Humanity is going through a strange phase. World leaders today are forced to look at an enemy which is almost invisible. If anything, the deadly pandemic has reinforced one basic tenet, and that is of unity (“World urged to be one against COVID-19,” Aug. 21, Gulf Today).

Of course that is easier said than done. The World Health Organisation is stressing upon governments to join hands in finding solutions to the problems caused by the pandemic. The issues are multiple ranging from economic hardships, job losses, hunger, to finding an effective vaccine.

In light of this I fully concur with the suggestions put forward by Saqr Ghobash, Speaker of the Federal National Council, UAE. “The first lesson from the pandemic is that the world should work as one human family because pandemics do not care about geographical borders, ethnicities, religions, politics, economics or culture, and solidarity and cooperation are inevitable,” he said.

Yes, the world needs to unite under one umbrella. It’s only when the richer nations help and reach out to those affected in the poorer nations can we say that we are one family. It is a humungous task no doubt, but it is achievable.

The UAE is a perfect example in that respect. Alongside dealing with the situation at home it has provided medical aid to around 64 countries besides food materials and aid to multiple countries which are struggling to cope with the fallouts of the pandemic.

The UAE has also done exceptionally well in controlling the crisis at home. It tops the list of countries in terms of COVID-19 testing for citizens and residents. And around 15,000 people, both citizens and residents have volunteered for the coronavirus vaccine trials.

It’s only a matter of time before the vaccine emerges. The challenge then would be to make sure that it reaches all corners of the world.

Carmen P — By email