Dr. Abdelaziz Qansowa, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, held a meeting with Mr. Álvaro Iranzo Gutiérrez, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain to the Arab Republic of Egypt; Mr. Diego del Alcázar, CEO of IE University, Spain; Dr. Manuel Muñiz, President of the University; and their accompanying delegation, to discuss ways of enhancing joint cooperation. The meeting took place at the Ministry’s headquarters in the New Administrative Capital.
At the outset of the meeting, Dr. Abdelaziz Qansowa emphasized the depth of the bilateral relations between Egypt and Spain, stressing the importance of building on the current momentum of cooperation, especially in light of the distinguished political relations following the visit of His Majesty the King of Spain to Egypt.
The Minister noted that the Egyptian state places great importance on expanding international academic and research cooperation and hosting branches of prestigious international universities, as key steps toward strengthening partnerships, transferring international academic expertise, and providing distinguished educational opportunities for students. He affirmed that cooperation with the Spanish side represents a promising opportunity in this regard.
Dr. Abdelaziz Qansowa also pointed out that the existing cooperation between the two sides is witnessing remarkable development through partnerships in scientific research and innovation, as well as collaboration through European programs. The Spanish side has participated in the Egypt–EU Research and Innovation Week, in addition to implementing joint development projects and programs.
The Minister added that there are significant opportunities to enhance cooperation in the fields of applied education and technical training, and to benefit from Spanish expertise in dual education systems and linking education with industry. He also highlighted the possibility of implementing joint projects within the framework of European programs such as Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe, as well as regional cooperation programs in the Mediterranean.
He further emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to promoting joint research projects, facilitating technology transfer, and supporting innovation, noting the importance of linking any institutional cooperation with partnerships with Egyptian universities to ensure integration and maximize the benefit from scientific expertise.
The Minister also reviewed the state’s efforts to create a supportive environment for innovation within universities through the expansion of technology valleys, business incubators, and support for startups, thereby strengthening the role of universities as a key driver of economic development.
For his part, the Spanish Ambassador expressed his appreciation for the bilateral relations between Egypt and Spain, describing them as strategic and distinguished, and praising the significant development and expansion witnessed in Egypt’s higher education system, particularly in the establishment of new universities.
The delegation of IE University also expressed its interest in strengthening cooperation with the Egyptian side, exploring opportunities for academic partnerships, and offering modern educational programs aligned with the requirements of the international labor market.
The meeting also discussed mechanisms for cooperation between Egyptian universities and their Spanish counterparts through the exchange of expertise, organizing mutual visits, and developing joint programs.
Both sides expressed their aspiration to further strengthen the existing partnership in line with the aspirations of both countries and in support of achieving sustainable development goals.
The meeting was attended from the Ministry’s side by Dr. Salwa Rashad, Secretary of the Council for Branches of Foreign Universities; Dr. Salma Yousry, Assistant Minister for International Cooperation; and Dr. Nevine El-Sagheer, Advisor to the Minister for Marketing and Public Relations.
From IE University, the meeting was attended by Mr. Joseph Sfeir, Regional President for the Middle East and Africa, and Ms. Adelaide Ishak, Partnerships Director.
