International Diplomats gathering in Malta reinforce the central role of civil society and the Anna Lindh Foundation in building a Union for the Mediterranean

The 28th International Seminar for Euro-Med Diplomats took place this week, bringing together diplomats from across Europe, the Arab 'Mediterranean' countries, Israel and Turkey.

Organised by the Mediterranean Academy of Diplomatic Studies and the European Commission, the regional meeting has been running since the birth in 1995 of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership, the far-reaching political agreement which was re-launched in 2008 as the 'Union for the Mediterranean' at the Paris Summit of the 43 Heads of State or Government.

Speaking at the closing session, Guido de Marco, President of the Mediterranean Academy of Diplomacy, former President of Malta and a co-signatory at the launch of Euro-Mediterranean Partnership in 1995, said: “‘Euro-Med' is not just a dream, it is a reality that we need.

When we created the process 15 years ago, we established a cultural dimension, along with the political and economic pillars, to ensure there was a social vision as a basis for Mediterranean cooperation. There have been many small steps since then, and we must ensure that the next decade lets flourish the cultural dimension and the work of the Anna Lindh Foundation"

The Euro-Med meeting and training seminar has focused on a range of issues including globalisation, trade and investment, energy security, as well as the contribution of civil society and the media to Mediterranean cooperation.

Paul Walton, Communication Manager of the Anna Lindh Foundation, speaking at the closing session said: "One of the main challenges we face as the Foundation is reaching the public opinion at large, in order to have a real impact on mutual perceptions between people on the two shores of the Mediterranean. The approach we are taking is to work with a multiplier effect, engaging civil society actors including the media, educators and cultural leaders, who already play a central role in shaping perceptions."

The importance of the contribution of civil society to regional cooperation was reinforced in the meeting's final conclusions. Imane Dryef, representing the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and speaking on behalf of the seminar participants said: "Civil society presents a fresh approach to Mediterranean cooperation, with fresh ideas and new inputs, creating the conditions to rebuild bridges across the Region. As diplomats, it is important to also collectively support the work of the Anna Lindh Foundation which is having a major impact on reducing the gap in mutual perceptions between people on the two shores of the Mediterranean."

A follow-up information and training seminar for Euro-Med Diplomats is planned for October 2010 where the Anna Lindh Foundation has been invited to present the outcomes of its forthcoming first Report on Intercultural Trends which includes the very first survey of 13,000 citizens of the Euro-Mediterranean Region about values, perceptions and behaviours which are relevant to intercultural relations.