Colombo, Sri Lanka — Almost 30 years ago today, India and Pakistan formed a combined cricket team to take on Sri Lanka ahead of the 1996 Cricket World Cup in an unprecedented moment of unity in the sport’s history.

The two age-old rivals put aside their differences and came together in an act of solidarity to support a fellow South Asian team, who faced the threat of match boycotts in a tournament they had battled hard to host.

India versus Pakistan is the most highly marketed fixture at every multination tournament – the World Cup, Asia Cup or Asian Games – whether it’s a men’s, women’s or Under-19 event.

Few sporting events globally carry the weight and anticipation of an India-Pakistan cricket match. So, when Pakistan’s government ordered its team not to face India at the ongoing T20 World Cup, the tournament was briefly pushed into a state of chaos.

It also left Sri Lanka, the designated host of the fixture, holding its collective breath.

A week of negotiations led to a dramatic late U-turn by the Pakistani government and the match will now take place as scheduled on Sunday at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo.

But what if the boycott had gone ahead? The impact could have been catastrophic, not just for Pakistan, but also for the International Cricket Council (ICC), as well as Sri Lanka.

With the crisis seemingly averted, the island nation stands poised to reap the benefits in its financial landscape, diplomatic standing and community.

‘Massive impact’ on tourism

For a country that is still grappling with the aftermath of the economic crisis of 2022, an India-Pakistan cricket fixture at a World Cup could prove to be a godsend.

The tourism and hospitality industry was one of the hardest hit during Sri Lanka’s financial meltdown and this match will see an enormous influx of fans from India and Pakistan coming into the country.

Hotels in and around Colombo were fully booked out well ahead of the tournament but the industry braced itself for heavy losses after Pakistan threatened a boycott.

“There’s been a massive impact since the boycott was announced,” Sudarshana Pieris, who works in Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector, told Al Jazeera.

“All major hotels in Colombo were fully booked by Indian travel agencies well ahead [of the match] and once the boycott was announced, we lost almost all of those bookings,” he said.

“But after Pakistan reversed their decision, hotel room rates shot up by about 300-400 percent at five-star establishments in Colombo.”

It’s not just hotels but several other local businesses – from street vendors to high-end restaurants – who are hoping for an increased footfall and spending over the weekend.

These short trips and the experiences they offer could influence visitors to extend their stay or return to Sri Lanka on holiday, long after the game has ended, in a potential long-term benefit to the industry.

Another relatively underestimated impact of the game would be the employment opportunities it creates, albeit temporarily, in the media, event management, security and transportation industries.

Asanka Hadirampela, a freelance journalist and broadcaster currently working as a Sinhala language commentator for the World Cup, recognises the marquee match as a great opportunity from a personal standpoint.

“This is my first World Cup as a broadcaster,” Hadirampela said.

“The India-Pakistan fixture is the biggest and most-watched game of the tournament. So to get to work on such a match is exciting and I consider it a special achievement.”

A geopolitical win

The lines are always blurred between sport and politics in South Asia.

So while the financial gains are expected to be significant, the fixture’s impact on the region’s geopolitical environment cannot go amiss.

Pakistan’s boycott, too, was explicitly political, as confirmed by the country’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif when he said that they were offering support to Bangladesh after the Tigers were kicked out of the tournament by the ICC.

The reversal of Pakistan’s decision, which they said came after requests to reconsider the boycott by several regional “friends”, was steeped in politics, too.

Sri Lanka’s President Anura Kumara Dissanayake reportedly had a phone conversation with PM Sharif, urging his government to rethink their decision to boycott the game as the successful staging of this encounter would not only position Sri Lanka as a capable host of global sporting events but also reinforce its standing as a neutral mediator in a region fraught with geopolitical complexities.

Sri Lanka and Pakistan have always maintained strong diplomatic relations, which have extended to the cricket field as well.

Sri Lanka were one of the first teams to travel to Pakistan following their 10-year ostracisation from international cricket, which came as a result of a terrorist attack targeting the Sri Lankan team in March 2009.

When Al Jazeera reached out to Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), its vice president Ravin Wickramaratne confirmed that SLC did, indeed, reach out to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after the boycott was announced.

“We asked them to reconsider the decision,” Wickramaratne said.

“It [boycott] would have impacted Sri Lanka economically, whether directly or indirectly.

“We have always had a good relationship with the PCB and we have always supported them, so we’re happy with their decision.”

A little over 24 hours ahead of the match in Colombo, there is a sense of palpable excitement and a growing buzz around the fixture as it returns from the brink of cancellation.

As of Saturday morning, 28,000 tickets had been sold for the game but local organisers expect a capacity crowd of 40,000 to make it into the stands.

Come Sunday, thousands more will line the streets in and around Maligawatte, the bustling Colombo suburb that houses the famous Premadasa Stadium.

United States Fuel Blockade Deepens Cuba’s Tourism Crisis Hotel Closures, Flight Cancellations, and Economic Strain: All You Need To Know

Fuel Shortages Cause Havoc in Cuba’s Tourism Industry

Cuba is grappling with one of its most severe economic crises in decades, largely driven by a deepening fuel shortage exacerbated by the US embargo. The ongoing restrictions imposed by the United States have not only hindered the island’s access to vital resources, including fuel, but have also led to a sharp decline in tourism one of the country’s most vital economic sectors. As the US continues to tighten its grip on Cuba’s economy, the shortage of essential goods and services is worsening, putting further strain on the nation’s already fragile economic structure

Impact of the US Fuel Blockade

The United States has long maintained a trade embargo on Cuba, which restricts the island’s ability to import and export goods freely. In recent months, the situation has worsened with US warships blocking Venezuelan tankers from delivering much-needed oil to Cuba. As a result, the Cuban government has implemented rolling power cuts across the island, which not only disrupts daily life but also severely affects the tourism industry. Tourists who once flocked to Cuba for its vibrant culture, historical sites, and tropical weather are now finding themselves caught in a country struggling to meet basic energy needs.

According to official reports from the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the Cuban Assets Control Regulations (31 CFR § 515) govern the ongoing restrictions that prevent Cuban businesses from importing fuel. This has led to severe shortages, long queues at gas stations, and widespread disruptions across industries, including tourism .

Tourism Decline Hotels and Flights Impacted

Cuba’s tourism sector, traditionally a major source of foreign currency, is now facing a dramatic decline. Since the beginning of the year, over 30 hotels and resorts across the island have temporarily closed their doors due to low occupancy rates and a lack of fuel to operate services. The Cuban Ministry of Tourism has reported that hotel bookings are at an all-time low, with many tourists choosing to cancel their trips due to the ongoing power outages and unreliable transportation services .

The lack of fuel has also forced airlines to suspend or cancel flights to Cuba. With fewer tourists arriving, the usual lively atmosphere in places like Havana is now eerily quiet. A hop-on, hop-off bus tour in Havana, typically filled with visitors, has seen little activity, while horse-drawn carriages, which are a popular tourist attraction, remain idle as there are simply no customers .

A Deepening Economic Crisis

The loss of tourism revenue is putting additional strain on the Cuban government’s ability to pay for essential imports like food, medicine, and fuel. With the closure of hotels and the cancellation of flights, the island is experiencing a sharp decline in foreign currency inflow. This has compounded the hardships faced by Cuba’s 9.6 million residents, many of whom depend on the tourism industry for their livelihoods. Around 300,000 Cubans are employed in various sectors related to tourism, from hotel workers to tour guides and taxi drivers, and they are all feeling the effects of the downturn .

Tourism, which is Cuba’s second-largest source of foreign income (after revenue from healthcare exports), is vital for maintaining the country’s import system. In fact, according to the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the decline in tourism has caused a significant reduction in the funds needed to pay for basic supplies . With the embargo still in place, Cuba has been forced to rely on alternative trade routes, but these are often blocked or delayed due to the restrictions placed by the United States.

The Strain on Cuban Citizens

Cuba’s ongoing struggles with the US embargo have led to shortages of food and essential goods, and with the tourism industry also suffering, the general population is increasingly feeling the financial pressure. The fuel shortages have impacted transportation, forcing locals to wait for hours at gas stations, further limiting their mobility. While the government has made efforts to provide solutions, such as rationing fuel and offering alternative energy sources, the challenges remain.

In an official statement, the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed its position that the blockade is an economic stranglehold that not only hurts tourism but has far-reaching consequences for the everyday lives of Cuban citizens .

A Grim Outlook for 2026

Experts warn that the outlook for Cuba’s economy in 2026 is bleak, especially with the persistent fuel shortages. Jose Luis Perello, a tourism expert, stated that the island could be looking at “a disastrous year” as the lack of tourists and the continued embargo significantly undermine the country’s economy .

The US’s tightening of restrictions on Cuba, particularly in terms of fuel imports, has placed the country in an increasingly difficult position. The tourism industry, which had begun to recover after the pandemic, now faces an uncertain future as the fuel crisis deepens.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Despite the ongoing challenges, the Cuban people remain resilient. Many locals are adapting to the situation by finding alternative ways to make ends meet. The government has made efforts to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on fuel imports, with some success in renewable energy initiatives. However, until the US embargo is lifted, Cuba’s tourism sector and overall economy are likely to remain under significant strain.

The future of tourism in Cuba is uncertain, but the island’s people continue to show resilience in the face of hardship. However, without international support and a change in the political climate, the recovery of the Cuban tourism industry could take many years.

Conclusion

Cuba’s tourism industry is facing an existential crisis as a result of a combination of fuel shortages and the ongoing US economic blockade. With many hotels closed, flights suspended, and foreign visitors fleeing, the country’s economy is teetering on the brink of collapse. As Cuba struggles to navigate these challenges, the need for international cooperation and support has never been more urgent. Until the blockade is lifted and fuel imports are restored, the island’s economic future remains uncertain.

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Switzerland Joins Ireland, Italy, Iraq, Czech Republic, Jordan, Uganda, Vietnam And More As Emirates Redefines Luxury Travel With Expanded Premium Economy Routes

Switzerland joins a prestigious lineup of destinations including Ireland, Italy, Iraq, Czech Republic, Jordan, Uganda, and Vietnam as Emirates takes a bold step in redefining luxury travel. The airline is expanding its Premium Economy offering to more global routes, bringing unmatched comfort and world-class service to travelers seeking an elevated experience without the premium price tag of Business Class. This move is part of Emirates’ comprehensive fleet upgrade, aimed at offering more choice, comfort, and convenience across its long-haul network. By introducing refurbished aircraft on these key routes, Emirates is reshaping the way passengers experience luxury travel, making it more accessible and enjoyable than ever before.

Emirates is accelerating its efforts to improve the passenger experience this year by rolling out refurbished aircraft across more routes. This move is part of a network-wide retrofit programme, designed to expand Premium Economy access and standardize cabin products. The airline is aiming to make Premium Economy available on 99 destinations by the end of 2026, offering travelers more options for enhanced comfort during long-haul flights.

Starting in April, Emirates will introduce the first retrofitted A380, which will feature a high-density layout. This aircraft will initially serve the Dubai-Amman route, before shifting to Prague in June. The airline plans to retrofit all 15 two-class A380 aircraft into three-class layouts by November, significantly boosting the availability of premium seating, while also maintaining a strong capacity for economy passengers.

The refurbishment programme is not limited to just one region. From March, Emirates will begin rolling out its newly upgraded aircraft across a range of international markets. For example, the airline will deploy a refurbished four-class A380 on its New York JFK flights starting in April. These services will transition to daily operations in June, giving passengers more flexibility and choices. Meanwhile, Zurich will see its flights upgraded to the new A380s starting in March. Milan will also benefit from a retrofitted Boeing 777 aircraft, beginning in May, while Dublin will see all 21 weekly flights equipped with Premium Economy by October, expanding the options for transatlantic passengers.

Asian routes are also part of the airline’s retrofit strategy. Starting in May, Ho Chi Minh City will see upgraded Boeing 777 aircraft, providing an improved experience for travelers heading to this bustling destination. Similarly, Hong Kong will transition to A380 operations in October, followed by the introduction of refurbished A380s in December, further standardizing the service on these popular routes. In March, Entebbe will join the programme with the introduction of A350 aircraft, bringing a more consistent onboard product to African destinations.

The fleet upgrade is designed with a clear focus on balancing demand across all cabin classes. The retrofitted A380s will feature 76 Business Class seats, 56 Premium Economy seats, and 437 Economy seats. This configuration highlights the airline’s commitment to expanding its Premium Economy offering, catering to the growing demand for mid-tier comfort, while still providing ample economy seating for high-volume routes.

Regional and leisure markets are also benefiting from the retrofit programme. Basra flights will be upgraded to Boeing 777 aircraft starting in May, enhancing the overall passenger experience for travelers heading to this key destination. Mauritius will also see a fleet upgrade, with refurbished Boeing 777s serving the route starting in March. Additionally, Guangzhou will shift to a three-class A380 from October, further aligning the product offering across the airline’s network.

The retrofit programme is part of a broader fleet strategy aimed at delivering a consistent and high-quality onboard experience. Emirates is focused on increasing revenue efficiency by enhancing the passenger experience across all cabin classes. Premium Economy, in particular, has become a key offering in the airline industry, as more travelers seek extra comfort without the high price tag of Business Class. As a result, Emirates is continuing to expand its intermediate cabin offering, meeting the growing demand for this segment.

The airline’s commitment to delivering a high-standard of service is reflected in the redesigned cabins. The updated Premium Economy cabins offer more space, greater recline, and improved amenities, providing a more comfortable and relaxing environment for passengers. The expanded availability of these seats ensures that more travelers can enjoy a premium experience on long-haul flights without the cost of Business Class.

The retrofit programme will continue through 2026, with bookings for upgraded flights now available through the airline’s website, mobile app, retail outlets, and travel agencies. Passengers can now secure their seats on retrofitted aircraft, ensuring that they are part of the ongoing improvements being made to Emirates’ fleet. As the deployment progresses, travelers can expect an increasingly uniform product across the airline’s network, making it easier to choose Emirates for their next journey, regardless of destination.

Switzerland joins destinations like Ireland, Italy, Iraq, Czech Republic, Jordan, Uganda, and Vietnam as Emirates expands its Premium Economy routes, redefining luxury travel. This move brings enhanced comfort and service to more long-haul flights, making premium travel more accessible to a wider range of passengers.

In conclusion, Emirates is making significant strides in improving the passenger experience with its fleet retrofit programme. With expanded Premium Economy access, refurbished aircraft, and a focus on balancing capacity across cabin classes, the airline is ensuring that it meets the needs of today’s travelers. The continued rollout of upgraded aircraft will give passengers more options for a comfortable and enjoyable flight experience, while also supporting the airline’s broader strategy of revenue efficiency and product consistency across its global network.

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Tajikistan and UAE Forge Strategic Alliance to Drive Massive Green Energy and Tourism Expansion

The landscape of Central Asian diplomacy and economic growth is currently being reshaped by a significant strategic partnership between Tajikistan and the United Arab Emirates. This collaboration is characterized by a shared commitment to sustainable development and the exploration of green energy solutions that promise to modernize the region. Through high-level discussions and formal agreements, a massive infrastructure pivot is being executed, focusing on the dual pillars of renewable resources and international tourism. It is observed that the synergy between these two nations is driven by the UAE’s investment capabilities and Tajikistan’s vast, untapped natural potential.

A New Chapter in Diplomatic and Economic Relations

The foundation for this expanded cooperation was solidified during a series of official meetings where the mutual interests of Dushanbe and Abu Dhabi were aligned. A comprehensive roadmap for future projects was established, ensuring that the bilateral ties between the two nations are moved beyond traditional trade into the realms of high-tech industry and environmental stewardship. It is noted that the geographic hurdles of the past are being overcome by modern financial instruments and a collective desire for regional stability and prosperity.

The shift toward a greener economy is viewed not just as an environmental necessity but as a calculated economic move. By prioritizing sectors that provide long-term stability, Tajikistan is positioned as a key player in the Central Asian energy market. The United Arab Emirates, with its extensive experience in diversifying oil-based economies, provides the perfect blueprint and financial backing for such an ambitious transition.

Harnessing Hydropower and Renewable Resources

At the core of this partnership is the massive expansion of Tajikistan’s hydroelectric capabilities. Due to the country’s mountainous terrain and abundant water sources, it has long been identified as a prime location for green energy production. Plans have been set in motion for the construction and modernization of hydroelectric power plants, which are expected to be funded significantly by Emirati investment groups. These facilities are intended to provide clean electricity not only for domestic consumption but also for export to neighboring markets.

Beyond water-based energy, the exploration of solar and wind potential is also being prioritized. It is understood that technical experts from the UAE will be providing the necessary technological frameworks to integrate these renewable sources into the national grid. This transition is expected to reduce the carbon footprint of the industrial sector while creating thousands of specialized jobs for the local population. The passive observation of Tajikistan’s natural assets is being replaced by active, sustainable exploitation of resources.

Transformative Tourism and Luxury Infrastructure

Parallel to the energy sector, the tourism industry in Tajikistan is slated for a major overhaul. The country’s rugged beauty and cultural heritage are being packaged as a premium destination for international travelers, particularly those from the Gulf region. Extensive plans for luxury resorts, mountain retreats, and cultural centers have been drafted. These projects are designed to meet international standards of hospitality while preserving the unique environmental integrity of the Tajik landscape.

Transportation infrastructure, including the modernization of airports and the improvement of road networks connecting major tourist hubs, is being treated as a priority. By enhancing accessibility, it is believed that Tajikistan can become a prominent fixture on the global travel map. The influx of Emirati capital is expected to facilitate the creation of high-end service sectors, thereby diversifying the Tajik economy away from its traditional reliance on agriculture and remittances.

Strengthening Food Security and Agricultural Trade

The collaboration also extends into the vital sector of food security. Tajikistan’s fertile valleys offer significant opportunities for large-scale organic farming and livestock production. In exchange for investment in modern irrigation systems and processing plants, the UAE is expected to secure a stable supply chain for high-quality agricultural products. This reciprocal arrangement ensures that Tajik farmers gain access to sophisticated markets while the UAE bolsters its food reserves.

Joint ventures in the agro-industrial complex are being encouraged to streamline the export process. By implementing international quality controls and advanced packaging technologies, Tajik produce is being prepared for the global stage. This sector of the agreement highlights the holistic nature of the partnership, which seeks to address basic human needs alongside high-level industrial goals.

Logistics and the Enhancement of Connectivity

A major component of the discussions involved the improvement of logistical corridors. Tajikistan’s landlocked position is being addressed through the development of “dry ports” and logistics hubs that will facilitate the movement of goods between Central Asia and the Middle East. These hubs are intended to serve as staging areas for the vast amounts of construction materials and technology required for the green energy and tourism projects.

The UAE’s expertise in global logistics and port management is being utilized to create a more efficient customs and transit system. It is anticipated that these improvements will lead to a significant decrease in the cost of trade, making Tajik goods more competitive internationally. The focus on connectivity ensures that the benefits of the partnership are felt across the entire region, fostering a sense of shared economic destiny.

Environmental Stewardship and Sustainable Goals

Throughout the implementation of these massive projects, a strict adherence to environmental protection standards is being maintained. The “green” in the green energy pivot is not merely a label but a guiding principle. Environmental impact assessments are being conducted for every major construction site to ensure that the biodiversity of the Pamir mountains and surrounding ecosystems remains uncompromised.

The collaboration is seen as a model for how developing nations can partner with established financial powers to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. By focusing on clean energy and responsible tourism, both Tajikistan and the UAE are demonstrating a commitment to a future that does not sacrifice the planet for the sake of profit. The narrative of industrialization is being rewritten to include the preservation of the natural world as a primary objective.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

The strategic alignment between Tajikistan and the United Arab Emirates represents a turning point for Central Asian economic policy. Through the combined efforts of both governments, a foundation for a modern, sustainable, and diversified economy is being laid. The emphasis on green energy, luxury tourism, and improved infrastructure suggests that the coming decade will be one of unprecedented growth and transformation for Tajikistan.

As these projects move from the planning stages to reality, the world is watching a unique experiment in international cooperation. The passive reception of foreign aid is being replaced by active, mutually beneficial investment. It is concluded that the partnership will not only redefine the landscape of Tajikistan but also set a new standard for diplomatic and economic engagement between the Middle East and Central Asia.

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