Training and development across a broad range of industries is essential if the Gulf region is to fulfil its potential in the coming years, Gordon Brown has claimed.

Writing in Saudi-based paper the National, the British premier explained that an estimated 70 per cent of people in the Gulf are under the age of 30, meaning that vocational education and training will need to be taken to unprecedented levels if the region is to capitalise on this manpower.

He explained that while the oil and gas sector has provided a mainstay for cooperation between UK and Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, trade and investment was now deepening in a host of different industries.

"The UK offers a natural partnership in world class services, innovative hi-tech industries and a globally renowned network of universities, research institutes and knowledge centres," he said, calling for a closer collaborative effort in the training and development of the region's workforce now and in the future.

According to Agence France-Presse, Mr Brown is currently touring the Middle East in an effort to increase contributions to the International Monetary Fund from countries in the region.

Oil and Gas Directory: Training and Development.