Follow the latest on the earthquake in Turkey
Fourteen lorries carrying humanitarian aid meant for earthquake survivors crossed into northern Syria from Turkey on Friday, the International Organisation for Migration said.
"These convoys are carrying electric heaters, tents, blankets and other items to assist these people who have been displaced as a result of this catastrophic earthquake," said spokesman Paul Dillon, adding that the aid was bound for rebel-held Idlib province.
Turkey, meanwhile, is discussing reopening a border crossing into Syrian government territory, a Turkish official said on Friday. This will help members of rescue and relief teams to be able to send humanitarian aid directly to areas under President Bashar Al Assad's control after a decade of enmity.
It is also looking at opening another crossing into Syria's opposition-held Idlib region, the official said.
"This is a catastrophe for the region, and our hearts go out to all those affected, who lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods," said Antonio Vitorino, IOM Director General.
"We are working very closely with authorities to support in any way we can and hope that aid will quickly reach those most impacted."
Turkey and Syria broke off diplomatic ties after Syrian clampdown on 2011 protests led to civil war and drove millions of Syrians to seek refuge in Turkey.
The US treasury has promised that the US sanctions on Syria “will not stand in the way” of saving lives after Monday’s earthquake. The department has said it will ease other restrictions to allow new relief efforts and pledged $85 million in humanitarian aid.
The Treasury’s Syria General Licence authorises earthquake relief efforts that would otherwise be prohibited by sanctions regulations for 180 days.
It comes after some in Syria claimed that the US sanctions were hindering relief efforts after the earthquake.
Credit Score explained
What is a credit score?
In the UAE your credit score is a number generated by the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB), which represents your credit worthiness – in other words, your risk of defaulting on any debt repayments. In this country, the number is between 300 and 900. A low score indicates a higher risk of default, while a high score indicates you are a lower risk.
Why is it important?
Financial institutions will use it to decide whether or not you are a credit risk. Those with better scores may also receive preferential interest rates or terms on products such as loans, credit cards and mortgages.
How is it calculated?
The AECB collects information on your payment behaviour from banks as well as utilitiy and telecoms providers.
How can I improve my score?
By paying your bills on time and not missing any repayments, particularly your loan, credit card and mortgage payments. It is also wise to limit the number of credit card and loan applications you make and to reduce your outstanding balances.
How do I know if my score is low or high?
By checking it. Visit one of AECB’s Customer Happiness Centres with an original and valid Emirates ID, passport copy and valid email address. Liv. customers can also access the score directly from the banking app.
How much does it cost?
A credit report costs Dh100 while a report with the score included costs Dh150. Those only wanting the credit score pay Dh60. VAT is payable on top.
F1 drivers' standings
1. Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes 281
2. Sebastian Vettel, Ferrari 247
3. Valtteri Bottas, Mercedes 222
4. Daniel Ricciardo, Red Bull 177
5. Kimi Raikkonen, Ferrari 138
6. Max Verstappen, Red Bull 93
7. Sergio Perez, Force India 86
8. Esteban Ocon, Force India 56
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Key facilities
- Olympic-size swimming pool with a split bulkhead for multi-use configurations, including water polo and 50m/25m training lanes
- Premier League-standard football pitch
- 400m Olympic running track
- NBA-spec basketball court with auditorium
- 600-seat auditorium
- Spaces for historical and cultural exploration
- An elevated football field that doubles as a helipad
- Specialist robotics and science laboratories
- AR and VR-enabled learning centres
- Disruption Lab and Research Centre for developing entrepreneurial skills
