CISTC Boosts Innovation: Supporting Groundbreaking Iran-Iraq Research Initiatives
The Center of International Science and Technology Cooperation (CISTC) is taking significant steps to enhance the collaboration between Iranian and Iraqi researchers. This initiative aims to implement joint research projects that focus on various critical issues, marking a pivotal moment in the scientific relationship between the two neighboring countries.
According to reports from the Mehr news agency, this joint call for research projects is a direct outcome of the agreements established during the Iran-Iraq science week held in January. The primary objective is to strengthen scientific ties and establish joint scientific infrastructures that cater to the technological needs of both nations.
Key areas of focus for the research projects include:
- Climate Change
- Preservation of Biodiversity
- Food Security
- Bioeconomy
- Sustainable Agriculture
- Oil, Gas, and Energy
The second Iran-Iraq science week took place from January 18 to 20 in Karbala, Iraq, where both countries aimed to enhance their bilateral scientific, academic, and technological relations. During this event, an action plan was signed to expedite scientific collaborations between Iran and Iraq.
This important action plan was formalized by Omid Rezaei-Far, a representative from Iran’s Ministry of Science, and Haider Abd Dahed, the Iraqi Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research. The plan encompasses various collaborative initiatives, including:
- Scholarships: Boosting cooperation on granting scholarships for graduate and postgraduate education, particularly through a ‘study in Iraq’ framework.
- Training Courses: Organizing training programs for professors and students.
- Joint Supervision: Promoting cooperation on joint scientific supervision.
- Professor Exchange: Facilitating the exchange of professors to conduct scientific research.
- Science Parks: Establishing science and technology parks in Iraq with joint management from the Iraqi Higher Education and Scientific Research.
Saeed Habiba, the deputy minister of science, research, and technology, revealed the country’s commitment to granting 200 scholarships to the Iraqi Ministry of Science, emphasizing the importance of mutual development.
“Promoting joint activities and creating equal opportunities for scientific and cultural development of the two countries are among our top policies,” Habiba stated, highlighting the commitment to collaborative growth.
On January 17, Naeem Al-Aboudi, the Iraqi Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, emphasized the necessity of exchanging professors and students, alongside implementing joint educational programs with Iran. This collaboration is crucial for meeting the scientific and research demands of Iraq.
“Iran serves as a role model in the region in terms of scientific progress in modern technologies, nanotechnology, biotechnology, and medical science,” Al-Aboudi noted. He expressed Iraq’s interest in leveraging Iran’s expertise to bolster its technological and scientific infrastructure, especially emphasizing the establishment and expansion of science and technology parks as a priority.
During a meeting with Science, Research, and Technology Minister Hossein Simaei-Sarraf, Al-Aboudi reiterated the importance of fostering scientific interactions and developing a comprehensive roadmap for future collaborations between the two countries. This collaborative effort not only aims to enhance research capabilities but also lays the groundwork for a robust scientific partnership that can address pressing regional challenges.
In conclusion, the joint initiatives between Iran and Iraq signify a strong commitment to advancing scientific research and technological development. The strategic focus on key areas such as climate change, food security, and sustainable agriculture reflects a shared vision for a better future. As both nations work together, the potential for scientific breakthroughs and advancements in technology becomes increasingly promising, paving the way for a collaborative approach to tackle common challenges.
