Expanding Science Diplomacy: Gelişim University Delegation Meets Turkish Ambassador in Baghdad

Details of the Academic Delegation's Visit to Iraq Within the framework of the internationalization strategy for higher education, a high-level delegation from Istanbul Gelişim University (İGÜ) met today, July 14, 2026, with Anıl Bora İnan, the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey in Baghdad [1]. This meeting aimed to strengthen academic ties between Turkey and Iraq and explore new opportunities for student and faculty exchange. During the session, both parties emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation in scientific research and creating suitable platforms for joint academic activities.

The Role of Science Diplomacy in Ankara-Baghdad Relations During the meeting, the topic of "educational diplomacy" was discussed as one of the main pillars of cultural relations between the two countries. The Turkish Ambassador in Baghdad welcomed Gelişim University's initiatives, noting that such cooperation not only elevates the scientific level of regional universities but also brings the two nations closer together [2]. Prof. Dr. Şükran Güzin Ilıcak Aydınalp, Rector of Gelişim University, stated during the meeting that investing in sustainable scientific projects with Iraqi universities is one of the institution's top priorities for 2026 [1].

The "Babylon" Documentary Project and Cultural Interactions One of the highlights of this visit was the introduction of joint cultural projects. The Gelişim University delegation presented a progress report on the "Babylon" documentary produced by the university's Faculty of Fine Arts [2]. This documentary, which explores the ancient history of Mesopotamia, is recognized as a bridge to strengthen historical awareness and cultural interactions among the youth of both countries. The Turkish Ambassador was also invited to attend the screening ceremony of this work in Baghdad to bolster diplomatic support for artistic-academic activities.

Facilitating Conditions for Iraqi Students Istanbul Gelişim University currently hosts hundreds of students from Iraq. During the meeting, ways to facilitate administrative and visa processes for new students, as well as increasing scholarship capacities, were examined [3]. Relying on its international accreditations, Gelişim University strives to be recognized as a primary destination for Iraqi students in engineering, economics, and health sciences. The university intends to pave the way for student exchange by signing new protocols with prestigious Iraqi universities [1].

Future Outlook of Cooperation This visit demonstrates Gelişim University's serious determination to become a "global university." Given the rapid growth of scientific cooperation in the region, several Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) are expected to be signed between this university and higher education institutions in Baghdad and Basra in the coming months [3]. These actions are part of the university's 2026 vision to expand its scientific network in the Middle East and strengthen Turkey's position as a regional educational hub.