The Bahrain Center for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat) and the Arab Energy Forum signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at enhancing research and knowledge collaboration in sustainable energy research. The signing took place on the sidelines of the Arab Energy Forum meeting, held in cooperation with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, with the attendance of leading regional and international figures and experts in the energy sector.

Derasat was represented at the signing ceremony by its CEO Mr. Abdulla Mohamed Alahmed, while the AEF was represented by its Secretary-General H.E. Dr. Carole Nakhle, overseen by H.E. Eng. Jassim Isa Al Shirawi, Secretary General of the International Energy Forum and Derasat Trustee. The agreement reflects the mutual commitment to establishing an active institutional partnership that advances specialized knowledge and supports future-oriented developments within the sector.

The MoU seeks to establish a framework for cooperation that enables the production of scientific studies and sector-specific analyses to enhance understanding of ongoing transformations in both conventional and renewable energy. It also aims to bolster platforms for dialogue and the exchange of expertise, in addition to designing targeted training programs intended to build the capacities of young Arab professionals and prepare them to handle emerging sector requirements. These efforts will further strengthen the presence of both institutions within the regional research landscape and contribute to advancing the regional knowledge ecosystem.

Derasat’s CEO emphasized that the MoU signing is a significant milestone in expanding Arab cooperation on energy-related issues. He underscored that collaboration among leading research institutions constitutes a fundamental pillar in enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of energy systems, and anticipating practical solutions to the rapidly evolving challenges facing the sector at the regional and global levels.

The AEF Secretary-General expressed her appreciation for the partnership with Derasat, noting that the MoU will open new prospects for cooperation, support the development of joint research initiatives, and deepen scientific dialogue on the future of energy in Arab countries.

The signing of this MoU forms part of Derasat’s ongoing efforts to expand its network of institutional partnerships and reinforce its role as a leading regional think tank in energy-related domains, in line with accelerating global development, with the aim of shaping knowledge-based insights that support regional development.

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