More action needed from GCC as a unit

As world governments continue to look for the best means to cope with the current international financial crisis, it is important that the issue is also addressed by developing countries with immediacy and urgency. The Gulf region is no exception as it is also part of this global situation.

When it comes to the stance of the Gulf region, there are many variables that need to be taken into consideration. For one thing, Gulf countries are reliable on oil output as a means of generating income and sustaining development.

Furthermore, these countries have been allocating a large part of their fiscal budgets to building their infrastructure. Also, countries of the region have also been establishing the basis for an economy that is diversified and not dependant solely on oil.

The region has been, to some extent, spared from the effects of the nosedive of markets as was seen in other economies. Prompt and active government intervention in these countries has also brought about positive stability to the situation.

But given that the global markets are not fully stable yet, more action must be taken by Gulf countries as a single unit. The recent emergency meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) finance ministers and central bank governors is a first step in the right direction, regardless of the fact that it is being convened at a later stage after the initial crisis. The gathering declared that the GCC has taken the appropriate steps and also highlighted the importance of pushing for the region's monetary union.

At this point in time, it is critical that such plans are brought to reality as soon as possible. The Gulf countries can no longer afford any further delays on this front as an end to the current financial crisis has yet to be detected.

The latest news of deaths and missing people in Yemen following torrential rain are both alarming and devastating. Parts of the country are practically under water and there's a strong possibility that things will get worse.

Thus far, 1,700 homes have been destroyed and hundreds of families have been displaced in their attempt to escape the heavy rainfall. Of course, given Yemen's geographical location, being situated on the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, it is prone to flooding during the monsoon season. The eastern provinces have been declared a disaster-hit area.

At this hour, it is essential that the international community, and especially Arab and Muslim countries, rally around Yemen to try to alleviate some of its people's suffering. Displaced people will need immediate attention, in terms of relief aid, medical supplies and shelter. Yemen's neighbouring countries should also be cautious as flooding is expected in other parts of the region.

Entering its 10th year, the Sharjah Consultative Council has reassured the public that they can approach the members of the council or its secretariat to complain about policies, decisions or phenomena that have an impact on their lives, regardless of their nationality and status.

The works of the 2nd chapter of the 5th legislative session launched last week was an additional testimony to the keenness of the emirate to reinforce the traditions of consultation in governance and promote them to the level of democratic participation in decision making.

According to its establishment decree, the council was founded to assist the Ruler of Sharjah and assist in the decision-making process. With their works, the members of the council investigated the performance of different departments in Sharjah and helped in solving major issues for the benefits of the citizens.

The achievements of the council and the support by the Ruler must encourage the members of the Consultative Council to redress crucial issues facing the people of Sharjah and try to find amicable solutions for issues such as town planning, traffic woes and development of facilities in the industrial areas.