"Shaping the Future of the Mediterranean: Cooperation, Sustainability, and Resilience"

In line with the EU’s 2024-2029 strategic priorities — a free and democratic Europe, a strong and secure Europe, and a thriving, sustainable economy — the 8th Circle the Med Forum brings together political leaders, industry experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to accelerate the green transition. Focused on collaboration, digital innovation, and cultural preservation, the Forum aims to create meaningful partnerships for a climate-resilient and just future for the Mediterranean.

Supported by the Cross Network Alliance in Sustainable Tourism-Interreg Euro-MED Dialogue4Tourism project

"Digital Transformation and Green Innovation: Shaping an Equitable and Resilient Mediterranean"

This session will address the integration of digital and green transitions to create inclusive economic growth and strategies to bridge economic disparities and foster a climate-neutral, digitally-empowered Mediterranean. Drawing on the EU’s commitment to a sustainable and just economy the discussion will focus on:

• Smart Cities and Digital Infrastructure: Leveraging technology to reduce energy use, improve public services, and enhance urban resilience.
• Equitable Green Transition: Ensuring vulnerable communities benefit from economic transformation through targeted policies and investments.
• Innovation Ecosystems: Public-private partnerships driving sustainable development, clean technologies, and regional cohesion.

Supported by the Cross Network Alliance in Sustainable Tourism-Interreg Euro-MED Dialogue4Tourism project

"Navigating the Blue Horizon: Strengthening Maritime Partnerships for a Resilient Mediterranean"

As maritime regions face increasing environmental and security challenges, this session will explore collaborative solutions for sustainable blue growth and maritime security. Inspired by the EU’s vision for a strong, secure, and climate-resilient Europe, key topics include:

• Decarbonizing Maritime Transport: Green fuels, smart ports, and circular economy practices for sustainable shipping.
• Marine Ecosystem Protection: Policies to combat pollution, protect biodiversity, and restore marine habitats.
• Regional Maritime Security: Strengthening cooperation to secure trade routes and mitigate climate-induced risks.
• Blue Growth Fund (UfM): Showcasing financing mechanisms to support innovative projects for sustainable maritime adaptation and growth.

Supported by the Cross Network Alliance in Sustainable Tourism-Interreg Euro-MED Dialogue4Tourism project

"Navigating the Challenges of Climate Adaptation, Cultural Preservation, Seasonality, and Water Scarcity for a Thriving Mediterranean Future"

As the Meditteranean region grapples with the growing pressures of climate change, overtourism and seasonal variability, this session will delve into transformative strategies for shaping a resilient and sustainable tourism sector. Through collaborative dialogue, we will explore how the Mediterranean can balance economic growth with environmental stewardship while preserving its rich cultural heritage. Key themes include:

• Regeneratice Tourism Models: Innovative approaches that foster environmental restoration, promote local well-being, and sustain the vitality of Mediterranean destinations.
• Cultural Heritage Preservation Amid Change: Adaptive strategies to protect and revitalize historical sites and cultural traditions amidst the dual forces of climate change and modernization.
• Community-Led Adaptation and Development: Empowering local communities to drive sustainable tourism policies and ensure shared prosperity from tourism-driven economies.
• Managing Water Scarcity and Tourism Pressures: Addressing the critical challenge of water resource management in tourism hotspots, and finding sustainable solutions for the region.
• EU Contributions to Building Tourism Resilience: Cross network alliance for governance in sustainable tourism. Cross-Programme funding synergies. Initiatives launched in the MED area (Mediterranean Multi-Programme Mechanism). Exploring how EU funding programs and initiatives can enhance the Mediterranean's tourism sector resilience and support sustainable economic growth.

Supported by the Cross Network Alliance in Sustainable Tourism-Interreg Euro-MED Dialogue4Tourism project

 "Harnessing Renewable Energy: Cooperation and Resilience in the Mediterranean"

The Forum will highlight the Mediterranean Dialogue on Sustainable Energy and Climate (MEDSEC) initiative, which champions regional decarbonization and adaptation strategies. Central themes include:

• Political consensus and regional cooperation: Aligning Mediterranean countried on a just energy transition, with MEDSEC's 1-terawatt renewable energy target by 2030.
• Untapped renewable energy potential: Realizing the technical capacity  of solar and wind power in North Africa to meet regional and European energy needs.
• Adaptation and resilience through energy transition: Addressing how renewable energy can support climate adaptation and reduce regional instability.
• Investment and green jobs: Stimulating development and creating new opportunities for regional stability and economic growth.
• Regional interconnections: Promoting the Mediterranean as a bridge between the Global North and South, with a focus on Africa's role in renewable energy transitions.

Supported by the Cross Network Alliance in Sustainable Tourism-Interreg Euro-MED Dialogue4Tourism project

"Collaborations and Shared Priorities: Shaping the Mediterranean’s Sustainable Future"

Key takeaways and forward-looking perspectives will outline the shared challenges and goals, and strategic priorities emerging from the Forum—reinforcing the Mediterranean’s growing leadership in advancing a greener, more inclusive, and resilient future.

Supported by the Cross Network Alliance in Sustainable Tourism-Interreg Euro-MED Dialogue4Tourism project