From the Editors: Barakah boosts UAE’s green commitment

MASSIVE WAY FORWARD: Crucial pre-operation heating and cooling tests have now been completed on the fourth reactor at Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant in Abu Dhabi. According to Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (Enec), even after exposure to extreme heat, all the functional aspects of the fourth reactor responded in keeping with the stipulated quality and safety standards. This is a massive chunk of good news on road to full functionality of the plant, where two reactors are already in operation. This nuclear power plant, the first in the Arab world for producing clean energy, is an embodiment of the UAE’s commitment to a greener source of electricity and a sign of the visionary leadership of the country that has always believed that the ‘future is now’. As the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant keeps achieving one milestone after another, the brighter it augurs for the nation and its people’s long-term wellbeing. [By Sanjib Kumar Das, Assistant Editor]

GETTING A BIT CHOPPY FOR GLOBAL ECONOMY: The Eurozone Central Bank hikes interest rates for the first time – and higher than anyone expected. US job losses inch higher, as tech giants scale down hiring plans. Gold prices come up with a tantrum. The coming days leading up to the next US Federal reserve meeting will not be calm, for sure. And if the US Central Bank decides on a 1 per cent interest rate hike, then there’s more turmoil on the horizon as everyone starts chasing the dollar and anything weighted in it. What should investors do? Go risk-free? (By Manoj Nair, Business Editor)

SPORTSMANSHIP AT ITS BEST IN TOUR DE FRANCE: Cyclists are known to be tough competitors, ready go on relentless attack either on a grueling climb or the long distance between stages. But Tour de France on Thursday showed the gentle heart behind the tough outlook. Dane Jonas Vingegaard, overall leader’s yellow Jersey holder, and defending champion Tadej Pogacar were engrossed in a close battle for the crown in a crucial mountain stage but in the process the Slovenian suffered a crash after getting spooked by Vingegaard in a corner. The Dane instead of taking advantage, waited for Pogacar to resume. Vingegaard began the battle after grasping his rival’s hand and went on to win the stage. Sportsmanship at its best. (By A.K.S. SATISH, Sports Editor)

CELEBRATING BEING A GEEK: San Diego Comic-Con has kicked off for the first time since 2019, after skipping two years due to the global pandemic. The pop culture event is one of the biggest celebrations of all things movies, comic books, games, panel discussions and more. It’s a place where everyone can feel included and special, and it’s made for those who are passionate about their interests. Comic-Cons all over the world encourage fans to enjoy their unique pastimes — whether it’s anime, collecting Pokemon cards or dressing up in cosplay — and embrace being different. (By Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor – Features)