In a significant international development, a Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between Guilan University of Medical Sciences and Astrakhan State University of Russia. This initiative, driven by the International Affairs Management of Guilan University of Medical Sciences, aligns with regional diplomacy efforts. The signing ceremony, attended by Dr. Asadollah Abbasi, the governor of Guilan, Igor Aleksandrovich Alekseev, the president of Astrakhan State University of Russia, Dr. Iman Alizadeh, director of international affairs of Guilan University of Medical Sciences,   Dr. Afshin Shafaghi, Vice-Chancellor of Guilan University of Medical Sciences, and officials from Guilan University of Medical Sciences via a two-way video communication.

The memorandum aims to foster educational and scientific cooperation between the two institutions. Both parties, represented by Russian state universities and Guilan Medical Sciences, have committed to enhancing relations through various forms of collaboration. This includes scientific exchange, training programs for professors, researchers, and students, joint research and development activities, and the exchange of research data.

The agreement further encompasses the joint publication of articles, reports, and research papers, as well as the organization of academic events such as symposia, workshops, conferences, and round tables. Scientific supervision, consultation on doctoral theses, and the development of joint educational programs, including double degrees, are also integral components of this collaboration.

Dr. Asadollah Abbasi, on the sidelines of the memorandum signing, highlighted the potential for cooperation beyond education, extending into commercial and transportation realms between Guilan and Astrakhan.

Igor Aleksandrovich Alekseev, the president of Astrakhan State University of Russia, emphasized the historical bilateral cooperation between Astrakhan and Guilan. He expressed optimism about reinvigorating collaborations, especially in the scientific and educational domains. Alekseev envisioned bright horizons for the development of educational activities, scientific conferences, and the exchange of experiences.

Dr. Iman Alizadeh, director of international affairs of Guilan University of Medical Sciences, conveyed satisfaction with the Guilani delegation's participation, noting the fruitful potential of such memorandums for advancing education in medical sciences on the international stage.

Dr. Afshin Shafaghi, Vice-Chancellor of Guilan University of Medical Sciences, underlined the institution's 40 years of experience and its noteworthy position in the Times Ranking at 800. Dr. Shafaghi highlighted the university's capacity with around 6,000 students and 500 professors across eight faculties.

The signing ceremony also witnessed the presence of key officials, including the vice president of research and technology, the head of the directorate and inspection, the performance evaluation department, and various university officials.