Ministry of investment to play key role, Pope lauds the UAE, Crisis in Jenin, and more stories, Gulf News Editors comment on the top news on July 4

MINISTRY OF INVESTMENT TO BOOST STRATEGIES: In a significant move, the UAE revealed on Monday its plans to establish a new federal Ministry of Investment aimed at enhancing its investment strategies worldwide as well as within the country. The newly formed ministry will play a crucial role in supporting the UAE's business objectives and investment policies. Its responsibilities include proposing comprehensive investment policies, developing strategies, legislation, plans, projects, and national programs to foster a favorable investment environment. The UAE's commitment to bolstering its investment landscape is evident, with Dubai alone attracting an impressive $12.8 billion in foreign direct investment capital in the previous year, according to the 2022 Financial Times "fDi Markets" report. (By Nivetha Dayanand, Web Editor)

POPE FRANCIS LAUDS UAE’S KEY ROLE: The UAE has played an important role in fostering co-existence, tolerance, and peace both locally and internationally, according to Pope Francis. In a recent interview with Al Ittihad, the head of the Catholic Church stated: “Investing in culture promotes the decline of hatred and contributes to the growth of civilisation and prosperity." Pope Francis remarked about the warm welcome he received during his historic visit to Abu Dhabi in 2019 and lauded the UAE's commitment in human resources and education. In particular, the pontiff praised President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his continuous dedication to supporting global health initiatives and promoting peace. The pope also expressed his gratitude to the UAE for putting the Document on Human Fraternity's guiding principles into practice by taking practical measures to improve the lives of the sick and the less fortunate. Indeed, more than wealth, Pope Francis emphasised that a country's commitment to cultivating values like peace and brotherhood, are true indicators of greatness. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

RESPECT HUMAN RIGHTS OF PALESTINIANS: Israel's recent use of drones and deployment of troops in West Bank has faced criticism for violating Palestinian human rights. The operation in the Jenin refugee camp has resulted in casualties and prompted condemnations from Palestinian authorities, neighboring countries, and international organisations. The UAE has expressed deep concern while the UN has emphasised the importance of conducting military operations in accordance with international humanitarian law. While Israel has justified its actions as self-defense, there is growing scrutiny and calls for respecting the rights of Palestinians in the region. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

VENGEANCE AND DRAMA IS NOT LIMITED TO BIG SCREENS ALONE: If you thought that boycotts of actors by giant studios was an ancient concept, think again. Hollywood actor and beloved action star Keanu Reeves proved he wasn’t insulated from alleged petty politics. In an interview with GQ, Reeves had famously revealed that he was put in “movie jail” because he refused to obey one of the biggest studios who wanted him to star in the sequel to 1994 blockbuster Speed with Sandra Bullock. His refusal to reprise his hit role didn’t go down well and he was unofficially boycotted for a long time. He was famously penalised for his artistic choices. This tawdry episode proves that politics is all-pervasive and your win is in keeping your head above it all. Here’s to Reeves for surviving in a tough industry for decades. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)