STANDPOINT by Atique Naqvi

  Russia and Ukraine: A Tragic Comedy of Errors Syed Atique Hussain Naqvi, Toronto, Canada After more than 30 months of armed conflict and hundreds of thousands of deaths, the fact who started the Russia-Ukraine conflict has lost its relevance amid the propaganda drummed up by the two governments. The war propaganda vehicle has been further accelerated by the so-called Western allies of the Ukrainian regime who need to justify to their populations the huge amount of money and aid that they are pouring into Ukraine ignoring the sufferings of their people. Until September 2024 first week, the United States has poured in US$55.7 billion in military assistance since the conflict began on February 24, 2022, after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a “special military operation” in parts of Ukraine, according to the US State Department. The right-leaning US think tank Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), put the total US aid at US$175 billion. It says: “It’s importa...

  CEO of Travel Oregon explains tourism growth roadmap Syed Atique Hussain Naqvi, Toronto, Canada TORONTO: Along the coastlines of the United States, hides Oregon—a land of diverse landscapes and breathtaking views. The coastal gem offers over 360 state parks, but it is not just natural beauty. It also boasts some of the nation’s finest breweries and restaurants. Oregon is a destination where you can wander along stunning shorelines, trek volcanic peaks, paddle serene lakes, and adventure through the desert in dune buggies. Such adventures have consistently attracted tourists eager to make unforgettable memories with their loved ones. However, the COVID-19 pandemic amplified the drive for adventure even more – as people were stuck at home. Now, more than ever, folks are looking for their next travel destination. Todd Davidson, CEO of Travel Oregon, shared his insights with TRENDS on how tourism in Oregon has evolved before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Before and after COVID-19,...

  Alberta seeks to charm the world with a solid tourism growth plan, says Minister Joseph Schow Syed Atique Hussain Naqvi, Toronto Canada    TORONTO: Awareness campaigns and the advent of social media have broken long-held perceptions about Canada being covered in snow throughout the year and Canadians living in igloos. Today, Canada is a preferred choice as a new home for educated and skilled professionals from across the world. The G7 country is not only popular with people who want to become Canadian, but it is also a popular tourist destination owing to modern infrastructure and untouched natural beauty. Home to around 39 million people, Canada is one of the least densely populated countries in the world – four people per square kilometer. With its immense size and low population density, tourists from across the world come to Canada to explore the tranquility of its natural beauty. According to a latest report released in April 2024 by Tourism Industry Association of...

  Brand South Africa: The story of Africa is being reclaimed Syed Atique Hussain, Davos, Switzerland In the power corridors of Davos, Sithembile Ntombela maNdaba, the CEO of Brand South Africa, is as much at ease in talking about South Africa as she is about the larger continent of Africa. While she highlights the success of her country in achieving gains in economy in areas like agriculture, mining and tourism, she is keenly aware of the necessity of forging unity in the continent to have a “unified African voice.” In a wide-ranging interview with Executive Editor of TRENDS news media Syed Atique Hussain, she presents a clear and forward-looking view of South Africa and Africa’s roles in the global landscape. Her insights reflect a focus on growth, strategic planning, and adaptation to the changing world. Her insights provide a clear perspective on the nation’s role and the potential of the African continent in the global context. Excerpts: Can you give us some insigh...

  Bahrain: Investor confidence fuels sustainable growth Syed Atique Hussain, Davos, Switzerland  While world leaders discussed economic and political matters at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Executive Editor of TRENDS news media Syed Atique Hussain Naqvi engaged in a discussion about investments in healthcare, education, and AI in the region during an interview with GFH Financial Group CEO Hisham Alrayes. He outlined how GFH made 2023 a great year by effectively assessing market dynamics, proactively realigning assets, and seizing growth opportunities in the face of global income and yield compressions due to rising interest rates. The discussion covered GFH’s aggressive investments in healthcare, education, logistics, and private lending in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Alrayes anticipates sustainable growth in 2024 that matches the region’s potential and is bolstered by investor confidence. Excerpts: Q: In terms of 2023, how was it for GFH, and what are you look...

  Dubai: Unified approach key to resolve future challenges Syed Atique Hussain Naqvi, Davos Switzerland  Amid discussions on economic policies, the climate crisis, and the ever-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Executive Editor of TRENDS news media Syed Atique Hussain Naqvi interviewed Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation. He shared his insights on the urgent need for a unified approach to address global challenges, ranging from climate issues to policy frameworks and the governance of emerging technologies like generative AI. As the world confronts numerous challenges, Belhoul emphasized the critical importance of developing unified solutions. Climate change and AI regulation have emerged as pivotal issues requiring collaborative efforts and innovative strategies. In our exclusive interview, Belhoul shed light on how the Dubai Future Foundation plans to navigate these challenges in 2024 and the...