In May 2023, Iraqi Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Naeem Al-Aboudi emphasized the high demand for studying in Iran among Iraqi students due to the friendly and neighboring relationship between the two countries. Currently, around 75,000 Iraqi nationals are studying in Iranian universities, showing the strong academic ties between the two nations.
During a meeting in Tehran between Al-Aboudi and Iranian Minister of Science, Research, and Technology Mohammad-Ali Zolfigol, both officials agreed that detailed planning and the formation of special working groups are necessary to boost cooperation in science and research. Zolfigol also emphasized the need for joint scientific exchanges and holding joint seminars between Iran and Iraq to further strengthen collaboration.
In July 2022, Iranian deputy science minister Vahid Haddadi-Asl 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.