Happy 12th anniversary to 'The National'

Our readers have their say about the newspaper's 12th anniversary, Dubai police and the National Anthem

Nabeel Kamran at his home in Sharjah five years after his story about organ transplant was published in The National in 2008. Pawan Singh / The National

I write to you in reference to your editorial The National at 12: we are always changing with the times (April 17). This anniversary editorial was a pleasant read. As a long-time reader of these pages I have witnessed The National's immense growth over the years. I am very happy that the newspaper is now entering its 13th year. As the editorial has mentioned, the newspaper's first cover when it launched in 2008 featured the story of Nabeel Kamran, a young boy from Sharjah who had undergone a successful organ transplant. Now, the world faces an immense health crisis. And The National continues to cover the world's latest developments. I wish the editorial team and all the other employees at The National the very best. Keep up the good work.

K Ragavan, Bengaluru

South Africa could become a beacon of hope for the continent

I write to you in reference to your article South African Airways plans to lay off entire workforce following government bail-out refusal (April 18). South Africa is a wonderful country, but it is facing many challenges including HIV/Aids, violent crime, poverty and unemployment.

But it is also regarded as Africa's best hope, both politically and economically. South Africa can serve as a role-model for its neighbours and lift up the African continent.

A successful South Africa would become a great beacon of hope. We can show the world that if a country adheres to democracy, sound economic management and good governance; anything is possible.
Samaoen Osman, Cape Town

Gestures of solidarity make me proud of being a UAE resident

I write to you in reference to Ashleigh Stewart's article Watch: National anthem heard across Abu Dhabi as residents sing from their balconies (April 18). How nice, and what a shame I missed that beautiful moment. Gestures such as these make me proud to be a resident of such a beautiful country, and it makes me proud of the UAE's leadership.

Danish Saleem Khan, Abu Dhabi

Dubai police is patrolling the streets on horses, to our delight

I write to you in reference to a video posted on The National's Facebook page, with the following caption: Dubai Police horses patrol the streets to keep residents safe from Covid-19.

Great job, Dubai Police, and such beautiful horses too.

Raza Shinwari, Dubai

I saw them patrolling in front of my building several time. The Dubai police are doing some amazing work.

Jeff Catacutan, Dubai