Month: February 2024

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King praises Maan’s role in Jordan’s history, says Kingdom will continue to provide aid to Gaza by land, air

Maan: His Majesty King Abdullah II on Thursday said Maan is a gateway of goodwill and the launching point of the Jordanian state’s establishment.

Speaking at a meeting with local community leaders and figures in Maan held at the Founding King’s Residence and attended by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, His Majesty praised the authentic values embodied by the people of Maan in welcoming pilgrims on the Hajj route, and their keenness to help everyone in need.

The King recalled his visit to Maan 25 years ago, saying residents’ first request was building a university in the governorate.

Today, Al Hussein bin Talal University has ushered in Maan’s development, His Majesty added.

The King said Maan is home to the largest solar energy projects in Jordan, as well as other projects, noting that the ambition for this governorate is to attract more investments, expand development, and capitalise on tourism potential in Petra.

His Majesty also spoke about the dangerous situation in Gaza, s
tressing that Jordan is exerting its utmost efforts to stop the war on the Strip.

The Kingdom will continue to provide support and humanitarian aid by land and air, with priority given to the north of Gaza, the King continued, stressing that Jordan will not pay attention to the sceptics.

Commenting on the airdrops that Jordan has carried out, His Majesty said Jordan has encouraged Arab and friendly countries to take part in these operations, to support Gazans and alleviate their suffering.

The King thanked Gazans who expressed appreciation for Jordan, although the aid delivered so far is limited due to the current situation in the Strip.

The most important thing in these efforts is for Gazans to feel that Jordan is with them and will spare no effort to help, His Majesty reaffirmed.

For his part, Maan Governor Faisal Masaeed said His Majesty’s Silver Jubilee is a continuation of the Hashemite journey of progress and development for Jordan.

The governor said Maan witnessed over the past 25 years several R
oyal initiatives and achievements in vital sectors, including health, education, agriculture, tourism, social care, and income-generating projects, as well as the enhancement of the role of women and youth, and empowering civil society organisations.

Upon arrival at the Founding King’s Residence prior to the meeting, the King was welcomed by the Maan Folklore Band.

His Majesty toured the Founding King’s Residence and was briefed on the project to restore it as a museum and a building of great historical value related to the establishment of the Jordanian state.

The building was originally a station on the Hijaz Railway, built in 1904, and became the residence of King Abdullah I (Prince Abdullah then) when he came to the city on 21 November 1920, and the building was called “the National Defence Headquarters”.

During the meeting with Maan figures, the King bestowed the Silver Jubilee Medal on individuals and institutions in Maan, in recognition of their contributions to serving Jordan, especially the local
community in the governorate.

Prime Minister Bisher Khasawneh, Royal Hashemite Court Chief Yousef Issawi, Director of the Office of His Majesty Jafar Hassan, and Adviser to His Majesty for Tribal Affairs Kneiaan Bluwi attended the meeting.

Source: Jordan News Agency

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Al Sayegh participates in high-level meeting at WTO’s 13th Ministerial Conference

ABU DHABI: Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of State, participated in a high-level discussion panel at the 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), currently taking place in Abu Dhabi.

The session, which addressed how trade can positively impact sustainable development, was chaired by Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, Minister of Trade of Cameroon and Vice Chair of the 13th Ministerial Conference.

The UAE was represented by Al Sayegh before the Trade and Sustainable Development Panel, which focused on how the international trading system can minimise the negative effects of trade across economic, social and environmental spheres.

In this regard, Al Sayegh stated, ‘Developing countries cannot follow the same industrial policies of the past, disregarding the negative environmental and social impacts of development. The industrial growth of today represents the greatest challenge since the Industrial Revolution, which requires implementing policies that avoid repeating the errors
of past centuries.’

He highlighted that the Marrakesh Agreement, which founded the WTO, underscores the importance of conducting trade in a manner that optimises resources for sustainable development, while safeguarding the environment.

Al Sayegh added, ‘The industrial polices set out by Developed nations more than a hundred years ago, led to these countries achieving economic success in the present day. However, we must acknowledge that the industrial policy of previous generations proved to be unsustainable. In the 21st century, industrial policy will become more complex than ever, which requires adapting a more sophisticated and efficient approach.’

He also stated, ‘Developing countries need to strengthen industries, and devise particular strategies to achieve economic goals by learning the lessons of the past and building upon them.’

Al Sayegh urged all members to advance collective efforts within the Committee on Trade and Environment and apply existing mechanisms to enhance the sustainability of tra
de. He emphasised that trade should maximise resources in line with Sustainable Development Goals while protecting and preserving the environment. In this regard, he affirmed the UAE’s steadfast support for the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, and expressed hope for its ratification by a wide number of members to ensure full and effective implementation.

During the discussion panel, ministers addressed ways in which the WTO can further enhance trade and the regulations of industrial subsidies, aiming to drive sustainable development and ensure equitable opportunities, while responding to challenges such as climate change and youth employment.

Source: Emirates News Agency

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Presight to showcase new Generative AI policing solutions at World Police Summit 2024


DUBAI: Presight, the region’s leading big data analytics company powered by Generative AI, will unveil its latest suite of solutions for public safety and law enforcement at the upcoming World Police Summit 2024 (WPS) as the Industry Leader and Lanyard Sponsor.

Returning to WPS for its third-consecutive appearance, Presight’s stand (SS1 C82), located between the Dubai Police and the Abu Dhabi Police, will serve as a forum to showcase its new solutions and demonstrate how it can contribute to policing a safer tomorrow using Generative AI.

One solution that Presight will be showcasing at World Police Summit is a multi-faceted emergency response management platform, similar to one used by the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) of the UAE. This platform integrates data from multiple service providers, enabling first responders to react more quickly and effectively in emergency situations, thereby reducing the impact on lives and property. In addition, Presight will be showcasing
an AI-driven analytics platform that can process large amounts of multi-source data quickly. This platform is designed to help investigators reduce investigation time, leading to better policing and increased community trust.

Another key solution is the investigative solution-suite, powered by an AI virtual assistant that can understand natural language queries, provide instant access to critical information, suggest lines of inquiry, and even draft documents. This improves AI driven case management to recommend investigative steps, manage evidence, and track the progress of investigations. Finally, Presight will also be showcasing a digital forensics platform that incorporates advanced analytics for analysis of digital footprints, evidence, and assets across multi-modal devices.

“Our presence at the Dubai World Police Summit underscores our belief in policing a safer tomorrow using Generative AI,’ said Dr. Adel Alsharji, Chief Operating Officer at Presight. “We are excited to showcase how our solutions can
help public safety and law enforcement agencies improve investigative outcomes, enhance emergency response, and create safer and happier communities.”

Source: Emirates News Agency

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RTA, Terminus Group sign MoU for trial operation of smart robot


DUBAI: Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Terminus Group, a leading robotics and advanced technical systems provider. The MoU marks the commencement of the trial operation for a smart robot tasked with surveillance and detecting violations concerning soft mobility means in Dubai, starting March 2024.

The MoU signing took place during the fifth edition of MENA Transport Congress and Exhibition 2024 by Ahmed Mahboub, Acting CEO of Strategy and Corporate Governance Sector, RTA, and Dr. Ling Shao, President of Terminus International and Chief Scientist of Terminus Group.

The agreement stipulates initiating a trial operation for the smart robot tasked with surveillance and detecting violations concerning soft mobility means in Dubai in coordination with Dubai Police. The initial phase of the trial operation will commence in the Jumeirah 3 beach area to stud
y the impact of the application and its potential for broader implementation in the future. This innovative project aligns with RTA’s goals to ensure seamless and sustainable mobility, enhance the transportation network through smart and innovative solutions, and position Dubai as the pioneering city in the region for using robots to monitor soft mobility users.

RTA emphasised the significance of this initiative, highlighting its alignment with government efforts to enhance Dubai’s status as a leader among the world’s smartest cities. This move is also in sync with UAE’s vision to become a global leader in artificial intelligence by 2031. The initiative seeks to modernise traditional surveillance methods by introducing smart robots for real-time monitoring of soft mobility means and utilising AI techniques for detecting violations. This innovative approach will be integrated directly with RTA’s Enterprise Command and Control Centre (EC3).

The smart robot will monitor the use of soft mobility means, such as
bicycles and electric scooters, by detecting violations, sharing, and analysing them in collaboration with Dubai Police. Utilising artificial intelligence, the robot will identify a range of violations, including large gatherings, failure to adhere to personal safety protocols like wearing helmets, abandonment of scooters in unauthorised areas, scooter use by multiple riders, and riding scooters in pedestrian-only zones.

The robot features cutting-edge technology and complies with top safety standards. It can identify violations with over 85 percent accuracy, deliver data within 5 seconds, and has a surveillance reach of up to 2 kilometres. The robot is also designed to operate efficiently under various weather conditions and is equipped with sensors that trigger a halt when it comes within 1.5 metres of any object or individual, ensuring the safety and security of all road users in Dubai.

‘We are delighted to collaborate with RTA, an ideal partner in achieving our shared goal of leveraging green and smart
technologies to elevate safety standards for transportation users. Our confidence in this partnership stems from RTA’s esteemed standing and our extensive experience in implementing modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and smart city solutions, along with creating an innovative ecosystem that embraces the sustainable and digital economy,’ said Dr. Ling Shao.

RTA remains committed to launching distinguished initiatives aimed at maximising safety and comfort for users of soft mobility. These efforts include fostering integration with public transport and key landmarks to bolster the use of soft mobility for first and last-mile journeys as well as short distances. RTA has also made significant efforts toward passing the Executive Council Resolution No. (13) of 2022, which governs the use of bikes in Dubai, establishes speed limits across different lanes to accommodate regional and temporal needs and mandates registration and numbering plates for each shared scooter.

Source: Emirates
News Agency

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Abu Dhabi puts final touches to launch Fight Week in Brazil


BALNEÁRIO CAMBORIÚ: At the ExpoCentro Centre in the Brazilian city of Balneário Camboriú, the preparations continue at the highest levels for the launch of the BC Fight Week, organised by International Vision Sports Management (IVSM).

The team reaffirmed its commitment to the highest standards of excellence and quality in organising the Fight Week as fans and enthusiasts of combat sports will witness, in a few days, the launch of the AJP Tour South America Jiu-Jitsu Championship, the third edition of the Abu Dhabi Extreme Championship (ADXC 3), and the 48th edition of the UAE Warriors Championship.

The three tournaments rely on Abu Dhabi’s extensive experience and its history of hosting and organising world-class sporting events to provide a week full of exciting fights and skillful performances to give audiences everywhere an unforgettable experience.

The three tournaments attracted a remarkable turnout from athletes participating in the fights, as their agendas bring together an elite group of experience
d stars and champions aspiring to the podium, all expressing their happiness to be part of the fight week and to participate in a tournament organised by Abu Dhabi, the world’s capital of combat sports, which gives them the opportunity to highlight their skills and abilities, winning great prizes, earning points, and raising their rankings with the Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Professional (AJP).

The anticipated fight week started having a wide global impact immediately after its announcement, especially in light of the strong and well-known international tournaments it contains in the world of Jiu-Jitsu, grappling, and mixed martial arts. Social media and websites interested in sporting events were full of news regarding Fight Week and its tournaments, which will feature illustrious names and prominent stars, and the audience who already loved fights and excitement became even more eager for the start of the events.

All bouts of the three tournaments are scheduled to be broadcast live and free of charge to spectato
rs on the TX7 platform, except for the night of the fight, in line with the requirements of the sporting public around the world.

The third edition of the Abu Dhabi Extreme Championship (ADXC 3) will bring about the return of Portuguese Jiu-Jitsu star Bruno Lima, who participated in the last edition of the tournament and won the Jiu-Jitsu main event in the middleweight division, also taking the gold medal in the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2023 even before that. His opponent in the Jiu-Jitsu Main Event will be none other than Jansen Gomes, who has an outstanding athletic record.

Brazilian Fellipe Andrew, who won a gold medal in the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2023, will also participate in the tournament as part of the Jiu-Jitsu Co-Main Event. The preliminary card bouts will also feature a strong confrontation between the Emirati champion Zayed Alkatheeri, winner of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Gold 2022, and the Brazilian Oziel Santos.

On Wedne
sday, the athletes participated in the open workout, giving fight fans the opportunity to watch their training and preparations for the ceremonial weigh-ins and, of course, the upcoming championships. A branch of the ADMA Academy was also opened in Brazil, which hosted athletes’ training in preparation for the fights.

Tareq Al Bahri, General Manager of IVSM, said, ‘Organising the Fight Week in Brazil reflects the influence of Abu Dhabi as the capital of global combat sports and its pivotal role that transcends the borders of its region. The launch of three major tournaments in one week also indicates Abu Dhabi’s tremendous ability. It organises the most powerful world-class sporting events, and reflects its willingness to go far in promoting combat sports, especially Jiu-Jitsu, and celebrating the high values and sportsmanship it represents.’

In turn, Mohammed Al Hosani, the ADXC matchmaker and member of its organising committee, said, ‘Abu Dhabi once again confirms its superiority and leadership in the sce
ne of combat sports development. We look forward to watching the strong fights and outstanding skill displays and attracting a remarkable audience presence. We wish all the players success and that they give it their best, as always.’

Source: Emirates News Agency

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Hamdan bin Mohammed opens 5th edition of Gov Games in Dubai Festival City


DUBAI: H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, today opened the fifth edition of the Gov Games in Dubai Festival City.

With 194 teams participating from around the world, the four-day sporting extravaganza marks its largest edition to date.

Running until 3rd March, the Gov Games 2024 is being hosted in partnership with DP World and in cooperation with the Dubai Sports Council.

The event commenced with high-octane action as 84 men’s and 26 women’s teams competed in the Battle of the Government category. The contests included a series of limit-testing physical and mental challenges.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed said, ‘The Gov Games has become a symbol of global sporting values, including sportsmanship, teamwork, and community. This is exemplified by the camaraderie showcased by the largest number of international teams participating in the tournament’s largest edition to date.’

Welcoming all 194 teams to this year’s finals, Sheikh
Hamdan praised the expansion and diversity achieved by the Gov Games, which includes the return of 28 international teams participating in the Battle of the Cities. ‘The annual global event reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to strengthen Dubai’s status as a key destination for global sporting events and to integrate human development, creativity, and innovation into all aspects of life and society in Dubai,’ Sheikh Hamdan said.

‘The Gov Games has evolved into a global platform where participants from across the world collaborate, exchange experiences, and strive to improve their teamwork and leadership abilities. They confront tough challenges with a blend of strategic thinking and physical resilience, qualities that are essential for development in every aspect of life,’ he added.

Sheikh Hamdan noted, ‘Offering youth the chance to engage in the Gov Games for the first time through the Junior Gov Games demonstrates o
ur dedication to fostering cooperation and cultivating leadership skills among our youth, which are crucial for empowering the leaders of tomorrow.’

The inaugural day of the Gov Games saw fierce competition among the teams engaging in the Battle of the Government category, both for men and women. Among those qualifying for the women’s Battle of the Government competition were:

1. Dubai Police with 98 points.

2. Emirates Schools Establishment with 96.7 points.

3. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority with 84.3 points.

4. Roads and Transport Authority with 78.4 points.

The announcement of the four finalists from the men’s teams for the Battle of the Government will take place at the conclusion of all rounds in this category.

A total of 194 teams are participating in the Gov Games, comprising 84 teams in the Battle of the Government tournament for men and 26 teams for women. Additionally, there are 28 teams in the Battle of the Community tournament and 28 teams representing various global cities in the
Battle of the Cities. Furthermore, 28 teams are taking part in the Junior Gov Games. All these teams are competing in an atmosphere filled with excitement and enjoyment.

The Gov Games 2024 is supported by a distinguished roster of partners and sponsors, including DP World as the Official Partner, the Dubai Sports Council as a Strategic Sponsor, and esteemed Golden Sponsors like Emirates General Petroleum Corporation (Emarat), Damac Properties, and Emirates Post Group (7X), and Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and First Abu Dhabi Bank as silver sponsors, in addition to Dubai Festival City, Home Bakery, Al Fares International Tents, Jeep and Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (du).

Building on the success of previous editions, which attracted over 4,500 participants from various government entities, this year’s Gov Games is set to further enrich Dubai’s vibrant sporting calendar.

Source: Emirates News Agency