Annual Meeting with Euromed Ambassadors

On 7 May 2013, Members of the EPP Group met with Euromed Ambassadors in Brussels to discuss the political situation in Maghreb, Mashrek countries, the Palestinian Authority and Israel.

The meeting focused on the importance of assuring peace and stability in the Mediterranean and the Middle East. Countries in the Mediterranean region are struggling for stability against the economic crisis, unemployment and poverty within the context of political and economic transition. The dialogue between the EU and the South Mediterranean countries should be reinforced in order to solve common problems such as terrorism and illegal immigration.

Besides the Peace Process, cooperation also has to be orientated towards free trade and mobility partnership.

Moreover, it is important to develop a common economic and social area in the Mediterranean. We must optimise the European Neighbourhood & Partnership Instrument (ENPI) projects, and technical and financial assistance from the EU in the Mediterranean.

In conclusion, Vito Bonsignore MEP, Vice-Chairman of the EPP Group and Chairman of the EPP Group Euromed Working Group, emphasised that the EPP Group will organise future events such as a meeting on Intercultural Dialogue, an exchange programme with MPs and a political mission to different countries in the Southern Mediterranean.