University of Cyprus and President of Iraq express will for further cooperation

President of Iraq, Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid, and the authorities of the University of Cyprus have expressed their mutual wish for further cooperation at the academic and research level.

During a meeting on the morning of 12 December. President Rashid extended an invitation to a delegation of the University to visit Iraq, which the Rector, Tasos Christofides, accepted, expressing the wish to lead such a delegation.

The President of Iraq met with the authorities of the University within his formal visit to Cyprus and noted that Iraq wishes to reinforce its relations with Cyprus. He said that Cyprus may have a small population but Iraq considers this bilateral cooperation as important, due to the island's proximity both to the Middle East and Europe.

Rashid noted that exchanges of academics by the two countries can contribute in building cooperation. He underlined the importance of the tasks of academics and universities, especially in dealing with global challenges, such as the rapidly increasing population and the climate challenge. “We should not allow countries without proper education, proper health or proper services,” he said.

He suggested that the University of Cyprus and universities in Iraq should proceed with students exchanges in all fields and noted that Iraqi universities excel in medical studies, as well as in other fields, such as engineering, law, languages and cultural studies.

Andreas Christofides, President of the University’s Council, welcomed the President Rashid, saying that there are already seven Iraqi students following graduate and postgraduate studies in the University of Cyprus. President Rashid met with some of them later during a tour at the library of the University.

Rector Tasos Christofides particularly spoke of the library’s significant role, both as a space for research and study and as a space for keeping an archive of valuable collections of politicians, scientists, and academics. The Rector also underlined the University’s achievements in attracting EU research funds and noted that internationalisation is a main goal of the University.

(Source: CNA)