Doha, May 20 (QNA) - The National Planning Council (NPC) and Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing cooperation and joint coordination in research and studies, as well as the implementation of programs and projects, in support of achieving the objectives of the Third National Development Strategy  (NDS3) and the national visions.

The MoU was signed by Assistant Secretary-General for the Center for Future Foresight and National Visions at the NPC Bassam Issa Al Mannai and Executive Director of Strategies and Programs at QRDI Nojoud Al Jehani.

Commenting on the signing, Al Mannai said: “The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding with the QRDI is an important strategic step toward strengthening the research and knowledge ecosystem and advancing future foresight in the State of Qatar. This MoU establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for research and studies and their dissemination, supporting development planning objectives. It will also contribute effectively to evidence-based decision-making and provide an organized research environment that serves both researchers and decision-makers.”

For her part, Nojoud Al Jehani said: “This MoU comes within the framework of strengthening integration between national planning and the research, development and innovation ecosystem, by unifying efforts in data, research and national indicators. It will also contribute to building an advanced knowledge base that supports Qatar’s competitiveness and enhances its positioning in innovation and knowledge-based development indices.”

The MoU aims to facilitate and regulate the implementation of research and studies in development planning, statistics, and data, including related surveys and opinion polls. It seeks to meet the needs of researchers, planners, policymakers, and relevant stakeholders, in support of achieving the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV 2030), the NDS3, and related future visions and their implementing strategies, while ensuring the sustainability and practical value of such research.

The MoU also includes the exchange of information and statistical data related to research, development, and innovation between the two parties, as well as cooperation to build a research database that meets the country’s development needs. It further aims to coordinate efforts to meet the requirements necessary to enhance Qatar’s ranking in international indices, particularly those related to innovation within the knowledge economy and comprehensive national development sectors.

This MoU reflects the vital and active role played by both Councils in advancing Qatar’s comprehensive development journey, as the NPC aims to develop and implement national development visions, strategies, and plans, and to establish a comprehensive statistical system for the country, which is the official source of official data in the country.

Meanwhile, the QRDI Council oversees research, development, and innovation activities at the national level, leading a unified national strategy to foster Qatar’s prosperity and meet its aspirations and needs through national capabilities and global partnerships. (QNA)