In a remarkable step towards strengthening cultural diplomacy and global understanding, the Academia de la Diplomacia del Reino de Espana and The Diplomat Nepal by Ambassador’s Club signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Madrid, Spain, on July 8.

The MoU signing ceremony was held at the historic halls of the Instituto de Ingenieros de España, a prestigious institution founded in 1905 under the honorary patronage of His Majesty King Felipe VI.

Santiago Velo de Antelo, Presidente Ejecutivo of the Academia de la Diplomacia, and Dr Sarmila Parajuli Dhakal, President of The Diplomat Nepal by Ambassadors Club and Former Ambassador of Nepal to Spain and Oman signed the agreement, reads a statement issued by the The Diplomat Nepal by Ambassadors Club.

Speaking at the event, Dr Dhakal said “Diplomacy is ultimately about connecting hearts and building understanding beyond borders. Through this partnership, we aim to amplify small voices and show how even the smallest nations can inspire peace, dialogue, and trust.”

Likewise, Antelo highlighted the importance of shared cultural diplomacy in today’s divided world, sharing, "This MoU is more than an agreement—it is a commitment to work together to promote dialogue, knowledge, and respect among people and nations."

Under this MoU, the two institutions will collaborate on joint conferences, publications, and research on diplomacy and international affairs; academic and cultural exchanges between Spain and Nepal; training programs for young diplomats and scholars;  promotion of moral, cultural, and economic diplomacy to foster peace and people-to-people ties; and  the partnership aims to position Nepal, not only as a breathtaking destination for travelers, but as a neutral, peaceful hub for dialogue and reflection on global challenges.