Dear participants, 

Thank you for inviting me to address you today.

I am privileged to share a few words at the opening of your event.

The Union for the Mediterranean is a key partner of the European Union for regional cooperation and dialogue, bringing together partners from both shores of the Mare Nostrum.

This aligns with my mission to bring the people and economies of the Mediterranean closer together.

Your conference provides a platform for Member States and stakeholders to discuss climate action, environmental protection, and sustainable energy.

The Mediterranean region is a climate change hotspot, warming 20% faster than the global average. Extreme weather events and water scarcity are affecting many areas.

Population growth, especially in coastal regions, puts pressure on the Mediterranean environment.

We must seize the dual opportunity in energy. The untapped potential of renewable energies is vast, and sharing this among Mediterranean countries will enhance our energy security.

Our Trans-Mediterranean Energy and Clean Tech Cooperation Initiative will support this goal.

It aims to facilitate large-scale private investments in renewables and clean tech, serving as a flagship project of the New Pact of the Mediterranean.

An investment platform will unite project promoters, development banks, and private investors.

We want to advance energy production, distribution, and storage across the Mediterranean.

This will also create quality jobs necessary for sustainable growth and vibrant economies.

The EU and Southern Neighbourhood countries in North Africa and the Middle East are collaboratively building the Pact, which I plan to present this autumn.

The UfM will play a crucial role in implementing actions under the Pact.

I appreciate your contributions to our joint efforts.

Wishing you an inspiring Mediterranean Green Week.