event announcement poster main image of people shaking hands

WestMED online roundtable: Unlocking Business Opportunities in Libya’s Blue Economy

This online roundtable, held online on 24 April 2025, focused on raising awareness and promoting investment opportunities in Libya’s Blue Economy sectors, with a focus on aquaculture, ecotourism, desalination, and renewable energy.

Key discussions highlighted the importance of private sector involvement, capacity building for local workers, and development of infrastructure such as ports and logistics services.

Successful regional examples, such as Tunisia’s support for youth and startups through economic accelerators, were shared, alongside innovative projects like marketing seafood and creating cosmetics from marine ingredients.

The event also emphasized the need for appropriate legislation, environmental sustainability, and the role of innovation and digitalization in fostering growth within the Blue Economy.

Key Discussion Points

  1. Raising Awareness: The event aimed to inform Libyan private stakeholders about viable sectors within the Blue Economy.
  2. Showcasing Success Stories: Regional and international case studies were highlighted to demonstrate successful initiatives in the Blue Economy.
  3. Funding and Technical Support: Discussions focused on available funding mechanisms and technical support for entrepreneurs in the Blue Economy sector.
  4. Fostering Connections: The roundtable provided a platform for stakeholders to connect, foster innovation, investment, and partnerships within the Blue Economy.

 Strategic Focus Areas

  • Private Sector Investment: Emphasis was placed on the importance of private sector involvement in sectors like aquaculture, ecotourism, desalination, and renewable energy.
  • Capacity Building: The need for training and qualification programs for local workers was highlighted to reduce dependence on foreign labor.
  • Infrastructure Development: Discussions included the development of ports and logistics services to support Blue Economy activities.
  • Environmental Sustainability: Addressing environmental pollution was recognized as a crucial component of future strategies.
  • Legislative Support: The importance of appropriate legislation and skills enhancement was discussed to support the new generation of entrepreneurs.

Regional Collaboration and Innovation

  • Tunisia’s Experience: Successful experiences from Tunisia were reviewed, focusing on supporting youth and startups through economic accelerators.
  • Innovation and Digitalization: Projects such as marketing traditional seafood products and developing cosmetics based on marine ingredients were discussed, emphasizing the role of innovation and digitalization.

International speakers included Amna Souhlobjy (Tunisian Maritime Cluster) and Leonardo Manzari (WestMED National Hub Italy)

Approximately 25 stakeholders joined this roundtable with a regular questions and answers amongst the participants.

 

Agenda: available here

For more information, contact Masauda Abuarosha (WestMED National Hub Libya)

 

Emna Sohlobji - MBA presenting during a an online roundtable on Blue Economy opportunities in Libya

WestMED featured at the Blue Economy Partnership Forum 2025 in Malta

The Blue Economy Partnership Forum, held in Malta on 24–25 April 2025, brought together around 20 participants from across the Mediterranean region, as part of WestMED’s supported CallMeBlue initiative.

It was an invite-only event, co-organised by the ANIMA Investment Network and Malta Enterprise, and taking place back-to-back to the EU Startup Summit. The event aimed to strengthen north-south cooperation and accelerate the formation of strategic maritime clusters. Through matchmaking sessions, pitching rounds, and networking activities, the Forum provided a dynamic platform for SMEs, clusters, and innovation leaders to build partnerships and explore collaborative opportunities in the fast-growing blue economy sector.

On behalf of WestMED’s Maltese National Hub, Maria Cini delivered a keynote speech focused on « Empowering SMEs in the Blue Economy: The Role of the WestMED. »  Her message: SMEs are the backbone of the Blue Economy, yet face major challenges in terms of financial pressures, complicated regulations, limited access to markets, and other barriers.

In this context, support structures like the WestMED Initiative are crucial for building a smart, secure, and sustainable maritime space in the western Mediterranean. By identifying funding opportunities, fostering partnerships, and promoting thematic cooperation platforms, WestMED empowers SMEs to innovate, access new markets, and strengthen collaboration across the region, laying the foundation for a more resilient, integrated, and sustainable Blue Economy.

Lorella Ciuti (WestMED  National Hub Portugal) was also present on behalf of Forum Oceano/ the CALLMEBLUE Cluster Alliance Med Blue project, a collaborative initiative driving sustainable growth through stronger maritime clusters.

The event successfully connected start-ups and reinforced the message that building a sustainable and resilient maritime future requires not only innovation but also strong partnerships, targeted assistance, and collective action across the Mediterranean.

 

Overview of people in online training
(2025 GIS training organised by the GFCM and WestMED)

Joint training by GFCM and WestMED: Using a Geographic Information System tool to establish Allocated Zones for Aquaculture

The General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM), organised a succesful online training on the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for Aquaculture Zoning in the WestMED region, under the AquaWest Technical Group of the WestMED Initiative.

Conducted over two days, (14-15 April 2025), more than 22 participants from various WestMED countries attended. This collaborative event marked a step forward in promoting sustainable aquaculture practices through spatial planning tools.

Context and objective
With increasing demands on marine and coastal resources, spatial planning has become essential for sustainable aquaculture development. The training course was designed to build regional capacity in the use of GIS tools, specifically QGIS, an open-source platform, to identify and manage Allocated Zones for Aquaculture (AZA). These zones help ensure that aquaculture activities are sited in environmentally, economically, and socially appropriate areas.

Linda FOURDAIN, Expert and Aquaculture Consultant, FAO/GFCM, presented the course and provided participants with both theoretical insights and practical skills. Topics ranged from an overview of marine spatial planning and AZA concepts to hands-on sessions using QGIS. Participants learned how to work with geographic and projected coordinate systems, process vector data, apply exclusion and suitability criteria, and generate spatial maps for aquaculture planning.

Highlights
Some key elements of the training included:

  • Introduction to GIS and QGIS interface navigation.
  • Hands-on digitization of remote sensing data and editing of attribute tables.
  • Mapping of exclusion zones and calculation of suitability indices for aquaculture siting.
  • Final map creation using QGIS layout tools.

Follow-up
Given the positive feedback and the strategic importance of aquaculture zoning in the Mediterranean region, plans are underway to organize additional training sessions. These may include in-person workshops, advanced GIS modules, and regional case studies to deepen practical understanding. The initiative is part of a broader effort by the GFCM and its partners to harmonize aquaculture development with ecosystem-based management and regional policy objectives.

These efforts contribute to the long-term sustainability of aquaculture in the WestMED area, fostering collaboration and innovation across borders.

Download the agenda

For more information, contact Samir bachouche (WestMED National Hub Algeria | AquaWest – WestMED Aquaculture Technical group)

Overview of people in online training (2025 GIS training organised by the GFCM and WestMED)

Overview of people in online training (2025 GIS training organised by the GFCM and WestMED)

Overview of people in online training (2025 GIS training organised by the GFCM and WestMED)

meeting with two people sitting at desk in Libya

Meeting on Libya–WestMED Cooperation and Advancing the Blue Economy Transition

Tripoli, April 14, 2025 – The Libyan National Coordinator and member of the Steering Committee of the WestMED Initiative for Sustainable Development, Eng. Ali Shagrune, met today with Dr. Saber Al-Azzabi, Deputy Minister of Marine Wealth in Libya.

During the meeting, both parties discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between Libya and the WestMED Initiative, particularly in promoting the blue economy, sharing expertise, and coordinating efforts for sustainable maritime development. The discussion emphasized the importance of a strategic shift toward the blue economy as a pathway for Libya’s economic diversification, improved maritime governance, and attracting investment in fisheries and aquaculture sectors.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continued engagement with the WestMED Steering Committee and to supporting national efforts toward achieving sustainable development goals in the maritime sector.

event announcement poster MedBan

WestMED Success Story. Maritime Clusters – meet MedBAN, the Mediterranean Blue Acceleration Network

A sustainable Blue Economy requires support to promote and uptake innovation, knowledge, skills as well as access to finance, which is effective and locally-grounded. This is possible through joint actions promoted by socio-economic and institutional actors at local, national and subregional level.

In this respect, maritime clusters (a network of companies, organizations, and institutions involved in the maritime industry) play a crucial role to support local stakeholders active in the Blue Economy.

They do so by supporting innovative products and services, internationalisation of micro, small and medium enterprises, dissemination of new knowledge and skills and ultimately integration of sectoral policies at local and national levels. Maritime Clusters have therefore been growingly acknowledged as essential booster for innovation and diversification of the Blue Economy.

According to a study of the Union for the Mediterranean in 2019, the large majority of Maritime Clusters across the Mediterranean is based in EU countries: Italy, Spain, France. The western Mediterranean seems to be more prone to the promotion of innovation in the Blue Economy through the set-up of clusters: in the EU (mostly regional-level clusters) but also in African countries (mostly national-level clusters).

On a European level, the European Nework of Maritime Clusters (ENMC), has been established in 2023 as a platform for exchanging information and networking between the maritime Cluster organizations of European member states.

piechart with maritime cluster distribution acroiss the MediterraneanSource: UfM Secretariat – Maritime Clusters in the Mediterranean Region (pdf)

WestMED Maritime Cluster alliance
Since its inception in 2021, the WestMED Initiative, through the WestMED Maritime Cluster Alliance, supports strong alliances between the most active Maritime Clusters in the Western Mediterranean and beyond . This has included the launch of a new Maritime Cluster in Mauritania and the recently launched Libyan Maritime Cluster.

The key objectives of the Alliance are:

  • Cluster dialogue: Support exchange of knowledge and practices across maritime and non-maritime clusters
  • South-South cooperation: Boost the development of southern maritime clusters
  • North-South capacity building: Upgrade cluster management skills
  • Provide a platform for private investments in innovative SMEs

The Maritime Cluster Alliance has succesfully supported several project proposals that strengthen maritime clusters in order to secure funding. Next to MedBAN (COSME Euroclusters), these include for example:  MARMED and MAQUAM (funded through ERASMUS+), ELBE Alliance (funded through IKAT), and  Women in Blue Economy – WINBIG, Maritime Clusters CALLMEBLUE, Green Marine MED, and POWER4MED (funded through EMFAF).


MedBAN
The European MedBAN project, short for Mediterranean Blue Acceleration Network, is an initiative to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the blue economy.

It was co-funded by the European Union (Grant Agreement nº 101074763) through the Joint Cluster Initiatives (EUROCLUSTERS) for Europe’s recovery (SMP-COSME-2021-CLUSTER) under the Single Market Programme with a total budget of 1.4 Million euro.  The MedBAN project is therefore closely aligned with the Euroclusters’ specific objectives regarding networks, innovation, adoption of processes and technologies for the twin (digital & sustainable) transition, training for the up and re-skilling of the workforce and  internationalisation of European SMEs.

MedBAN was managed by a consortium of six maritime cluster organizations from five different Mediterranean countries: Portugal, Italy, France, Greece and Spain. Its common mission: to drive innovation, accelerate sustainability and internationalise blue SMEs, to support the transition towards a thriving, resilient and sustainable blue economy.

Stage 1: laying the foundation
The initiative consisted of two stages. First, the Mediterranean blue economy ecosystem was mapped to identify key players, challenges, and opportunities. This ensured that the actions by MedBAN would generate maximum impact on sustainable blue economy growth in the region. It resulted in identifying the five most critical sectors that MedBAN would focus on: aquaculture, fisheries, tourism, ports and renewable energies. SMEs in these sectors were specifically targeted in the 2nd phase of the project.

Next to this,the coherence between the challenges found in each of the  the abovementioned sectors and the national and regional policies of each partner country of the consortium (national Resilience Plans) was analysed to ensure alignment from that perspective as well.

This first stage also consisted of 2 short online training sessions  for the cluster staff members of the participating cluster organisations, with an emphasis on challenges and needs for succesful projects and sharing best practices – which proved not only useful in the context of this project but also for dealing with members of each individual cluster organisation beyond the scope of this project.

Stage 2:  support SMEs with technical assistance/ services
The second stage consisted of offering selected SMEs and startups a large set of services to boost their business, ranging from market research to international matchmaking.  These services were offered by a pool of (mostly)pre-selected third parties that were funded by MedBAN in line with the awarded budget.

SMEs could apply for these services by submitting a specific project proposal via  ‘cascade funding’ calls in two categories: 1) Innovation, training and twin transformation to allow for modernisation of the business processes and 2) ‘internationalisation’ to allow for growing their business across borders. Both the call texts and the subsequent selection of proposals was based on the findings generated during the first phase.

Results
57 proposals from 49 SMEs were awarded support, with eight SMEs being awarded support for 2 proposals (one in each category). This support totalled  little over 1 Million Euro and consisted of organisations from 8 countries – mainly situated around the Mediterranean.

Project leaders on stage to discuss results of the MedBAN support at the final MedBAN conference in 2025

During MedBAN’s final conference in March 2025, some of these selected SMEs shared the impact of this project on their respective businesses:

Hydrotwin : a start-up specialised in underwater noise monitoring received MedBAN support regarding market and market penetration analysis to better explain its potential to investors and decision makers. It led a.o. to the identification of marine offshore renewables as a priority market.

Seaentia : a sustainable aquaculture startup. MedBAN allowed them to develop their export strategy to export their fish to other EU countries, keeping in mind that the long term strategy is to produce locally. One of the elements they focused on was EU regulatory compliance regarding hygiene and food safety in the transport of  fresh fish

Cyclefi : an SME that develops software and hardware solutions to tackle, waste, energy and water challenges. MedBAN allowed them to expand the market from focusing primarly on municipalities to ports .  This involved a.o. a comprehensive mapping of waste management within EU ports and Greece in specific, including the definition of an international matchmaking plan.  They have now been able to start with Piraeus port, to tackle waste generated by its millions of (tourist) visitors.

Maritime world : a startup specialised in short conferences, workshops, B2B meetings and technical tours across Europe, dedicated to the maritime industry. MedBAN support allowed for significant (international) growth, especially by getting better connected to high quality organisations across the Mediterranean, including the North African countries. One of the actions was a thorough Market Analysis that provided a database with contacts of more than 130 organisations. Maritime World is now on the way to create one of the biggest maritime conferences in Malta by the end of the year.

PesCo : a start-up with an online platform focused on sustainable fishing tourism, matching local fishermen with tourists. Through the MedBAN support they managed boost their network with hotels, tour- and travel agencies. They also received support to develop toolkits for two key target groups: guides (captains) to help improve the sustainability viewpoint and clients (exploreres) to help prepare for the fishing experience.

The common denominator was that MedBAN allowed them to take steps that would’ve otherwise taken much longer to develop.

Watch the full panel discussion

representatives from the MedBan partners holding and rasing hands to celebrate their commitment to the MedBAN mission

Moving forward
The consortium partners committed themselves to further build on MedBAN’s success. This was underlined  by signing the MedBAN Statutes (charter of principles); in which partners pledge to explore new opportunities of collaboration, foster stronger collaboration among clusters, commit to ongoing exploration of funding opportunities, and ensure long-term sustainability.

It was also underlined by signing a Memorandum Of Understanding for with CALLMEBLUE (Cluster Alliance Med Blue) to strengthen strategic collaboration.

Memorandum of Understanding between MedBAN and CallmeBlue signed at the MedBAN final Conference in 2025 with representivaes showing the signed document

 

WestMED connection
The initial idea for MedBAN was born in September 2021 at Seafuture in La Spezia and evolved through WestMED’s Maritime Clusters Alliance Technical Group into a successful submission for COSME funding. Next to this, Stephanie Vella (WestMED National Hub Malta) was an official ‘MedBAN ambassador’ and Lorella Ciutti (WestMED National Hub Portugal), MedBAN’s project coordinator. MedBAN has, in this respect, been supported  by the WestMED Assistance Mechanism from start to finish.

At the end of the MedBAN conference, project leader Ruben Eiras summed it all up: « Here we are, celebrating Europe. When we look at the numbers, of course, [the project] is just a drop in the ocean—but it is an important drop. Today, the Blue Economy represents innovation, defence, and sustainability—connecting, aggregating, and linking. What we aim for in a few year’s time, when we have MedBAN 2.0, is that we have investment funds and private actors with more capital to invest in these SMEs to make them grow. Let’s triple these numbers and make the Blue Economy happen! »

 

More info about MedBAN
Budget Total:  € 1.399.384,00

EU Contribution: €1.364.446,00

Partners/ Countries Coordinator/ lead:  Forum Oceano (Portugal)

Federazione del Mare (Italy)

Cluster BIG – Blue Italian Growth (Italy)

CMIB Cluster Marítimo Illes Balears (Spain)

Strategis – Maritime ICT Cluster (Greece)

Pôle Mer Méditerranée (France)

Affiliated: Magellan (Portugal)

Follow Website
Duration 1 September 2022 – 31 March 2025

 

 

Libya Hosts the Mediterranean International Conference on Marine and Coastal Biodiversity

Tripoli, April 12, 2025 – Today, WestMED’s Libyan National Coordinator and member of the WestMED Initiative Steering Committee, Eng. Ali Shagrune participated alongside Dr. Saber Al-Azzabi, Deputy Minister of Marine Wealth, in the Mediterranean International Conference on Marine and Coastal Biodiversity, held in Tripoli, Libya.

During the conference, the Libyan delegation delivered an intervention highlighting the importance of preserving biodiversity in the Mediterranean Sea, as well as Libya’s role in marine environmental protection and expanding marine protected areas. The presentation also addressed current environmental challenges to marine biodiversity in the region and stressed the importance of regional cooperation within the WestMED framework to achieve shared sustainability goals.

The intervention reaffirmed Libya’s commitment to supporting international and regional efforts to strengthen marine environmental governance and integrate biodiversity into blue economy policies.

For more information, visit the event webpage or the facebook page

 

2 people standing in front of a conference banner

WestMED Steering Committee meeting in Brussels 2025 with participants in a meeting room

WestMED Steering Committee gathers in Brussels to discuss progress and road ahead

The recent WestMED Steering Committee meeting held on 9 April 2025 marked a significant moment of transition and collaboration among Mediterranean partners.

The new co-presidency, now held by Tunisia and Portugal, was warmly welcomed, and gratitude extended to Mauritania for its previous leadership.

Continuing momentum
The discussions emphasized the importance of continuing the momentum with strategic initiatives like the Ocean Pact and a reinforced focus on blue skills, ocean literacy, and sustainable development. DG MARE highlighted past achievements, including 115 project ideas—45 of which secured funding totalling €71 million—underscoring the need for even greater ambition.

Several upcoming events such as the European Maritime Day in Cork, the UN Ocean Conference (UNOC), and Macro-regional days in Brussels were noted as platforms for further engagement and showcasing WestMED initiatives.

Key themes
Key themes across national contributions included the strengthening of cooperation between the northern and southern shores of the Mediterranean, addressing regional disparities, and better aligning project funding with strategic priorities.

Countries like Spain and Italy emphasized joint efforts in sustainable fisheries, maritime connectivity, and climate adaptation, while Morocco and Libya stressed the need for more tailored support and financial mechanisms to meet southern countries’ needs. The Technical Groups (TGs), especially on green shipping, blue skills, aquaculture, and sustainable tourism, were recognized as essential vehicles for delivering tangible outcomes.

However, calls were made for stronger coordination, evaluation systems, and pilot actions to ensure more cohesive and impactful implementation. A clear consensus emerged around the importance of inclusivity, shared expertise, and building a resilient, innovative, and balanced Blue Economy across the Mediterranean.

WestMED Technical Groups
A core focus part of this Steering Committee meeting was to assess the status and achievements of each WestMED Technical Group (TG): Green Shipping and Ports, AquaWEST, Sustainable Tourism and Maritime Cluster Alliance, with a showcase of successful projects supported by the TGs. A particular emphasis was placed on blue skills, blue careers, and ocean literacy, highlighting relevant initiatives and activities facilitated by the TGs.

WestMED Stakeholder Conference 2025
It was agreed that the next WestMED Stakeholder Conference will take place on November 28 2025  in Tunis, Tunisia. It will also include the 3rd edition of the WestMED projects awards.
The Conference will be back-to-back to an in-person Steering Committee meeting on November 27.

 Next WestMED Steering Committee Meeting
The Steering Committee members, Observers, the Commission and the Assistance Mechanism will gather again next 26th June online.

scenic sea view

The EU Sea Basins Assistance Mechanism shares results with the Member State Expert Group on Integrated Maritime Policy

On March 20, 2025, the EU Sea Basins Assistance Mechanism presented their work at the meeting of the ‘Member State Expert Group on Integrated Maritime Policy.’

Results were highlighted for each of the three participating Sea Basin Strategies: the WestMED Initiative, the Atlantic Maritime Strategy, and the Common Maritime Agenda for the Black Sea. Next to this, synergies between the sea basins were also highlighted as they face common challenges and opportunities in fields such as Blue Skills, Sustainable Tourism and the Greening of Shipping & Ports.

The presentation was followed by a dynamic question and answer session where also the possible role of the Sea Basin Strategies was discussed for implementing the future European Oceans Pact.

The Integrated Maritime Policy Expert Group
The Integrated Maritime Policy Expert Group is a body established by the European Commission to support the implementation of the Integrated Maritime Policy (IMP).

This policy aims to provide a more coherent approach to maritime issues by fostering coordination across different sectors and policies. The group brings together experts from EU Member States to discuss and advise on maritime governance, sustainable development of marine resources, and other related topics.

Member State Expert Groups are consultative bodies within the European Commission that provide advice and expertise to the Commission on various policy areas. They are typically composed of experts appointed by EU governments and other stakeholders. These groups play a crucial role in the preparation of legislative acts, policy initiatives, and the implementation of EU laws

Marta Pascual presenting at WestMED's national 2025 event on Tourism in Spain

Spanish WestMED National event 2025: Opportunities and Future of Blue Tourism in Spain

On 12 March 2025, the Spanish National Event of the WestMED Initiative took place in Madrid at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation.

The event, from 9:00-14:00 CET, gathered around 56 participants from various sectors of tourism activities, from consultants, to hospitality, tour operators, service and products providers, marketing, maritime tourism businesses, recreational sectors, regional tourism authorities, and fisheries sector amongst others.

In terms of representativeness, the event was attended by stakeholders from all coastal Autonomous Communities from Spain, excluding Ceuta, Melilla and Cantabria. Most participants came from the Madrid region, but the event also gathered participants from Andalucia, Valencia, Balearic Islads, Murcia, Canary Islands, Galicia, Cataluña, Basque Country and Asturias.

piechart with distribution of participants per autonomous community

Event Objective
The event had the objective of presenting and discussing about current and future opportunities for Blue Tourism within Spain. To steer this conversation, main initiatives and ministries were invited as speakers to present the work they are doing regarding sustainable tourism within Spain. Two projects (one funded by the EU and a national one) were also invited to showcase how they are also advancing towards these blue tourism efforts.

Opening
The event started with some opening and welcome words from Mr. Antonio Rodríguez de Lievana Sahagún, Director General of Coordination of Internal Markets and other Communitarian Policies from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation (MAUC). Mr. Rodríguez de Liévana, expressed the views from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation with regards to blue economy as the ministry is very aware that the activities linked to the sea must be sustainable from the social, economic and environmental point of view and that they represent a valuable source of wealth and a fundamental asset for the settlement of the population. He then continued to explain that the event gathered representatives of the different administrations and other actors of the blue economy with the aim of having the opportunity to talk to each other about the challenges we face and the tools we have available to reach these blue economy objectives.

With regards to blue tourism, Mr. Rodríguez de Lievana, expressed the wish for a promising future for blue tourism in Spain, with a growth potential that could benefit both the local economy and environmental conservation, if managed in a responsible and sustainable manner. He also mentioned “With the right approach, this type of tourism can become an engine of economic development in coastal regions, as long as the balance between the enjoyment of natural resources and their preservation is respected.”

WestMED Initiative
After these opening words, the WestMED Initiative was presented by the National Hub from Spain for the WestMED Initiative, Mrs. Marta Pascual, who highlighted the efforts that WestMED Initiative is doing with regards to developing a sustainable tourism activity within the Mediterranean Sea. Mrs. Pascual also explained the recent developments of the newly constituted Technical Group on Sustainable Tourism within WestMED and presented some of the tasks, activities and achievements obtained by this technical group so far.

Sea Basin Strategies
The event was followed by an intervention from Mr. Javier Fernández, from ECORYS and Coordinator of the three of the Assistance Mechanisms of the EU Sea Basin Strategies. Mr. Fernández explained further opportunities, synergies and cooperation mechanisms that currently exist; not only within each of the Sea Basins, but also between the three Sea Basins (Western Mediterranean, Atlantic and Black Sea and potentially also with the new Greater North Sea Initiative). He also mentioned opportunities to link with the Union for the Medieterranean (UfM) and other Mediterranean Governance efforts.

UfM Study
Mr. Fernández talk was followed by an intervention from Mrs. Irene Alonso from ECORYS, who presented the latest findings from the study on the Implementation Roadmap of the Ministerial Declaration on Sustainable Blue Economy 2021. She highlighted those findings within the study related to blue tourism and highlighted that, despite being an important sector within the Mediterranean, many future opportunities are also envisioned.

Blue Book presentation 
The event continued with the presentation of the “Blue Book” of Sun&Blue Congress by the Director of the congress, Mr. Tim Ott Reuter. This book is the compilation of the main outputs, messages and points that were raised during the 2nd edition of the Sun&Blue Congress, which highlights all the topics that need to be aligned to obtain a real sustainable tourism (from energy, to water management, hospitality sustainability, diversification of experiences, efficiency of the processes, etc.).

After these intro speeches, the event had a short 30 min coffee break after which it was the turn of the various Ministries representatives to offer their perspective and knowledge on how blue tourism was addressed within their respective institutions.

Touristic offers in Spain 
The first of the Ministries to take the floor was the Ministry of Industry and Tourism. Mrs. Ilona Shekyants Kazaryan, Subdirector general of sustainable touristic developments, mentioned the various efforts that MINTUR is doing with regards to promote and develop sustainable practices, activities and experiences within the touristic offers of Spain. She also mentioned the funding calls that the Ministry has launched within “Experiencias Turismo” for further advancing and developing some of these sustainable ideas into tourism products and offers.

Pesca Tourism
After Mrs. Shekyants intervention it was time for Mr. Manuel Pablos López, Subdirector general of economic sustainability and social affairs from the General Secretary of Fisheries from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquaculture. Mr. Pablos López explained the efforts that within the MAPA they are developing towards pesca-tourism and maritime tourism activities. Both activities being of tourism, but having the fisheries sector, their traditions and culture always as driver of those tourist offers. He also highlighted the funding opportunities that exist for blue tourism activities within the EMFAF funding opportunities.

Spanish Maritime Cluster 
After these two ministries speeches it was the turn for the Spanish Maritime Cluster to present the activities, they are developing and supporting with regards to sustainable tourism. Mr. Vicente Capell, explained the efforts the cluster was supporting with regards to the recreational tourism activities, decarbonization of recreational vessels and nautical ports, etc.

Tourism and MSP
Blue Tourism, being a maritime activity that occurs at Spanish coastlines and maritime spaces, also requires some allocation of space within the maritime spatial plans. As such, the event was followed up by the interesting intervention of Mrs. Aurora Mesa Fraile, Chief of the Maritime Spatial Planning from the Ministry of Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge, who explained how the Spanish maritime spatial plans have been designed, what are their next steps and how the blue tourism sector has been incorporated into the needs and designs of these plans.

Blue Tourism Project examples
The event closed with the presentation of two interesting projects that deal with blue tourism within Spain. One from the Atlantic fringe and another one from the Mediterranean perspective.

Mrs. María Cardeiro López, manager of FUNDAMAR (Fundación para la Pesca y el Marisqueo) and Project manager of FISATUR (Red Atlántica de Experiencias Turísticas para la promoción del patrimonio cultural marítimo pesquero), explained the project´s objectives, main achievements and future activities.

Mrs. Nayra Irga Pérez Sánchez and Shonia Cruz, from REDDETUMAR, presented the Red Nacional Turismo Marinero, a national network of maritime tourism activities within Spain that aims to gather all maritime tourism activities, offers and developments to serve as a real diversification option for fishermen to earn some extra income.

Concluding remarks
The concluded by Mr. Omado Collado Díaz and Mrs. Rosa Bernardo, both National Coordinators from the WestMED Initiative and the Atlantic Action Plan, respectively, and from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation (MAUC). They both thanked those present at the event and highlighted the efforts that the WestMED Initiative is and will keep doing with regards to advancing on sustainable tourism opportunities within the blue economy in Spain.

Main next steps

  • Encourage an interministerial communication within all Ministries dealing with sustainable tourism topics within Spain (MAUC, MAPA, Hacienda, MITECO, etc.)
  • Encourage communication and connections between sustainable tourism stakeholders within Spain.

Tim Ott Reuter presenting at WestMED's 2025 National event

Click here for the full agenda and event annnouncement page (in Spanish)


Links to media coverage

https://x.com/WestMedStrat/status/1896953392075026552

https://www.turismomarinero.com/evento-westmed-oportunidades-y-futuro-del-turismo-azul/

https://winbigproject.eu/events/28/national-event-westmed-opportunities-and-future-of-blue-tourism-in-spain

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/sun-blue-congress_sunandbluecongress-turismo-turismoazul-ugcPost-7305540744797159424-Msv-?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAhRFRwB4YBy4noC0QYjbj0Fkc0NLtEmRK4

https://regp.pesca.mapama.es/visibilidad/eventos/evento-nacional-iniciativa-westmed-oportunidades-y-futuro-del-turismo-azul-en

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/marta-pascual-51088b3a_evento-nacional-iniciativa-westmed-oportunidades-activity-7303707516566138884-MApq?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAhRFRwB4YBy4noC0QYjbj0Fkc0NLtEmRK4

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/marta-pascual-51088b3a_evento-nacional-iniciativa-westmed-oportunidades-activity-7302361086945583105-Ke8E?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAhRFRwB4YBy4noC0QYjbj0Fkc0NLtEmRK4

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/marta-pascual-51088b3a_evento-nacional-iniciativa-westmed-oportunidades-activity-7302361086945583105-Ke8E?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAhRFRwB4YBy4noC0QYjbj0Fkc0NLtEmRK4

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/sun-blue-congress_agenda-eventos-nacional-westmed-12-de-marzo-activity-7302967512361558016-dt_5?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAhRFRwB4YBy4noC0QYjbj0Fkc0NLtEmRK4

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/fundacion-fundamar_fisatur-turismoazul-westmed-activity-7305594957380173824-RgYI?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAhRFRwB4YBy4noC0QYjbj0Fkc0NLtEmRK4

Blue Summer schools in the Mediterranean 2025

Based on source: Marilou Suc (blue connection)

Do you want to deepen your knowledge in marine robotics, oceanography, blue economy, or Mediterranean geopolitics? And… Are you a student, a recent graduate, an Early Career Ocean Professional, or an experienced ocean professional seeking extra knowledge?

Then these Summer Schools might be just for you.

They offer unique experiences combining theory, hands-on practice, and networking! 𝗕𝗲 𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗰𝗸, 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗮𝘀𝘁! Secure your spot and apply!

In order of application deadline:

𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹: 𝗢𝗰𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝗟𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘆 & 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗲𝗮𝗻 & 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗦𝗲𝗮 (Venice, Italy)
📅 June 29 – July 4, 2025 | Apply by March 16
🔹 Lead a cultural shift in ocean science, advancing transdisciplinarity, equity, inclusion, diverse knowledge systems, and international cooperation.

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝗯𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗰𝘀 𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 (Faial, Azores, Portugal)
📅 July 7-18, 2025 | Apply by March 25
🔹 Intensive training on marine robotics with MIT & Portuguese university students.

𝗘𝗜𝗚𝗦𝗜 𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 Ocean & Energy (La Rochelle, France)
📅 June 23 – July 3, 2025 | Apply by March 28
🔹 Hands-on experience in ocean and natural resource management.

𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆 𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 –  𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝘅𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗲𝗰𝗼𝘀𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺𝘀/𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗲  (Ischia, Italy)
📅 June 30 – July 4, 2025 | Apply by May 5
🔹 Morning lectures, afternoon debates, and evening networking sessions.

𝗔𝗭𝗧𝗜 𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 – 𝗔𝗜 & 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗻 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗕𝗶𝗼𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 (Pasaia, Spain)
📅 June 3-5, 2025 | Apply by May 30
🔹 Learn how AI and citizen science can transform marine biodiversity monitoring.

𝗕𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗮 𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 – 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗰𝘀 & 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗲𝗮𝗻 & 𝗠𝗶𝗱𝗱𝗹𝗲 𝗘𝗮𝘀𝘁 (Barcelona, Spain)
📅 June 30 – July 4, 2025 | Apply by June 27
🔹 Explore key political and economic issues of the region.

𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹: 𝗢𝗰𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝗟𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘆 & 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗲𝗮𝗻 & 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗦𝗲𝗮 (Venice, Italy)
📅 June 29 – July 4, 2025| Apply by March 16
🔹 Lead a cultural shift in ocean science, advancing transdisciplinarity, equity, inclusion, diverse knowledge systems, and international cooperation