Will Sisi fulfil the aspirations of all Egyptian people?

I write in reference to your article Sisi re-elected Egyptian president with overwhelming majority (March 30): in the recent Egyptian election, voters bestowed a second term upon upon Abdul Fateh El Sisi.

In my view, this is a good development for Egyptian politics. Mr El Sisi is a reformer, capable of overhauling the economy, bringing jobs to regular people and dealing with terrorism and communal violence. This is likely to have a positive impact on Egypt’s global popularity. Tourism and international visitors will return. But we will have to wait and see if the president’s re-election fulfills the aspirations of all Egyptian people.

K Ragavan, Bengaluru

There is no excuse for the slaughter of innocents

I refer to your story Two British ISIL members say hostage beheadings were a "mistake" (March 31): it is indeed very sad that there have been so many beheadings and murders, including the mass killing of 39 Indian workers, whose remains were discovered recently in Badush near the former ISIL stronghold of Mosul.

I cannot understand how the slaughter of innocents and fellow human beings, who are not engaged in any ideological battle, can serve the purpose of the militants in Syria.

Every human life is precious and leaves a vacuum that can never be filled.

Rajendra Aneja, Dubai

I’m scratching my head trying to figure this one out

I was fascinated by the double page spread on the US trade balance in yesterday’s The National (US trade war threat turns heat up on top importer China, April 1).

However, I would like to encourage and challenge you to come up with a similar up-to-date chart just like it, only for the UAE as this might be far more relevant for this region.  The icing on the cake for me would be to visualise this by each emirate.

Mohamed Kanoo, Abu Dhabi

The Dubai World Cup is the year’s glamorous highlight

I refer to your story Hats and outfits steal the show at Dubai World Cup (April 1): I am so glad that the elegance, taste and opulent fashion at this auspicious event are forever raising the standard as an inspiration to those who have not had the pure joy and wonder of experiencing the seven or eight hours of luxury showcasing the Middle East's love for horses.

Philip Wright, UK

Postponing good conduct certificates was right thing

In reference to your story UAE suspends good conduct certificates (April 1), the intention behind the rule was good but it could have been open to abuse. It is better it has been stopped.

Name withheld by request

I just lost weeks trying to get this document, spent money and now I find out it is not needed. Will they return the payment?

Armen Kostanyan, Dubai