Universities are the humus out of which all other scientific research grows. Thus they are of prime importance for the imprinting of international scientific cooperation as a most natural element of scientific work from the very beginning of scientific training and work. This is not as banal as it may sound. In some disciplines the discussion of international research results is routine, the use of the English language is a necessary part of everyday teaching and learning. The figures significant for scientific collaboration show an interesting development.
Significant growth is to be noted especially in Europe.
Not only has cooperation with the traditional partners in Western Europe increased, but scientific collaboration with Middle and Eastern European countries has also developed considerably during the last five years. This is true, too, for cooperation with Asian countries and Australia. The interaction of German universities with partners in North America was intensified although on a lower level of increase. Hamburg - Harburg is an example for a relatively young university with notable appeal for foreign students. This university paid special attention to its curricula and grades respecting the situation of foreign students.