On 22 July 2026, Mr Ali Kebriaei Zadeh, Cultural Counsellor of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Sri Lanka, met with Professor Homagama Dhammananda Nayaka Thero, President of the Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka, at the university's main campus. The meeting was held as a follow-up to previous consultations between the two sides and aimed at facilitating the conclusion of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the University of Religions and Denominations (Iran) and the Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka.During the meeting, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening academic and cultural relations between the universities of the two countries and exchanged views on practical mechanisms for expanding bilateral cooperation. Mr Ali Kebriaei Zadeh presented the draft MoU prepared by the University of Religions and Denominations to the President of the Buddhist and Pali University. It was agreed that the Sri Lankan university would review the proposed text at the earliest opportunity and communicate its comments and recommendations. Should no amendments be required, the document would proceed through the standard institutional approval and signing procedures.During the discussions, the Director of International Affairs of the Buddhist and Pali University noted that, in accordance with Sri Lankan administrative regulations, the formal approval process for signing an MoU could require a considerable period of time. He therefore proposed that the two universities begin their academic cooperation immediately by appointing official representatives to coordinate joint activities.He further announced that the university would soon formally introduce its official representative to the Cultural Counsellorship of the Islamic Republic of Iran. This arrangement would enable both institutions to commence academic collaboration before the MoU is formally concluded through activities such as online academic meetings, participation in international conferences, the exchange of scholarly experience, and other joint educational and research initiatives.