Abu Dhabi:The Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA) has announced the expansion of its international partnerships by signing three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with prominent institutions in Russia, Ethiopia, and Hong Kong. The Academy is also engaged in strategic dialogues in China and the United States, and is strengthening its academic cooperation with the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS).

According to Emirates News Agency, these partnerships are designed to provide students and researchers with enhanced training opportunities, participation in international exchanges, and the acquisition of international experience. This aligns with the Academy's vision to integrate diplomatic education with practical application, supporting the UAE's foreign policy priorities.

Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Dhaheri, Deputy Director-General of AGDA, emphasized the importance of experiential learning for future diplomats, stating that understanding different international perspectives is crucial. The Academy’s international partnerships act as an extension of classroom learning, offering exchanges, training, and joint research to equip students and researchers with the skills needed for effective representation of the UAE.

In Russia, AGDA's MoU with MGIMO University involves diplomatic training, research, and exchanges, and includes an annual UAE-Russia dialogue platform. The Ethiopia MoU, signed with the Institute of Foreign Affairs, focuses on foreign policy studies and capacity building. In Hong Kong, an agreement with the University of Hong Kong's Department of Politics and Public Administration promotes academic cooperation and student exchanges.

Dr. Al Dhaheri's visit to Washington included participation in the GCC-US Think Tank Strategic Dialogue and co-sponsorship of a session on economic tools in foreign policy. The Academy's collaboration with SAIS has led to the appointment of Dr. Deborah Wituski as the Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Distinguished Professor of Practice, focusing on advancing diplomatic education.

These initiatives reflect AGDA's commitment to leveraging its international partnerships for practical learning and research opportunities, equipping future diplomats to meet global challenges effectively.