Technology solutions provider Emerson has announced its intention to establish a new training and development centre in Doha to support the regional oil and gas industry and other key sectors.

Gulf Times reports that the group expects that the new centre will be open next year, aiming to serve pupils from the northern parts of the Middle East.

Last year, the company established a regional office in Doha and now has 40 full-time staff working in the Qatari capital.

Emerson president and chief executive officer David N Farr has this week met with delegates from regional players in the oil and gas industry in order to review its ongoing investment strategy in the Middle Eastern arena.

The company's figures for 2008 show sales volumes of $868 million, with the group holding the intention of surpassing the $1 billion barrier in the future.

Emerson specialises in process control technologies and technical training services for refinery operators and other downstream players.

Global Education and Training event for Oil and Gas: Refining and Petrochemicals