Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty met with Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares on Friday in Barcelona during the 10th Union for the Mediterranean Regional Forum. The talks focused on strengthening their strategic partnership and addressing key regional issues like peace in the Middle East.
This meeting builds on recent high level visits and aims to expand cooperation in trade, tourism, and security amid growing Mediterranean challenges.
Bilateral Relations Reach New Heights
The two ministers highlighted the progress in Egypt Spain relations since President Abdel Fattah El Sisi visited Madrid in February 2025. That trip marked the elevation of ties to a strategic partnership level, leading to new agreements on economic and cultural exchanges.
Abdelatty praised Spain’s support and noted the reciprocal visits, including King Felipe VI’s trip to Cairo in September 2025. These steps have opened doors for joint projects in various sectors.
Officials from both sides agreed to schedule more high level meetings in 2026 to keep the momentum going. This partnership aligns with broader goals of stability in the Mediterranean region.
Key Areas for Expanded Cooperation
Discussions covered economic ties, with a focus on boosting trade and investment. Egypt seeks Spanish expertise in renewable energy and infrastructure, while Spain eyes opportunities in Egypt’s growing market.
The ministers also talked about tourism, culture, and education. Plans include student exchange programs and joint cultural events to foster people to people connections.
In healthcare and migration, both countries plan to share best practices. This includes training programs for medical staff and strategies to manage migration flows humanely.
- Tourism initiatives: New direct flights between Cairo and Madrid to increase visitor numbers.
- Education partnerships: Scholarships for Egyptian students in Spanish universities.
- Investment opportunities: Spanish firms investing in Egypt’s Suez Canal projects.
A table below outlines recent bilateral agreements:
| Date | Agreement Focus | Key Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Feb 2025 | Strategic Partnership Elevation | Signed MoUs on trade and defense |
| Sep 2025 | Development Partnership 2025-2030 | Focus on inclusive growth |
| Nov 2025 | UfM Forum Sideline Talks | Plans for joint Mediterranean projects |
These efforts aim to create jobs and promote sustainable development.
Addressing Regional Challenges
Abdelatty thanked Spain for recognizing the State of Palestine in May 2024 and supporting peace efforts. The talks emphasized implementing the Sharm El Sheikh Peace Agreement and UN Security Council Resolution 2803 for Gaza stabilization.
Both ministers stressed the need for Gaza’s reconstruction. Egypt hopes Spain will play a big role in an upcoming international conference hosted by Cairo.
They also discussed broader Mediterranean stability, including the role of the Union for the Mediterranean in promoting peace and prosperity.
UfM Forum as a Platform for Dialogue
The 10th UfM Regional Forum in Barcelona gathered leaders from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. It focused on economic cooperation, climate change, and security.
Egypt and Spain used the event to align on shared priorities like trade and investment. The forum’s outcomes include new initiatives for SMEs and business networks across the region.
This gathering builds on previous events, such as the Euro Mediterranean Economic and Business Forum earlier in November 2025.
Attendees highlighted the UfM’s role in fostering dialogue amid tensions in the region.
Looking Ahead to Stronger Partnerships
Experts see this partnership as a model for Euro Mediterranean relations. With Spain’s EU influence and Egypt’s regional leadership, joint efforts could lead to more stability.
Future plans include a business forum in 2026 to attract investors. Both nations aim to tackle global issues like climate change through combined resources.
As ties grow, this could benefit trade volumes, projected to rise by 15 percent in the next year based on current trends.
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