____ is an agreement between two or more companies from different countries to share a business project.

A joint venture is a strategic alliance where two or more companies from different countries come together to collaborate on a business project. This partnership allows the companies to combine resources, share risks, and leverage each other's strengths and expertise to achieve a common goal. Joint ventures are often formed to enter new markets, develop new products, or share technological advancements, making it a significant approach in international business. This collaborative structure enables each partner to contribute different assets, such as capital, technology, or market knowledge, thus enhancing the likelihood of success in the global marketplace.

In contrast, a licensed agreement typically involves one company granting another the rights to produce and sell its product under specific conditions, without the same level of collaboration that characterizes a joint venture. A franchise is a type of license that allows a franchisee to operate a business under the franchisor's brand, but it does not necessarily involve multiple companies coming together for a common project. An independent contract refers to an agreement where an individual or business provides services without forming a partnership, which does not capture the collaborative nature seen in a joint venture.