Baghdad: The Iraqi Jurists Union and the American University engaged in discussions aimed at activating a memorandum of understanding to enhance academic cooperation and professional development. A statement from the Union revealed that Dr. Khansaa Jassim, Dean of the College of Law at the American University, hosted Qasim Ta’ma Jawda, President of the Iraqi Jurists Union, along with Vice President Azar Sadiq Mahmoud Al-Hiti and members of the Executive Office. Discussions focused on mechanisms to activate the existing memorandum and enhance cooperation to benefit Iraq’s legal community.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the meeting explored several mutual interests, including the development of joint training and development programs to improve the skills of law students and practicing lawyers. The parties agreed to organize specialized workshops and legal English courses to align with modern legislative and legal advancements, thereby contributing to professional skill enhancement.

The collaboration also aims to support the Commercial Arbitration Center at the Iraqi Jurists Union through scientific and academic cooperation. This is expected to bolster the center’s role in promoting arbitration culture and developing its research and application capabilities. Additionally, plans were discussed to expand joint conferences, seminars, and scientific activities.

The meeting also considered the possibility of offering special privileges and facilities to families of lawyers enrolling in the College of Law. This initiative seeks to support legal expertise and encourage the pursuit of undergraduate and postgraduate studies.

Both the union president and the college dean emphasized the need for practical programs and specific timelines to implement the memorandum of understanding effectively. This partnership aims to develop qualified legal professionals, elevate academic and professional standards, and strengthen the principles of justice and the rule of law in Iraq.