Hisham Aljundi
Doha
THE Doha-based Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Centre (ROLACC) on Sunday signed a joint declaration of intent with the Foundation for Strategic Research in France with the aim of developing research programmes, joint cooperation and training, and exchanging expertise.
Attorney-General and ROLACC Board Chairman HE Ali bin Fetais al Marri and French foundation's Deputy Director Jean-Franois Daguzan signed the agreement at a formal ceremony held in Doha.
Under the agreement, the two sides will cooperate in areas of common concern such as fighting corruption, hate speech on social networks and piracy, as well as conducting research, training in the areas of internet and maritime security.
The agreement also covers the joint organisation of seminars and meetings with the possibility of including brochures on research work related to the agreement.
Speaking to the media after signing the agreement, Marri said that cooperation with the French foundation is not a coincidence, adding that it comes as a result of the strong and deep ties between Qatar and France, which has a long history in the area of supporting freedoms, human rights, education and combating corruption.
He added that the agreement with the Foundation for Strategic Research will allow the exchange of experiences, especially in the field of research related to combating corruption, terrorism and piracy, in addition to cooperation in international law and creating joint projects in these important areas.
Marri assured that more than 650 Qatari students will graduate soon from French high schools as part of bilateral cooperation."Ten years ago, we had very few Qatari students in France, but today we have hundreds thanks to the intensive efforts between us and we hope for more," he added.
On his part, Daguzan said that the agreement comes within enhancing cooperation between Qatar and France and will facilitate long-term exchange of expertise in the field of rule of law and combating corruption between the two sides.