The Organisation of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC) and the Arabian Gulf University (AGU) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening joint cooperation in the fields of education, scientific research and technical development within the energy sector. The agreement reflects the commitment of both parties to support sustainable development and build scientific and technical capacities across member states.

The MoU was signed by His Excellency Engineer Jamal Issa Al Loughani, Secretary General of OAPEC, and His Excellency Dr Saad bin Saud Al Fuhaid, President of AGU, at the Dr Abdullah Al Rifaie Hall on the University campus.

The MoU seeks to establish a framework for collaboration between the two parties in various areas, including scientific research, the organisation of conferences, seminars, and workshops, exchange of expertise and information, implementation of specialised training programmes, and the provision of technical consultations. Particular focus will be given to environmental issues, innovation, and green technologies in the petroleum industry.

Areas of cooperation also include preparing joint studies and research projects in the fields of energy, environment, and development; supporting innovative and outstanding initiatives through scientific competitions and awards; exchanging scientific and technical publications and information; collaboration in executive education and postgraduate studies; and promoting events and activities of mutual interest through the media platforms of both parties. Furthermore, the agreement encompasses mutual access to digital libraries and the exchange of modern knowledge resources.

Commenting on the signing, Dr Al Fuhaid said: “This MoU represents a qualitative step towards strengthening partnerships between higher education institutions and regional entities specialising in the energy sector. Collaboration with a distinguished organisation such as OAPEC will help guide scientific research towards advancing sustainable energy and environmental development in the Arab world, while creating promising opportunities for capacity-building and knowledge exchange with leading experts and specialists in this vital field.”

For his part, Eng. Al Loughani noted that this step reflects the commitment of both OAPEC and AGU to building strategic partnerships that serve the development priorities of Arab countries, by leveraging knowledge and modern technologies to enhance energy sector efficiency and safeguard the environment.