ABU DHABI, 21st May, 2025 (WAM) -- TRENDS Research & Advisory began its research tour in Belgium with a discussion session with the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Royal Institute for International Relations Egmont.

The session focused on exploring prospects for cooperation and strategic partnership between TRENDS and Belgian think tanks, academic institutions, and universities, with the aim of exchanging knowledge and expertise and collaborating in organising joint research and scientific events.

The discussion highlighted opportunities to establish long-term cooperation between Belgian research institutions and TRENDS through joint studies and academic exchange. It also addressed Belgium's strategic priorities in the Gulf region and explored how TRENDS' regional and international expertise can support policymaking, foster mutual understanding, and advance diplomatic efforts.

The ultimate aim is to help activate platforms for constructive dialogue between experts and academics from the European Union and the Gulf region.

Participants in the session, held at the headquarters of the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, discussed ways to strengthen strategic cooperation between TRENDS and Belgian think tanks in research and academia.

The session featured the participation of Valerie Cuvelier, Advisor for Gulf Countries at the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Pol De Witte, Director General of the Egmont Institute; along with a group of experts and researchers from TRENDS.

Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS, affirmed the centre's commitment to strengthening its international presence through effective strategic partnerships.

Dr. Al-Ali noted that participants in the discussion emphasised the importance of effective partnership between research institutions and think tanks in the Middle East and North Africa and their European and Belgian counterparts.

The aim, he explained, is to promote constructive dialogue and bridge perspectives on regional and global issues through research and studies that analyze and anticipate the future of current developments.

Valerie Cuvelier affirmed that Belgian academic and research institutions place high importance on fostering constructive cooperation with leading and active think tanks around the world. She highlighted TRENDS as a key player in building bridges of communication between societies and in facilitating dialogue among policymakers, experts, and researchers on pressing global issues.

Cuvelier added that there are many promising opportunities for collaboration between Belgian institutions and TRENDS, particularly through joint research projects in key areas such as advanced technologies, artificial intelligence, economics, and sustainable development, which are hared priorities for both the European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Pol De Witte noted that the Royal Institute for International Relations (Egmont) seeks to deepen European understanding of the Gulf's economic and developmental directions and benefit from them. He stressed that collaboration and partnership with TRENDS facilitate mutual understanding and convergence of perspectives.