Tunisia to Lead New BlueSkills Group at WestMED Conference
In late November, representatives from ten Western Mediterranean countries gathered in Tunis for the 5th WestMED Stakeholder Conference. The event focused on building a sustainable blue economy, promoting maritime skills, and fostering regional cooperation. Tunisia will chair a new technical group dedicated to BlueSkills, while a Tunisian startup was recognized for its innovation in solar-powered port infrastructure.
One of the key outcomes of the conference was the creation of a regional technical group on BlueSkills. Its purpose is to strengthen education and training initiatives, ensuring a skilled workforce for the Mediterranean’s blue economy. Tunisia, chosen to chair the group, reflects its ongoing commitment to human capital development in the maritime sector. The group is expected to start its activities in February 2026. The initiative emphasizes practical training, knowledge sharing, and capacity building, aiming to equip young professionals with the skills needed for emerging opportunities in maritime industries, sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, and renewable energy projects.
Recognizing Tunisian Innovation
The conference also highlighted innovation in the maritime sector. Tunisian startup Bluepsol received the WestMED Project Award 2025 for its solar energy solutions applied to port infrastructure. The award demonstrates how technology and sustainability can work hand in hand to modernize Mediterranean ports and reduce environmental impact.
Fostering Cooperation Across the Mediterranean
Over 210 participants from northern and southern shores of the Mediterranean attended, including government officials, regional organizations, specialized agencies, researchers, and maritime entrepreneurs. Key topics included maritime skills development, decarbonization of sea transport, energy transition, and maritime spatial planning.
The WestMED Initiative, born from the 5+5 Dialogue, brings together ten Western Mediterranean countries—France, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Malta, Algeria, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, and Tunisia—to strengthen regional cooperation, promote innovation, and support sustainable practices across the blue economy.
With Tunisia continuing its leadership alongside Spain in 2026, the conference underscored the region’s shared responsibility and opportunity to build a sustainable, innovative, and resilient maritime future. The creation of the BlueSkills group marks a concrete step toward empowering professionals and ensuring the Mediterranean’s blue economy thrives for years to come.
