The European Union has launched a renewed initiative to strengthen cooperation with northern African and Mediterranean nations through a new “Pact for the Mediterranean.” The plan seeks to enhance collaboration in energy, clean technology, education, and migration management, aiming to create a more integrated Mediterranean region.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the bloc’s goal is to establish “a common Mediterranean space” with progressive integration between the EU and its southern neighbors. The pact targets 10 countries, including Egypt, Lebanon, Morocco, Algeria, and Syria, offering investments and partnerships designed to boost growth and stability across the region.
Among its proposals are the creation of a “Mediterranean University” to promote academic exchanges and a start-up support program to foster innovation. The pact also builds upon existing EU agreements with Tunisia and Libya, combining economic assistance with cooperation on border security and migration control.
EU officials said the framework aims to reduce irregular migration by improving local opportunities while enabling legal migration pathways to Europe. The 10 partner countries, which participated in drafting discussions, are expected to formally endorse the initiative next month, paving the way for a detailed action plan of implementation.