From the Editors: Abu Dhabi vaccine hub will help inoculate the world against COVID-19

UAE AT THE FOREFRONT AGAIN: It is a matter of great pride that Abu Dhabi will now be the global logistics hub to facilitate COVID-19 vaccine distribution across the world. Ever since the outbreak of COVID-19, the UAE has been setting international benchmarks in the combat against the virus. It is only befitting that it should now lead from the front in the supply and distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine. It not only speaks volumes about the vision of the country’s leadership, but also their ability to make things happen – and within no time. [COMMENT BY: Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor]

AT WAR WITH THE CORONAVIRUS, NOT WITH EACH OTHER: US President-elect Joe Biden has called on the people to remember that they are at war with the coronavirus, and not with each other. In the Thanksgiving-eve address, Biden sought to encourage Americans to set aside their political divisions and tackle COVID-19. This message should be adopted around the world as countries struggle to stand back on their feet after being punched down by the virus. Only when people stand together, regardless of their affiliations, can this battle against the coronavirus be won. Caring for each other and sharing resources will go a long way in helping mankind at this critical juncture. [COMMENT BY: Alex Abraham, Senior Associate Editor]

MARADONA WILL LIVE ON IN OUR HEARTS: While the world comes to terms with the loss of Diego Maradona, the flawed little genius from Argentina regarded by many as the greatest footballer who ever lived, it is worth noting the positive impact one man can have across the globe through his sporting talents. For all his faults — drug and alcohol addiction and inner-demons plagued him his whole adult life — his memory will transcend that and he will be remembered for his mastery on the pitch and the way he unified football fans across the planet regardless of nationality, allegiance, colour or faith. He may be gone at the age of 60, but his achievements will live on in our hearts. [COMMENT BY: Matthew Smith, Sports Editor]