From the editors: We all need to stay patient and positive

BE PATIENT, BE POSITIVE: The update that frontline workers who have taken the trial vaccine against the coronavirus in the UAE are feeling fine and upbeat infuses much-needed optimism at a time when the COVID-19 onslaught continues unabated worldwide. That 97,284 people who had contracted the virus have recovered well in the country is also a piece of welcome news. At this juncture of the global fight against the pandemic, what we need more than ever is to stay patient and positive while taking all necessary precautionary measures. That is the only way forward. [COMMENT BY: Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor]

LIBYA MEETING COULDN’S HAVE COME A MOMENT TOO SOON: Next month, Tunisia will host a face-to-face dialogue between Libya’s warring factions as UN-backed efforts to bring peace to the country gather pace. The idea is to seek a consensus on a unified governance framework and arrangements that will lead to the holding of national elections. The meeting could not have come a moment too soon. Libya, a country literally afloat in oil with a small, homogenous population has suffered death, destruction and poverty ever since the revolution of 2011. Libyans deserve to have a united government that is not in thrall of extremist militias and their foreign backers. [COMMENT BY: Omar Shariff, International Editor]

ANOTHER STUDY, ANOTHER REASON TO BE CAREFUL: Just when we were getting back to normal comes the news that the coronavirus can survive on banknotes, glass and stainless steel for up to 28 days. By comparison, Influenza A virus has been found to survive on surfaces for 17 days. Although the study was done in a controlled environment, it goes on to show that we need to be vigilant always in order to fight off this virus. The elementary steps to say safe must be reinforced and followed – wear a mask, avoid touching the face and sanitise where possible. [COMMENT BY: Alex Abraham, Senior Associate Editor]

Sunday was quite a day for three men trying to establish themselves at the ‘Greatest Of All Time’ (GOAT) in their respective sport. First of all, Lewis Hamilton drove a fantastic race to claim his 91st Formula One Grand Prix in Germany to draw level with the great Michael Schumacher.Not long after, Rafael Nadal claimed his 13th French Open tennis title to level with Roger Federer on 20 Grand Slam crowns apiece. Then LeBron James did his bit to show he is the best basketball player since Michael Jordan as he helped the LA Lakers to their record-equalling 17th NBA Championship. And all three still have time to go on to even greater things. [COMMENT BY: Matthew Smith, Sports Editor]

Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have received an apology from a celebrity photo agency responsible for unauthorised photos of their baby Archie taken at their family home in Beverly Hills. According to the royals’ lawsuit, drones and photographers tracked their every move, flying helicopters over their residence and cutting holes in their security fences to secure the images. When people become famous, they don’t sign away their rights to privacy and safety – even if the public thinks they deserve access to every part of a star’s life. The intrusive and harmful methods paparazzi use need to dealt with more harshly. [COMMENT BY: Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor – Features]