In May 2023, Naeem Al-Aboudi, the Iraqi Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, highlighted the strong academic ties between his country and Iran. He emphasized that many Iraqi youths are interested in pursuing higher education in Iran due to the friendly and neighboring relationship between the two countries. Currently, around 75,000 Iraqi nationals are studying in Iranian universities.
During a meeting in Tehran between Al-Aboudi and Mohammad-Ali Zolfigol, the Minister of Science, Research, and Technology of Iran, the importance of enhancing cooperation in the fields of science and research was highlighted. Both officials agreed that detailed planning and the formation of special working groups are necessary to boost collaboration. Zolfigol also emphasized the need for joint scientific exchanges and holding joint seminars between Iran and Iraq to further strengthen collaboration.
In July 2022, Vahid Haddadi-Asl, the Iranian deputy science minister, expressed Iran’s priority in increasing academic cooperation with Iraq among Islamic and neighboring countries. He mentioned that Iraq has the highest number of foreign nationals studying in Iran, and it is essential to address any issues they may face. By holding joint meetings between the heads of universities and research technology centers in both countries, cooperation can be further enhanced.
To support this effort, Nader Nourmohammadi has been appointed as the science attaché in Iraq by Mohammad-Ali Zolfigol. The main responsibilities of this role include identifying scientific capacities and facilities in Iraq, fostering scientific connections and cooperation with universities and research institutions in Iran, focusing on attracting students and technologists from both countries.
This appointment marks a significant step towards strengthening collaboration between Iran and Iraq at a scientific level. It is expected that this will lead to more opportunities for students from both countries to pursue higher education together
