The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad and the Arab Thought Forum of Jordan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding in an online ceremony, formalizing a new collaborative framework. The ISSI ATF MoU was signed by Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General ISSI, and Dr. Al-Sadig Al-Faqih, Secretary General of the Arab Thought Forum, with attendees including Ms. Amina Khan, Director of CAMEA at ISSI, and Dr. Shakaib Rafiq, Pakistan’s Deputy Head of Mission in Amman.
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood praised the visionary role of His Royal Highness Prince al-Hassan bin Talal, founder of the ATF, and acknowledged the Pakistan Embassy in Amman for helping to bridge the two institutions. He said the ISSI ATF MoU builds on long-standing historical, cultural and diplomatic ties between Pakistan and the Arab world and opens avenues for deeper academic and research cooperation.
Dr. Al-Sadig Al-Faqih recalled Pakistan’s close relations with Jordan and the wider Arab and Muslim world, noting that Pakistan’s special standing was a key reason for ATF’s interest in formal engagement. He emphasized the value of moving beyond dialogue to practical cooperation under the terms of the agreement.
Ms. Amina Khan highlighted the institutional importance of the collaboration for addressing bilateral and regional issues, while Dr. Shakaib Rafiq pointed to potential areas of cooperation that extend beyond traditional research activities and reaffirmed the Embassy’s support for enhanced ties between the think tanks.
The agreed framework under the ISSI ATF MoU centers on exchanging officials and experts for research, field study and professional training, sharing publications, organising joint scientific research and events, and facilitating the exchange of views and experience. The partnership is expected to strengthen research networks, expand academic collaboration and reinforce people-to-people connections between Pakistan and Jordan.
