ABU DHABI, Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA) and Sciences Po Executive Education, a prestigious international research university in France, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deliver joint diplomatic capacity-building programmes in the UAE and France, as well as a specialised exchange programme for AGDA students.
Through the partnership, the entities aim to build capacity and share knowledge in diplomatic affairs, influence, geopolitics, and governance in the UAE and France.
The signing ceremony took place at AGDA in Abu Dhabi, where the MoU was signed by Nickolay Mladenov, Director-General of AGDA, and Mathias Vicherat, Director of Sciences Po, in the presence of senior officials from both sides.
Through the MoU, AGDA and Sciences Po will develop and deliver tailored capacity-building programmes in the UAE and France dedicated to expanding the diplomatic capabilities and knowledge of UAE public sector leaders, private sector managers and directors, consultants, and civil society representatives.
The collaboration will also witness the launch of an exchange programme for AGDA students to study and take specialised courses at Sciences Po in Economy and Society, Political Humanities, and Politics and Government to deepen their understanding of the humanities and social sciences. Additionally, AGDA students will have the chance to participate in collaborative projects focused on collective intelligence, allowing them to further develop their practical diplomatic skills.
The agreement will also include the reciprocal hosting of guest lectures, as well as collective visits to the UAE by Sciences Po students and at the Institute du Monde Arabe (IMA) in France by AGDA students. The Institute du Monde Arabe is a renowned cultural institution that plays a crucial role in promoting cross-cultural understanding and fostering ties between the Arab region and the rest of the world.
Commenting on the significance of this cross-border partnership, Nickolay Maldenov, Director General of AGDA, said, “AGDA’s partnership with Science Po will create even more opportunities for young diplomats in the UAE to learn from the best and improve their skills as they enter the global diplomatic arena. Science Po’s traditions, knowledge and experience are a perfect match for the Academy. I look forward to developing and expanding our partnership in key areas, including climate change diplomacy, international law and humanitarian action – all areas of importance for advancing Gulf – Europe relations.”
Mathias Vicherat, Director of Sciences Po, said, “The significance of this MoU cannot be overstated. It represents our shared commitment and vision for an open, collaborative, and inclusive future for diplomacy.”
“At Sciences Po, we believe that partnerships such as this are vital to advancing the understanding of diplomacy, governance, and geopolitics in today’s rapidly changing world. Our partnership with AGDA presents an opportunity to share our expertise, foster cross-cultural exchange, and demonstrate the strong diplomatic ties between the UAE and France.”
The partnership between AGDA and Science Po represents a significant step in strengthening links between the UAE and France and promoting academic collaboration in diplomatic affairs, influence, geopolitics, and governance.
Source: Emirates News Agency