British University in Egypt hosts royal engagement with Prince Radu of Romania leading lecture, cultural showcase

Ahram Online , Thursday 23 Apr 2026

The British University in Egypt recently hosted His Royal Highness Prince Radu of Romania for a high-level academic and cultural visit as Egypt and Romania mark 120 years of diplomatic relations.

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Welcomed by Ms Farida Khamis, chair of the university’s Board of Trustees, and Professor Mohamed Loutfi MBE, president and vice-chancellor, His Royal Highness’s official visit to Egypt included two events on campus: the inauguration of a historic art exhibition and a guest lecture on Romania’s role in global geopolitics.

HRH Prince Radu was accompanied by a delegation that included HE Ms Olivia Toderean, ambassador of Romania to the Arab Republic of Egypt; Professor Dr Sorin Cîmpeanu, president of the National Council of Rectors of Romania; and Ms Claudia-Victoria Nicolae, managing director of Romania’s national news agency, AGERPRES. The visit was attended by members of Egypt’s Senate, university executives, faculty deans, academic staff, and several alumni.

The visit commenced at the Faculty of Art and Design with the inauguration of the exhibition “The Crown of Romania: 160 Years of History.” Curated in collaboration with the Royal House of Romania and AGERPRES, the exhibition offers a rare look into the nation’s regal heritage and its long-standing ties to the region. The exhibition opening was attended by university leadership and diplomatic representatives from both nations.

Following the inauguration, Prince Radu addressed students from the Faculty of Business Administration, Economics, and Political Science. His lecture, “Romania as a Bridge Between the European Union and the Mediterranean,” provided future leaders with insights into the evolving leadership roles of young people in the digital era. His lecture explored the balance between global openness and the preservation of national identity, the importance of multilateral partnerships for regional security, and the role of education in fostering accountability. An interactive discussion followed, where students engaged with the Prince on the complexities of Euro-Mediterranean relations and international diplomacy.

The lecture concluded with Professor Loutfi presenting Prince Radu with the University Shield in recognition of his international contributions.

HRH Prince Radu noted that his visit coincides with the 120th anniversary of Egypt-Romania relations, carrying a message of "friendship, dialogue, and a shared commitment to peace."

"Egypt and Romania share a relationship grounded in stability and cultural diversity," HRH remarked, acknowledging the historical role of the Romanian Royal Family in advancing ties between Cairo and Bucharest. He further commended the university’s strategy in preparing students to navigate global shifts with competence.

Professor Mohamed Loutfi, president and vice-chancellor, stated that hosting HRH Prince Radu reflects the university's commitment to intercultural dialogue.

"The engagement we witnessed today, the quality of the dialogue and the questions asked, aligns with our strategy of developing graduates capable of navigating a changing world," Professor Loutfi said. "We are deliberate in inviting influential figures to our campus to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world international experience."

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