US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar at a US-India higher education dialogue at the Howard University Founders Library, Washington, 2022. Reuters
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar at a US-India higher education dialogue at the Howard University Founders Library, Washington, 2022. Reuters
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar at a US-India higher education dialogue at the Howard University Founders Library, Washington, 2022. Reuters
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar at a US-India higher education dialogue at the Howard University Founders Library, Washington, 2022. R

Blinken to focus on bilateral ties and Asia-Pacific in New Delhi talks


Taniya Dutta
  • English
  • Arabic

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to arrive in New Delhi on Thursday to discuss defence, security, the Israel-Gaza conflict and more in bilateral talks, India’s External Affairs Ministry said.

Mr Blinken will be joined by US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin for the fifth 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue on Friday with Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

They will review the progress made in defence and security co-operation, technology value chain collaborations and people-to-people ties, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said.

“The ministers will take the opportunity to progress the futuristic road map for the India-US partnership as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joseph Biden, in their discussions in June and September this year,” the ministry said.

India and the US have held the dialogue annually since 2018. Mr Jaishankar and Mr Singh travelled to Washington for the talks in April last year.

Mr Blinken’s visit to the Indian capital comes at the end of a week-long tour that included stops in Israel, Jordan, Cyprus, Iraq, the occupied West Bank, Turkey, Japan and South Korea. It was his second visit to the Middle East amid the Israel-Gaza war.

Experts say Gaza, as well as the war in Ukraine, are certain to feature in Friday's talks but the focus will remain on strengthening ties.

“The main focus of this meeting, as with all 2+2s, is to take stock of the relationship and review progress on current initiatives. Given how robust and multifaceted the relationship is, there will be much to discuss,” Michael Kugelman, director of the South Asia Institute at the Wilson Centre in Washington, told The National.

“It’s an especially important visit because each country has elections in the coming months, and so it will be important to ensure momentum in the partnership as each government turns its attention to domestic politics.”

Mr Austin and Mr Singh are scheduled to discuss defence and technology issues.

Washington designated India a major defence partner in 2016, giving the South Asian nation access to advanced and sensitive US equipment on par with its closest allies.

India has purchased $20 billion worth of US defence equipment since 2008.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken meets Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah during a visit to the occupied West Bank on Sunday. EPA
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken meets Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah during a visit to the occupied West Bank on Sunday. EPA

Ukraine, Gaza and tensions with Canada

India and the US share a strategic, diplomatic and defence partnership, but they have taken different stances on the war in Ukraine, with New Delhi remaining neutral despite pressure from the US and other western states to condemn Russia's offensive. However, both Mr Biden and Mr Modi have explicitly commented on Israel's attack on Gaza.

“Ukraine and Gaza will both feature in the conversations. Because the US and India are largely on the same page on the Gaza war, that discussion will be more comfortable than the one on Ukraine,” Mr Kugelman said.

“But even on that latter issue, the US and India have essentially come to an understanding: India opposes the war and calls on Russia to end it, but it won’t criticise [Russian President Vladimir] Putin or Russia for waging it,” he said.

Another issue that could feature during the meeting is the diplomatic tensions between India and Canada after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged that New Delhi had a role in the killing of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

India has rejected the allegations as “absurd” while the US has expressed “deep concerns” and supported Ottawa’s investigation into the matter.

Mr Biden reportedly raised the issue with Mr Modi when they met during the G20 Summit in New Delhi.

Mr Kugelman said the US was “troubled” by the crisis and would repeat its position that India should co-operate in Canada’s investigation, although this would not affect the relationship.

Focus on Asia-Pacific and China

India’s External Affairs Ministry said that the talks will address regional issues and their priorities for co-operation in multilateral platforms and frameworks such as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue.

The latter, known as the Quad, is an informal strategic alliance between India, Australia, the US and Japan to ensure “free and open maritime navigation” in the Asia-Pacific, where Beijing is developing military and civilian infrastructure.

The US and its allies are competing against China’s growing influence in the region, which includes the Indian Ocean and the western and central Pacific Ocean, including the South China Sea.

Beijing has expressed reservations over the alliance and has called it an Asian version of Nato.

China’s growing influence in the region has been a concern for India, which is embroiled in a border dispute with its neighbour.

Diplomatic relations between the countries have remained frosty since 2020 when about 20 Indian soldiers were killed in a brawl with Chinese troops in the Ladakh region along the undemarcated border, known as the Line of Actual Control.

Mr Blinken’s visit comes days before Mr Biden is likely to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation Summit in San Francisco, in a move seen as a major shift in their relationship.

“New Delhi shouldn’t place too much stock in the potential Biden-Xi meeting, just as Washington shouldn’t overplay the periodic conciliatory signs in India-China relations,” Mr Kugelman said.

“There are enough conciliatory gestures in both relationships to keep them from collapsing, but at the end of the day they’re competitive and sometimes confrontational relationships – and they drive US-India partnership.”

World Cricket League Division 2

In Windhoek, Namibia - Top two teams qualify for the World Cup Qualifier in Zimbabwe, which starts on March 4.

UAE fixtures

Thursday February 8, v Kenya; Friday February 9, v Canada; Sunday February 11, v Nepal; Monday February 12, v Oman; Wednesday February 14, v Namibia; Thursday February 15, final

Conflict, drought, famine

Estimates of the number of deaths caused by the famine range from 400,000 to 1 million, according to a document prepared for the UK House of Lords in 2024.
It has been claimed that the policies of the Ethiopian government, which took control after deposing Emperor Haile Selassie in a military-led revolution in 1974, contributed to the scale of the famine.
Dr Miriam Bradley, senior lecturer in humanitarian studies at the University of Manchester, has argued that, by the early 1980s, “several government policies combined to cause, rather than prevent, a famine which lasted from 1983 to 1985. Mengistu’s government imposed Stalinist-model agricultural policies involving forced collectivisation and villagisation [relocation of communities into planned villages].
The West became aware of the catastrophe through a series of BBC News reports by journalist Michael Buerk in October 1984 describing a “biblical famine” and containing graphic images of thousands of people, including children, facing starvation.

Band Aid

Bob Geldof, singer with the Irish rock group The Boomtown Rats, formed Band Aid in response to the horrific images shown in the news broadcasts.
With Midge Ure of the band Ultravox, he wrote the hit charity single Do They Know it’s Christmas in December 1984, featuring a string of high-profile musicians.
Following the single’s success, the idea to stage a rock concert evolved.
Live Aid was a series of simultaneous concerts that took place at Wembley Stadium in London, John F Kennedy Stadium in Philadelphia, the US, and at various other venues across the world.
The combined event was broadcast to an estimated worldwide audience of 1.5 billion.

In numbers: China in Dubai

The number of Chinese people living in Dubai: An estimated 200,000

Number of Chinese people in International City: Almost 50,000

Daily visitors to Dragon Mart in 2018/19: 120,000

Daily visitors to Dragon Mart in 2010: 20,000

Percentage increase in visitors in eight years: 500 per cent

Book%20Details
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Jetour T1 specs

Engine: 2-litre turbocharged

Power: 254hp

Torque: 390Nm

Price: From Dh126,000

Available: Now

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%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3ECreator%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3ENetflix%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EStars%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EKris%20Fade%2C%20Ebraheem%20Al%20Samadi%2C%20Zeina%20Khoury%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3ERating%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%202%2F5%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Intercontinental Cup

Namibia v UAE Saturday Sep 16-Tuesday Sep 19

Table 1 Ireland, 89 points; 2 Afghanistan, 81; 3 Netherlands, 52; 4 Papua New Guinea, 40; 5 Hong Kong, 39; 6 Scotland, 37; 7 UAE, 27; 8 Namibia, 27

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QUALIFYING RESULTS

1. Max Verstappen, Netherlands, Red Bull Racing Honda, 1 minute, 35.246 seconds.
2. Valtteri Bottas, Finland, Mercedes, 1:35.271.
3. Lewis Hamilton, Great Britain, Mercedes, 1:35.332.
4. Lando Norris, Great Britain, McLaren Renault, 1:35.497.
5. Alexander Albon, Thailand, Red Bull Racing Honda, 1:35.571.
6. Carlos Sainz Jr, Spain, McLaren Renault, 1:35.815.
7. Daniil Kvyat, Russia, Scuderia Toro Rosso Honda, 1:35.963.
8. Lance Stroll, Canada, Racing Point BWT Mercedes, 1:36.046.
9. Charles Leclerc, Monaco, Ferrari, 1:36.065.
10. Pierre Gasly, France, Scuderia Toro Rosso Honda, 1:36.242.

Eliminated after second session

11. Esteban Ocon, France, Renault, 1:36.359.
12. Daniel Ricciardo, Australia, Renault, 1:36.406.
13. Sebastian Vettel, Germany, Ferrari, 1:36.631.
14. Antonio Giovinazzi, Italy, Alfa Romeo Racing Ferrari, 1:38.248.

Eliminated after first session

15. Antonio Giovinazzi, Italy, Alfa Romeo Racing Ferrari, 1:37.075.
16. Kimi Raikkonen, Finland, Alfa Romeo Racing Ferrari, 1:37.555.
17. Kevin Magnussen, Denmark, Haas Ferrari, 1:37.863.
18. George Russell, Great Britain, Williams Mercedes, 1:38.045.
19. Pietro Fittipaldi, Brazil, Haas Ferrari, 1:38.173.
20. Nicholas Latifi, Canada, Williams Mercedes, 1:38.443.

Labour dispute

The insured employee may still file an ILOE claim even if a labour dispute is ongoing post termination, but the insurer may suspend or reject payment, until the courts resolve the dispute, especially if the reason for termination is contested. The outcome of the labour court proceedings can directly affect eligibility.


- Abdullah Ishnaneh, Partner, BSA Law 

HOW TO WATCH

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Twitter: @thenationalnews 

Instagram: @thenationalnews.com 

TikTok: @thenationalnews   

Moral education needed in a 'rapidly changing world'

Moral education lessons for young people is needed in a rapidly changing world, the head of the programme said.

Alanood Al Kaabi, head of programmes at the Education Affairs Office of the Crown Price Court - Abu Dhabi, said: "The Crown Price Court is fully behind this initiative and have already seen the curriculum succeed in empowering young people and providing them with the necessary tools to succeed in building the future of the nation at all levels.

"Moral education touches on every aspect and subject that children engage in.

"It is not just limited to science or maths but it is involved in all subjects and it is helping children to adapt to integral moral practises.

"The moral education programme has been designed to develop children holistically in a world being rapidly transformed by technology and globalisation."

If you go

The flights

Fly direct to London from the UAE with Etihad, Emirates, British Airways or Virgin Atlantic from about Dh2,500 return including taxes. 

The hotel

Rooms at the convenient and art-conscious Andaz London Liverpool Street cost from £167 (Dh800) per night including taxes.

The tour

The Shoreditch Street Art Tour costs from £15 (Dh73) per person for approximately three hours. 

Kandahar%20
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THE BIO

Favourite car: Koenigsegg Agera RS or Renault Trezor concept car.

Favourite book: I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes or Red Notice by Bill Browder.

Biggest inspiration: My husband Nik. He really got me through a lot with his positivity.

Favourite holiday destination: Being at home in Australia, as I travel all over the world for work. It’s great to just hang out with my husband and family.

 

 

THE CLOWN OF GAZA

Director: Abdulrahman Sabbah 

Starring: Alaa Meqdad

Rating: 4/5

UK-EU trade at a glance

EU fishing vessels guaranteed access to UK waters for 12 years

Co-operation on security initiatives and procurement of defence products

Youth experience scheme to work, study or volunteer in UK and EU countries

Smoother border management with use of e-gates

Cutting red tape on import and export of food

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The burning issue

The internal combustion engine is facing a watershed moment – major manufacturer Volvo is to stop producing petroleum-powered vehicles by 2021 and countries in Europe, including the UK, have vowed to ban their sale before 2040. The National takes a look at the story of one of the most successful technologies of the last 100 years and how it has impacted life in the UAE.

Part three: an affection for classic cars lives on

Read part two: how climate change drove the race for an alternative 

Read part one: how cars came to the UAE

Four motivational quotes from Alicia's Dubai talk

“The only thing we need is to know that we have faith. Faith and hope in our own dreams. The belief that, when we keep going we’re going to find our way. That’s all we got.”

“Sometimes we try so hard to keep things inside. We try so hard to pretend it’s not really bothering us. In some ways, that hurts us more. You don’t realise how dishonest you are with yourself sometimes, but I realised that if I spoke it, I could let it go.”

“One good thing is to know you’re not the only one going through it. You’re not the only one trying to find your way, trying to find yourself, trying to find amazing energy, trying to find a light. Show all of yourself. Show every nuance. All of your magic. All of your colours. Be true to that. You can be unafraid.”

“It’s time to stop holding back. It’s time to do it on your terms. It’s time to shine in the most unbelievable way. It’s time to let go of negativity and find your tribe, find those people that lift you up, because everybody else is just in your way.”

How to apply for a drone permit
  • Individuals must register on UAE Drone app or website using their UAE Pass
  • Add all their personal details, including name, nationality, passport number, Emiratis ID, email and phone number
  • Upload the training certificate from a centre accredited by the GCAA
  • Submit their request
What are the regulations?
  • Fly it within visual line of sight
  • Never over populated areas
  • Ensure maximum flying height of 400 feet (122 metres) above ground level is not crossed
  • Users must avoid flying over restricted areas listed on the UAE Drone app
  • Only fly the drone during the day, and never at night
  • Should have a live feed of the drone flight
  • Drones must weigh 5 kg or less
Know before you go
  • Jebel Akhdar is a two-hour drive from Muscat airport or a six-hour drive from Dubai. It’s impossible to visit by car unless you have a 4x4. Phone ahead to the hotel to arrange a transfer.
  • If you’re driving, make sure your insurance covers Oman.
  • By air: Budget airlines Air Arabia, Flydubai and SalamAir offer direct routes to Muscat from the UAE.
  • Tourists from the Emirates (UAE nationals not included) must apply for an Omani visa online before arrival at evisa.rop.gov.om. The process typically takes several days.
  • Flash floods are probable due to the terrain and a lack of drainage. Always check the weather before venturing into any canyons or other remote areas and identify a plan of escape that includes high ground, shelter and parking where your car won’t be overtaken by sudden downpours.

 

The specs: 2018 Chevrolet Trailblazer

Price, base / as tested Dh99,000 / Dh132,000

Engine 3.6L V6

Transmission: Six-speed automatic

Power 275hp @ 6,000rpm

Torque 350Nm @ 3,700rpm

Fuel economy combined 12.2L / 100km

Benefits of first-time home buyers' scheme
  • Priority access to new homes from participating developers
  • Discounts on sales price of off-plan units
  • Flexible payment plans from developers
  • Mortgages with better interest rates, faster approval times and reduced fees
  • DLD registration fee can be paid through banks or credit cards at zero interest rates
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Brolliology: A History of the Umbrella in Life and Literature
By Marion Rankine
Melville House

Specs

Engine: 51.5kW electric motor

Range: 400km

Power: 134bhp

Torque: 175Nm

Price: From Dh98,800

Available: Now

Key facilities
  • Olympic-size swimming pool with a split bulkhead for multi-use configurations, including water polo and 50m/25m training lanes
  • Premier League-standard football pitch
  • 400m Olympic running track
  • NBA-spec basketball court with auditorium
  • 600-seat auditorium
  • Spaces for historical and cultural exploration
  • An elevated football field that doubles as a helipad
  • Specialist robotics and science laboratories
  • AR and VR-enabled learning centres
  • Disruption Lab and Research Centre for developing entrepreneurial skills
SERIES SCHEDULE

First Test, Galle International Stadium
July 26-30
Second Test, Sinhalese Sports Club Ground
August 3-7
Third Test, Pallekele International Cricket Stadium
August 12-16
First ODI, Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium
August 20
Second ODI, Pallekele International Cricket Stadium
August 24
Third ODI, Pallekele International Cricket Stadium
August 27
Fourth ODI, R Premadasa Stadium
August 31
Fifth ODI, R Premadasa Stadium
September 3
T20, R Premadasa Stadium
September 6

Gothia Cup 2025

4,872 matches 

1,942 teams

116 pitches

76 nations

26 UAE teams

15 Lebanese teams

2 Kuwaiti teams

Company profile

Company name: Dharma

Date started: 2018

Founders: Charaf El Mansouri, Nisma Benani, Leah Howe

Based: Abu Dhabi

Sector: TravelTech

Funding stage: Pre-series A 

Investors: Convivialite Ventures, BY Partners, Shorooq Partners, L& Ventures, Flat6Labs

Updated: November 09, 2023, 10:56 AM`