TRENDS Research & Advisory, part of the TRENDS Group, strengthened its intellectual and international presence in the Republic of Latvia by participating in the Techritory Forum and meeting with government officials, experts, and representatives of research and academic institutions. The discussions focused on strengthening international cooperation and knowledge exchange, as well as exploring partnership opportunities in artificial intelligence, digital research, innovation, and future foresight.
TRENDS was represented during the visit by Principal Researcher Noor Saif Al Mazrouei, Director of the Artificial Intelligence Department at TRENDS Research & Advisory. She participated in several events and meetings to expand cooperation among Emirati, Latvian, and international institutions, highlighting the role of scientific research in understanding rapidly evolving developments, particularly in technology and artificial intelligence.
Participation in Techritory Meetings
TRENDS participated in the Techritory Forum, which brought together officials, prominent figures, and representatives of various international institutions, providing opportunities to strengthen communication and exchange views on areas of mutual interest.
The meetings included Nils Kalninš, Director of the Techritory platform, as well as Her Excellency Noora Mohammed Juma, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the Republic of Latvia; Raivis Melnis, Minister of Defense of the Republic of Latvia; and Carola Veit, President of the Hamburg State Parliament, officially known as the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg.
AI Governance and Supporting Growth
Against the backdrop of shared interest in the future of technology and its applications, TRENDS Research & Advisory participated in a panel discussion titled AI Governance for Growth: UAE and Latvian Perspectives, alongside Latvia’s National Artificial Intelligence Center (MIC), the Ministry of Smart Administration and Regional Development (VARAM), the University of Latvia, and Riga Technical University.
The session examined the relationship between AI governance and economic growth, as well as the importance of developing regulatory and institutional frameworks that keep pace with technological developments, support the responsible use of AI applications, and enhance their contribution to the development of various sectors.
The session also gave Emirati and Latvian institutions working in AI and scientific research an opportunity to exchange insights and expertise and explore potential areas of cooperation.
In the same context, Noor Saif Al Mazrouei, representing TRENDS, held a meeting with Gisli Ragnar Gudmundsson, Co-Chair of New Nordics AI and author of Iceland’s first practical AI guide. The meeting explored opportunities for cooperation and knowledge exchange in artificial intelligence, as well as potential areas of joint work that could support innovation and the development of specialized knowledge.
Strengthening Knowledge and Diplomatic Engagement
As part of efforts to strengthen engagement with Emirati institutions and entities abroad, Noor Saif Al Mazrouei met with Her Excellency Noora Mohammed Juma, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the Republic of Latvia, at the Ambassador’s residence.
During the meeting, she presented the Ambassador with a signed copy of the book U.S. Security Guarantees for the Gulf States: Addressing Challenges in an Era of Strategic Competition, prepared by Principal Researcher Awad Al Breiki, Director General of TRENDS Global.
The meeting formed part of TRENDS’ cultural and knowledge engagement efforts and its initiatives to introduce its intellectual and research publications, contributing to the international presence of Emirati knowledge production and enriching discussions on contemporary issues.
Digital Research and Knowledge Access
As part of its participation program, Noor Saif Al Mazrouei, representing TRENDS, met with officials at the National Library of Latvia. The first was with Anda Baklane, Head of Digital Research Services, followed by a meeting with the Director of the National Library.
The meetings explored potential cooperation in digital research and knowledge access, as well as exchanging expertise on developing research services and leveraging digital technologies and capabilities to support researchers and those interested in knowledge-related fields.
The discussions also addressed opportunities for joint work between research institutions and knowledge centers, aiming to improve access to information and use it to produce research and analytical studies.
Expanding Partnerships and Outlook
TRENDS Research & Advisory’s participation in Latvia supports its efforts to expand international partnerships and strengthen engagement with research centers, universities, government entities, and specialized platforms. These efforts support the exchange of knowledge and expertise and open new avenues for cooperation in future priority areas.
