Category: UAE News

  • Speaker of Egyptian parliament hails UAE’s humanitarian role

    Speaker of Egyptian parliament hails UAE’s humanitarian role

    Dr. Abdel Aal made this statement while receiving Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Jarwan, President of the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace…reports Asian Lite News

    Dr. Ali Abdel Aal, Speaker of the Egyptian House of Representatives, has commended the UAE’s international humanitarian and development role, as well as the outstanding role of the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace in disseminating the values of peace.

    Dr. Abdel Aal made this statement on Thursday while receiving Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Jarwan, President of the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace, who praised the support provided by Egypt, under the leadership of the President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, for the efforts to promote peace.

    The council now has members from over 75 countries and offices in all continents, he added while explaining its work, which includes cooperating with many international organisations in promoting tolerance and peace.

    Under the framework of combatting the coronavirus pandemic, Al Jarwan said that the council formed an international committee to provide aid to various countries, and has cooperated with several international organisations in implementing strategic projects.

    Peace and tolerance have become necessary around the world, he stressed, noting that the council aims to promote these noble values.

    At the end of the meeting, Al Jarwan presented several publications about the council, which include its organisational structure and its work during the coronavirus crisis.

    Al Jarwan was also received by Counselor Abdel Wahab Abdel Razeq, Speaker of the Egyptian Senate, who welcomed him and expressed his happiness at this visit, which reflects the deep relations between the two countries and their peoples.

    The President of the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace expressed his desire to cooperate with the Egyptian Senate in promoting tolerance and peace in the region and the rest of the world.

    Also read:Egyptians cast votes in second phase parliamentary elections

  • UAE FM receives US envoy for Iran

    UAE FM receives US envoy for Iran

    The two sides also exchanged views on the latest developments in the region and discussed a number of regional and international issues of common interest, including Iran, Syria and Iraq…reports Asian Lite News

    Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, has received Elliott Abrams, US Special Representative for Iran And Venezuela.

    The meeting, which was held at the ministry’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi, reviewed strategic relations between the UAE and the US along with ways to further boost cooperation relations between the two friendly countries in various fields.

    The two sides also exchanged views on the latest developments in the region and discussed a number of regional and international issues of common interest, including Iran, Syria and Iraq, in addition to developments in Venezuela.

    Sheikh Abdullah welcomed the US official’s visit, stressing the historical and strategic relations the two nations enjoy and their interest in developing them across all areas.

    Also read:UAE, Israel Ministers hold talks on defence

  • UAE, Israel Ministers hold talks on defence

    UAE, Israel Ministers hold talks on defence

    Both sides stressed the importance of promoting economic and tourist sectors in their countries through the development of common services of security and safety for their respective communities….reports Asian Lite News

    A virtual meeting was held on Wednesday via zoom between Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, and his Israeli counterpart Minister of Public Security, Amir Ohana, in order to step up cooperation between the two countries and activate the Abraham Accord.

    In their conversation, Sheikh Saif and Ohana discussed common projects, technological innovation projects and programmes related to combating transnational crimes, as well as other development projects related to civil defence.

    Both sides stressed the importance of promoting economic and tourist sectors in their countries through the development of common services of security and safety for their respective communities.

    The two parties agreed on forming a joint team to work on the specifics of the projects and programmes in preparation for a future launch.

    Also read:UAE, EU convene second session of Structural Dialogue

  • UAE, EU convene second session of Structural Dialogue

    UAE, EU convene second session of Structural Dialogue

    The purpose of the second session was to discuss the UAE’s ongoing and firm commitment to tangibly addressing the threats associated with money laundering and terrorist financing…reports Asian Lite News

    The second session of the EU-UAE Structural Dialogue was convened virtually on Wednesday. The meeting was co-chaired by Amna Fikri, Director of the Economic and Trade Affairs Department, UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Raluca Prună, Head of the Financial Crime Unit, the EU Commission Directorate-General for Financial Stability, Financial Services, and the Capital Markets Union.

    Attendees of the session included senior representatives from the Executive Office of the UAE’s National Committee for Anti-Money Laundering and Combating Financing of Terrorism and Illegal Organisations Committee; the Ministry of Justice; the Ministry of Economy; the Ministry of Finance; the Federal Customs Authority; the Central Bank; other Emirate- and Federal-level law enforcement bodies; and the UAE Embassy in Brussels.

    From the EU side, senior representatives from the Directorate-General for International Cooperation and Development; the European External Action Service; and the Delegation of the European Union to the UAE were in attendance.

    The purpose of the second session was to discuss the UAE’s ongoing and firm commitment to tangibly addressing the threats associated with money laundering and terrorist financing, and to engage in open dialogue on international best practices relating to Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) policies, more generally.

    The UAE delegation provided updates pertaining to the role of the Higher Committee overseeing the National Strategy for AML/CFT; broader progress relating to the UAE National Action Plan on AML/CFT; the implementation of the National Economic Register (NER); international cooperation efforts to address issues pertaining to CFT; newly enforced policies in respect to countering trade-based money laundering; and conveyed a number of proposals to implement joint capacity building and information sharing programmes.

    Also read:UAE FM holds talks with British minister

  • KF Chairman, Chechen Vice PM discuss business ties

    KF Chairman, Chechen Vice PM discuss business ties

    The two parties discussed prospects for cooperation in ways to enhance the field of entrepreneurship and the promotion of innovation in the Chechen Republic…reports Asian Lite News

    Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa Al Hammadi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development and Khalifa Fund, KF, has hosted a delegation led by Khasan Khakimov, Vice Prime Minister of the Chechen Republic and Chairman of Zayed Fund for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

    The two parties discussed prospects for cooperation in ways to enhance the field of entrepreneurship and the promotion of innovation in the Chechen Republic. Moreover, the 2021 Strategic Plan for the Zayed Fund was discussed and approved.

    Zayed Fund was established and set up by Khalifa Fund in 2017 in Grozny, the Chechen capital, with a capital of $50 million under the directives of President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, to support the empowerment of women and youth by developing their entrepreneurial skillset, as well as to contribute to the growth of the local economy.

    Also read:Israeli airline to commence direct flights to Bahrain

  • Dubai, Israel discuss bolstering economic ties

    Dubai, Israel discuss bolstering economic ties

    The two sides discussed the foundations for cooperation and the ways to benefit from the commercial and investment opportunities provided by the UAE, the Emirate of Dubai and the free zone….reports Asian Lite News

    Dubai Airport Freezone Authority (DAFZA) welcomed a senior economic delegation from Israel.

    The visit aims to discuss the prospects for strategic relations in various fields to encourage and increase foreign investment flows. This initiative will enhance joint action to explore promising opportunities that await DAFZA and the Israeli economic and commercial entities represented in the delegation.

    Dr. Mohammad Al Zarooni, Director General of DAFZA along with senior officials welcomed the delegation, which was led by Uriel Lynn, President of The Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce and President of the Tel-Aviv & Central Israel Chamber of Commerce.

    The Israeli delegation included also a number of high-ranking officials such as David Castel, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Haifa and the North, Amir Shani, Vice President Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce and Ze’ev Lavie, VP International Relations & Business Development Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce.

    It also includes Adiv Baruch, Chairman of the Israeli export and International Cooperation Institute, Gadi Ariely, Director General of the Israel Export & International Cooperation Institute, Ron Tomer, President manufacturers association of Israel, Hagai Edri, VP SME & Government Relations at Manufacturers Association of Israel (MAI) and Avshalom “Abu” Vilan, Secretary General, Israel Farmers Federation.

    The two sides discussed the foundations for cooperation and the ways to benefit from the commercial and investment opportunities provided by the UAE, the Emirate of Dubai and the free zone. This initiative comes in line with the memorandum of understanding the Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority recently signed with the Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce.

    Also read:1st lawsuit filed against Israeli settlers in West Bank

  • UAE FM holds talks with British minister

    UAE FM holds talks with British minister

    During the meeting in Abu Dhabi, they discussed strategic and historic relations between the UAE and the United Kingdom and ways to enhance and develop them in various fields…Reports Asian Lite News

    Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, received James Cleverly, British Minister of State for Middle East and North Africa.

    During the meeting in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, they discussed strategic and historic relations between the UAE and the United Kingdom and ways to enhance and develop them in various fields.

    Sheikh Abdullah and Cleverly also discussed developments related to the coronavirus, COVID-19, pandemic, as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest.

    They reviewed the cooperation between the two countries to contain the pandemic and its repercussions and to address the effects at various levels. The ministers stressed support for the global efforts to develop a vaccine.

    Sheikh Abdullah welcomed Cleverly’s visit and praised the historic Emirati-British relations.

    He also commended the continuous cooperation between the two countries in various fields, in a way that reflects the aspirations of the leadership of the two countries and to serve the common interests of their peoples.

    Also read:US State Dept. nods F 35 sale to the UAE

  • ‘Seeds of the Union’ Show To Mark 49th National Day

    ‘Seeds of the Union’ Show To Mark 49th National Day

    The first details of a dramatic live production to celebrate 49th UAE National Day on December 2 have been revealed by the Organising Committee of the Official 49th National Day Celebration.

    Named “Seeds of the Union”, the spectacular show will take the form of a moving sculpture surrounded by sea and illuminated by digital visuals portraying themes inspired by the UAE’s history and values.

    Staged in Abu Dhabi, the show will be broadcast live to an audience of millions in the UAE and beyond, ensuring residents can unite in celebration from the safety of their homes.

    Khalfan Al Mazrouei, member of the organising committee of the Official 49th UAE National Day Celebration, said, “The COVID-19 pandemic required us to approach the official 49th UAE National Day celebrations in a new and ambitious way – one that uses digital visual technology to inspire an audience watching from home.

    “The overarching theme of the live show is one of hope and optimism. Embracing the country’s rich legacy and traditions, it looks ahead to a vivid future in which we remain true to our values.

    “The narrative of the show artistically revolves around the growth and transformation of a seed into a shoot and then finally into full bloom, mirroring the journey the UAE has taken in the last 49 years,” Al Mazrouei added.

    National Day is the annual celebration of the UAE’s formation on December 2, 1971. It is an opportunity to recognise 49 years of unity between the seven emirates and to embrace the country’s spirit and values.

    As the UAE’s official annual event, National Day brings together its multitude of nationalities in united celebration of inclusivity and tolerance.

    The Organising Committee is working to create a memorable live event that will capture the nation’s imagination, ensure public safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, and spark celebrations for the 50th UAE National Day Golden Jubilee.

    In line with the UAE’s precautionary and preventive measures, the Committee follows the highest standards of health and safety to ensure everyone taking part is safe. This includes a COVID-19 testing policy for all teams and cast members involved in the show, and supports the decision of emphasising the TV broadcast in place of live public attendance.

    The nation will watch on television and online as a live visual extravaganza follows themes based on the UAE’s values, and ambitions for the future. It will pay a moving tribute to the UAE’s Founding Fathers, whose long-term vision of harmony and solidarity led to the formal unification of the UAE.

    The production was designed by a team of Emiratis and artistic director Es Devlin, known for creating large-scale performative sculptures and environments that fuse music, language and light. She designed the closing ceremony for the London 2012 Summer Olympics, the opening ceremony of the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics and the UK Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai.

    More details of the show’s content will be revealed in the run up to what promises to be one of the most spectacular productions to be staged in the UAE.

    Also Read: US State Dept. nods F 35 sale to the UAE

    Also Read: UAE, Russia discuss ecotourism strategies

  • UAE, Russia discuss  ecotourism strategies

    UAE, Russia discuss ecotourism strategies

    During the meeting, which was held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Moscow, Al Jaber said that the UAE attaches great importance to preserving biodiversity and the sustainable use of natural resources…reports Asian Lite News

    Dr. Mohamed Ahmed bin Sultan Al Jaber, UAE Ambassador to Russia, and Dmitry Kobylkin, Russian Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, have discussed the cooperative relations between the two friendly countries and ways to further develop them in the field of ecotourism and nature reserves.

    During the meeting, which was held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Moscow, Al Jaber said that the UAE attaches great importance to preserving biodiversity and the sustainable use of natural resources, as it celebrates the National Environment Day on 4th February every year as part of its tireless efforts to protect the environment.

    He stressed the need for cooperation between countries in the field of climate change through the exchange of experiences, especially on issues related to its effects on the environment, and on how to reduce carbon emissions in the atmosphere.

    For his part, the Russian minister expressed his country’s aspiration to boost cooperation with the UAE in areas of common interest.

    Also read:US State Dept. nods F 35 sale to the UAE

  • GCC, China meet to forge closer ties

    GCC, China meet to forge closer ties

    Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation chaired the meeting that was held virtually with the participation of GCC Foreign Ministers, in attendances of Dr. Nayef Falah M. Al Hajraf, GCC Secretary-General…reports Asian Lite News

    The UAE has chaired a joint meeting of the ministers of foreign affairs of GCC countries with Wang Li, State Counselor, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China.

    Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation chaired the meeting that was held virtually with the participation of GCC Foreign Ministers, in attendances of Dr. Nayef Falah M. Al Hajraf, GCC Secretary-General.

    Addressing the meeting,Sheikh Abdullah said, “We gather today, a few days after the passing of the wise leader, the prince of diplomacy and humanity, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmed Al Sabah, the Emir of Kuwait. The late Emir always undertook great efforts to build and maintain a collective consensus towards peace and stability; and he exerted successful diplomatic mediation efforts on numerous regional and international issues.

    He was a very popular leader, loved and welcomed by everyone, and his sincere efforts have always been highly recognised and appreciated by all. We all ask Allah to lay his soul peacefully in heaven, and that His Highness Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, the Emir of Kuwait, and his Crown Prince, Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, guide the path of peace, development and stability in the brotherly State of Kuwait.”

    Sheikh Abdullah noted, “We highly appreciate and commend the cooperation of the People’s Republic of China with the GCC countries to address and combat the Covid-19 pandemic through the provision of equipment, medications, and through the partnerships in developing vaccines against the pandemic. We look forward to further closer ties in this regard.”

    He emphasised that the People’s Republic of China is one of the GCC’s most prominent trading partners, with trade surge over ten times, from about USD16.3 billion in 2001 to about USD 167.7 billion in 2018, and the signing of the FTA which will promote strategic cooperation and partnership.

    Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and a number of top GCC and Chinese officials attended the meeting.

    Also read:UAE, Uzbekistan discuss boosting ties