Andalusia participated last week in the Assembly of Mediterranean Regions of Europe (ARLEM), which took place in Tirana, Albania. During the event, the autonomous community highlighted the need for Mediterranean regions to be heard in policy formulation.
Worklines of the Mediterranean Pact
At the assembly, guidelines for the development of the European Mediterranean Pact were approved, along with a significant opinion. This pact will serve as a guide to implement initiatives focused on various areas, such as migration policies, the fight against climate change, and cultural and tourism development.
The representation from Andalusia participated in ARLEM on behalf of the Association of European Border Regions (ARFE). The importance of giving a voice to regions with particular characteristics, such as the borders of Europe, was emphasized.
Claims and proposals from Andalusia
The Andalusian delegation stressed that Mediterranean regions have much to contribute to the development of the European Mediterranean Pact. They requested that Member States consult these regions when working on the Pact's Action Plan, and that their role in dialogue with the Commission on the matter be taken into account.
Furthermore, the autonomous community reminded the need for adequate funding, suggesting that a specific budget should be allocated for the development of this pact, especially considering the context of the upcoming EU Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF).
The delegation highlighted several projects that Andalusia is working on to contribute to the Pact's objectives, such as the Andalusian Green Hydrogen Valley project, which is the largest renewable hydrogen project in Europe, and a Strategy for Unconventional Water Resources.
In conclusion, Andalusia has urged for increased resources available for Mediterranean regions and emphasized collaboration between territories, administrations, institutions, businesses, and civil society to face upcoming challenges.
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