In a prominent international event reflecting the scientific and historic stature of Cairo University and its presence on the global stage, the university welcomed UN Secretary-General António Guterres for an official visit held in the Grand Celebration Hall. He was received by Dr. Abdel Aziz Qonsowa, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Dr. Mohamed Sami Abdel Sadek, President of Cairo University, Ambassador Mohamed Abou Bakr representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with several ambassadors, diplomats, university leaders, and students.

This visit holds special significance as it coincides with the celebration of United Nations Day and marks the Secretary-General`s return to the university following his first visit in 2017. His return embodies the continuity of a historical relationship linking this venerable academic institution with the international organization, reaffirming the role of universities as platforms for dialogue and the exchange of perspectives on issues of peace, justice, and development.

During his address, António Guterres expressed his delight at returning to Cairo University, praising its status as a beacon of knowledge, thought, diplomacy, and dialogue. Guterres highlighted Egypt`s civilizational role, quoting the famous phrase "Egypt is Mother of the World" (Misr Umm al-Dunya), and explaining that Egyptian civilization has contributed to the advancement of intellectual and human knowledge, positioning Egypt as a pivotal partner to the United Nations and a bridge for communication between peoples.

Regarding developments in the Middle East, the Secretary-General commended Egypt`s role in defending the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, stressing that lasting peace requires a just solution to the Palestinian cause, and calling for the full implementation of a comprehensive plan to end the conflict in Gaza, ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid, and protect civilians. He also addressed current global challenges such as climate change and artificial intelligence, warning against the decline of respect for international law and emphasizing the importance of peaceful and diplomatic solutions.

For his part, Dr. Abdel Aziz Qonsowa stated that the visit reflects the depth of relations between Egypt and the United Nations, highlighting the Ministry of Higher Education`s keenness to develop partnerships with international organizations to support innovation, empower youth, and chart pathways for sustainable development.

In turn, Dr. Mohamed Sami Abdel Sadek welcomed the Secretary-General, noting that the visit carries an important message to university youth that major global issues are not far from the lecture halls, and that youth are active partners in shaping the future through their ideas and initiatives. Ambassador Mohamed Abou Bakr reaffirmed the constants of Egyptian foreign policy based on commitment to international law and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

The visit concluded with an open dialogue moderated by Dr. Mohamed Sameh Amr, Dean of the Faculty of Law, allowing students to ask questions and exchange views on the future of the international system and peace issues. This was followed by official praise posted by Guterres on his account on the "X" platform, in which he affirmed that Cairo University students give him tremendous hope for the future through their energy, knowledge, and creative capacity.