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-Top News Abu Dhabi Arab News

MBZ meets King Hamad in Bahrain

Sheikh Mohamed and King Hamad affirmed support for joint Gulf action to confront various current challenges, reports Asian Lite News

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, on Thursday discussed with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain, the prospects of further consolidating the relations between the two nations across all fields.

During the meeting, which took place at the Sakhir Palace in Bahrain, King of Bahrain welcomed Sheikh Mohammed, wishing him continued good health and wellbeing and further development and prosperity for the UAE and its people.

MBZ meets King Hamad in Bahrain

The two leaders also exchanged Ramadan greetings. They also discussed a number of Gulf and Arab issues and exchanged views on the latest regional and global developments.

Sheikh Mohammed stressed the depth and width of the relations between the two countries, their leaders and their brotherly peoples, and their common desire to continue strengthening and developing them in various fields thanks to the support of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and King Hamad.

King Hamad took pride in the strong fraternal relations binding the Bahrain and the UAE, as reflected in their joint stances towards different issues, following in the steps of the founding fathers. He hailed the UAE’s unwavering support to Bahrain and its people at different stages and at all levels.

The two leaders stressed the importance of further developing trade and investment cooperation, underlining the necessity of building on the achievements and expanding cooperation between the private sectors in both countries in vital sectors.

They also stressed the importance of exploring opportunities to develop joint cooperation in the fields of technology, science, energy, renewable energy, environment, health and education to meet their common aspirations and goals. They affirmed support for joint Gulf action to confront various current challenges, based on the unity of history, goals and common destiny in order to achieve progress and prosperity for the citizens of the GCC countries.

They also underlined the importance of consolidating Arab unity and concerted efforts to achieve Arab solidarity and enhance joint Arab action to meet the aspirations of Arab peoples to achieve security, stability and prosperity.

ALSO READ:MBZ attends Iftar banquet hosted by King of Morocco

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan also attended an Iftar banquet hosted by King Hamad. The banquet was attended by the delegation accompanying His Highness, including Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Sheikh Mohamed bin Hamad Al Nahyan, Advisor for Special Affairs at the Ministry of Presidential Affairs; Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, the UAE ambassador to Bahrain, and Dr. Anwar Gargash, Diplomatic Adviser to UAE President.

Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, National Security Adviser and Representative of His Majesty the King for Humanitarian Works and Youth Affairs, recited a poem on this occasion.

Sheikh Mohamed arrived earlier on Thursday at Sakhir Air Base Airport, where he was welcomed by King Hamad, Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain, a number of Sheikhs, and Sheikh Khalid bin Abdullah bin Ali bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Ambassador to the UAE, where an official reception ceremony was held.

Sheikh Mohamed later left Bahrain and was seen off at Sakhir Base Airport by King Hamad.

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Abu Dhabi Arab News Bollywood

IIFA Awards 2022 all set for Abu Dhabi

The 22nd edition of the biggest celebration of Indian cinema- the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards is all set to unite the world to showcase cinematic excellence, bringing its global brand presence to Yas Island, Abu Dhabi on May 20th and 21st, 2022…reports Asian Lite News

The highly anticipated NEXA IIFA Awards will witness electrifying performances by Bollywood megastars Kartik Aaryan, Sara Ali Khan, Varun Dhawan, Ananya Panday, Divya Khosla Kumar & Nora Fatehi among others at the most coveted annual ceremony that promises to be a mélange of glitz, glamour and entertainment.

The grandiose global event will be hosted by Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, Riteish Deshmukh & Maniesh Paul at the Middle East’s largest state-of-the-art indoor entertainment venue, Etihad Arena, part of Yas Bay Waterfront on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

The organizers also announced that the star-studded IIFA Weekend would be presented by Laser Book News, the fastest – growing news and opinions platform along with official travel partner Ease My Trip – one of India’s leading online travel aggregators, cause partner for gender equality – Woosh washing expert and associate sponsor Krisumi Corporation.

With excitement increasing all over the world, people can now buy tickets to the biggest celebration of Indian Cinema on https://www.etihadarena.ae/en/box-office or you can head to www.yasisland.ae where fans can add all that they need for their visit to Yas Island. The price denominations range from AED prices 110, 220, 330, 440, 550, 1000 and 1350. (*Please note additional charges, terms & conditions may apply).

The event will take place at the Middle East’s largest state-of-the-art indoor entertainment venue, Etihad Arena, part of Yas Bay Waterfront on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), and Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences.

NEXA from Maruti Suzuki India Limited stands committed to IIFA continuing their partnership for the sixth consecutive edition as the Title Sponsor of the IIFA Awards. As the world looks forward to this year’s celebration of Hindi cinema with music and fashion at yet another exotic destination, the content promises to be aspirational and entertaining. With its growing popularity across the world, IIFA today is recognized not just as a globally broadcast and streamed event but an institution in its own right, and a platform that is recognized as the most engaging celebration of Indian cinema.

ALSO READ:

Yas Island is one of the world’s fastest growing leisure and entertainment destinations, located on the golden shores of Abu Dhabi. Home to magical adventures and awe-inspiring entertainment, as well as three globally renowned theme parks, outstanding motorsports, an award-winning golf venue and world-class hospitality services, Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island is a destination like nowhere else.

Kartik Aaryan: “As always, IIFA truly gives you the biggest audience to entertain and the opportunity to engage with and entertain my fans is super fulfilling. In 2018, after Hosting and performing at my first IIFA which was a phenomenal experience, I’m elated to perform once again at the 22nd edition of the biggest celebration of Indian cinema. IIFA truly is an embodiment of a global phenomenon with its massive fan following and I’m looking forward to IIFA Awards at Yas Island, Abu Dhabi this year.”

Sara Ali Khan: “IIFA is a genuinely inspirational global platform that has always set the way for placing Indian cinema on a worldwide stage, honouring and recognizing the brilliance inside our industry with its annual ceremony at an international destination and has continued to do so with tenacity. I am honoured to be a part of the 22nd edition in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi at Etihad Arena on Yas Bay. Can’t wait to connect with the IIFA fans and enthusiasts from across the world.”

Divya Khosla Kumar: “IIFA, represents the mammoth outreach of Indian cinema and as a major international event beyond the Indian shores, IIFA has truly taken it to glorious pinnacles bringing the world of Indian cinema to life for existing and new audiences. I am honoured and looking forward to my performance at the 22nd edition in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.”

Nora Fatehi: “I am really excited as it is not only my first time at the IIFA but also because it is a one-of-a-kind performance for everyone. It has all elements of entertainment and a huge surprise as well! As an artist, I’m really glad to be a part of the 22nd edition of IIFA at Yas Island, which is bringing Indian cinema and culture to a global platform, as it resonates with my idea of elevating and promoting cross-cultural diversities across the globe.”

Alongside the arena and Yas Bay, guests visiting Yas Island will also be able to enjoy a variety of experiences. From award-winning theme parks, the record-breaking CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi, the capital’s largest mall, 160 dining options, a scenic beach and mangroves, luxurious hospitality stays and so much more, there’s a lot to explore!

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-Top News Abu Dhabi UAE News

MBZ attends Iftar banquet hosted by King of Morocco

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, attended an iftar banquet hosted by His Majesty King Mohammed VI of Morocco in Rabat…reports Asian Lite News

During the banquet, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed and His Majesty the King of Morocco exchanged congratulations on the occasion of the blessed month of Ramadan, and prayed to Allah Almighty to perpetuate goodness, and blessings for all.

MBZ attends Iftar banquet hosted by King of Morocco (WAM)

The two sides also exchanged cordial talk on the depth and width of relations between the UAE and the Kingdom of Morocco, wishing the two nations continued progress, progress and prosperity.

The banquet was attended by Moulay Al Hassan, Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Morocco, Prince Moulay Rachid of Morocco, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council, H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation, H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, and a number of sheikhs and officials. (WAM)

ALSO READ: MBZ, Trudeau discuss boosting UAE-Canada ties

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Abu Dhabi Arab News UAE News

Abu Dhabi to ban single-use plastic bags from June

Abu Dhabi’s ban on the use of single-use plastic bags will be effective from June 2022, based on its integrated single-use plastic policy that was introduced in 2020…reports Asian Lite News

Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) plans to gradually reduce the amount of single-use plastic products consumed across Abu Dhabi, and encourage the use of reusable products. In this context, it is planning to implement measures to reduce demand for about 16 single-use plastic products that include cups, stirrers, lids and cutlery.

Additionally, EAD is also heading towards phasing out single-use styrofoam cups, plates and food containers by 2024.

Since the launch of the policy in March 2020, the Agency has coordinated extensively with its strategic partners concerned with implementing the policy, especially plastics producers and retailers, to ensure effective implementation, as new technical standards for multi-use bags have been set. In support of this drive, a large-scale awareness campaign will be carried out across the emirate to educate the public on the new procedures, helping to activate the ban on single-use plastic bags from June.

Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD, said, “By launching and implementing the integrated single-use plastic policy, EAD seeks to continue the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed, whose deep passion for preserving the environment inspires us in our sustainability journey. We are extremely eager to continue on our path of reducing the consumption of single-use plastics in Abu Dhabi.”

She added, “As part of our plan to completely curb the use of single-use plastics, we are encouraging Abu Dhabi citizens to use more multipurpose and re-usable materials to reduce their environmental footprint. Today, we are introducing a ban on single-use plastic bags in the capital in light of their harmful impacts on the environment and biodiversity.”

She elaborated, “We have taken great strides toward realising the policy’s targets, and have built the regulatory framework to ensure the policy’s successful implementation.”

ALSO READ:‘Dubai Can’ reduces use of 234k plastic bottles

Under the single-use plastic policy, EAD has organised clean up events and awareness campaigns encouraging community members to play a role in protecting the environment while educating people on the damage done by the amounts of single-use plastics and litter and their impact on beaches and marine habitats. The Agency is also targeting private sector companies, providing them with tools to effectively plan for the policy’s implementation.

The Agency has re-engineered its internal procedures to implement the policy and reduce the use of single-use plastics within its scope. Several agency partners from the government sector have also implemented initiatives to support the policy, while many restaurants are also launching initiatives to reduce the consumption of single-use plastics, and some major retailers are encouraging shoppers to use reusable shopping bags.

Furthermore, EAD is conducting a detailed and holistic study for the introduction of an incentive-based, single-use plastic water bottle return scheme in Abu Dhabi, in partnership with more than 30 private and public entities.

Categories
-Top News Abu Dhabi Arab News

School normalcy resumes in Abu Dhabi

Unvaccinated students aged 16 and above can now return to school upon providing a negative PCR test result every seven days…reports Asian Lite News

Teachers, students and parents throughout Abu Dhabi are eyeing a major step to education normalcy after the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) relaxed a slew of school-related COVID-19 prevention protocols.

ADEK announced in a circular sent to all private and Charter Schools that all students must return to in-classroom learning. Only weeks after ADEK removed physical distancing requirements in outdoor open areas for the current term, physical distancing requirements will be lifted inside classrooms in time for the new term.

Complementing ADEK’s unwavering efforts to ensure the ongoing health and safety of the education sector and wider Abu Dhabi community, the updated protocols follow widespread compliance with precautionary measures across the emirate’s school community – with the proactive collective response enabling the safe return to education ecosystem normalcy.

All students must return to in-classroom learning for the new term, although students can be exempted if they present an attested ‘high risk’ medical report that confirms their inability to attend school in-person. Schools will also be given the option to lift physical distancing requirements in classrooms, with students in grades 1-12 required to wear face masks. This new step will enable schools to return to full capacity and empower all Abu Dhabi students to resume in-classroom education.

The full return to in-classroom education excludes students exempted on medical grounds, students showing COVID-19 symptoms, or when the school shifts to distance learning due to closure requirements.

Unvaccinated students aged 16 and above can now return to school upon providing a negative PCR test result every seven days.

However, all students must present a 96-hours negative COVID-19 test result on the first day of their return to school. Free tests are available at SEHA Drive Through Centers and private medical centers, and parents have been advised to contact the centers to confirm the availability of a free test for students. Students aged below 12 may opt for a free Saliva test at dedicated centers detailed on ADEK website.

Following their return, routine PCR test requirements mandate all vaccinated students aged 16+, teachers and staff to undergo PCR tests every 14 days, and show their green status on Al Hosn App to enter schools; same testing routine and requirements apply for the same categories with medical exemption validated on Al Hosn App. PCR test validity remain 30 days for students aged under 16. Al Hosn Green Pass requirements will apply to all school visitors, while unvaccinated visitors will be required to present a negative PCR test result recorded within the last 48 hours.

Following the latest announcement made by relevant government entities, students, teachers and staff who come in close contact with a confirmed positive case, will be required to test on day 1 and day 7 or when they start showing symptoms. Earlier in March quarantine requirements were removed for the same categories.

ALSO READ: US’s ultimatum to Taliban over reopening girls schools

The updated protocols also remove classroom and bubble closure requirements, with a three-day school-level closure only taking place if 15% of its student body test positive at the same time. Following the completion of closure period, close contact students must adhere to the testing schedule, while students who tested positive continue their distance learning till the completion of their isolation procedures.

ADEK confirmed its inspection and compliance teams will continue regular visits to private and Charter Schools across the emirate to ensure the health and safety of all students. In coordination with all relevant authorities, ADEK also confirmed its commitment to continue monitoring all schools’ adherence to health and safety precautions.

The new updated protocols complement the latest relaxation of precautionary measures that came into effect earlier in March 2022. Those measures allowed for mask removal in outdoor areas, and removal of quarantine for contacts of positive cases. The updated protocols also allowed the return of all sport activities for students aged 16 and above on school premises. School trips were permitted for students in all age groups, while adhering to precautionary measures in place at the venue of the school trip.

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Abu Dhabi Arab News UAE News

Etihad, Abu Dhabi Airports joins to launch Etihad Guest’s “Miles on the Go”

Abu Dhabi Airports and Etihad Guest, the award-winning loyalty programme of Etihad Airways, have signed an agreement to launch the “Miles on the Go” product at Abu Dhabi International Airport…reports Asian Lite News

Etihad Guest members can now instantly earn and spend Etihad Guest Miles when shopping at participating merchants located at Abu Dhabi International Airport. By simply downloading the Etihad Guest app and linking up to five Visa cards to their profiles, members can spend their miles and receive cashback on their cards.

Members can earn 1 Etihad Guest Mile and 1 Etihad Guest Tier Mile for every AED3 spent at any of the 119 participating outlets, including lounges, luxury retail stores, dining establishments and Duty-Free outlets from over 35 brands.

ALSO READ: Etihad Cargo launches Forever Home for animal rescues

FRANCOIS BOURRIENNE, CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER, ABU DHABI AIRPORTS: “Abu Dhabi Airports always strives to strengthen ties with strategic partners to provide a remarkable customer experience at our airports. We are pleased to collaborate with Etihad Guest at their home airport, and we are committed to introducing innovative solutions that will enhance the passengers’ journey through Abu Dhabi International Airport.”

Terry Daly, Executive Director Guest Experience, Brand & Marketing, Etihad Airways, said, “We are continuously enhancing our Etihad Guest loyalty programme for our valued members. The ‘Miles on the Go’ product offers our members a rewarding experience with more options to earn and spend miles. We are delighted to welcome Abu Dhabi International Airport to our award-winning mobile app. (WAM)

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-Top News Abu Dhabi Arab News

Abu Dhabi’s non-oil real GDP expands by 4.1%

The results announced by SCAD at constant prices indicate that Abu Dhabi’s GDP at constant prices grew 1.9% in 2021 compared with 2020…reports Asian Lite News

Statistics Centre-Abu Dhabi (SCAD) has announced statistical data that reflects rapid growth in most of Abu Dhabi’s oil and non-oil activities at constant prices in 2021, underscoring the effectiveness of economic policies, the robustness of Abu Dhabi’s local economy and the recovery from the Covid-19 crisis.

The results announced by SCAD at constant prices indicate that Abu Dhabi’s GDP at constant prices grew 1.9% in 2021 compared with 2020. Meanwhile, the non-oil GDP at constant prices grew by 4.1%.

During the this year, several non-oil economic activities showed positive growth rates at constant prices, most notably the agriculture, forestry, and fishing activity, which expanded by 23.1% while the manufacturing activity expanded by 21.7%, health and social service activities by 19.7%, arts, entertainment and recreation by 17.3%, wholesale and retail trade by 15.3%, accommodation and food service activities by 14.7%, transportation and storage by 7%, and electricity, gas, water supply and waste management activities by 6.9%.

“The Emirate of Abu Dhabi has managed to overcome the consequences of this extraordinary global situation, thanks to the prudent economic and investment policies set by our wise leadership, including several stimulus initiatives for business and household sectors,” said Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, the Chairman of Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED).

“The initiatives helped the coronavirus-hit sectors to recover and expand while laying the groundwork for a robust economy that can overcome various challenges as well as formulating policies and legislation which keep pace with global changes and support ease of doing business. These initiatives promoted a stimulating investment environment that can attract talent and innovative entrepreneurs, which is clearly reflected in the 2021 GDP results released by Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi.”

ALSO READ: ‘Visit Abu Dhabi Roadshow’ in Israel

According to the data released by SCAD, the mining and quarrying activity (includes crude oil and natural gas) contributes approximately 50.3% of Abu Dhabi’s real GDP in 2021. On the other hand, the non-oil activities contribute 49.7% of the GDP at constant prices in 2021, despite the remarkable rise of world prices during the same period. The growth proves the remarkable progress Abu Dhabi has made to diversify its economic base and sources of income in line with its ambitious strategic plans.

Like other regional and global economies, Abu Dhabi’s economy was adversely impacted by the repercussions of the Covid-19 pandemic and the accompanying lockdowns in 2020. Coupled with significant decline in oil prices in world markets, the emirate’s real GDP declined by 7.7%, oil-GDP by 3.9%, and non-oil GDP by 11.5%. These declines are comparable to other global economies as a result of the challenges and conditions the world experienced during this unprecedented period.

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-Top News Abu Dhabi Arab News

‘Visit Abu Dhabi Roadshow’ in Israel

Paving the way for long-term partnerships in the sector, members of DCT Abu Dhabi met with tour operators and key stakeholders to promote and discuss the unique and diverse experiences the destination offers Israeli travellers

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has concluded its first-ever Visit Abu Dhabi Roadshow event in Tel Aviv, Israel, with the successful two-day event hosted in partnership with Etihad Airways and Experience Hub. The roadshow saw key stakeholders join DCT Abu Dhabi representatives to showcase the UAE capital as the leading tourism destination for families and couples in the Middle East region.

Paving the way for long-term partnerships in the sector, members of DCT Abu Dhabi met with tour operators and key stakeholders to promote and discuss the unique and diverse experiences the destination offers Israeli travellers.

‘Visit Abu Dhabi Roadshow’ in Israel

Nabeel Al Zarouni, Travel Trade & Market Development Regional Section Head – Domestic & Middle East Region at DCT Abu Dhabi, said, “Over the last 50 years of the UAE’s growth, Abu Dhabi has played an integral role in shaping the tourism offering of the region and we’re delighted to have been able to showcase this, and upcoming announcements, to our valued travel trade partners in Israel.”

“Abu Dhabi is a destination that offers the world in one place – culture, entertainment, relaxation and amazing natural landscapes from deserts to beaches. There is something for everyone to enjoy at your own pace, whether it’s the tranquillity of Al Ain to the thrills of Yas Island. We look forward to welcoming more Israeli travellers this year, particularly with the exciting calendar of events we have in 2022 and beyond,” he added.

ALSO READ: UAEJIF partners with ADEK to support Abu Dhabi Reads

The official visit started when the roadshow welcomed industry leaders, Israeli senior management, diplomats, and Abu Dhabi tourism stakeholders at an exclusive networking dinner held at the Hilton Tel Aviv hotel. This was followed by a DCT Abu Dhabi workshop conducted for key travel trade partners including 85 Israeli product planners and sales staff from companies including Mona Tours, Amsalem Tours and Travel, Gulf Dreams Tours, Anora Tours, Nazarene Travel and Issta.

As part of this workshop, DCT showcased key highlights including Abu Dhabi’s leading leisure and entertainment destination, Yas Island which is home to award-winning theme parks Ferrari World Abu Dhabi featuring the world’s fastest rollercoaster, Emirati themed waterpark Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi – the world’s first-ever Warner Bros. branded indoor theme park, helping familiarise travel trade professionals with the many exhilarating experiences on offer at the destination.

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-Top News Abu Dhabi Arab News

MBZ, Blinken discuss Ukraine situation

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, has met with Antony Blinken, US Secretary of State…reports Asian Lite News

During the meeting, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed and Blinken discussed the friendship and cooperation between the UAE and the US and ways to strengthen them in various fields to achieve their mutual interests and enhance security and stability in the region.

The sides reviewed a number of regional and international issues of mutual concern, as well as developments in the Ukrainian crisis. They also exchanged views on efforts to mitigate its fallout and deescalate the situation at the humanitarian and economic levels, through dialogue, diplomatic means and joint action to maintain global security and stability.

The meeting was attended Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation; Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Court; Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Sheikh Mohamed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Advisor for Special Affairs at the Ministry of Presidential Affairs; Ali bin Hammad Al Shamsi, Deputy Secretary-General of the Supreme National Security Council; and Yousef Al Otaiba, UAE Ambassador to the US.

Recently, the top diplomats of Bahrain, Israel, Egypt, Morocco, UAE and the US have committed to strengthen their economic and diplomatic cooperation in an unprecedented meeting in Israel’s southern Negev desert on Monday.

Israel’s foreign minister, Yair Lapid, said the countries would strive to make the summit a yearly event, the Washington Post reported.

ALSO READ: Blinken arrives in Morocco for visit

Along with Blinken, Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, Nasser Bourita, Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates of Morocco, and Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain, were present at the talks.

During the summit, the participants discussed joint challenges, a number of regional and international issues of common concern, in addition to efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region and enhance international peace and security.

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Abu Dhabi Dubai UAE News

UAEJIF partners with ADEK to support Abu Dhabi Reads

The eight-part series transmits the noble ideals and traditions of jiu-jitsu to a younger generation in a unique and captivating way…reports Asian Lite News

UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation (UAEJJF), the nation’s governing body for the sport, has partnered with the Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) to support Abu Dhabi Reads, an initiative designed to foster reading as a daily habit across many of the UAE capital’s communities.

Emirati author Noura Al Shemiri will read her own book series Hosn Al Emarat to children at Umm Al Emarat Park on the 18th and 20th of March as part of the UAE Reading Month celebrations. The jiu-jitsu-themed book collection was released by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation last year and teaches children about the UAE’s culture, traditions, and values through the sport.

UAEJJF Joins Forces with ADEK to Promote Abu Dhabi Reads (2)

The eight-part series transmits the noble ideals and traditions of jiu-jitsu to a younger generation in a unique and captivating way. Through fictional jiu-jitsu characters, Noura cleverly uses sports, particularly the UAE’s national sport of jiu-jitsu, to engage the younger population.

“Education is how the UAE’s traditions and heritage are preserved,” Al Shemiri said of her involvement in Abu Dhabi Reads. “My participation in Abu Dhabi Reads is part of a larger and more comprehensive effort to contribute in enhancing our youth’s knowledge of UAE culture, arts, and sports.

ALSO READ: Door stoppers for modern era of reading

“It is our responsibility as adults to promote a reading culture among our children. They must realise the importance of reading. Our visionary leaders are constantly encouraging youngsters to read and develop a love for books and this month serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing a passion for reading among future generations.”

Hosn means “fortress” in Arabic and the series features one book for each of the UAE’s seven emirates, as well as a special finale. Hosn Abu Dhabi, the first book in the series, emphasises the importance of tolerance, while Hosn Dubai, the second, stresses the importance of excellence. On the other hand, Hosn Al Sharjah highlights the importance of respect, and Hosn Ajman shows the importance of honour.

Honesty and loyalty are taught in Hosn Umm Al Quwain and Hosn Ras Al Khaimah, while bravery is explained at Hosn Al Fujairah. The final part in the series, Hosn Al Salam, takes readers on a tour of Abu Musa Island, where they learn about the Grand Tunb lighthouse and the first Emirati martyr.