1 Billion Meals and UAE-India CEPA deal: Gulf News Editors comment on top stories of May 1

SCOPE OF UAE’S CHARITY EXPANDS: The creation of a Board of Trustees for the 1 Billion Meals Endowment initiative, which falls under the umbrella of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, is a great step in ensuring the proper management and investment of assets of the largest food aid endowment project in the world. It creates a sustainable source of giving by a country known for its generosity. (By Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor).

EXPANDING UAE-INDIA’S CEPA SCOPE: The UAE and Indian governments and their businesses did not wait for the CEPA deal to filter through the many benefits of the historic trade and investment pact. For many categories, the gains from further opening up access to either market were immediate. So further tweaks have happened as the UAE-India CEPA deal marks its first anniversary today. It’s been said that relations between countries are always fluid. The same can be said of economic agreements. There are obvious changes that these bring about, but there is so much more that can be unlocked. This is where the authorities in the UAE and India should be proud of a job well done. CEPA will keep giving. (Manoj Nair, Business Editor)

ALL ROADS LEAD TO METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART: The biggest night in fashion and star power will play out in New York City as the Met Gala kicks off in a few hours. Hollywood stars at their outlandish best will make a dramatic entrance in gowns that defy logic and gravity. This is the event where Katy Perry dressed up in an outfit that looked like a chandelier and Zendaya came as a Cinderella. It’s a byword for glamour, and creativity has no boundaries on this night. It’s a night where designers and stars can unleash their wild side and embrace unconventional wardrobe choices. It will be interesting to see how Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt will fare in her MET gala debut. Her inclusion is also a sign that diversity is a priority for such an exclusive event. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)

INDIA’S NET GAINS IN ASIAN BADMINTON: India have done well in doubles, which gave the country medals and titles in tennis. The Indian badminton players are following suit with Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty clinching their maiden Asian title, while the women’s doubles duo of Gayatri Gopichand and Treesa Jolly have made it to the second successive semifinals in the All England Championships in March. Satwik-Chirag ended India’s 58-year barren run in the continental championships. (By A.K.S. Satish, Sports Editor)