Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 3 July 2025, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation of the Republic of Uzbekistan hosted a meeting focused on expanding bilateral cooperation between universities of Uzbekistan and Spain.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Minister Otabek Makhkamov, Vice-Rector of the University of Barcelona Raül Ramos Labo, Vice-Rector of the University of Lleida Antoni Granollers Saltiveri, and Rector of Urgench Technological University RANCH, Juratbek Atajonov.

During the discussion, the parties addressed the strengthening of practical collaboration between universities of both countries, including faculty and student exchanges, joint research initiatives, and the development and implementation of educational programs based on institutional partnerships.

It was noted that the University of Barcelona, founded in 1450, holds a leading position among Spanish universities and ranks among the top 200 universities in the world according to the international QS ranking. The university employs more than 5,000 researchers. The University of Lleida, one of the oldest academic institutions in Spain, is recognized for its strong programs in engineering, agricultural, and natural sciences.

The meeting also reviewed the results of cooperation between Urgench Technological University RANCH and the above-mentioned Spanish universities. In 2024, memoranda and agreements were signed, followed by working visits and meetings, which laid the foundation for the second phase of collaboration.

At the conclusion of the talks, both sides expressed their readiness to elevate the partnership to a strategic level, implement joint academic and research projects, and further strengthen institutional ties in the field of higher education.