McMaster University is part of a relationship-building mission to Turkey to forge new partnerships in research and academic programs, and to strengthen existing ones.

Peter Mascher, McMaster’s Associate Vice-President, International Affairs, is among the delegates taking part in the mission which includes representatives from seven Ontario universities and the Council of Ontario Universities (COU).

“Strengthening our relationships with leading global academic institutions is a key priority for McMaster,” says Mascher. “In the particular case of Turkey, we can draw on strong connections in archaeology, political science, economics, business, mathematics, and engineering.”

“By continuing to grow these partnerships, we hope to provide our students with increased opportunities to gain international perspectives and facilitate a two-way exchange of ideas and research expertise between McMaster and the global academic community,” adds Mascher.

The 10-person delegation arrived in Turkey earlier this week to take part in meetings in Ankara and Istanbul, which include introductions to representatives from at least 10 Turkish universities, research councils and government.

Reza Moridi, Ontario’s Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities and Minister of Research and Innovation, will join the delegation in Ankara, the Turkish capital.

“In an increasingly globalized world, the connections we make between Turkey and our province will support the success of our academic and research communities,” says Moridi. “These collaborations will lead to greater economic growth and job creation both in Turkey and right here in Ontario.”