Manama: Preparations are underway for the seventh annual forum of the Bahrain Centre for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat), scheduled to take place on 22-23 December. The event will be held under the theme “The Arab Research Centres Consortium for Sustainability and Development,” in collaboration with the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the forum is set to bring together senior representatives from Arab states and leading research centers. It will coincide with the official launch of the documentary publication “Bahrain and the League of Arab States: 1971-2025,” which will be attended by the Secretary-General of the League of Arab States and a high-level delegation.
Abdulla Mohamed Alahmed, CEO of Derasat, highlighted that the forum reflects Bahrain’s commitment to promoting knowledge and scientific research as fundamental components of effective development policies. This initiative aligns with the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the government led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
He mentioned that the forum’s theme is consistent with the outcomes of recent Arab summits, including the Jeddah Summit in 2023 and the Bahrain Summit in 2024. These summits emphasized the creation of an Arab intellectual platform focused on development and sustainability, the expansion of partnerships with the United Nations system, and the adoption of knowledge-based approaches to support decision-makers.
The forum will include high-level discussions, closed workshops, and a specialized exhibition, focusing on the evolving role of Arab think tanks. It aims to transition from research production to influencing policymaking by leveraging big data, artificial intelligence, and future policy analysis tools.
Alahmed stated that the forum serves as a crucial platform for enhancing Arab research cooperation and advancing joint Arab action in support of sustainable development.