TRENDS Research & Advisory signed a strategic memorandum of understanding with the Center of Economic and Law Studies (CELIOS) in Jakarta, becoming the first think tank from the United Arab Emirates and the Middle East and Africa region to enter into a cooperation agreement with CELIOS. The partnership aims to strengthen research and knowledge collaboration and develop joint programs in key areas such as sustainable development, energy transition, responsible investment, as well as training, capacity building, and youth empowerment.

The signing ceremony was held in the presence of distinguished officials, led by H.E. Abdullah Salem Al Dhaheri, the UAE Ambassador to Indonesia and Non-Resident Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. Also in attendance were H.E. Shaima Salem Al Habsi, Deputy Ambassador; Dr. Sultan Al-Remeithi, Director of the TRENDS Virtual Office in Jakarta; and several researchers and officials from both institutions.

TRENDS was represented by Senior Researcher Abdulaziz Al Marzouqi, Director of TRENDS Global Offices, who signed the MoU on behalf of Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS. The MoU was signed on behalf of CELIOS by Bhima Yudhistira Adhinegara, Executive Director.

Following the signing, H.E. Ambassador Abdullah Salem Al Dhaheri praised TRENDS’s role and efforts, emphasizing the importance of economic cooperation between the UAE and Indonesia. He expressed his hope to see the outcomes of the partnership and collaboration between the two think tanks, stressing the significance of such research partnerships in strengthening relations and exploring opportunities for cooperation across various fields.

Al Marzouqi emphasized that the partnership marks a qualitative addition to TRENDS’ efforts to expand its global cooperation network, particularly with leading Asian think tanks. He noted that TRENDS is the first think tank from the Middle East and Africa to sign a cooperation agreement with CELIOS, strengthening its position as an active research center committed to building global knowledge partnerships.

He further explained that the agreement seeks to facilitate knowledge and research exchange, conduct joint studies and initiatives, and deliver specialized training programs aimed at building the capacity of researchers and equipping youth in both countries with tools for scientific thinking and strategic analysis.

Bhima Yudhistira affirmed that the collaboration with TRENDS reflects CELIOS’ commitment to developing international partnerships that support public policy with credible scientific frameworks. He noted that the MoU opens broad opportunities for knowledge exchange and joint research in vital areas, especially the green economy and energy transition.

Shafa Kalila Aryanti, Communications Officer at CELIOS, expressed appreciation for the TRENDS delegation’s visit, affirming that the partnership would translate into practical projects including joint research, conferences, seminars, and experience-sharing in training and community empowerment—particularly in supporting and preparing youth for developmental and knowledge-based roles.

This MoU is part of TRENDS’ strategic vision to enhance its active global presence and build bridges with influential think tanks worldwide. Its goal is to support sustainable development goals and foster impactful regional and international knowledge production.