New Delhi on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM), S Jaishankar, and Theodora Gentzis, Secretary-General of the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, convened to discuss strategies for deepening economic and political collaboration among India, Belgium, and the European Union (EU). The talks were centered on strengthening ties, with special attention given to sectors such as the diamond industry, semiconductors, and sustainable growth.
EAM Jaishankar expressed his contentment over hosting Gentzis, highlighting the discussions on mutual economic and political interests.
“Pleased to receive Secretary General @BelgiumMFA Theodora Gentzis today. Discussed strengthening economic and political cooperation between India, Belgium and the EU. Took up the concerns of our diamond industry. Also exchanged views on semiconductors and green growth,” EAM Jaishankar posted on social media platform X.
Earlier, Gentzis also engaged with Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi, discussing methods to strengthen bilateral ties.
“Pleasure meeting Ms. Theodora Gentzis, Secretary General at Belgium MFA today. Reiterated our commitment to further deepen our close, friendly and multifaceted ties,” MoS Lekhi posted on X after their meeting on Monday (April 8, 2024).
These discussions are a continuation of the diplomatic engagement following last month’s telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Belgian PM Alexander De Croo, where both leaders deliberated on advancing the India-EU Partnership under the Belgian Presidency.
The two leaders discussed ways to further strengthen the bilateral partnership in diverse sectors including trade, investment, clean technologies, semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, green hydrogen, IT, defence, ports, among other others, the MEA said after their conversation on March 26, 2024.
Historically, Belgium was one of the first European nations to establish diplomatic ties with independent India in September 1947. The relationship has been marked by high-level visits, shared democratic values, and robust economic engagement. Trade, particularly in diamonds, has been a significant aspect of the bilateral relations, complemented by investments and cooperation in various sectors like science and technology, renewable energy, and education.
The latest discussions reinforce the commitment of both nations to strengthen the strategic partnership, with an emphasis on technology, environment-friendly growth, and trade, continuing the legacy of cooperation and mutual respect that has characterized India-Belgium relations for decades. (India News Network )
A cultural programme marks the 75th Foundation Day of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations in New Delhi on April 9, 2024.
ICCR’s approach to cultural diplomacy encompasses a broad spectrum of activities aimed at reviving and strengthening international cultural relations…reports Asian Lite News
The 75th Foundation Day of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) was celebrated on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in its journey of enriching India’s diplomatic relations through cultural exchanges. Established on April 9, 1950, by Maulana Abdul Kalam Azad, India’s inaugural Education Minister, ICCR has played a pivotal role in fostering mutual understanding and fostering cultural bonds between India and the global community.
The foundation of ICCR was a strategic move towards establishing India’s soft power diplomacy, acknowledging the importance of cultural relations in international diplomacy. Over the years, ICCR has evolved into a global ambassador of Indian culture, operating through its extensive network of cultural centres and diplomatic missions worldwide.
Global Cultural Initiatives
ICCR’s approach to cultural diplomacy encompasses a broad spectrum of activities aimed at reviving and strengthening international cultural relations. By running 37 Cultural Centres globally, ICCR facilitates the exchange of artistic and cultural values, thereby fostering global peace and understanding. These centres serve as hubs for cultural exchange, hosting numerous events that showcase the diversity of Indian culture.
One of the Council’s notable initiatives is the organization of international webinars and festivals that highlight India’s rich textile and artistic heritage. For instance, the “Weaving Relations: Textile Traditions” webinar, held on October 3, 2020, brought together artists and artisans from various countries to share their textile traditions, promoting a global appreciation for the craftsmanship and cultural narratives embedded in their work.
Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs
ICCR’s educational exchange programs have significantly contributed to promoting international understanding. Through scholarships and cultural exchanges, the Council has facilitated educational opportunities for foreign students in India, thereby nurturing a global network of alumni who act as ambassadors of goodwill and friendship between their home countries and India.
The ICCR offers an extensive range of over 3,000 scholarships across 21 different programs, catering to international students from more than 180 countries. Six of these programmes are funded by ICCR, while the remaining are funded by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Ministry of Ayush.
The Council’s role in India’s external cultural relations extends to the strategic implementation of cultural diplomacy initiatives. These efforts are designed not only to showcase India’s cultural richness but also to build enduring international relationships. ICCR’s cultural events abroad, such as dance performances, music concerts, and art exhibitions, play a crucial role in projecting India’s soft power and fostering diplomatic relations.
ICCR’s Regional and Global Impact
The regional offices of ICCR across India collaborate with state governments, enhancing the domestic cultural landscape while also supporting the Council’s global mission. These partnerships facilitate the representation of India’s diverse cultural heritage on the international stage, ensuring that the cultural exchanges are reflective of the country’s rich tapestry of traditions and art forms.
The ‘Northeast Japan Caravan’ in Shillong (November 9, 2023), showcasing Judo and Karate demonstrations, is an example of how ICCR promotes cultural fusion and understanding. Such events underline the importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing people-to-people ties.
The ICCR’s sponsorship of cultural groups like the Sankalp Odishi Dance Group emphasizes the Council’s commitment to promoting Indian classical dance forms globally. Their 2023 performances in countries like Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador, have not only showcased the elegance and depth of Indian dance but also played a pivotal role in building cultural bridges and enhancing India’s cultural ties with these nations.
As the ICCR celebrates its 75th foundation day, its achievements in promoting India’s cultural heritage globally stand remains renowned with the enduring value of cultural diplomacy. The Council’s efforts in fostering international goodwill through cultural exchange continue to contribute significantly to India’s diplomatic endeavours, promoting a world that values cultural diversity and mutual respect. ( India News Network)
