Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Takeda Receives Positive CHMP Opinion for ADCETRIS® (brentuximab vedotin) as Consolidation Treatment in Post-Transplant Hodgkin Lymphoma

− Positive opinion reinforces the role of ADCETRIS in earlier line of treatment in Hodgkin lymphoma −

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. & OSAKA, Japan - Sunday, May 29th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (TSE: 4502) today announced that the European Medicines Agency’s (EMA) Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) has adopted a positive opinion for the extension of the current conditional approval of ADCETRIS® (brentuximab vedotin) and recommended its approval for the treatment of adult patients with CD30+ Hodgkin lymphoma at increased risk of relapse or progression following autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). On average 50 percent of Hodgkin lymphoma patients relapse after ASCT and those patients with additional risk factors can be at even higher risk of relapse. ADCETRIS after ASCT is a new treatment paradigm based on the largest randomized study ever conducted in relapsed or refractory Hodgkin lymphoma. The AETHERA Phase 3 trial is the first completed study that has explored consolidation treatment immediately following ASCT as a way of extending the effect of transplant for prevention of relapse among people with Hodgkin lymphoma. The use of ADCETRIS in this setting may provide a meaningful treatment option where none currently exist for patients.

“While ASCT is the standard of care following failure of frontline chemotherapy in Hodgkin lymphoma, we know that many patients will unfortunately see their disease return. Early eradication of residual disease through treatment with ADCETRIS has the highest chance of preventing the disease from returning in these patients,” said Dirk Huebner, M.D., Executive Medical Director, Oncology Therapeutic Area Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company. “This opinion, in addition to the recent five year overall survival data in relapsed or refractory Hodgkin lymphoma, further establishes the role of ADCETRIS in improving outcomes for patients. We look forward to the European Commission’s authorization of this new indication and bringing this medicine to physicians and patients in the European Union.”

The CHMP positive opinion for ADCETRIS will now be reviewed by the European Commission (EC). If the CHMP recommendation is formally adopted by the EC, which has the authority to approve medicines for the European Union (EU), ADCETRIS will be approved for marketing of this indication in the 28 member states of the EU, Norway Liechtenstein and Iceland.

This opinion is based on the results of the Phase 3 AETHERA study. The AETHERA trial met its primary endpoint with ADCETRIS (plus best supportive care) treatment resulting in a statistically significant improvement in progression-free survival (PFS) versus placebo (plus best supportive care) as assessed by an independent central review committee (hazard ratio=0.57; p-value=0.001), which equates to a 75 percent improvement in PFS. PFS was assessed after a minimum of two years post initiation of treatment for all study patients. An updated analysis conducted after three years of follow up showed sustained PFS improvement (per Independent Review Facility; HR=0.58; 95%CI (0.41,0.81). A pre-specified interim analysis of overall survival showed no statistically significant difference between the treatment arms. The safety profile of ADCETRIS in the AETHERA trial was generally consistent with the existing prescribing information.

About Hodgkin Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a general term for a group of cancers that originate in the lymphatic system. There are two major categories of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Hodgkin lymphoma is distinguished from other types of lymphoma by the presence of one characteristic type of cell, known as the Reed-Sternberg cell. The Reed-Sternberg cell expresses CD30.

About ADCETRIS
ADCETRIS® (brentuximab vedotin) is an ADC comprising an anti-CD30 monoclonal antibody attached by a protease-cleavable linker to a microtubule disrupting agent, monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE), utilizing proprietary technology by Seattle Genetics. The ADC employs a linker system that is designed to be stable in the bloodstream but to release MMAE upon internalization into CD30-expressing tumor cells.

ADCETRIS was granted conditional marketing authorization by the European Commission in October 2012 for two indications: (1) for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory CD30-positive Hodgkin lymphoma following autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT), or following at least two prior therapies when ASCT or multi-agent chemotherapy is not a treatment option, and (2) the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (sALCL). In January 2016, the European Commission approved a Type II variation to include data on the retreatment of adult patients with Hodgkin lymphoma or sALCL who previously responded to ADCETRIS and who later relapse. ADCETRIS has received marketing authorization by regulatory authorities in more than 60 countries. See important safety information below.

ADCETRIS is being evaluated broadly in more than 45 ongoing clinical trials, including the Phase 3 ALCANZA trial in CD30+ cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL) and two additional Phase 3 studies, one in frontline classical Hodgkin lymphoma (ECHELON-1) and one in frontline CD30+ mature T-cell lymphomas (ECHELON-2), as well as trials in many additional types of CD30-expressing malignancies.

Seattle Genetics and Takeda are jointly developing ADCETRIS. Under the terms of the collaboration agreement, Seattle Genetics has U.S. and Canadian commercialization rights and Takeda has rights to commercialize ADCETRIS in the rest of the world. Seattle Genetics and Takeda are funding joint development costs for ADCETRIS on a 50:50 basis, except in Japan where Takeda is solely responsible for development costs.

About Takeda Pharmaceutical Company
Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited is a global, R&D-driven pharmaceutical company committed to bringing better health and a brighter future to patients by translating science into life-changing medicines. Takeda focuses its research efforts on oncology, gastroenterology and central nervous system therapeutic areas. It also has specific development programs in specialty cardiovascular diseases as well as late-stage candidates for vaccines. Takeda conducts R&D both internally and with partners to stay at the leading edge of innovation. New innovative products, especially in oncology and gastroenterology, as well as its presence in emerging markets, fuel the growth of Takeda. More than 30,000 Takeda employees are committed to improving quality of life for patients, working with our partners in health care in more than 70 countries. For more information, visithttp://www.takeda.com/news.

Additional information about Takeda is available through its corporate website, www.takeda.com, and additional information about Takeda Oncology, the brand for the global oncology business unit of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, is available through its website, www.takedaoncology.com.

INDICATIONS
ADCETRIS® is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory CD30+ Hodgkin lymphoma (HL):

1. following autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) or
2. following at least two prior therapies when ASCT or multi-agent chemotherapy is not a treatment option.

ADCETRIS is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (sALCL).

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

CONTRAINDICATIONS

ADCETRIS is contraindicated for patients with hypersensitivity to brentuximab vedotin and its excipients. In addition, combined use of bleomycin and ADCETRIS causes pulmonary toxicity, and is contraindicated.

SPECIAL WARNINGS & PRECAUTIONS

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML): John Cunningham virus (JCV) reactivation resulting in PML and death can occur in patients treated with ADCETRIS. PML has been reported in patients who received ADCETRIS after receiving multiple prior chemotherapy regimens.

Patients should be closely monitored for new or worsening neurological, cognitive, or behavioral signs or symptoms, which may be suggestive of PML. Suggested evaluation of PML includes neurology consultation, gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis for JCV DNA by polymerase chain reaction or a brain biopsy with evidence of JCV. ADCETRIS dosing should be held for any suspected case of PML and should be permanently discontinued if a diagnosis of PML is confirmed.

Pancreatitis: Acute pancreatitis has been observed in patients treated with ADCETRIS. Fatal outcomes have been reported. Patients should be closely monitored for new or worsening abdominal pain, which may be suggestive of acute pancreatitis. Patient evaluation may include physical examination, laboratory evaluation for serum amylase and serum lipase, and abdominal imaging, such as ultrasound and other appropriate diagnostic measures. ADCETRIS should be held for any suspected case of acute pancreatitis. ADCETRIS should be discontinued if a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis is confirmed.

Pulmonary Toxicity: Cases of pulmonary toxicity have been reported in patients receiving ADCETRIS. Although a causal association with ADCETRIS has not been established, the risk of pulmonary toxicity cannot be ruled out and patients should be treated appropriately.

Serious infections and opportunistic infections: Serious infections such as pneumonia, staphylococcal bacteremia, sepsis/septic shock (including fatal outcomes), and herpes zoster, and opportunistic infections such as Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia and oral candidiasis have been reported in patients treated with ADCETRIS. Patients should be carefully monitored during treatment for emergence of possible serious and opportunistic infections.

Infusion-related reactions: Immediate and delayed infusion-related reactions, as well as anaphylaxis, have occurred with ADCETRIS. Patients should be carefully monitored during and after an infusion. If anaphylaxis occurs, administration of ADCETRIS should be immediately and permanently discontinued and appropriate medical therapy should be administered. If an infusion-related reaction occurs, the infusion should be interrupted and appropriate medical management instituted. The infusion may be restarted at a slower rate after symptom resolution. Patients who have experienced a prior infusion-related reaction should be premedicated for subsequent infusions.

Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS): TLS has been reported with ADCETRIS. Patients with rapidly proliferating tumor and high tumor burden are at risk of TLS. These patients should be monitored closely and managed according to best medical practice.

Peripheral neuropathy (PN): ADCETRIS treatment may cause PN that is predominantly sensory. Cases of peripheral motor neuropathy have also been reported. ADCETRIS-induced PN is typically cumulative. Patients should be monitored for symptoms of PN, such as hypoesthesia, hyperesthesia, paresthesia, discomfort, a burning sensation, neuropathic pain, or weakness. Dose modification for PN should be instituted accordingly.

Hematological toxicities: Grade 3 or Grade 4 anemia, thrombocytopenia, and prolonged (equal to or greater than one week) Grade 3 or Grade 4 neutropenia can occur with ADCETRIS. Complete blood counts should be monitored prior to administration of each dose.

Febrile neutropenia: Febrile neutropenia has been reported. Patients should be monitored closely for fever and managed according to best medical practice.

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS): SJS and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) have been reported with brentuximab vedotin. Fatal outcomes have been reported. If SJS or TEN occurs, treatment with ADCETRIS should be discontinued and appropriate medical therapy should be administered.

Hepatic function: Elevations in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) have been reported. Liver function should be routinely monitored in patients receiving brentuximab vedotin.

Hyperglycemia: Hyperglycemia has been reported during trials in patients with an elevated body mass index (BMI) with or without a history of diabetes mellitus. However, any patient who experiences an event of hyperglycemia should have their serum glucose closely monitored. Antidiabetic treatment should be administered as appropriate.

Renal and Hepatic Impairment: There is limited experience in patients with renal and hepatic impairment. Available data indicate that MMAE clearance might be affected by severe renal impairment (MMAE exposure increased approximately 1.9-fold), hepatic impairment (MMAE exposure increased approximately 2.3-fold), and by low serum albumin concentrations (MMAE clearance was 2-fold lower). The recommended starting dose in patients with hepatic impairment or severe renal impairment is 1.2 mg/kg administered as an intravenous infusion over 30 minutes every 3 weeks. Patients with renal or hepatic impairment should be closely monitored for adverse events.

Sodium content in excipients: This medicinal product contains a maximum of 2.1 mmol (or 47 mg) of sodium per dose. To be taken into consideration for patients on a controlled sodium diet.

INTERACTIONS
Patients who are receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors concomitantly with ADCETRIS should be closely monitored for adverse events. Coadministration of ADCETRIS with CYP3A4 inducers did not alter the metabolism of ADCETRIS; however, it reduced exposure to MMAE by approximately 31%. ADCETRIS is not expected to alter the exposure to drugs that are metabolized by CYP3A4 enzymes.

PREGNANCY: Women of childbearing potential should be using 2 methods of effective contraception during treatment with ADCETRIS and until 6 months after treatment. There are no data from the use of ADCETRIS in pregnant women, although studies in animals have shown reproductive toxicity. ADCETRIS should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risks to the fetus. If a pregnant woman needs to be treated, she should be clearly advised on the potential risk to the fetus.

LACTATION (breast-feeding): There are no data as to whether ADCETRIS or its metabolites are excreted in human milk, therefore a risk to the newborn/infant cannot be excluded.

FERTILITY: In nonclinical studies, ADCETRIS treatment has resulted in testicular toxicity, and may alter male fertility. Men being treated with this medicine are advised not to father a child during treatment and for up to 6 months following the last dose.

ADVERSE REACTIONS

Serious adverse drug reactions were: neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, pyrexia, peripheral motor neuropathy and peripheral sensory neuropathy, hyperglycemia, demyelinating polyneuropathy, tumor lysis syndrome, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

In the clinical studies of ADCETRIS, adverse reactions defined as very common (≥1/10) were: infection, neutropenia, peripheral sensory neuropathy, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, alopecia, pruritus, myalgia, fatigue, pyrexia, and infusion-related reactions. Adverse reactions defined as common (≥1/100 to <1/10) were: Sepsis/septic shock (including fatal events), upper respiratory tract infection, herpes zoster, pneumonia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, hyperglycemia, peripheral motor neuropathy, dizziness, demyelinating polyneuropathy, cough, dyspnea, constipation, rash, arthralgia, back pain, and chills.

Contacts

Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited

European Media

Kate Burd, +44 7974 151510

kate.burd@takeda.com



Japanese Media

Tsuyoshi Tada, +81 (0) 3-3278-2417

tsuyoshi.tada@takeda.com



Media outside Japan/EU

Amy Atwood, +1-617-444-2147

amy.atwood@takeda.com





Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/18022/en

BenQ doubles its Middle East market share in Q1’16

 DUBAI, United Arab Emirates - Monday, May 30th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

    Company captures 9.90 per cent of UAE market
    Turkey, KSA record impressive performance

​BenQ, one of the pioneers of professional gaming monitors and a leading human technology and solutions provider, continues to make inroads in the various geographies in which it operates, improving its market share and setting new standards for customer satisfaction.

Buoyed by its XR Series, which boasts of the world’s first 35-inch curved gaming monitor with the fastest refresh rate, the company notched up a 9.90 per cent market share in the UAE in the quarter ended March, 2016, up from 1.6 per cent in the year-ago quarter.

Overall, BenQ doubled its market share in the Middle East in the March-ended quarter, becoming the number four player in the region. The company’s market share also doubled in KSA and Turkey. Qatar, where BenQ entered for the first time this year, registered a satisfactory performance.

Giving details about the company’s performance, Manish Bakshi, Managing Director, BenQ Middle East & Turkey, said: “We are very happy with our performance in the first quarter of 2016. Not only have we doubled our market share in many regions, our ranking has also improved significantly. In fact, if we consider Stand Alone LCDM brands in the Middle East region as a whole, we now stand at number four in the market. BenQ has taken gaming to the next level with its innovative and revolutionary monitors, tailor-made for gaming enthusiasts interested in hardcore gaming genres. Our gaming monitors offer a well-balanced choice between image quality, image response time, power consumption and screen size, thus delivering a smooth and immersive gaming experience.”

BenQ entered the competitive gaming monitor market in 2006, with a commitment to take eSports to the next level. Ever since, the company has been offering more and more innovative products, and constantly upgrading the whole concept of gaming. In order to deliver a better viewing experience, BenQ moved from 120 Hz monitors to 144 Hz monitors, which provide a new image every seventh millisecond. The refresh rate being better, the gaming experience automatically transcends to the next level.

The company’s gaming monitors range from the XL Series to the RL Series, and the XR Series. Each offers distinctive advantages, catering to different requirements. The XL Series is geared towards speed and accuracy for FPS games, enabling professional gamers to take advantage of the super-fast 144Hz response rate and razor-sharp clarity.

The RL Series focuses on image clarity and ease of use for RTS, MOBA and fighting games. It provides seamless navigation, unprecedented control and ultimate comfort for handling the intensity of the competition in every way.

The XR Series boasts of the world’s first 35-inch curved gaming monitor, with 2000R ultra high curvature (highest in the market), and the fastest refresh rate.

With the gaming industry in the Middle East expected to grow to $4.4bn in 2022, BenQ is ready to unleash innovative offerings for serious gamers looking for the ultimate immersive gaming experience.

----END---

    About BenQ Corporation

Founded on the corporate vision of "Bringing Enjoyment 'N' Quality to Life", BenQ Corporation is a world-leading human technology and solutions provider, aiming to elevate and enrich every aspect of consumers' lives. To realize this vision, the company focuses on the aspects that matter most to people today - lifestyle, business, healthcare and education - with the hope of providing people with the means to live better, increase efficiency, feel healthier and enhance learning. Such means include a delightfully broad portfolio of people-driven products and embedded technologies spanning digital projectors, monitors, interactive large-format displays, digital cameras and camcorders, mobile computing devices, and lighting solutions. Because it matters.

    About BenQ Group

The BenQ Group is a $22+ billion powerhouse comprising 15+ independent companies, operating in over 30 countries, with a combined workforce of over 100,000 employees. Each Group member is a recognized leader in its own field, contributing to BenQ Group's distinct strategic strengths. By leveraging each company's vertical specialization to create true scale across horizontal markets, the BenQ Group controls a highly efficient value chain with the unrivaled ability to deliver critical components and world-class solutions in the following industries: TFT-LCD, green energy, fine chemicals and advanced materials, lighting, IC design, precision components, system integration, branded business, and service. The Group is committed to profitable and sustainable businesses that share its long-standing vision of Bringing Enjoyment 'N' Quality to Life.

Contacts

Marissa Pinto, +971 50 754 1420

Absolute Public Relations

MarissaP@absolutecg.net









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/18033/en

ACCA and AAA Strengthens Accountancy and Finance Profession by Producing Business Law Exam Exclusively For the UAE

Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Thursday, May 26th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is the first accountancy body in the UAE to work with national body AAA (Accountants and Auditors Association) to produce a UAE version of paper F4 – Corporate and Business Law

This exclusive partnership furthers ACCA’s commitment to creating competent finance professionals equipped with both local and global expertise. The structure of the UAE’s version of paper F4 is in line with its government’s aspirations to become a leading financial services centre globally.

The UAE version of paper F4 covers various aspects of UAE business law, ensuring that students get locally relevant knowledge whilst studying a global qualification. The paper supports the development and retention of local talent, creating finance professionals with a global perspective of business uniquely complemented by local business environment knowledge and expertise. This is a part of ACCA’s on-going strategy to ensure employers have an established pipeline of qualified finance professionals.

Lindsay Degouve de Nunques, Head of ACCA Middle East said, “The unique partnership between ACCA and AAA supports students across the UAE to gain a better understanding of local business law through local content, whilst studying for a professional, globally recognised accountancy qualification. With students gaining knowledge and skills that are relevant both to the UAE and globally, the development helps businesses in the region to develop a competitive advantage through its finance professionals.

“Employers and relevant stakeholders in the UAE will have access to a well-rounded pool of national talent. We are confident that the development of this UAE version of paper F4 supports a vision of successful future finance professionals in UAE, certainly putting their students on the map.”

Ahmad Darwish, CEO of AAA’s Dubai Office said “When AAA signed a partnership with ACCA and produced the national qualification of the UAE – UAECA Qualification  – our vision was to have local content for the qualification which will meet the needs of the UAE’s aspiring professional accountants and our stakeholders. With the launch of F4 UAE exam paper, I am confident these needs will now be met.”

F4 UAE is available from ACCA’s December 2016 examination session. ACCA has an established approach to exam development that ensures that levels of rigour across the qualification are maintained. F4 continues to recognise that candidates are potential finance professionals, rather than potential lawyers.

Notes to Editors

About ACCA

ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is the global body for professional accountants. It offers business-relevant, first-choice qualifications to people of application, ability and ambition around the world who seek a rewarding career in accountancy, finance and management.

ACCA supports its 178,000 members and 455,000 students in 181 countries, helping them to develop successful careers in accounting and business, with the skills required by employers. ACCA works through a network of 95 offices and centers and more than 7,110 Approved Employers worldwide, who provide high standards of employee learning and development. Through its public interest remit, ACCA promotes appropriate regulation of accounting and conducts relevant research to ensure accountancy continues to grow in reputation and influence.

Founded in 1904, ACCA has consistently held unique core values: opportunity, diversity, innovation, integrity and accountability. It believes that accountants bring value to economies in all stages of development and seek to develop capacity in the profession and encourage the adoption of global standards. ACCA’s core values are aligned to the needs of employers in all sectors and it ensures that through its range of qualifications, it prepares accountants for business. ACCA seeks to open up the profession to people of all backgrounds and remove artificial barriers, innovating its qualifications and delivery to meet the diverse needs of trainee professionals and their employers. For more information: www.accaglobal.com.

Contacts

Helen Thompson, ACCA Newsroom

Tel: +44 (0)20 7059 5759

Mob: +44 (0)7725 498 654

Twitter @ACCANews

helen.thompson@accaglobal.com









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/17997/en

Monday, May 30, 2016

MoI Dialogue on Child Rights Law “Wadeema” with 33 Entities

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates - Wednesday, May 25th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

The Human Rights Department at the General Secretariat of the Office of H.H Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Interior hosted an interactive dialogue session tnon the Child Rights Law “Wadeema”. The dialogue, which took place on Tuesday at the Hilton Grand Abu Dhabi, was attended by 33 societal and governmental entities.

In his welcome speech, Major General Khalifa Hareb Al Khaiaili, Acting Assistant Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior for Naturalization, Residency and Ports Affairs, reiterated the Ministry of Interior’s unwavering commitment to establish the UAE as a cultural beacon, one that is a role model in the region for reinforcing child protection and safety, through effective precautionary measures to promote safety and security in society.

He said: “Partnerships amongst the different sectors are essential to achieve the objectives set out in the “Interactive Dialogue”, notably to introduce the law as a comprehensive international and national child protection requirement; and determine the respective responsibilities assumed by the concerned authorities and personnel. The objectives also include shedding the light on the mechanisms to provide protection and prevention for children; the criminal penalties incurred by violators, and their connections to the other regulations.”

The session was attended by Major General Salem Mubarak Al Shamesi, Director General of Finance and Support Services at the Ministry of Interior; Brigadier Ahmed Mohammed Nekhairah, Head of Human Rights Department at the Ministry of Interior; Judge Dr. Hatem Aly, UNODC's representative and head of the sub-regional office for the GCC; and Mohammed Salim Al Ka’bi, Chairman of the Emirates Human Rights Association (EHRA). Also present were Amina Za’al Al Muhairi, Deputy Director of Human Rights Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation; and a large crowd of guests including representatives of ministries, federal and local governmental entities, and civil society organizations concerned with human rights in the UAE.



Child Rights Law: a Significant Legislative Addition

The first session was chaired by Colonel Dr. Jassem Khalil Mirza, Head of the Media Committee at the Higher Committee for Child Protection at the Ministry of Interior. The main theme focused on the importance of this law, which redefines child protection, and represents a significant legislative addition to the UAE’s record of achievements. The first paper highlighted the content of the law and its relation to the national legislations and international conventions. The paper was presented by Moza Salem Al Shoumi, Member of the Supreme Council for Motherhood & Childhood, and Member of the Higher Committee for Child Protection at the Ministry of Interior.

Al Shoumi explained that the UAE dedicates significant attention to the protection of children and their rights, out of its firm belief that investing in children’s wellbeing is a way of investing in future growth. Based on this vision, the government was keen to implement the best of international standards to create a suitable environment for children where they can grow and be protected.

Adding further, Al Shoumi noted that the Child Rights Law, “Wadeema”, complements the host of social legislations in the UAE, which safeguard human rights, dignity and freedoms. She said: “The law includes many articles that aim to protect the rights of children, based on the Convention on the Rights of the Child signed by the UAE. It has contributed to establish the UAE as a hub for excellence in all areas related to child protection, and reflects the country’s efforts to promote child protection.”

In conclusion, Al Shoumi said: “Protecting children from abuse and neglect and early intervention can save a child’s life. Recent studies show that child abuse and neglect affect children’s health now and later, and can lead to chronic diseases, disabilities and even well into adulthood.”

The second paper was delivered by Family Consultant Dr. Abdul Aziz Mohammed Al Hammadi, Head of Family Cohesion Department at the Community Development Authority. In his paper titled “Family Cohesion Promote Community Cohesion”, Dr. Al Hammadi stressed the valuable importance of the Child Protection Law, as well as the need to implement the law and its regulations that will be issued soon. He said: “A cohesive family is capable of making a positive impact and keeping pace with developments while maintaining social traditions and norms. A cohesive family can nurture a purposeful relationship, based on beliefs and voluntary personal decisions, and can channel the behaviors of its members towards achieving certain objectives.”

In conclusion, Dr. Al Hammadi called for concerted efforts amongst all entities to achieve the objectives of the law. He also highlighted the key challenges that face families; notably, the inability to make positive healthy changes; prevalence of materialistic culture and values; life pressures; and busy parents. He also gave an overview of the external influencing factors, such as the rising pace of technological change in information and communications; the unlimited openness to other cultures, and the limited influence of school, university, and family.



Coordination and cooperation on Child Protection

The second session was chaired by Colonel Dr. Ahmad Ali Alkhzimi, Director of the Officers’ Training Institute at the Ministry of Interior, and discussed the role of the Child Protection Law in maintaining the cohesion and structure of families. Badriya Yousuf Al Farsi, Head of Programs and Research Department at the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC), and member of the Higher Committee for Child Protection at the Ministry of Interior, presented a paper on the mechanism of coordination and cooperation on child protection issues. She noted that DFWAC provides immediate protection and support services for women and children in the UAE against domestic violence, child abuse and human trafficking. She said: “In keeping with the Child Protection Law, DFWAC will provide women and children with temporary housing and care services including psychological, health, and social care. The Foundation will also provide urgent consultancy services for victims of abuse and violence, by acquainting them with their rights and methods of solving their problems, as well as training and rehabilitating victims to become active members within their community.”

Ms. Al Farsi also noted that DFWAC will also endeavor to boost awareness amongst community members about abuse and violence; women and children’s rights and the importance of protecting these rights. Additionally, the Foundation will provide psychological and social consultancy services to families that need to improve their stability, and provide legal representation for women and children-victims of abuse and violence.

Consultant Mohammed Ahmad Al Hammadi, from the Fatwa and Legislation Department at the Ministry of Justice, and Chairman of the Legislative Committee at the Higher Committee for Child Protection at the Ministry of Interior, reviewed the mechanisms that ensure legal protection for children. He explained that the Child Protection Law and its regulations ensure the optimal implementation of international child protection requirements and standards. It also takes into account consideration the international measures enforced to protect children against abuse. The new law has also regulated the fundamental children’s rights stipulated by the Constitution, and the ones that are included in the International Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the protocols included in the appendices.

Major General Khalifa Hareb Al Khaiaili, honored Hamdan bin Zayed Mixed School in Abu Dhabi in recognition of the school students’ performance at the opening ceremony of the ‘Interactive Dialogue’ session. The performance highlighted the valuable role of the family and its importance in nurturing the upcoming generation and protecting them against dangers.

Children also expressed their strong faith in the role that the UAE is playing in providing protection for children. They also noted that the Child Protection Law is child-friendly as it criminalizes offenders. Brigadier Ahmed Mohammed Nekhairah honored the Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC), session moderators, and all those who contributed valuable input to the sessions through their papers, in recognition of their efforts that enriched the interactive dialogue sessions.



For more information about:

The Ministry of Interior, please click HERE

Abu Dhabi Police, please click HERE

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The Arabic-language text of this announcement is the official, authoritative version. Translations are provided as an accommodation only, and should be cross-referenced with the Arabic-language text, which is the only version of the text intended to have legal effect.

Contacts

The UAE Minister of Interior's General Secretariat, Tactical Affairs and Security Media Department

Abu Dhabi Police GHQ - Security Media

Chris Cron +971-(0)-50-666-4891

E-mail: cron.media@hotmail.com









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/17993/en

Kuwaiti Delegation Reviews UAE’s Correctional and Punitive Establishments Experience

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates - Wednesday, May 25th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

A delegation from the sisterly country of Kuwait reviewed the UAE’s experience pertaining to work processes and mechanisms at the Correctional and Punitive Establishments, as well as the efforts exerted by the Ministry of Interior to reform and rehabilitate inmates.  The delegation visited the General Directorate of Punitive and Correctional Establishments at the Ministry of Interior and the Punitive and Correctional Establishments Department at Abu Dhabi Police.

Brigadier Hamad Khamis Al Dhaheri, Deputy Head of the Punitive and Correctional Establishments Department at the Ministry of Interior, stressed the significant importance of cooperation with sisterly countries in all areas related to work at the Correctional and Punitive Establishments. He pointed out that the MoI is exerting great efforts in order to ensure respect for inmates, through the various rehabilitation programs designed to reform them and provide a decent life for them and their families.

The visiting delegation was headed by Brigadier Salem Mohammed Al Marri, Assistant Director General, the Sentences Enforcement General Directorate, at the Reforming Institutes and Sentences Enforcement Sector at the Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior. Members of the delegation were briefed about the organizational structure of the General Directorate of Punitive and Correctional Establishments and its different tasks, duties and jurisdictions; as well as the jurisdictions of its affiliated regional departments at the countrywide level.

During the meeting, both sides discussed topics of common interest and ways to promote cooperation and collaboration between both Ministries of Interior in all areas related to the Correctional and Punitive Establishments.

The meeting was attended by Brigadier Yusuf Rashed Al Hamidi, Head of the Policies and Standards Department; in addition to heads of departments at the General Directorate of Punitive and Correctional Establishments.

The Kuwaiti delegation also reviewed the tasks and duties undertaken by the Punitive and Correctional Establishments Department at Abu Dhabi Police; in addition to the applicable procedures, services, and activities provided to inmates.

For his part, Brigadier Mohammed Saif Al Zaabi, Head of the Punitive and Correctional Establishments Department, gave an overview of the work processes and procedures at the department, as well as the services and activities provided to inmates. The delegation members praised the leading role of the Punitive and Correctional Establishments in rehabilitating and reforming inmates and improving their performance.

The delegation members toured the department and were briefed about the ‘labor market program’, the vocational and technical workshops, the library and classrooms, and the license plates factory. They also toured the cultural activities halls, the drug inmates’ wards, the new medical clinic, the Personal Property and Garment Storage and operating procedures, the civil status section, the new inspection devices, and the Training Institute at the Punitive and Correctional Establishments Department.

For more information about:

The Ministry of Interior, please click HERE

Abu Dhabi Police, please click HERE

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The Arabic-language text of this announcement is the official, authoritative version. Translations are provided as an accommodation only, and should be cross-referenced with the Arabic-language text, which is the only version of the text intended to have legal effect.

Contacts

The UAE Minister of Interior's General Secretariat, Tactical Affairs and Security Media Department

Abu Dhabi Police GHQ - Security Media

Chris Cron +971-(0)-50-666-4891

E-mail: cron.media@hotmail.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/17992/en

UAE Participates in the GCC Interior Undersecretaries Extraordinary Meeting in Riyadh, KSA

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates - Wednesday, May 25th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

The UAE took part in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Ministry of Interior Undersecretaries’ Extraordinary Meeting, which was held yesterday evening (Tuesday) at the headquarters of the GCC General Secretariat in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The UAE delegation was headed by Lt. General Saif Abdullah Al Sha'far, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Interior (MoI). The meeting participants discussed a number of agenda topics in a bid to enhance cooperation and coordination amongst the GCC member states, in various joint security fields. In particular, the meeting tackled the vision of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia, which was endorsed by Their Majesties and Their Highnesses the GCC leaders at the 36th GCC Summit, held in Riyadh last year.

Additionally, the participants discussed ways to strengthen joint security endeavorsbetween the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in various security fields, and for fighting all forms of crime.

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The UAE delegation includedBrigadier General Dr. Rashid Sultan Al Khodr, Vice Chairman of the Legal Council at the Ministry of Interior; Lt. Colonel Dr. Jamal Saif Fares, Director of the Legal Affairs Department of H.H. Deputy Prime Minister and MoI Diwan; Lieutenant Colonel Ahmed Mohammed Al Marar, Director of Governmental Affairs Department at the Diwan; Lt. Colonel Ahmed Saeed Al Mazroui, Head of the International Cooperation Department at the MoI; as well as a number of MoI officers.

For more information about:

The Ministry of Interior, please click HERE

Abu Dhabi Police, please click HERE

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The Arabic-language text of this announcement is the official, authoritative version. Translations are provided as an accommodation only, and should be cross-referenced with the Arabic-language text, which is the only version of the text intended to have legal effect.

Contacts

The UAE Minister of Interior's General Secretariat, Tactical Affairs and Security Media Department

Abu Dhabi Police GHQ - Security Media

Chris Cron +971-(0)-50-666-4891

E-mail: cron.media@hotmail.com









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/17988/en

Abu Dhabi Police Uses “First Emergency Respondent” Rescue Motorbike

After Innovative Modifications

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates - Sunday, May 29th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

The Abu Dhabi Police has made special motorbike modifications for use as a first respondent. The bike features particular specifications and is equipped with manual and rechargeable electric tools and equipment to rescue victims trapped inside vehicles after serious accidents.

Brigadier Engineer Hussein Ahmed Al Harthi, Director General of Central Operations at Abu Dhabi Police, stressed the importance of providing comprehensive capabilities and innovative technical solutions for emergency teams and rescue operations. This ensures the highest levels of response and safety for everyone involved in serious emergencies and traffic accidents. These standards can be achieved by adopting the best initiatives and strategic plans to train the force personnel and enhance their levels preparedness. This enables them to perform their duties in saving and rescuing the victims of serious emergencies or traffic accidents. These practices are in keeping with the implementation of the best of international standards.

From his perspective, Colonel Mohammed Ibrahim Al Ameri, Head of the Emergency and Public Safety Department at Abu Dhabi Police said that the Department’s creativity and innovation team was able to design the tools and equipment to facilitate the response teams in carrying out their duties, by swiftly responding to emergencies and overcoming some of the traditional challenges that face the rescue and emergency teams, such as cutting vehicles to rescue victims from the wreckage. These efforts reflect the directives of the leadership and its eagerness to make the Abu Dhabi Police a pioneer in utilizing the best of technologies and innovative solutions.

He added that designing the rescue motorbike as a ‘First Respondent,’ equipped with the tools and equipment, is necessary for the teams to perform their duties. It enables them to cut open vehicle wreckage and rescue victims as soon as possible, thereby avoiding any further injuries to the victims. These procedures are as per the emergency aid protocols followed by qualified specialists, and part of the appropriate steps transfer them to a safe location and wait for the specialist ambulance crew.  

For more information about:

The Ministry of Interior, please click HERE

Abu Dhabi Police, please click HERE

Follow us and check our Social Media feeds on: YouTube, Facebook, Google +, Instagram and Twitter

The Arabic-language text of this announcement is the official, authoritative version. Translations are provided as an accommodation only, and should be cross-referenced with the Arabic-language text, which is the only version of the text intended to have legal effect.

Contacts

The UAE Minister of Interior's General Secretariat, Tactical Affairs and Security Media Department

Abu Dhabi Police GHQ - Security Media

Chris Cron +971-(0)-50-666-4891

E-mail: cron.media@hotmail.com









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/18024/en