Sulaimani, Iraq – Today, Mr. Nawzad Ghafour Rabati, Head of the Sulaimani Chamber of Commerce, and Dr. Bilal A. Wahab, President of the American University of Iraq, Sulaimani (AUIS), met to discuss initiatives aimed at fostering economic development, supporting small businesses, and enhancing job opportunities for AUIS graduates.

Mr. Nawzad emphasized the importance of applying university-acquired knowledge to real-world business environments. With an increasing number of graduates entering the workforce, he highlighted the necessity of job creation and investment in small businesses, which play a crucial role in economic growth. He also outlined the Chamber’s plans to establish a trade annex for consulates, including banking facilities, pending government approval. He reaffirmed the Chamber’s independence from direct governmental affiliations while maintaining strong international connections, including with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Iraqi Chamber of Commerce.

Discussions also covered strategies to enhance economic activities in industry and agriculture across the region. Mr. Nawzad noted that 30% of Sulaimani’s production stems from high-capital industries, but emphasized that investing in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) remains essential to providing job opportunities tailored to different business sectors. He also pointed out that the Chamber offers specialized training programs, including customer service training, to enhance the capabilities of businesses.

Dr. Bilal reiterated AUIS’s commitment to fostering business growth through its diverse educational offerings. AUIS boasts a strong business department, an accredited Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) program, and a proven track record of alumni success in the job market. The university is also establishing an AI center to support data-driven business strategies and economic research. Furthermore, AUIS’s Professional Development Institute (PDI) provides specialized training programs tailored to various industries, while the Takween Entrepreneurship Center supports startups with legal and business mentorship.

Recognizing the importance of data-driven economic planning, Mr. Nawzad expressed the Chamber’s plan in establishing a new office dedicated to economic data collection and analysis. He also expressed interest in AUIS’s involvement in organizing economic conferences and research initiatives focusing on Sulaimani, Raparin, and Garmian, which could provide valuable insights into regional economic trends and opportunities.

Both leaders discussed the evolving banking sector and the need for preparedness in financial developments that will impact businesses. Dr. Bilal shared insights from his experience in the U.S., where universities play an active role in urban planning, infrastructure development, and economic strategy—an approach that could be adapted to benefit Sulaimani.

The meeting reaffirmed the continuous cooperation between AUIS and the Sulaimani Chamber of Commerce, with a shared vision to enhance economic growth, business innovation, and alumni engagement. Both institutions are committed to working together to develop research, provide specialized training, and support businesses in navigating the evolving economic landscape.