Hiroshima, Japan – 6 August 2026

Mr. Sardar Al-Bebany, Chairman of Sardar Group, joined representatives of Sardar Group and the American University of Iraq – Baghdad (AUIB) in a two-day program hosted by Hiroshima University in Japan on 5–6 August 2026. The program included participation in the 6th University Presidents for Peace Conference and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between AUIB and Hiroshima University.

The MOU followed a period of communication between the two universities. As partners of AUIB, Sardar Group and Toyota Iraq, with the support of Sumitomo Corporation, contributed to facilitating the initial engagement and strengthening communication between the two institutions, helping advance the relationship toward this important step.

The MOU provides a foundation for exploring future opportunities in academic exchange, education, research, and broader institutional cooperation. It also demonstrates how the international relationships built by Sardar Group and its companies over the years can open new channels for communication and knowledge exchange between Iraq and international institutions, extending their impact into sectors closely connected to human development and the future, particularly education.

The delegation also participated in the 6th University Presidents for Peace Conference, organized by Hiroshima University at its Higashi-Senda Campus on 6 August. The conference brought together presidents, senior leaders, and representatives from 17 universities across 11 countries and regions to discuss the role of universities, education, research, and international exchange in supporting peace, sustainability, and greater cooperation among communities.

The visit also included several activities connected to Hiroshima’s history and enduring message, including a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Peace Memorial Museum, as well as participation in ceremonies commemorating the victims of the atomic bombing. Bringing together Hiroshima’s message of peace with academic dialogue, the visit opened a new space for engagement between Iraqi and Japanese institutions. It demonstrated how international relationships can extend beyond business to create opportunities for knowledge, education, and stronger connections between communities.