UfM and UNESCO open a new phase of strategic cooperation for the Mediterranean

Paris, 4 June 2026 – Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) Secretary General Nasser Kamel met with UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enany at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, marking the beginning of a new phase of strategic cooperation between the two organisations. Against a backdrop of growing challenges and transformations across the Mediterranean, they agreed on a structured partnership, capable of delivering greater impact for people and peace across the Mediterranean region.

The meeting confirmed the strong convergence between UNESCO’s global mandate and the UfM’s regional priorities, particularly in higher education, science, research and heritage. Both leaders underlined the importance of strengthening cooperation to advance human development, regional integration, resilience and sustainable growth.

Discussions focused on expanding cooperation in higher education and research, including UNESCO’s engagement in the UfM’s policy agenda and platforms. Particular attention was also given to the role of science, innovation and heritage as drivers of resilience, recovery and reconstruction in conflict- and crisis-affected contexts.

The meeting underscored the importance of translating global priorities into regional action. In this regard, the UfM is uniquely positioned to advance UNESCO’s global agendas across the Mediterranean, including on climate education, science diplomacy, academic mobility, heritage-based development, and resilience and recovery efforts.