The Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia today signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for cooperation in the fields of statistics and information. The MoU, signed at the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI), was aimed to consolidate the existing partnership between the two countries.

The MoU was signed by Dr. Khalifa Abdullah Al Barwani, CEO of the NCSI, and Dr. Fahd Abdullah Al Dosari, President of the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) in Saudi Arabia.

The MoU seeks to upgrade the statistical system through the exchange of expertise, conduct programmes to spread awareness about the statistical culture, facilitate access to data, regulate visits between experts and specialists from the two countries, organize the holding of joint conferences and workshops and explore new areas of future cooperation.

Al Barwani said that the MoU constitutes a step forward towards the establishment of an integrated GCC statistical system that produces reliable data supports decision-makers. He added that cooperation with GASTAT will open broader channels for exchanging expertise and developing national competencies to serve the two countries' common interests.

For his part, Al Dosari said, "The MoU is in pursuance of bilateral partnership to enhance joint action and exchange expertise in the field of statistics."

During the signing ceremony, the NCSI gave a presentation in which it showcased its prominent projects that, it said, form part of an integrated vision for developing the national statistical system in line with the best international standards and practices.

The signing of the MoU reflected the two countries' commitment to enhance cooperation and encourage integration among vital sectors—including the statistics and information sector, which plays a key role in supporting decision-making and guiding development policies.