The UAE is fast-tracking low-carbon economic growth to deliver new jobs, new industries and new revenue streams, said Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Special Envoy for Climate Change.
He was speaking at the Middle East and North Africa Climate Week (Menacw2022). Dr Al Jaber explained that the UAE is adopting a comprehensive, balanced and proactive approach to climate action and the energy transition that delivers sustainable economic growth.
“As a young country, and a responsible energy leader, the UAE has always faced the future with a positive mindset, and addressed challenges head-on. This is why we stopped flaring 30 years before the World Bank asked the industry to do so. It’s why we achieved 0.01 per cent methane intensity 20 years before the global pledge asking for a gradual reduction. It’s why we began to capture C02 (carbon dioxide) on an industrial scale before the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) called it an essential tool for de-carbonisation. And it’s why we became the first hydrocarbon producer to power our operations with zero-carbon energy,” Dr. Al Jaber added.
He pointed out that the UAE was also the first country in the region to sign and ratify the Paris Agreement, the first to commit to an economy-wide reduction in emissions, and the first to announce a Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative. The UAE has chosen to lead in these areas because it views climate challenges “not just as problems to fix, but as opportunities to seize,” he underlined.
While the world mobilises investments for a new energy economy and addresses the climate challenge, Dr. Al Jaber emphasised that recent events have “reminded us that we cannot simply switch off the current energy system”.
“We all need to recognise that the energy transition will take time and require sober, thoughtful planning. It is more evident now than ever before that this cannot be rushed. The push to divest from hydrocarbons has led to a supply crunch that is having the biggest impact on the most exposed. The clear lesson is that we should not adopt climate policies that lead to energy poverty. We need to keep investing in low-cost, low-carbon energy that can provide the baseload power that the world relies on,” said Dr. Al Jaber.
He had reiterated this message during his speech at the Atlantic Council Global Energy Forum held at Expo 2020 Dubai.
On climate finance, he said it can be an effective tool for climate action as he urged the international community to do more and fulfil the $100 billion climate pledge made to developing nations over a decade ago.
“The international community continues to fall short of the $100 billion climate finance pledge they made to developing nations over a decade ago. We need bold targets going forward and we need to start treating climate risks as potential global security risks.
“We have taken a partnership approach focused on projects in countries most exposed to climate risks because we know that local resilience builds global resilience. We have provided over $1 billion in climate aid to more than 40 countries. And our experience tells us that once concessional finance is there, private finance will follow.”
He concluded by extending the UAE’s invitation to governments, the private sector, financial institutions, and civil society to partner on solutions that make sense for our climate and the economy. He said, “We should not have to choose between the two. We can and we must make progress on both.”
The Mena Climate Week aims to accelerate collaboration and integrate climate action into global pandemic recovery. Other dignitaries present at the opening ceremony of this first edition included Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, minister of climate change and environment, Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Chairman of the World Green Economy Organisation (Wgeo) and MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa); and Patricia Espinosa, E
executive secretary of UNFCCC.
In a significant celebration of educational and cultural ties between the UAE and India, the UAE-based alumni of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) recently gathered at the Coral Beach Resort in Sharjah to honor Sir Syed Day, marking the birth of the university’s founder, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan. This event highlights the deep-rooted connections between AMU and the UAE, emphasizing the university’s influence and the contributions of its alumni.
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al Nahyan, President of the UAE, has long been a supporter of good relations with India. His father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan, laid the groundwork for this relationship in 1975 when he visited AMU and made a generous donation aimed at establishing petroleum studies. Sheikh Zayed recognized India’s potential as a major consumer of Abu Dhabi’s oil and saw the value in leveraging its human resources for research and innovation in energy.
The legacy of Sheikh Zayed was honored during Sheikh Mohamed’s visit to India in January 2017, when the Khalifa Foundation, alongside VPS Healthcare, gifted AMU a digital accelerator worth two million dollars, enhancing cancer treatment capabilities at the university’s Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College.
The recent gathering of AMU alumni in the UAE was graced by the presence of AMU’s vice chancellor, Dr. Naima Khatoon, the first woman to hold the position. She expressed the importance of maintaining a connection with AMU, noting that Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s vision for modern education continues to inspire countless students.
“In celebrating Sir Syed Day with our esteemed alumni here in the UAE, we honour not just the legacy of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan but also the profound connections that bind us to this remarkable nation. Together, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering knowledge and innovation, ensuring that the ideals of education and community thrive across borders,” said Dr Khatoon.
Organizer Asim Fareed emphasized that the celebration not only honored Sir Syed’s contributions but also strengthened the alumni community’s bond, showcasing AMU’s enduring impact on its graduates and society at large. “It is our way of paying tribute to Sir Syed, whose vision ensured that education thrives in India. We are also thankful to UAE for the constant support and providing us with a land of opportunities. The gathering of more than 600 alumni at one place is a celebration of the positive impact of AMU on our lives and the broader community,” Fareed added.
“Gathering with fellow AMU alumni today to celebrate Sir Syed Day is a powerful reminder of our shared commitment to education and empowerment. Together, we are not just a network; we are a family dedicated to making a positive impact in our communities and beyond,” said Qamar Sherwani, AMU Alumnus. The event featured cultural performances, discussions on the role of education in shaping futures, and opportunities for alumni to connect and collaborate on initiatives, reinforcing the significance of AMU’s global reach and the collective commitment to its mission of education and empowerment.
Hong Kong Cricket is excited to announce a star-studded lineup of commentators and presenters for the highly anticipated and thrilling Hong Kong Sixes 2024 tournament which is scheduled to take place from November 1 to November 3 at the Tin Kwong Road Cricket Ground, featuring 12 teams, competing in six-a-side matches. Fans can watch all the action Live on Star Sports Network and Fancode.
The competition that has made a return after seven years promises to be an exhilarating showcase of cricketing talent, and our expert team is ready to deliver all the action live. The starry list of commentators includes the likes of Dominic Cork, Brad Hogg, Niall O’Brien and Ryan Campbell.
Dominic Cork, a former England cricketer who retired in 2011, is now a dynamic cricket speaker known for his insightful commentary and bowling expertise.
Former Australia cricketer and legendary spinner, Brad Hogg enjoyed a distinguished 25-year playing career before transitioning into a popular media personality and commentator. He is well known for his bold predictions and in-depth analysis of the game.
Niall O’Brien is a former Ireland international cricketer who has a profound understanding of the game and is celebrated for his engaging commentary style. He was known for his aggressive batting style during his playing days.
Former Australian international and Hong Kong representative, Ryan Campbell has also served as the head coach of the Netherlands. His insights into both Full Member and associate teams make him a valuable addition to this commentary team.
Abhishek Jhunjhunwala, Suren Sundaram and Nashpreet Kaur will be the part presenters’ team. Suren Sundaram is an Indian radio jockey, TV presenter, and sports anchor. He brings his expertise and charm to our coverage, which will enhance the viewing experience.
A former first-class and IPL cricketer turned TV presenter, Abhishek Jhunjhunwala possesses a passion for cricket and a talent for engaging storytelling, keeping fans entertained and informed.
Nashpreet Kaur is known for her vibrant personality and charisma. Nashpreet will guide viewers through the tournament, ensuring an engaging experience.
Don’t miss a moment of the action! Tune in to Star Sports and Fancode to catch all the thrilling matches of the Hong Kong Sixes 2024, featuring 12 teams competing for glory. Join us as we celebrate cricket in its most exciting form! The broadcast begins at 8:15 AM (Hong Kong Time) and 5:45 AM (IST).
Leading diversified project management firm, Colliers Project Leaders – Middle East, has won the mandate to deliver end-to-end project management solutions for Armenia’s new WorldTrade Center in Yerevan, valued at USD ~250 million. A public-private partnership between the Armenian government and Renshin Ltd., the project is designed to be a state-of-the-art mixed-use development that will be home to commercial spaces, offices, retail outlets, hotels and exhibition halls. Well known for its expertise in the real estate industry and project management, Colliers has a proven track record of delivering large-scale, marquee projects including the World Trade Center in Bengaluru, India.
Colliers Project Leaders has a growing presence in the Middle East and has earned widespread recognition for its delivery of superior projects over the years, across segments like infrastructure, residential, education, healthcare and office. Known for its visionary leadership and the adoption of advanced tools and technologies, the firm has been redefining project management in the Middle East.
“We have always placed a strong emphasis on consistently growing our capabilities to keep up with the needs of the market. Whether it is the adaption of global best practices or the development of pioneering technologies, our end goal has always been to deliver superior outcomes. A project of this scale requires industry-leading strategic and technical expertise, which is our proven capability. We are grateful to Renshin Limited and the Government of Armenia for entrusting us with this marquee assignment and look forward to collaborating with our internal and external stakeholders in Middle East, India and Georgia to bring it to life.”, says Sankey Prasad, Chairman & Managing Director, Middle East & India, Colliers.
“The World Trade Center Yerevan project is a mixed-use, net-zero, landmark real estate development promising to become the new face of Yerevan. To deliver upon this promise, we are engaging the top talent, top expertise, and top global firms. After a rigorous and tough tendering process, we are glad to announce that Colliers Project Leaders were selected to become our trusted partners. We are especially happy and proud that our project has triggered Colliers International Group Inc. – Nasdaq & Toronto listed, Canada-based global professional services and investment management company, specializing in real estate, to enter Armenia and set up a permanent presence. This move is fully aligned with WTCY mission to promote international business relationships and expand Armenia’s participation in the world trade and investment. Looking forward to work with our esteemed Colliers colleagues in this unique endeavour”, says Artashes Tonoyan, CEO & Executive Committee Chair, World Trade Center Yerevan.