Alfredo Rocafort, Professor of Financial Economics and Accounting at the University of Barcelona, Doctor in Economic Sciences, Doctor in Law, and full member and President of the Governing Board of the Royal European Academy of Doctors, presented the history and activities of the Royal Corporation in an extensive article published in the third issue of the Portuguese edition of the magazine Diplomacia, published by the Academy of Diplomacy of the Kingdom of Spain, of which he is also a full member. Published in March 2026, this third issue is dedicated to the historic relations between Portugal and Angola.
Dr. Alfredo Rocafort
In his article, Rocafort explains the history of the READ and its work in research, study, promotion, and dissemination of knowledge across various disciplines, highlighting its European and pro-European character. He also emphasizes the efforts of the Royal Academy, through its admissions ceremonies, academic events, and activities both within and outside Spain, to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in a context of cultural and scientific diplomacy. Likewise, he underscores the close relationship the institution maintains with the Academy of Diplomacy thanks to a collaboration agreement that has led them to organize various joint sessions, as well as prominent social celebrations attended by members of both academies.
In this regard, and thanks to the Academy of Diplomacy, the READ will establish a new headquarters in the Portuguese city of Cascais, which will join its existing headquarters in Barcelona and Madrid.
Founded 25 years ago by a group of Spanish statesmen, ambassadors, and diplomats such as Javier Solana, Abel Matutes, Fernando Morán, Alonso Álvarez de Toledo, Fernando Arias-Salgado, Carlos Fernández Shaw, Manuel Fraga, Ana Palacio, José Pedro Pérez-Llorca, and Carlos Westendorp, among other distinguished figures, the Academy of Diplomacy was created as an institution open to individuals from other professions connected to diplomacy, international relations, and protocol, who could represent and internationally promote the values of Spain through its diversity. Within the institution there are working groups dedicated to the study and analysis of historical, cultural, economic, and political issues related to the diplomatic world. The institution also organizes conferences, courses, and seminars whenever international events require it. Its ambassador-academicians are consulted by various institutions and ministers on matters related to diplomacy.
