Pope appeals for halt to killings in Mideast

vatican city — Pope Francis on Sunday called for an end to “carnage” in Syria and “reconciliation” in the Middle East in his traditional Easter message.

“Today we implore fruits of peace upon the entire world, beginning with the beloved and long-suffering land of Syria,” the pontiff said in the Urbi et Orbi (To the City and the World) address.

Appealing to the “consciences of all political and military leaders,” Pope Francis urged “that a swift end may be brought to the carnage” in Syria as 80,000 pilgrims listened in St Peter’s Square and millions watched the speech broadcast live around the world.

I appeal to the consciences of all political and military leaders that a swift end may be brought to the carnage in Syria Pope Francis

Pope Francis asked that “provisions be made to facilitate access to the aid so urgently needed by our brothers and sisters, while also ensuring fitting conditions for the return of the displaced” to Syria.—

ABU DHABI — Egg represents new beginnings and a sign of new life. As per Christian belief, Easter egg is a symbol of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The egg is likened to the tomb from which the Christ arose.

Egg happens to be a chief ingredient of Easter celebrations. From breaking fast in church with pancake and egg curry to discovering hidden eggs being the favourite games for one and all.

Stores across the malls in the Capital sold different varieties of eggs for play and plate. “We have some 10-12 varieties of egg design for children to enjoy,” a storekeeper at Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre said.

Restaurants across the Capital had special menu for the day and egg varieties topped the list. “We have egg chilly, fry, spicy grilled, nest, kebab, roll, mixed with eggplant and chicken. This is in addition to the many non-veg items,” a chef at a hypermarket said.

Robin Joseph, working at a private firm in Abu Dhabi, has bought a dozen of Easter eggs and other food items for the feast. Hotels like Hilton, Le Meridien, St Regis and others offered an array of lavish spread to welcome guests with brunches and egg hunts.

At Tilal Liwa Hotel parents and children can engage in discovering eggs hidden across the hotel’s garden. General manager Khaled Sharabassy said it was time for ‘egg-citement’ at the hotel. “Easter is a holiday celebrated worldwide and gives us the opportunity to spread happiness among guests in diverse and fun ways,” he said.