Discover Highlights from the MED9 Ministerial Meeting in Beautiful Portorož, Slovenia | GOV.SI

The recent meeting of MED9 countries focused on boosting energy cooperation and enhancing climate resilience in the Mediterranean. With Slovenia taking the lead for the first time, Minister Kumer emphasized the need for a clean transition and better energy connectivity to meet shared goals.

### A Vision for Energy Connectivity

Energy ministers gathered to discuss plans for creating a green energy hub in the Mediterranean. They highlighted the need to improve existing energy connections and build new ones. To facilitate this, ministers called for better energy storage solutions and easier financing.

Despite the political backing and EU financial mechanisms in place, cross-border renewable energy projects are still scarce. Ministers stressed the importance of sharing successful strategies and advancing clean energy technologies.

### Boosting Competitiveness Through Decarbonization

During a working lunch, ministers from both energy and environment sectors examined how clean transitions could enhance economic competitiveness. They agreed that a united approach would create more opportunities for all member states.

### Building Climate Resilience

Environment ministers also addressed the urgent need for climate resilience in this climate-sensitive region. They advocated for aligning national adaptation plans and promoting early warning systems. Collaboration with organizations like the Union for the Mediterranean was deemed essential for effective regional partnerships. There’s a strong push for adapting the European climate action plan to fit the unique needs of the Mediterranean.

### Joint Commitments

The meeting resulted in two joint statements. Energy ministers reiterated their commitment to strengthening energy sector cooperation and enhancing cross-border energy projects. Meanwhile, environment ministers adopted a statement aimed at improved climate resilience, building on the earlier work done under Cyprus’s presidency.

### The Importance of MED9

The MED9 group includes Croatia, Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Slovenia, and Spain, making up about one-third of the EU and nearly half its population. This group plays a pivotal role in shaping EU policies on pressing issues like climate change, energy, and sustainable development.

The MED9’s work is crucial in creating a cohesive approach to shared regional challenges. Slovenia’s presidency focuses on the importance of collaboration in energy and climate issues, underlining the significance of the Mediterranean on the global stage.

### Concluding Insights

As the meeting concluded, it became evident that energy and climate policies are vital not just for the MED9, but for the world. With greater collaboration and commitment, Mediterranean countries can lead the way toward a greener future.

This collaborative spirit is essential not only for addressing immediate challenges but also for setting a precedent for international cooperation in combating climate change. According to a recent report by the European Environment Agency, Mediterranean countries are already experiencing a rise in extreme weather events, emphasizing the urgency of these discussions.

The MED9’s focus on renewable energy and climate resilience is a step towards ensuring a sustainable future for both the region and the planet.



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