On Saturday, May 2, 2026, Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria held an official meeting with Egypt’s Minister of Health, Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, at the Ministry of Health in Egypt’s New Administrative Capital.
The meeting focused on exploring and promoting cooperation for the construction of a modern hospital, to be built on land owned by the Patriarchate near the Patriarchal Monastery of St. Savvas in Alexandria, aiming to address the growing healthcare needs of the wider region.
Minister Abdel Ghaffar warmly welcomed the Patriarch, highlighting the long-standing bonds of friendship and cooperation between Egypt and Greece. He emphasized the importance of the proposed project, which is expected to significantly enhance healthcare services for approximately 5.6 million residents of Alexandria, according to an official ministry study.
In this context, the Minister instructed the relevant departments of the Ministry of Health to provide full support for the project’s implementation, with particular emphasis on accelerating procedures for the issuance of the necessary permits and approvals in accordance with the highest technical and quality standards.
He also assigned the competent technical service to conduct an on-site inspection of the construction area and to coordinate with the Patriarchate of Alexandria and the Governorate of Alexandria to ensure the adequacy of studies and construction specifications.
It was particularly underlined that Egypt’s Ministry of Health supports every positive initiative aimed at strengthening healthcare services and alleviating patients’ needs, a position that was welcomed by the Patriarchate.
For his part, the Patriarch expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Minister for his practical support and positive response to the Patriarchate’s vision, noting that the establishment of the hospital reflects the long-standing mission of the Church of St. Mark to serve humanity, regardless of nationality or religion.
Also present at the meeting were the Minister’s advisors, Dr. Peter Wagih, Dr. Sherif Mostafa, and Dr. Mohamed El-Sadfi, as well as Bishop Damaskinos of Mareotis, Patriarchal Vicar of Alexandria.
The meeting was held in an atmosphere of cordiality and mutual respect, reaffirming the commitment of all parties to promote projects of strong social and humanitarian character for the benefit of the local community and the wider region.
