Egypt’s Deputy Prime Minister for Human Development and Minister of Health, Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, met on Sunday with Spanish Ambassador to Cairo Álvaro Iranzo to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation in health and development, with the aim of advancing strategic partnerships between the two countries.
According to a Health Ministry statement, the talks focused on organ transplantation—an area where Spain is recognised as a global leader. Discussions included launching joint programmes to train Egyptian doctors in advanced medical practices through workshops and field visits to Spanish medical centres. The two sides also explored the creation of a shared platform to exchange expertise in efficiently and transparently managing patient waiting lists.
The meeting further addressed cooperation in upgrading Egypt’s medical infrastructure, particularly through the use of Spanish technology to equip hospitals and modernise medical devices. Both officials also examined opportunities for private sector partnerships to support the local manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, with the goal of making high-quality products available at competitive prices.
Beyond bilateral cooperation, the discussions also turned to humanitarian support for Gaza. Abdel Ghaffar and Iranzo considered mechanisms for supplying urgent medicines and medical equipment, including potential collaboration with Spanish organisations to send specialised medical teams and advanced equipment for field hospitals. Abdel Ghaffar reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to receiving Palestinian patients in Egyptian hospitals and ensuring they receive the necessary care.
For his part, Ambassador Iranzo expressed appreciation for Egypt’s partnership, emphasising Spain’s commitment to expanding cooperation in health and humanitarian fields. He also praised Cairo’s efforts to provide high-quality medical services domestically and to extend vital support to Palestinians in Gaza.
