We need to put our differences aside!
On the occasion of International Day of Peace this week, I would like to express my views on the topic, as the world has become a very dangerous place. There are wars being fought, countries being torn apart by conflict, poverty and despair all around us. A way to peace has to be found. This difficult task can only be achieved if leaders, at a global level, put aside all their differences and concentrate on working towards a better and safer world.
Too little is being done. There is so much talk, but not much is being achieved. It is not an easy task and a united and sincere effort is needed urgently to find ways for universal peace. Let’s hope for a better tomorrow.
From Ms Umbereen Rahman
UAE
Differences limit us
It is a pity that the human race has not been respectful to one another. We have almost 65.3 million people worldwide driven out of their homes due to conflicts and persecution. I hope the world leaders of 135 nations think about humanity, believe in inclusion, and consider each life to be valuable. Humanity will bless nations that come forward with an inclusive mindset, to welcome refugees, including asylum-seeking children. The world is not a divided place in front of the Creator of the universe, it is the human race that has created differences and barriers around them. The greatness of a leader comes when he/she starts thinking beyond the limitations of his/her own existence.
From Mr Binu Prasad
Abu Dhabi
Working for the people
Keep growing, Dubai (‘Access to Blue Water island to be ready by December’, Gulf News, September 18)! The people of this land deserve big and beautiful projects like these, as they have good intentions. Money that is used for the welfare of the country is called a corrupt-free country. The UAE is a role model for others. Keep it up!
From Mr Kant Chander
Dubai
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Duterte can do it!
It is a miracle that the Philippines elected a president like Rodrigo Duterte, who loves and cares for his country and people more than they care for themselves (‘Philippines: Convicted drug inmates to testify on senator’s involvement in illegal drug trade’, Gulf News, September 18). He is like a lion, he is fighting a multifaceted monster of corruption, poverty, lawlessness and drugs. It is easy for Duterte to make money and go home and live a peaceful life, but he has put his life and family in danger, and also his remaining political career. He is facing huge pressure from local politicians and global politicians for his actions, but Duterte has been retaliating more audaciously because of his cause to bring prosperity to the common man. Duterte will bring real change to the Philippines and he has proved it, as mayor of Davao City.
From Mr Azam Chaudry
Dubai
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We’ll keep fighting
Thank you, Mr Azam Chaudry, for understanding our President. It’s very rare to find a person in such a high position, who has such concern for his people, the Filipinos. My fervent wish is for Filipinos around the globe to be united and support Duterte in his efforts, but because of greed and personal vendettas, many people’s attitude has changed. Please, let’s stop the hatred. Let us support the Philippines President instead and show the world that we are worth fighting for, after all.
From Ms Lynne Dhense
UAE
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Who to trust?
Leila de Lima was the justice minister before she was elected as a senator in the Philippines. During that time, the drug problem was soaring, and drug lords were inside the New Bilibid Prison, living like they were in a five-star hotel, with jacuzzis, music studios and high-tech gadgets... and they continued the illegal drug trade! Now, tell us who has credibility? The new President who has cut off these inmates’ luxurious lifestyle, and their communication lines so that they cannot do business outside? Or this senator, who was responsible for the growth of the drug business during her term as justice minister?
From Mr Oden Thor Ragnar
UAE
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Making enemies
What Duterte does in his own country, is his and his people’s business. Other leaders do not like him because he is honest and will shame them if they dare question him or his methods. Most leaders like him end up getting assassinated for their overt strong views.
From Mr Hassan Al Khaja
Dubai
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No shortcuts for justice
The writer said: “How would you like it if someone interfered with the way you discipline your children? Would anyone like an external person interfering in your attempt to bring peace in your own home (‘Readers views: Are Duterte’s outbursts needed?’, Gulf News, September 11)?” Would a neighbour just ignore the cries of the children next door when the parents themselves are the abusers? Would a neighbour just pretend he does not hear anything and just ignore it? I am strongly against these drug users and suppliers, but the recent actions provoked and condoned by the Philippines President himself, Duterte, has left thousands dead, with suspects not facing a minute in court. Is this justifiable? Don’t all people have the right to defend themselves in the court of law? Hence, the authorities perpetuating these actions should be considered criminals themselves. Those suspects, if found guilty, should be punished accordingly... there should be no shortcuts in attaining justice.
From Mr Jun M. Cargullo
UAE
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Ruled by greed
It’s very obvious that the US is going to destroy Syria in any way they can (‘At least 80 Syrian soldiers killed by US air strikes: monitor’, Gulf News, September 18)! It is as if they want a third World War to break out, even though the world is already embroiled in a sort of war. It is really hard to have any respect or fondness for the US. Sadly, they seem to be committing mass murders and arming everyone who is fighting the elected powers or rulers that aren’t their puppets!
From Ms Poppe Elis
UAE
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No words
I am an American and a Muslim. When I read this, my heart went out to the Syrian people. From the bottom of my heart, I am so sorry. I know that apologies can’t bring them back. I have no words.
From Mr Mohammad Latif
Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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This is an addiction
What is sad is that people have became victims of technology, and we waste time and money just to satisfy our needs (‘Saudi man first to snap up iPhone 7 in Dubai’, Gulf News, September 18). We have become so addicted to gadgets that we will do almost anything to be able to tell the world that we have a new one. I won’t ever understand the people who waited in line for hours or who are broke and have no money, but wanted to own a new smartphone. We are truly addicted.
From Mr Salam Jaber
Dubai
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Protect students!
A first year student has hung himself and this is the latest dramatic development from the Hyderabad University campus (‘Hyderabad university rocked by another suicide’, Gulf News, September 19). This is the second incident within a year on this campus. Students go to university to study and form a bright career. These types of incidents are unacceptable. The authorities at the university must find out the real reason for this and the Indian government should order a probe to investigate. Students should be protected, as they are the next generation of leaders.
From Mr K. Ragavan
Bengaluru, India
Risks in open water
A man died while trying to save his son from drowning at Al Mamzar Beach — he had a heart attack. May his soul rest in peace. In line with what his wife mentioned about him, he was holding a jellyfish a few minutes before going into the sea. Perhaps this could have triggered the cardiac arrest. I am aware of the fact that some species of jellyfish are dangerous, with venom containing toxins that attack the heart, nervous system, and skin cells. Stings occur when the victim comes into direct contact with the creature’s tentacles or appendages, which may carry millions of these microscopic stinging cells. The animal and its tentacles are typically quite friable and broken-off tentacle fragments on the surf or washed up on the beach can retain their toxicity and stinging capacity even if they appear dried out and withered. Rapid toxin absorption impacts the cardiovascular system and can lead to death from cardiac arrest in as little as three minutes — scarcely enough time for rescue response.
From Mr Meril Mathew
UAE
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Tragic demise
What a sad moment for the family — to see the tragic demise of their loved one right before their eyes. May the Almighty provide strength to the bereaved family!
From Ms Sibi Joice
UAE
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