Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), received Dr. Slim Khalbous, Rector of the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF), at ICESCO’s headquarters, in Rabat, to discuss potential avenues for enhanced cooperation in areas of common interest.

At the outset of the meeting, held on Thursday, October 31st, 2024, Dr. AlMalik reaffirmed ICESCO’s commitment to deepening cooperation with esteemed universities and research institutions within and beyond the Islamic world. This commitment is reflected in the implementation of joint programs and projects and the establishment of ICESCO Scientific Chairs. Dr. AlMalik highlighted the Organization’s belief that academic and research institutions are the best incubators for innovation and creativity and play a pivotal role in developing the skills of young people to face future challenges.

For his part, Dr. Khalbous expressed AUF’s dedication to furthering its partnership with ICESCO, as outlined in the framework cooperation agreement signed between the two organizations in March 2021. This cooperation has led to numerous impactful activities and initiatives over the past three years.

The meeting also examined proposals for future cooperation, particularly in advancing linguistic diversity in scientific research to enrich the field through varied perspectives and methodologies, enhancing networks between member universities in the Federation of the Universities of the Islamic World, affiliated with ICESCO, and AUF’s member universities, as well as launching targeted programs to benefit both institutions’ member universities.
During the meeting, Dr. Khalbous invited Dr. AlMalik to attend the upcoming World Francophone Science Week, set to take place next year in Dakar, Senegal, with participation from representatives of over 1,100 universities. Dr. AlMalik reciprocated with an invitation for AUF to participate in ICESCO’s Conference of Ministers of Higher Education and Scientific Research, scheduled for mid-2025.

Also present at the meeting were Dr. Adel Jarboui, DG of the International Academy of Francophone Scientific (AIFS); Dr. Mohamed Zine El Abidine, Head of ICESCO’s Culture and Communication Sector; Dr. Raheel Qamar, Head of ICESCO’s Science and Environment Sector; Mr. Anar Karimov, Head of ICESCO’s Partnerships and International Cooperation Sector; and Dr. Omar Halli, Advisor to the Director-General of the Federation of the Universities of the Islamic World.