I refer to your article Britain risks tragedy in the Channel under current migrant policy (December 28). These unfortunate and downtrodden people, escaping from danger in their home countries, are finding themselves stranded deep out at sea, without any chance of swimming to shore. This problem needs to be tackled by all in a committed and co-operative fashion. Mere criticism, like that of British Home Secretary Sajid Javid, will not help.
In reality, the United Nations, as the foremost international actor, must bring countries to task, if necessary with punitive action such as sanctions.
The countries to which migrants travel, which are lucky enough to be free from war and instability, must take some of the burden, as Germany and others have done. Meanwhile, concerted efforts must be made by the international community to bring peace to Syria, Libya, Yemen, and the other countries where war is sending desperate migrants onto the high seas to seek safety and prosperity.
Name withheld by request
String of terror attacks could hit Egypt’s tourist sector
I write in reference to your article Cairo bomb blast kills three Vietnamese tourists and guide (December 28). The recent bomb blast on the roadside that killed three innocent tourists and their guide in Egypt was tragic. In recent years, Egypt has witnessed a series of horrific terror attacks, perpetrated mostly by extremist Islamist groups.
As Egypt is rightly known as a world-famous tourist destination, with millions drawn to the extraordinary pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings, the consequences of these attacks on the tourist sector could have a grim economic impact.
The question now arises of whether the administration of Abdel Fattah El Sisi can overcomes these terror threats and usher in an era of peace and stability for this beautiful country. For now, I pray for the innocent victims and their families.
K Ragavan, Bengaluru
