From the Editors: Commendable move to revamp Al Fahidi

COMMENDABLE MOVE TO REVAMP AL FAHIDI: The move to revamp the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Dubai demonstrates the leadership’s initiative to constantly better the city’s offerings. Even as things stand, Al Fahidi, which dates back to the 19th century, is a huge tourist attraction in Dubai as it showcases the emirate’s charming past. The new strategy will make it a more pulsating cultural hub, in line with Dubai’s future urban planning and vision. It is commendable how this city raises the bar for itself with every such effort. [COMMENT BY: Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor]

A WELCOME FIRST STEP IN IRAQ GOVERNMENT FORMATION: Three months after the general elections resulted in a clear defeat for Iran-backed factions, Iraq has taken the first real step in formation of its government. Sunni MP Mohammed Al Halbousi, whose Taqqadum party bagged an impressive 37 seats in the 329-member assembly, was re-elected speaker. Parliament now has 30 days to elect the new president, who will then ask the largest bloc to form a government. But electing the president and prime minister is proving to be far more difficult. There were heated debates and shouting among MPs, but no agreement. Iraq can ill-afford any delays. The country, which has an abundance of natural resources and monthly oil revenues of more than $6 billion, is in a sorry state. People have to put up with a near-total lack of public services, endless corruption and mismanagement, and a tenuous security situation. A strong new government couldn’t come a moment too soon. [COMMENT BY: Omar Shariff, International Editor]

NEW ZEALAND CRICKET TEAM’S RESOLVE IS UNPARALLELED: New Zealand cricket team, without superstars in their ranks, has always surprised many with their resolute game and the will to win. Traditionally, it is their skipper who leads from the front over the past few decades. In the absence of their talismanic leader Kane Williamson, the Black Caps suffered stunning loss to Bangladesh in the first Test, a rarity at home. But come the second Test, stand-in skipper Tom Latham took it upon himself to score a double hundred and give New Zealand every chance to complete the final request of legend Ross Taylor, who sought a winning farewell. Salute the All Blacks resilience. [COMMENT BY: A.K.S. Satish, Sports Editor]

PAKISTANI STARS FINALLY GETTING A VOICE ON A GLOBAL STAGE: India has talent such as Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Deepika Padukone and Anupam Kher who have left an undeniable mark in Hollywood, it is about time the people wake up to stalwarts from Pakistan who are ready to step up to the world stage. The news that Pakistani star Humayun Saeed will feature on season five of ‘The Crown’ is an applause-worthy feat for the actor who is considered the pride of his country. Saeed had hinted at a possible Hollywood collaboration in the works during his December visit to Dubai and this move will only open up the doors for more celebrities from the country to find their space in the spotlight. As for fans of Saeed, the celebrations have only just begun. [COMMENT BY: Bindu Rai, Entertainment Editor]