Aiming to foster research, develop and “implement modern educational practices and professional training” in business and commercial issues, as well as to promote “greater connections between Germany and Iraq, and support Iraqi students,” the American University of Iraq-Baghdad (AUIB) and the German Liaison Office for Commerce and Industry (AHK) in Iraq signed a Memorandum of Understanding outlining the framework of their cooperation on “academic and professional research activities, training programs, cultural and information exchange.”

“We are glad to have your friendship and partnership,” said AUIB President, Dr. Michael Mulnix, in welcoming the visiting delegation, headed by Director of AHK Iraq, Mr. Suntke Heeren, to University campus, where the signing ceremony proceeded.

The agreement furthers the relationships between AUIB and German academic and business institutions, providing AUIB students with opportunities of internships and “job shadowing” at German institutions and firms in Iraq and abroad, and also exchange programs in business and commerce with German institutions of higher education. These would afford AUIB students valuable opportunities of intercultural networking.

By virtue of the agreement, AUIB will “support AHK Iraq in offering conferences, seminars, and training for Iraqis” in various fields, particularly in entrepreneurship, industrial and financial standards, and “the promotion of vocational education in Iraq that draws on German standards and practices.”