Forum of the Syrian-Algerian Rectors Discusses Cooperation Mar 14, 2010 Homs, (SANA)-Forum of the Syrian and Algerian university rectors, which was held at al-Baath University in Homs on Saturday, discussed enhancing cooperation among scientific institutions in Syria and Algeria. Minister of Higher Education Ghiyath Barakat said the forum reflects the two countries' desire to enhance cooperation among scientific institutions through establishing joint research programs, exchanging students and participating in the conferences organized by universities in both countries. Barakat underlined the importance of enhancing cooperation by signing a memo of understanding towards signing scientific agreements between ministries of higher education in both countries. For his part, Rector of al-Baath University Amer Fakhoury said the forum includes a number of workshops and discussion sessions aiming at vitalizing cooperation. Algerian Ambassador in Damascus Saleh Borsha hailed the Syrian-Algerian special relations. Head of the Algerian delegation Abdulwahhab Rzeik said the forum proves the mutual desire to advance scientific cooperation. The rectors presented a detailed explanation of the reality of universities in both countries. The forum wrapped up after signing a number of cooperation agreements and memos of understanding in various scientific and research domains. Manal Ismael/Ghossoun