The EESC and the Union for the Mediterranean reinforce their cooperation to support the ongoing political reforms in the region

30 September 2020 – The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) signed on 30 September 2020 a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) where they reassert their common ambition to support ongoing and political reforms in the Southern and eastern Mediterranean countries. 

Jointly contributing to the development of an area of peace, stability, democracy and prosperity in the Mediterranean is of outmost importance for the two institutions that reaffirm their willingness to work together in the areas of business, social and civil affairs, energy, water, development, transport, higher education and research. Transition toward a low carbon society is also high on their agenda.

The parties agree to regularly meet and ensure the exchange of information on their respective work programmes in relevant fields and to involve each other in projects and activities where cooperation between the UfM and civil society is advantageous. The MoU particularly reinforces the participation of EESC representatives in UfM Ministerial Competencies and Regional Fora and facilitates the two organizations’ cooperation in holding meetings of the other party.

I am particularly proud of this achievement that the EESC and UfM reached after several discussions and the fundamental help of our respective constituencies. It is the outcome of years of dialogue and constructive exchange that we built together, and I believe that our joint work will contribute effectively to the numerous challenges that the two shores of Mediterranean share, from fighting COVID-19 to combating climate change and foster economic and social sustainable development, said Luca Jahier, outgoing President of the EESC.

The UfM Secretary General, Nasser Kamel, added: The reinforced collaboration between the EESC and UfM marks another important step as this year we celebrate the 25^th anniversary of the Barcelona Process, a historic milestone that marked the beginning of the Euro-Mediterranean cooperation. Twenty-five years later, we take stock of the importance of cooperation in the fields of sustainable and human development for our societies, as both organisations are stepping up to work closely together to build a prosperous future for our region.

The new MoU enters into force on 30/09/2020 and has been signed by outgoing EESC President Luca Jahier and UfM Secretary-General Nasser Kamel.