The cultural attaché of the French embassy in Baghdad Mr. Jean Loudon and Ms. Emily Benzie, in charge of cultural affairs at the French consulate in Erbil were warmly welcomed during a visit to the Ministry of Higher Education. They were hosted by Dr. Beriwan Khailany, advisor to the ministry and Dr. Govan Sherwany, General director of Scholarship and cultural relations on Wednesday the 6th of April 2011.
Some key issues were discussed such as the current situation of higher education in Kurdistan and the developments seen in higher education institutes. Ideas were exchanged during the meeting; both sides will aim to strengthen the relations between Kurdistan Region and France especially in higher education.
The French delegate highly appreciated the actions of Kurdistan Regional Government for upgrading higher education in the region. The delegate also announced during the meeting of a proposal to accept Kurdish students within HCDP in French universities and colleges. The Representatives of the Ministry highly appreciated this step and hoped for continued cooperation.
The Cultural Attaché also added that they are closely working on supervising and administrating the process of accepting students in French universities through cooperation with CNOUS organization.
At the end of the meeting, Ms. Emily announced the Embassy in Iraq is to open a specialized course for French language which will last for six months; this initiative aims to support and help develop higher education in Kurdistan Region.