Jeddah, September 23 (QNA) - Coaches of Bahrain, the UAE, and Yemen expressed readiness for Thursday's Group B openers at the 27th Gulf Cup in Jeddah, running through October 6. 
Defending champions Bahrain open against Qatar at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City Stadium, while the UAE face Yemen at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium.
Bahrain coach Dragan Talajic affirmed his side's intent to retain the title and expressed a wish to meet host nation Saudi Arabia in the final. 
Emphasizing the tournament's prestige, Talajic said the Gulf Cup is a very important tournament for the countries in the region; it is like a World Cup, enjoying great fan and media attention.
He acknowledged the high level of competition, citing three former World Cup participants in the field, while voicing full faith in his squad.
UAE coach Zlatko Dalic stated his side is focused on delivering a disciplined performance against Yemen, noting he has worked on technical improvements since taking charge and that the team operates without pressure.
Yemen coach Noureddine Ould Ali promised maximum effort to secure strong results, highlighting his focus on squad cohesion to overcome challenges and leveraging expected high fan turnout. (QNA)
London, September 18 (QNA) - Qatar has taken part in an International Maritime Organization (IMO) meeting aimed at boosting maritime safety.
Qatar's permanent delegation to the IMO joined the 12th Sub-Committee on Carriage of Cargoes and Containers (CCC 12), held in London from September 14 to 18. 
Discussions covered requirements for ships using alternative fuels and new technologies. Participants also addressed guidance on methanol and ethanol as marine fuels, low-flashpoint oil fuels, carbon capture and storage systems, and the securing of cargo and containers on ships. 
Qatar said its participation supports international efforts to improve the safety and efficiency of maritime transport and develop regulations in response to technological advances and the growing use of alternative fuels. (QNA)