Euro-African cooperation: building innovative bridges in the blue economy
In Alicante, Spain, the MedBlueTech Summit 2025 brought together over 140 experts, researchers, and leaders from Europe and North Africa to discuss the future of the blue economy in the Mediterranean. The summit highlighted marine innovation, sustainable aquaculture, and marine biotechnology, placing Euro-African cooperation at the heart of the conversation.
During a dedicated session on cross-Mediterranean collaboration, Rym Benzina Bourguiba emphasized North Africa’s immense potential in marine biodiversity, highlighting the importance of combining these natural resources with European expertise to develop innovative and sustainable solutions.
“By joining forces, sharing knowledge, and investing together, we can transform the Mediterranean’s potential into an innovative, inclusive, and sustainable blue economy.” – Rym Benzina Bourguiba
Bourguiba also emphasized that financial and institutional support, through platforms such as the Forum Mondial de la Mer and the Blue Africa Summit, is crucial for facilitating joint projects and transforming ideas into tangible actions, citing successful initiatives implemented in Tunisia.
Practical partnerships make the difference
The summit went beyond theoretical discussions, showcasing real-world examples of effective North–South cooperation. Projects in sustainable aquaculture and marine biotechnology have already demonstrated improvements in water quality and marine resource management, proving that cross-border collaboration is not optional—it’s essential for a thriving, inclusive blue economy.
Towards a sustainable and inclusive blue economy
Participants agreed that the Mediterranean serves as a vital bridge between Europe and North Africa. Yet, the main challenges are not technological—they are structural and regulatory, including legislative gaps and trust issues among stakeholders.
The session called for stronger support for cross-border projects, encouragement of startups in the South, and the development of robust governance models to ensure local impact aligns with global sustainability goals.
MedBlueTech: a permanent platform for maritime partnerships
The summit concluded with a clear message: MedBlueTech Summit is more than an annual event. It is a permanent platform bringing together scientists, policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society. Through these partnerships, the Mediterranean can be transformed into an innovative, sustainable blue economy, combining environmental protection, technological innovation, and real economic opportunities.
