The University of Crete had the honor of welcoming Ciara O’Floinn, Ambassador of Ireland to Greece, in Voutes University Campus (Heraklion) on February 20, 2026. The Ambassador was accompanied by Mr. Giannis Xenikakis, Honorary Consul of Ireland in Crete.

Ambassador Ciara O’Floinn and Mr. Xenikakis were received by the Vice Rector for Administrative Affairs and Student Welfare, Professor Sofia Schiza. The meeting was also attended by the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, Lifelong Learning, and Research Policy, Professor Maria Vamvakaki, and the Vice Rector for Development, International Relations, and Outreach, Professor Eleni (Melina) Tamiolaki.

Discussions focused on further strengthening the University’s partnerships with Irish academic and research institutions, as well as expanding collaboration in the fields of international education and research.

Ambassador O’Floinn underscored the importance of enhancing bilateral cooperation in higher education and academic mobility, while the Vice Rectors highlighted the University’s strategic initiatives in internationalization, engagement with partner institutions abroad, and participation in international research programs.

The visit represents an important step toward reinforcing the University’s global engagement and advancing meaningful academic collaboration with institutions in Ireland.