UAE proves nothing is impossible

A reader says National Day is a reminder of a phenomenal progress the country has made. Other topics: India's demonetisation, John Cusack, online shopping, animal care

National Day is a reminder of the phenomenal progress the country has made. Pawan Singh / The National

Another National Day is upon us. This time the country turns 45. The occasion is a reminder of how much it has achieved in such a short period. To say that the UAE has set an example in the world would be an understatement. It has, in fact, accomplished an otherwise impossible task.

This has been possible because of the cooperation and contribution of every individual in this country – Emiratis and expatriates – under the guidance of a visionary leadership.

It gives me immense satisfaction to be able to live in this country for many years.

I wish the all the best to everyone on this proud occasion.

S Anwarul Khasleq, Dubai

Modi’s move needs support

I refer to the report India's Modi calls for move towards cashless society (November 28).

This is an obvious choice for a country such as India, which aims to be a global economic superpower. It might not happen as quickly as some people think, but ultimately it has to happen. That will bring down corruption.

Many people are sceptical of this move, calling it too rigid and high-handed. There is no doubt that it has hit the common man hard. But if it does not happen now, when will India move towards a real change?

Opposition political parties must join the government’s fight against corruption, a menace that eats up a mammoth amount of India’s resources.

Most criticisms on demonetisation are politically motivated. Instead of dividing the country over this issue, political parties must join hands to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor, which this move aims at.

India has never got a prime minister who thought about the people or fought against corruption in this manner. Hats off to Mr Modi.

Ramachandran Nair, Oman

Can fans meet John Cusack?

In reference to the news report Abu Dhabi Food Festival gets some Hollywood flavour with guests John Cusack and Jesse Metcalfe (November 29), will "ordinary" people who love their work and have been fans get the chance to attend the event? Or will it be yet another VIP-only event where Cusack will be surrounded by people who have never watched his movies?

Helen Owen Ingram, Abu Dhabi

Online shopping is catching up

It's natural for shoppers to swap the mall for the web, especially on occasions such as Black Friday (Bumper 'White Friday' weekend for Souq.com with surge in online shopping, November 29). Why should I get stuck in traffic, waste fuel, face overcrowded malls and still pay a price at higher markups, when I can buy stuff for less from the comfort of my couch? The only reason I'd buy stuff from a mall is when I need something now.

Mohamed Abushaker, Dubai

Online shopping gives customers the option to look at items they need and take as much time as they want doing so. There is no sales person following you like a shadow wherever you go to suggest to you what is good or bad.

More importantly, online shopping is completely safe and convenient here, unlike some countries where there are problems with quality, delivery, payment methods and so on.

I think more people are getting into the online shopping mode because of this reason, not just on special occasions but throughout the year. It saves time and money.

Petrina Peyang, Abu Dhabi

Good lesson on animal care

I am happy to learn about the volunteer-led education programme teaching children how to treat animals (Abu Dhabi children being taught about animal welfare through cat interaction, November 29).

This is so wonderful. How can children learn about animals and their needs if they are not taught? I thank the people who led this educational programme. It’s a very good step.

Christina Toebast, Abu Dhabi