In May 2023, Iraqi Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Naeem Al-Aboudi expressed that many Iraqi youths are interested in pursuing higher education in Iran due to the friendly and neighboring relationship between the two countries. He emphasized the high demand for studying in Iran among Iraqi students, with around 75,000 Iraqi nationals currently 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, 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, making it 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.