Romance isn’t dead - it’s just too expensive for us

With reference to your column Sorry, romantics - Valentine's day has no place in our hearts or wallets (February 13), every day ought to be romantic, not just Valentine's Day. That said, VAT is having adverse effects on the spending habits of some residents of the UAE.

Henry Udubra, Canada

Maybe people are just going back to finding more intimate things to do with their loved one. A romantic dinner or walk on the beach is always nice.

Cheri Keller, US️

This has nothing to do with a social trend, it is to do with absolute commercialisation. When I see a price of Dh60 for a small greetings card, this is disgraceful. Of course we should treat our partners with love always but it is nice to treat each other and express our feelings on Valentine’s Day. Unfortunately we are now forced to do this by celebrating on different days and having meals at home. This is due to having to purchase expensive presents and excessive overpricing on simple gifts such as flowers and cards. That is why Valentine’s Day is fading out. People are tired of being ripped off.

Louise Phillips, UK️

Modi wants to establish good relations with all nations

I refer to your article Modi's Ramallah visit to underline Indian support to Palestine (February 9): Samanth Subramanian, the author of the article, elaborately explained Indian prime minister Narendra Modi's visit to Palestine and the Palestinians' expectations of India. India's growing ties with Israel should not trouble Palestinians. Mr Modi wants good relations with all nations and his visit to Ramallah will boost New Delhi's relationship and serve Palestinian interests in the long run.

K Ragavan, Bangalore

Indians have lost faith with tardy government promises

In reference to your editorial Modi's second visit in three years highlights strong India-UAE ties (February 10), the Indian prime minister Narendra Modi has had a successful visit to the UAE and Oman, as evidenced by the time given to him by the leadership of these countries and the audiences waiting to hear his speeches.

Nevertheless, back home, voters are getting disenchanted with the government, due to its tardy economic deliveries. Moreover, Mr Modi’s attacks on the Congress involving pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, a respected and learned former prime minister of India, are in bad taste. Mr Nehru and the Congress were instrumental in attainting freedom for India.

Granted, there is a general election in India next year. However, undue criticism of the leaders of the last 60 or 70 years does not generate goodwill. It only shows growing insecurity.

Rajendra Aneja, Dubai

Your story about the UAE women's ice hockey team taking Washington and the NFL by storm (February 13) was really inspiring. Well done!

Lynne McMurray, Dubai