Derasat and Arab Energy Forum sign MoU to enhance energy research

Manama, Dec. 13 (BNA): The Bahrain Centre for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat) and the Arab Energy Forum (AEF) signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at enhancing research and knowledge collaboration in sustainable energy.

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 by its Chief Executive Officer, Abdulla Mohamed Alahmed, while the AEF was represented by its Secretary General, Dr. Carole Nakhle, under the oversight of Jassim Isa Al Shirawi, Secretary General of the International Energy Forum and Derasat Trustee. The agreement reflects a shared commitment to establishing an active institutional partnership that advances specialised knowledge and supports future-oriented developments within the sector.

The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation enabling the production of scientific studies and sector-specific analyses to strengthen understanding of transformations in both conventional and renewable energy. It also seeks to enhance dialogue platforms and the exchange of expertise, in addition to designing targeted training programmes to build the capacities of young Arab professionals and prepare them to meet emerging sector requirements. These efforts will reinforce the presence of both institutions within the regional research landscape and contribute to the advancement of the regional knowledge ecosystem.

Alahmed said the signing represents a significant milestone in expanding Arab cooperation on energy issues, noting that collaboration among leading research institutions is fundamental to enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of energy systems and anticipating practical solutions to rapidly evolving sector challenges at the regional and global levels.

Nakhle expressed 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 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 developments, with the aim of shaping knowledge-based insights that support regional development.