Cihan University-Erbil Hosts Significant International Event to Strengthen Kurdistan Region’s Ties with Thailand
In a concerted effort to fortify scientific, economic, and cultural relations between the Kurdistan Region and the Kingdom of Thailand, and as part of its ongoing endeavors to foster academic and international partnerships, Cihan University-Erbil recently hosted a pivotal international event titled “The Essence of Thailand: Discovering Hidden Beauties and Memories.”
The event, held on Monday, September 8, 2025, at the University’s Conference Hall, witnessed the distinguished presence of Mr. Safeen Dizayee, Head of the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) Department of Foreign Relations, and a high-level Thai delegation led by His Excellency Ambassador Supark Pronghorn, Ambassador of Thailand to Jordan and Non-Resident Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of Iraq, all were hosted by Professor Dr. Amjad Sabir Al-Delawi, President of Cihan University-Erbil, along with several prominent figures from the Kurdistan Regional Government, members of the university council, faculty members, and students. The proceedings commenced with a series of opening remarks.
Professor Dr. Amjad Sabir Al-Delawi:
Thailand, a Shining Example for the Kurdistan Region’s Progress
In his welcoming address, Professor Dr. Amjad Sabir Al-Delawi, President of Cihan University-Erbil, underscored the significance of the event in introducing the Kurdish community to Thailand’s successful developmental experience. Dr. Al-Delawi referenced the “Seven Tigers” of Southeast Asia, noting Thailand as one of them, which achieved remarkable progress across all sectors in a short period, particularly in enhancing national output and per capita income. He stated, “Thailand represents the kind of experience from which we in Kurdistan can benefit from.”
The President of Cihan University-Erbil further elaborated that one of the event’s objectives was to build a bridge of connection through society, extending beyond governmental collaboration to include the private sector. He remarked, “We recognize that Thailand has achieved tremendous progress in agriculture, industry, programming, and all economic sectors. It serves as an excellent model from which we can draw valuable lessons.”
Professor Al-Delawi also highlighted the role of Cihan University-Erbil as the largest and oldest private university in the Kurdistan Region. He explained that the university, established in 2007, currently encompasses 30 scientific departments and nearly 10,000 students across its three campuses (Erbil, Sulaimani, and Duhok). He further elucidated that the universities of the Kurdistan Region, working collaboratively, have played a substantial role in the region’s advancement and the provision of skilled cadres.
Emphasizing the importance of the private sector, Professor Dr. Amjad Sabir Al-Delawi urged young people and graduates not to solely focus on government employment. He stated, “In all countries worldwide, the proportion of individuals working in the government sector does not exceed twenty percent, while eighty percent are engaged in the private sector and various facets of life.” He stressed that organizing this event at Cihan University-Erbil substantiates the private sector’s crucial role in the development of any nation.
Concluding his address, the President of Cihan University-Erbil expressed his hope that the event would lay the groundwork for a robust relationship with Thailand, leading to the construction of a stronger infrastructure within the Kurdistan Region. He added, “We, as Cihan University-Erbil, are prepared to collaborate with Thai universities and in the field of education, to mutually benefit from each other’s experiences” in expanding academic cooperation.
Mr. Safeen Dizayee:
A Bridge for Communication and Private Sector Growth
In his address, Mr. Safeen Dizayee, Head of the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) Department of Foreign Relations, emphasized the event’s importance in forging strong bridges and connections between peoples, particularly in these complex times. He noted that when people build relationships, leaders must facilitate greater interaction, especially within the business sector. Safeen Dizayee extended his gratitude to Cihan University-Erbil for hosting the occasion, which he deemed a fitting venue for gatherings that advance national, scientific, and educational ties.
The Head of the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) Department of Foreign Relations dedicated another segment of his speech to underscore the role of the private sector and higher education in the Kurdistan Region. He clarified that the region has supported a free-market economy and encouraged entrepreneurship, moving away from the old socialist system. He also pointed out that initially, the region had only one public university, but now boasts over 30 universities, both public and private. This, he asserted, signifies the Kurdistan people’s desire and aspiration for knowledge and education, from which they had been deprived for decades. He added that the continuation of such activities in universities lays a solid foundation for scientific and cultural relations.
Ambassador Supark Pronghorn of Thailand:
Cultural Similarities and Educational Cooperation Between Kurdish and Thai People
In another segment of the event, His Excellency Ambassador Supark Pronghorn Ambassador of Thailand to Jordan and Non-Resident Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of Iraq, delivered his address, emphasizing the cultural similarities and shared values between the Kurdish and Thai people. He stated, “I believe that Kurds and Thais share the same DNA. We are very resilient, very committed, and very peaceful people. We also highly respect diversity,” he added, “In Thailand, we have the same principles of unity in diversity, and these are the strengths of our people to embrace all cultures, traditions, and differences and to develop them towards continuous progress.”
During his speech, the Thai Ambassador highlighted Thailand’s connections in education and culture, particularly with institutions like the Chaipattana Foundation, a royal project aimed at improving people’s livelihoods and youth education. He expressed his pleasure in addressing the young generation and students of Cihan University-Erbil, who represent the future of the region. He extended his thanks to the presidency of Cihan University-Erbil for their cooperation and collaboration, especially in the coming year, which marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Iraq and Thailand. He expressed his hope that this event would serve as a cornerstone for numerous future visits and exchanges in education, culture, and other aspects.
Other Activities
Following the presentations, a short video about Cihan University-Erbil was screened, after which the event continued with the presentation of diverse and strategic topics. Members of the high-level Thai Embassy delegation conducted various activities, including introductions to Thai culture, tourism experiences, and festivals. Discussions also revolved around development projects, trade relations, and investment policies in Thailand, with a focus on its advanced medical and healthcare services system.
During the event, Cihan University-Erbil students actively participated in a scientific competition involving several student teams, with the aim of fostering a spirit of scientific rivalry and innovation. A Q&A session and the distribution of prizes to participants also formed part of the event’s agenda.
This international event served as a crucial opportunity to build new bridges of communication and strengthen partnerships across various sectors, further underscoring Cihan University-Erbil’s role as a leading academic institution in the Kurdistan Region.
