European Union ministers and their counterparts from Southern Mediterranean nations convened in Barcelona today to officially launch the Pact for the Mediterranean, a major
step forward in strengthening political, economic and security cooperation across the region. The announcement coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Barcelona Process, the founding framework that has guided Euro-Mediterranean relations since 1995.
The event was co-chaired by EU High Representative/Vice President Kaja Kallas and Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Šuica, drawing participation from ministers across Europe and the Mediterranean—underscoring a shared commitment to deepening regional ties.
Three decades after the original Barcelona Declaration, both the EU and its Southern Mediterranean partners are navigating a dramatically transformed geopolitical landscape. Rising instability, shifting alliances and emerging economic opportunities have put the Mediterranean back at the center of EU foreign policy. Officials described the new pact as a response to these realities—designed to renew engagement and restore momentum in a region marked by both risk and potential.
Unveiled in October, the Pact outlines a comprehensive framework built on co-ownership, co-creation and shared responsibility. It incorporates more than 100 concrete initiatives and features a strengthened system of governance to ensure long-term follow-through.
The launch preceded the 10th Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) Regional Forum, where ministers addressed urgent regional issues, including the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. The forum also endorsed the UfM’s updated strategic vision for the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership. With its broad network and track record in coordinating regional projects, the UfM is expected to play a central role in implementing the new Pact.
Kaja Kallas, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission, said: “The geopolitical importance of the Mediterranean is clearer than ever. Today it is at the top of the EU’s foreign policy agenda, from our support to the Syrian people after the fall of the Assad regime to our quest for stability in Gaza. We are all reaching for the same goals: peace, better lives for our people, and a chance at progress. We can only achieve these objectives through stronger partnerships. That is what our Pact for the Mediterranean is about. Billions more in European investments for over 100 projects will bring it to life”.
Dubravka Šuica, Commissioner for the Mediterranean, added: “Today’s launch of the Pact for the Mediterranean renews a promise for our shared region. By bringing all partners around the same table, we are building a practical and forward-looking framework rooted in co-ownership, joint responsibility and real opportunities for citizens of all shores of the Mediterranean Sea. The Pact has the potential to unlock new engines of human development, sustainability and stability across our Common Mediterranean Space, and today we take another decisive step in this direction together”.
Next steps
EU leaders are anticipated to formally welcome the Pact at the December European Council. Work will then begin on a detailed Action Plan, to be published in early 2026, specifying participating countries, institutions and partners for each initiative.
Background
The Pact for the Mediterranean was jointly proposed by the European Commission and the High Representative on 16 October 2025, and received political backing from EU Member States during the Foreign Affairs Council on 20 November. The document was shaped through an extensive consultation process involving the EU, its 10 Southern Mediterranean partners, neighbouring states, UN bodies, regional organisations and civil society groups.
Positioned as a strategic cornerstone of EU external policy, the Pact aims to deliver tangible improvements in stability, resilience and development by expanding and accelerating existing cooperation programmes.