Modi’s visit to the UAE will strengthen long-standing ties

Our readers have their say about Modi, Kabul's wedding attack and accessibility

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Narendra Modi during the Indian Prime Minister's UAE visit in February 2018. Crown Prince Court Abu Dhabi 

I write to you in reference to your article Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit UAE this week (August 19).

I was really happy to read this piece. Shortly after assuming office for his second term as Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has decided to come and visit UAE.

This visit truly shows that the UAE and India have very good and close relations.

With this upcoming visit the two countries will strengthen their trade ties and reinforce their bilateral relations.

K Ragavan, Bengaluru

Wedding attack shows Kabul still suffers from militancy

This refers to the report ISIS claims suicide bombing that killed 63 at wedding in Afghan capital (August 19).

This gruesome incident is clear proof that Afghanistan remains under the threat of terrorist groups. The high number of casualties after the attack is truly horrifying. More must be done to bring back peace and prosperity to a once thriving land.

What will it take for the international community to take action? Attacks in Afghanistan have had a huge death toll last year and continue to cause unrest in Kabul. This should be enough proof that an entire population is suffering and needs our help.

It is the world’s responsibility to stop aggression by extremists such as ISIS and the Taliban and at least attempt to reduce the number of civilian casualties.

The country has suffered from political instability for decades. Despite several peace initiatives, life continues to be hard for ordinary people.

In the present context, it would be difficult for the Taliban and the Afghan government to reach a peace deal.

Ramachandran Nair, Muscat

Accessibility should be a prime concern for everyone

I write to you in reference to Nourhan Samra's article Abu Dhabi improves accessibility at public beaches (August 18).

I am glad this is finally happening.  It was heartbreaking to watch people with disabilities, especially those using motorised wheelchairs having to take the main road to go down to the beach.

Doing so is especially dangerous for them. They deserve better protection.

Accessibility was always an afterthought with all footpaths before. I am happy that things are changing for the best now.

Mohamed Naeem, Abu Dhabi