The European Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Šuica, confirmed during the high-level retreat on the future of Euro-Mediterranean relations, held today in Rabat, that the Mediterranean region faces unprecedented challenges, making cooperation between the shores of the Mediterranean an unavoidable strategic option. She emphasized that the historical ties among Mediterranean peoples remind us that “our fate is shared and cooperation is part of our collective identity,” noting that organizing this retreat reflects Morocco’s ambition and pivotal role in supporting joint efforts.
The European official highlighted that Morocco is a key strategic partner for the European Union, thanks to its extensive partnership and its role as a bridge for cooperation with Africa. She added that the Rabat meeting presents an opportunity to exchange ideas and craft new visions that will inform the “New Charter for the Mediterranean,” currently being prepared with a spirit of innovation and consultation among all stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and research centers.
Šuica pointed out that the upcoming 30th anniversary of the Barcelona Process, set to be celebrated in November, will be a moment for reflection on past achievements and for outlining the next phase. She noted that the new charter will not be just an additional document, but a balanced partnership accompanied by a joint action plan that reflects the aspirations of both southern and northern countries.
The European Commissioner asserted that the global context, characterized by geopolitical and economic fluctuations, necessitates closer ties among Mediterranean partners. She stressed the importance of investing in youth through education, training, and job opportunities, as this is a fundamental pillar for the region’s future, especially given the declining birth rates in Europe and their rise in the southern shore.
She also emphasized the need to capitalize on underutilized economic potentials and to invest in new opportunities presented by the diversification of supply and production chains, while paying special attention to security and migration issues, as these are core topics in the new charter for the Mediterranean.
