5th UfM Energy and Climate Business Forum: Forging a Resilient Euro–Mediterranean–Gulf Partnership
Kuwait City, 12 May 2025 – As part of Kuwait Sustainable Energy Week, the 5th UfM Energy and Climate Business Forum convened policymakers, industry leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs alongside high-level representatives from key institutions such as the European Union, the United Nations’ ESCWA (Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia), the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), RCREEE (Regional Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency), GIZ (German Agency for International Cooperation), Kuwait’s Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy, National Bank of Kuwait (NBK), and STC (Saudi Telecom Company).
The gathering aimed to drive forward the sustainable energy transition and strengthen Euro–Mediterranean–Gulf cooperation on energy and climate action.
Ten entrepreneurs from across the region pitched their innovative ventures in a hybrid format – with some presenting in person and others joining online. They showcased a wide range of cutting-edge solutions, from advanced battery storage systems and digital energy-efficiency platforms to nature-based climate resilience tools. This pitching session provided a live demonstration of the region’s entrepreneurial dynamism and the practical solutions being developed to meet Middle East and North Africa’s energy and climate challenges.
The Forum featured four thematic panel discussions tackling key aspects of the region’s energy and climate agenda.
Bridging the Gulf and Mediterranean
The opening session examined how Gulf capital can be channelled into Mediterranean renewable projects. Stakeholders from Gulf energy firms, research institutes and European bodies debated risk-sharing instruments, public–private partnerships and harmonised regulations to accelerate financing for green infrastructure.
Climate Resilience in the Mediterranean and Gulf
Experts addressed shared threats—particularly water scarcity and extreme weather—and promoted nature-based solutions alongside improved cross-border energy links. Panellists from UN agencies and energy organisations underscored the need for transnational collaboration and knowledge-sharing to bolster regional resilience.
Accelerating Sustainable Development through Green Entrepreneurship
This session highlighted the vital role of start-ups and innovators. Speakers stressed harmonised regulation, patient seed funding and sustained mentorship, citing NBK’s US$10 billion sustainable-assets pledge and STC’s InspireU incubator as models for empowering clean-tech ventures.
UfM Solution Podium: Fore-sighting MENA Energy and Climate Future
In the closing discussion, participants called for an integrated Mediterranean electricity market, continued investment in renewables and robust talent-retention schemes to secure green jobs for youth. They agreed that stronger Euro–Mediterranean–Gulf ties are essential to meet the region’s future energy and climate challenges.
Held under the patronage of Kuwait’s Minister of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy, and organised in partnership with RCREEE, the Forum reaffirmed a clear message: only by bridging regional divides, unlocking finance, and empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs can the Euro–Mediterranean and Gulf regions build a truly resilient and sustainable energy future.
