In line with its commitment to fostering collaboration with international academic institutions and strengthening scientific cooperation, the President of the University of Basra, Professor Dr. Aqeel Fadhil Al-Dahhan, along with the Deans of the Colleges of Engineering and Agriculture and a number of faculty members from both colleges, received Ms. Pauline Lapointe, the Attaché for Scientific and University Cooperation at the French Embassy in Iraq, and her accompanying delegation, which included representatives from the Cultural Attaché's office and student programs.

During the meeting, held at the College of Engineering, discussions focused on prospects for joint academic and research cooperation, exploring study, training, and academic programs available to undergraduate and graduate students and researchers at French universities.

The meeting also addressed the progress and completion of the "Agri-Iraq" project, which aims to support the agricultural sector and address the environmental and water challenges facing Basra Governorate and the southern regions, particularly in the governorates of Maysan and Dhi Qar, with a focus on modern water management and promoting the sustainability of natural resources.

On the sidelines of the meeting, the French government's MOPGA 2027 grant was highlighted as a research opportunity supporting international scientific collaboration. This grant is designed to attract PhD researchers to conduct their research in France in the fields of environment, climate, and sustainable agriculture. The grant includes a monthly stipend of €2,500 for one year, with a deadline of December 15, 2026, allowing researchers the opportunity to develop their research projects and expand their international scientific partnerships.

Following the meeting, the French delegation conducted a field visit to the College of Agriculture, including the greenhouse, laboratories, and research facilities, to learn about the scientific capabilities and infrastructure available at the college.

The visit concluded with an emphasis on the importance of developing joint research proposals and projects that contribute to the development of the agricultural and water sectors, address the challenges of water scarcity and climate change, and expand opportunities for academic exchange and benefit from French research grant programs to serve scientific and developmental progress.

To learn about the MOPGA 2027 scholarship requirements and application process, please visit the official scholarship website: