Egypt Spain sign historic 2025–2030 development partnership

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Photo:WAM

Egypt and Spain have entered a new chapter in their long-standing relationship by signing a first-of-its-kind Development Partnership Agreement that will run from 2025 to 2030. This agreement focuses on areas such as economic development, climate-friendly projects, food security, water and sanitation, and women’s empowerment.

The official signing took place in Cairo, during the visit of King Felipe VI of Spain, making the event both symbolic and historic. Representing Egypt was Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, while José Manuel Albares, the Spanish Foreign Minister, signed on behalf of Spain.

A New Phase in Egypt–Spain Relations

Minister Rania Al-Mashat described the agreement as a new stage of equal partnership, dialogue, and shared action, emphasizing that it strengthens the long-standing ties between the two nations. She noted that the agreement will help Egypt and Spain move beyond traditional cooperation by creating a joint vision for sustainable and inclusive development.

The partnership outlines specific areas of cooperation:

• Promoting inclusive economic growth to make sure development benefits more people.
• Advancing climate action and green transition, including renewable energy and eco-friendly projects.
• Enhancing food security to stabilize food supply chains.
• Supporting water and sanitation projects that improve public health and daily life.
• Encouraging gender equality and women’s empowerment to create more opportunities for women in education, work, and leadership.

A First for Spain’s Development Agency

This agreement is unique because it is the first global partnership of its kind for the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID). It also builds upon the Strategic Partnership Agreement signed earlier in February 2025, showing that both countries are committed to long-term cooperation.

Regional and Global Impact

The partnership goes beyond bilateral ties. It also sets the stage for regional and trilateral programs, meaning Egypt and Spain can work together with other nations and international partners on broader projects. These may include sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, climate resilience, and women-led initiatives across the Middle East and Africa.

This agreement demonstrates how two countries can collaborate to address global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and food insecurity. It also highlights Egypt’s growing role as a regional hub for development, while giving Spain a stronger foothold in international cooperation efforts.

Why This Agreement Matters

For Egypt, this deal brings fresh investments, technical knowledge, and new opportunities to strengthen its economy and social programs. For Spain, it represents an important step in enhancing its role in global development efforts while deepening ties with a key North African country.

Overall, the agreement sends a strong message that sustainable development, fairness, and environmental responsibility are shared goals that both countries are determined to achieve together.