Doha, March 29 (QNA) - The National Planning Council (NPC) and the Doha International Family Institute (DIFI), a member of Qatar Foundation, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding research collaboration on demographic and social issues, with the aim of exchanging expertise and enhancing cooperation in the fields of research, studies, surveys, and opinion polls.

According to a statement from NPC Sunday, the MoU was signed by Assistant Secretary-General for National Development Planning and Policy Affairs at the NPC, Raed Ibrahim Al Emadi, and Executive Director of the DIFI, Sharifa Noaman Al Emadi.

Raed Ibrahim Al Emadi said: "This MoU represents a significant step toward strengthening research cooperation in demographic and social issues, which contributes to the development of an accurate and comprehensive database that supports policymaking and the advancement of programs in the State of Qatar to achieve the objectives of the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy".

He pointed out that the collaboration between the NPC and the DIFI will contribute to the exchange of expertise and the utilization of data and specialized research findings in supporting evidence-based developmental planning based on accurate figures.

Dr. Sharifa Noaman Al Emadi said: "Today's signing of the MoU formalizes a joint effort between the two entities across several areas that support family well-being, social cohesion, and balanced demographic policies. We have worked together on an important study examining the social determinants of fertility in the State of Qatar and the implications of policies, in addition to several other projects that provide technical support for developing informed, evidence-based policies".

The signing of the MoU comes as part of strengthening cooperation between the two parties in several areas, including research, studies, surveys, and opinion polls in fields of mutual interest, particularly regarding family issues such as marriage and divorce, the elderly, child well-being, fertility, and population growth.

The MoU also seeks to implement joint projects and programs that contribute to achieving the objectives of the Third National Development Strategy of Qatar and subsequent strategies, organize joint scientific and training events, and exchange relevant data and information, which enhances the effectiveness of development planning, supports the State's efforts to improve its ranking in international indicators, and develops indicators related to family well-being and population growth.

This is in addition to organizing seminars, workshops, and other activities aimed at exchanging awareness and acquiring scientific and practical expertise in areas of mutual interest, and preparing joint training programs to build the capacities required to implement demographic and social policies. (QNA)