Le Pen sets off a controversy in Beirut visit

I write about far-right French presidential candidate Marine Le Pen’s visit to Lebanon (France’s Le Pen refuses headscarf to meet Lebanon’s mufti, February 21). Her decision not to wear a headscarf in a meeting with a religious cleric was premeditated.
She wanted to make a stand in front of the world media and create a buzz for her own political objectives. I am sure that Ms Le Pen was aware of the request of the mufti and deliberately sought the provocation with the religious authorities.
The Islamic veil is a topic that divides France. She wanted to reinforce her extremist attitude for her rightist voters.
Nicolas Benoit, Dubai
Some religious Muslims believe that everyone should follow religious edicts closely. The veil issue is a good example of this debate. I believe that there are more important issues facing the Muslim community and we should not focus on small issues.
Abubakar Wirra, India
I don’t agree with the French far right or Marine Le Pen on every issue but I have to agree with her on this one. Why should she have to wear a veil in this meeting? She is not a Muslim and she is breaking no Lebanese law by refusing the headscarf.
Jurgen Doggo, Abu Dhabi
Our brilliant next generation
I write about Alia Al Mansoori. This special Emirati pupil won the Genes in Space competition this month and was congratulated by Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
This competition is in keeping with the UAE’s strategy to develop a knowledge-based economy and even one day to colonise Mars. Congratulations to this outstanding pupil. She should serve as a role model for all students.
One step for Alia, one giant leap for the UAE. I’m sure SpaceX would more than welcome her.
Randall Mohammed, Dubai
Woman of all ages have kids
Concerning the woman who recently had a child at the age of 63 (Anger over woman who had an IVF baby at 63, February 21), this is a good news for women, many of whom delay marriage and having children because of career demands.
It should also give hope to those who get married much later in life. As long as a woman is healthy, age should not be a factor in deciding to have children.
Fatima Suhail, Sharjah
A touch of gloomy weather
Like many in the country, I am thinking about the weather this week (UAE weather: Gloomy days and chilly temperatures set to continue, February 21). I came back to the United Kingdom on Saturday after two weeks in Dubai. It was strange weather during the entire second week of my holiday but at least it was warm. I couldn’t believe the rain on Friday night: it was absolutely pouring down.
Pauline Henderson Martin, UK
With all the talk about the weather, I love the way that no one gives credit to Mother Nature.
The fact is that we are in the middle of changing eco-systems all over the world.
Dani Billington, Dubai
I want to thank the weather patterns for this great weather we are all enjoying.
I get so sick of the heat and constant sun that a little rain is good for me.
Sammie Wai, Dubai
Be careful of debt companies
I refer to the excellent debt panel feature that ran in your paper (The Debt Panel: Cabin crew scammed in Ponzi scheme left Dh350,000 in debt and in need of help from bank, February 21). This series contains loads of great advice.
All too often debt management companies have better luck negotiating with the banks than with individuals themselves because people prevent them from getting things done faster. Some companies are doing a great deed in assisting people who require help.
Junaid Malik, Abu Dhabi
Will oil workers return to Dubai?
In reference to your report about Dubai oil workers (Hope for Dubai oil workers who are owed pay, February 21), their boss is not coming back to Dubai. I guarantee it. They’re just saying that to get people to leave them alone for a few weeks.

Source: The National