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YEP MED Success Story poster with group of students in a port

Success Story. YEP MED Revolutionises Port Skills for Youth across the Mediterranean

The YEP MED project (Youth Employment in Ports of the Mediterranean) is a transformative initiative designed to bridge the widening gap between the rapidly evolving needs of the port‑logistics sector and the skills available in the regional labor market.

Launched in 2020 and co‑financed by the European Union under the ENI CBC Med Programme, the €2.9 million project set out to strengthen “Blue Skills” across seven Mediterranean countries: Spain, Italy, France, Tunisia, Lebanon, Egypt, and Jordan.

Bridging the Skills Gap
At its core, YEP MED responds to youth unemployment in the region by focusing on NEETs (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) and women – groups often underrepresented in maritime and logistics careers. Despite the sector’s rapid growth, a clear mismatch persists between traditional vocational training and the digital, sustainable, and interconnected demands of modern maritime ports.

To address this, the project is built on three strategic pillars:

  • Dual Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Curricula: Developing vocational training pathways that combine classroom instruction with hands‑on apprenticeships in real port environments.
  • Sustainability & Digitalization: Preparing participants for the future of logistics through training in green port operations, environmental regulations, and digital tools used in port community systems.
  • Public‑Private Partnerships: Creating a collaborative ecosystem linking port authorities, training centers, and SMEs to ensure training remains aligned with industry needs.

 Impact and Innovation
One of YEP MED’s most innovative achievements is the Port Virtual Lab (PVL), a digital simulation platform that immerses students in realistic port‑logistics scenarios. Through the PVL, learners can manage trade routes, coordinate terminal operations, and understand complex supply‑chain interactions in a risk‑free environment.

The project’s measurable results reflect its transformative impact:

  • More than 3,600 students trained in specialized port‑logistics skills
  • Over 1,000 job placements and internships facilitated
  • A regional network of 500+ companies established to support ongoing training and employment

A Lasting Blue Skills Ecosystem
Although YEP MED’s official 30‑month timeline has concluded, the initiative has evolved into a permanent, self‑sustaining ecosystem. Its long‑term relevance was recognized internationally when it received the WestMED Project Award 2025, confirming its status as a benchmark for blue skills development and regional cooperation.

WestMED 2025 best project award winner YEP MED on stage

Watch the project pitch recording by YEP MED at the WestMED Conference

Scaling beyond the Mediterranean
The Port Virtual Lab has grown far beyond its initial scope. Developed by the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, It is actively used across the Mediterranean and is reaching new regions like the Americas. This expansion reflects YEP MED’s shift from a regional project to a global training model.To ensure sustainability, YEP MED prioritizes a Training of Trainers (ToT) approach, equipping educators with digital and experiential teaching methods. This is supported by CHIRON, a collaborative space where educators can exchange experiences, co-develop case studies, discuss pedagogical approaches, and jointly innovate teaching practices with peers from other institutions.

Sustaining the Community through PLIKA
To maintain momentum, the project launched PLIKA (Port Logistics International Knowledge Academy) as its structural legacy. PLIKA connects training centers, ports, and professionals through continuous capacity building, innovation challenges, and hackathons. Its reach is expanding through the OPEN TRADE MED project, which is bringing YEP MED methodologies to Algeria and Lebanon.

This evolution coincides with a major milestone for the project’s lead coordinator: the 20th anniversary of the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport in 2026. Rather than looking back, the Escola is using this moment to shape the next two decades. New initiatives, such as the “Education Beyond Intelligence” course on human skills in the age of AI and the creation of Arete Plazas in key Mediterranean ports ( physical spaces dedicated to excellence, ethics, and human development), ensure that the spirit of YEP MED remains active, adaptive, and ready to guide the future of global port logistics.

(More on how YEP MED expanded after the project’s official ending – pdf)

EU’s support for Blue Skills
The European Union has become a central driver of Blue Skills development, investing in training, innovation, and workforce transformation to help coastal regions adapt to the digital and sustainable transition of the blue economy.  The newly launched European Ocean Pact identifies “advancing ocean research, knowledge, skills and innovation” as one of its six overarching priorities and announces flagship actions to foster blue innovation, literacy, and skills development. The Pact introduces a Blue Generational Renewal Strategy (by 2027) aimed at nurturing a new generation of ocean professionals in marine science, ocean technologies and sustainable fisheries. It highlights the importance of upskilling, digital and entrepreneurial competences, female and youth participation, and appropriate working conditions, as essential drivers for a prosperous and attractive blue economy.

Furthermore, the newly adopted Pact for the Mediterranean, a major EU initiative establishing a new strategic partnership framework between the EU and Southern Mediterranean countries, also acknowledges skills, education and research as foundational pillars for a resilient and integrated Common Mediterranean Space. Within its first pillar, “People: driving force for change, connections and innovation”, the Pact calls for investments in education, skills, circular migration and livelihoods, and announces the creation of a Mediterranean platform on higher education as well as a T-MED Skills Agenda to address workforce and gender gaps, aligning training with the needs of industry and the green and digital transitions.

Through funding programmes such as ENI CBC Med, Interreg, Erasmums+, EMFAF and regional initiatives under the WestMED Framework, the EU, its Member States and partner countries support vocational training, port‑logistics upskilling, digital simulation tools, and stronger cooperation between education providers and industry.

A recent major EU study on Blue Skills resulted in a Blue Competency Framework for education providers, policy makers, employers and people seeking a career in the maritime sector.

This coordinated effort ensures that young people, women, and professionals gain the competencies needed for emerging maritime sectors -from green shipping to marine renewable energy.

Building on this momentum, WestMED will launch a dedicated Blue Skills Technical Group in 2026, creating a permanent platform for countries, experts, and training institutions to jointly advance skills development across the Mediterranean.

More info about YEP MED
Budget Total:  € 2.981.600

EU Contribution: € 2.610.000

Partners/ Countrieshttps://escolaeuropea.eu/ Coordinator/ lead: Escola Europea de Short Sea Shipping  (Spain)

Port Authority of Barcelona  (Spain)

Port Authority System of Center-North Tyrrhenian sea (Italy)

Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture of Beirut & Mount Lebanon (Lebanon)

Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport – port training institute (Egypt)

The Mediterranean Institute of Maritime Training (Tunisia)

Merchant Marine and Ports Authority of Tunisia (Tunisia)

Valenciaport Foundation (Spain)

Marseille Fos Port (France)

Damietta Port Authority (Egypt)

Aqaba Development Corporation (Jordan)

Associated partners

MEDPorts Association (Spain)

Consell Valencià de la Joventut  (spain)

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Duration 9 September 2020 – 08 December 2023

 

YEP MED Project Executive Summary

YEP MED studens in classroom holding diplomas

mediterranean sea coastline

Spain Assumes WestMED Co‑Presidency with a Vision of Synergies amongst Sea Basins

Opening welcome message from the new WestMED Co-Presidency

Dear WestMED community,

From January 2026 until the end of 2027, Spain will hold the co-presidency of the WestMED Initiative for a Sustainable Blue Economy in the Western Mediterranean, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation. This co-presidency will be shared with Tunisia in 2026, and with Algeria in 2027.

 European policies for the Mediterranean regional area have received a strong boost during 2025, representing a turning point for maritime governance in the region, while generating great opportunities. The Third United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, and the recent Mediterranean and Ocean Pacts presented by European Commission, which share both vision and objectives with the WestMED Initiative when it comes to the development of a sustainable blue economy, the protection of ecosystems and biodiversity and the support to the coastal communities.

 Additionally, it should be pointed out that during 2026 Spain will also be presiding the Atlantic Strategy.

 Therefore, the Spanish aim during its co-presidency is to take advantage of these interconnections and synergies, not only between Sea Basin Strategies, but also between maritime sector´s development as well as amongst various stakeholder generations, building intergenerational fairness. Accordingly, our shared motto for both strategies will be:

 “Building on synergies for sustainable oceans”

 Spain intends to work closely with its WestMED counterparts and partners, to:

 Launch the new WestMED Technical Group on Blue Skills, result of the initiative of the 2025 Tunisian and Portuguese co-presidencies.

  • Initiate discussions for the launch of a Marine Observation and Data Collection community of practice, in parallel with the Atlantic Strategy. This is a new development, closely linked to the proposals of the EU Ocean Pact, which will be included in the Ocean Act planned by the end of 2026.
  • Take advantage of the simultaneous presidency of the Atlantic Strategy and the co-presidency of WestMed, to boost synergies, bring together blue economy stakeholders and sectors and enhance cooperation between the two Sea Basin Strategies.

 The Spanish co-presidency is delighted to embrace this opportunity, which will enable closer ties and collaboration between the two Sea Basin Strategies in an international context where sustainable maritime issues are becoming increasingly relevant.

awarding a commemorative shield

WestMED Assistance Mechanism awarded Commemorative Shield by Libyan Maritime Cluster

On 27 November 2025, during the WestMED Steering Committee meeting in Tunis – a commemorative appreciation shield was awarded to the Assistance Mechanism by Eng. Ali Shagrune, President of the Libyan Maritime Cluster and National Coordinator for the WestMED Initiative in Libya.

Read the text below:

Appreciation Message to the WestMED Steering Committee and Honored Colleagues

On behalf of the WestMED Steering Committee – Libya and the Libyan Maritime Cluster, we express our highest gratitude, appreciation, and respect to the distinguished members of the Steering Committee for the Sustainable Development of the Western Mediterranean, as well as to all individuals who continue to support this vital regional initiative.

This message is delivered under the leadership of Eng. Ali Shagrune, President of the Libyan Maritime Cluster and National Coordinator for the WestMED Initiative in Libya, whose dedicated efforts have been instrumental in strengthening regional cooperation and advancing Libya’s vision for a resilient, innovative, and sustainable blue economy. His commitment and representation at national, regional, and international levels have significantly enhanced Libya’s role within the WestMED framework.

We also extend our sincere appreciation to Dr. Masouda Abu Arisha, the National Focal Point to the WestMED Steering Committee, for her outstanding support to Libya and her valuable contributions to the development of national fisheries, aquaculture policies, and blue economy reform programs. Her expertise, guidance, and consistent engagement have played an essential role in advancing Libya’s priorities within the initiative.

As part of this recognition, we are honored to celebrate Mr. Javier Fernández, Technical Director, and Ms. Celia Murcia for their exceptional dedication and continuous support to Libya. Their professionalism and commitment have been fundamental in strengthening Libya’s participation in the WestMED Initiative and in supporting key projects that promote stability, innovation, and sustainable development.

A commemorative shield has been presented to both Mr. Fernández and Ms. Murcia as a symbol of appreciation for their sincere efforts and their significant contribution to enhancing Libya’s maritime capacities, blue economy development, and regional partnerships.

We once again extend our heartfelt thanks to the entire WestMED Steering Committee and reaffirm our commitment to continued collaboration toward a prosperous, secure, and sustainably developed Mediterranean region.

With highest respect and appreciation,
WestMED Steering Committee – Libya
Libyan Maritime Cluster

2025 project awards winners on stage at the WestMED 2025 Conference

Tunis hosts the 5th WestMED Stakeholder Conference: Driving Blue Economy Action Across the Western Mediterranean

On 28 November 2025, over 200 stakeholders from both shores of the Mediterranean gathered in Tunis, Tunisia, for the 5th WestMED Stakeholder Conference – a flagship event of the WestMED Initiative.

Building on previous editions in Barcelona, Algiers, Rome, and Malta, this year’s conference highlighted the role of maritime clusters, blue skills, ocean literacy, energy transition, and maritime spatial planning in promoting a more competitive, sustainable, and resilient blue economy across the Western Mediterranean sea basin.

The conference was hosted by the Tunisian co-presidency of the WestMED and organized by the WestMED Assistance Mechanism, with the support of the European Commission.

Recognizing Excellence: WestMED Project Awards 2025

A highlight of the conference was the announcement of the WestMED Project Awards, now in their third edition. These awards honor outstanding projects aligned with the WestMED priorities, providing winners with visibility and recognition across the Mediterranean blue economy community.

  • Award winners showcased innovation in marine protected areas management, energy transition in fisheries and aquaculture, blue skills and maritime clusters, demonstrating how local initiatives can have a regional impact.
  • This recognition not only boosts the projects’ visibility but also strengthens cross‑border cooperation, encouraging replication of similar initiatives in other sea basins.

This edition showed a record number of 71 applications.  The award winners were:

  • BLUEPSOL: developing solar-powered solutions for sustainable fishing and aquaculture,
    reducing emissions and costs (also voted by participants as the ‘best-of-the-best’).
  • YEP MED: connecting training centres, ports, and companies across the Mediterranean to align education with real labour market needs
  • MPA4Change: empowering Mediterranean MPAs to adapt, build resilience, and combat climate change.
  • BCThubs: building technology excellence hubs, advancing  underwater cultural heritage and sustainable blue economy 
  • CallmeBlue: strengthening Mediterranean clusters, fostering cooperation, empowering communities and enhancing skills inclusively.

European Ocean Pact & new Pact for the Mediterranean

Two major policy frameworks were discussed during the conference:

  • EU Ocean Pact: presented as a unifying framework to safeguard Europe’s seas, it emphasizes sustainability, resilience, and innovation. The conference explored how WestMED priorities support this broader EU agenda.
  • Pact for the Mediterranean: recently launched, this pact aims to align Mediterranean countries around shared commitments for a resilient and sustainable sea basin. The WestMED Assistance Mechanism was highlighted as a bridge between the pact’s ambitions and concrete project implementation.

Together, these pacts signal a new era of Mediterranean maritime cooperation, linking regional action to European strategies.

Launch of the Blue Skills Technical Stakeholder Group
Recognizing that skills gaps are among the biggest barriers to a thriving blue economy, the conference announced the creation of a new technical stakeholder group on Blue Skills.

  • This group will bring together experts from the different Western Mediterranean countries to map skill needs, organise training programs, and promote ocean literacy.
  • It will serve as a platform for universities, training centers, industry, and policymakers to coordinate efforts.
  • By focusing on capacity building, the group aims to ensure that the Western Mediterranean workforce is equipped to drive the energy transition, innovation, digitalization and maritime spatial planning.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 WestMED Stakeholder Conference delivered three clear outcomes:

  1. Celebration of award‑winning projects that exemplify innovation and cooperation.
  2. Integration of the EU Ocean Pact and the Pact for the Mediterranean into WestMED’s operational agenda.
  3. Launch of a technical stakeholder group on Blue Skills, setting the stage for long‑term workforce development.

Together, these outcomes reinforce the WestMED Initiative’s role as a catalyst for sustainable growth, resilience, and collaboration across the Western Mediterranean and beyond. Next year’s co-presidency will be taken over by Spain and Tunisia, in line with the rotating governance structure of the WestMED Initiative.

A WestMED steering committee meeting preceded the conference, engaging participating countries and the European Commission in discussions on progress and next steps under the initiative.

Conference report

Download the comprehensive conference report.

Tunisian startup BluePsol demonstrating a motor at the WestMED Conference 2025 in Tunis

People listeninbg at the WestMED stakeholder conference 2025

man holding phone with checkmark in display - sea in the background.

SURVEY – Help shape the future of Mediterranean initiatives supported by the EU

As part of the implementation of the WestMED Initiative, we invite project beneficiaries to share insights and experiences through this short survey.

Project beneficiairies are those organizations, institutions, or groups that receive or have received direct support or funding for projects in the Western Mediterranean through funding under EU programmes such as EMFAF, Horizon Europe, INTERREG and others.

Your input is essential to assess the coverage, availability, and ongoing relevance of EU-funded programmes and to improve their design and implementation.

By contributing, you will help us identify lessons learned and shape future sustainable blue economy initiatives in the Mediterranean, ensuring they meet the needs of diverse stakeholders—including participants from both EU and non-EU countries.

About the Survey

  • Duration: It will take less than 15 minutes to complete.
  • Confidentiality: All responses will be handled in strict compliance with data protection regulations and used only in aggregated and anonymous form.
  • Scope: You may base your answers on your experience with one or multiple EU-funded projects.

The questionnaire is structured around 6 Sections:

  1. Introduction
  2. Access to funding
  3. Project results and impact
  4. Networks and consortium building
  5. Understanding the barriers in cross-national and sea basin cooperation
  6. Follow-up and continuation of projects.

The survey will remain open until the end of February 2026.

On behalf of the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA), thank you for your time and valuable contribution.

aquaculture

New Study: Climate Change Adaptation in EU Aquaculture

The European Commission has published a comprehensive study on climate change adaptation in EU aquaculture, providing a timely assessment of the sector’s vulnerabilities, challenges, and opportunities in the face of a changing climate.

Aquaculture is a vital part of Europe’s blue economy, supplying healthy food, supporting coastal communities, and contributing to economic growth. However, the sector is increasingly exposed to climate-related risks such as rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, extreme weather events, and shifting disease patterns.

Adapting EU aquaculture to climate change is essential for safeguarding food security, jobs, and the health of marine and freshwater ecosystems. The report highlights the importance of collaboration between industry, researchers, and policymakers to accelerate the uptake of adaptation measures and ensure the long-term sustainability of the sector.

Tobruk University Hosts the 2nd International Scientific Conference on Tourism and Archaeology with Active Participation from the WestMED Initiative

On 16 November 2025, The Tobruk University, through its Faculty of Tourism and Archaeology, successfully organized the 2nd International Scientific Conference on Tourism and Archaeology, gathering academics, researchers, and tourism professionals from across Libya and the Mediterranean region. The event underscored the university’s commitment to advancing research and capacity in cultural heritage, sustainable tourism, and archaeology.

The conference was spearheaded by a dedicated Organizing Committee, led by prominent figures such as Dr. Belieed and Dr. Abdulbasit, who played a key role in designing the scientific program, coordinating panels, and ensuring broad participation. Their leadership helped make the event a dynamic platform for dialogue and cooperation.

WestMED facilitating sustainable tourism initiatives
The  WestMED Initiative was represented by Ms. Stephanie Vella, Malta’s National Hub and Dr. Masauda Abuarosha from Libya’s National Hub.

During her intervention, Ms. Stephanie Vella presented the WestMED Tourism Technical Group in-depth, explaining its mission to promote sustainable tourism in the western Mediterranean. She detailed how the group operates, the kinds of projects it supports (such as community- based tourism, capacity building, and cross-border initiatives), and how interested stakeholders can engage. She also encouraged researchers, students, and tourism practitioners to register and take part in the Tourism Technical Group, highlighting that active involvement opens doors to regional cooperation, training opportunities, and the ability to contribute to future Mediterranean tourism strategies.

Dr. Masauda Abuarosha, shared Libya’s ongoing engagement with WestMED, including efforts to establish a Libyan Maritime Cluster, foster university-to-university cooperation, and integrate blue economy thinking into tourism and heritage preservation. She emphasized that Libya’s coastline offers valuable potential for sustainable maritime tourism and cultural conservation.

The presence of WestMED at the conference sparked considerable interest among attendees, especially given the initiative’s growing influence in promoting sustainable coastal development, protecting marine heritage, and enabling innovation in the blue economy.

In his closing remarks, the President of Tobruk University and the Organizing Committee  thanked the WestMED representatives for their vital contribution, Tobruk University reaffirmed its dedication to fostering academic excellence, regional partnerships, and sustainable development in the fields of tourism and archaeology.

For more information: contact Masauda Abuarosha: libya@westmed-initiative.ec.europa.eu

Man presenting at conference

 

Stephanie Vella presenting online at Libyan Conference - nov 16 2025

heads of the scientific and organisation committee for the 2025 conference in Libya on Tourism and Archaeology at the University of Tobruk

Libya Strengthens its Blue Economy Research

Recognition of Outstanding Researchers in Benghazi Coincides with the Establishment of the First Marine Technology College in the Eastern Region Cyrenaica.

As part of Libya’s growing commitment to advance scientific research and developing its blue economy, the Ministry of Technical and Vocational Education held a ceremony in Benghazi on 15 November 2025 to honor distinguished researchers and graduates within the framework of the Scientific Excellence Award – – Second Edition

Among the honorees was Sarah Al-Mabrouk, recognized for her valuable contributions in the field of marine sciences.

This recognition comes at a pivotal moment, following the issuance of Cabinet Decision No. (91) of 2025, which officially establishes the Marine Technology College in Derna — the first institution of its kind in the Eastern Region (Barqa).

The newly established college will enjoy financial and administrative independence and will fall under the Ministry of Technical and Vocational Education, with its budget to be integrated into the national budget starting in 2026. The decision also mandates coordination with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research to approve the college’s internal regulations and academic departments.

The establishment of this college represents a significant milestone in building national capacities in marine technology, navigation, marine resource management, and applied maritime sciences. It reinforces Libya’s commitment to developing a sustainable blue economy grounded in knowledge, innovation, and skilled human resources.

The WestMED Initiative commends these national efforts, viewing the recognition of young researchers and the creation of the Marine Technology College as essential steps toward strengthening maritime education, enhancing research capabilities, and supporting sustainable coastal development in Libya.

WestMED congratulates all the award recipients and welcomes the establishment of the Marine Technology College as a strategic advancement toward a more resilient and prosperous blue economy for the country.

For more information contact the WestMED National Hub Libya (Masauda  Abuarosha): libya@westmed-initiative.ec.europa.eu

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WestMED Mauritanie au Sommet Atlantique, Marine, Energie et Support Industriel 2025

Le Sommet Atlantique, Marine, Energie et Support Industriel (AMEISS), organisé Conjointement par Oneport et la Fédération Nationale de l’Industrie, des Mines et de l’Energie s’est tenu à Nouakchott, à l’hôtel Fasq les 28 et 29 Octobre 2025 et a connu la participation de plusieurs acteurs industriels, institutionnels, de la recherche et des experts de la Mauritanie et de l’Espagne pour discuter les opportunités de partenariats dans le domaine du développement énergétique et maritime entre les Canaries et la Mauritanie.

Le Hub National de la Mauritanie a participé activement en tant que paneliste au Panel Economie Bleue, Gouvernance Et Collaboration « Réponse aux urgences maritimes, efforts et collaboration de l’économie bleue en Mauritanie ».

Au cours de ces interventions, Dr. Mohamed Lemine Abdel Hamid, Hub National de la Mauritanie a tout d’abord présenté l’Initiative WestMED de l’Union Européenne, son historique, ses objectifs, ses membres et la structure de son mécanisme d’assistance. Il a rappelé que la Mauritanie a eu la chance de co-présidé l’initiative en 2022 et 2023. Dans un deuxième temps, il a présenté les principales réalisations du Hub National dans le domaine de la promotion de l’économie bleue en Mauritanie, dont entre autres, l’organisation de six évènements nationaux dédiés entre 2019 et 2025, la création du cluster maritime mauritanien qui fédère les principaux acteurs de la mer, l’institutionnalisation d’un poste de Conseiller Technique en Charge de l’Economie Bleue et des Affaires Maritimes au niveau du Ministère de la Pêche et des Infrastructures Maritimes et Portuaires. Il a ainsi rappelé que les efforts de l’Initiative WestMED en Mauritanie ont inspiré les autres partenaires en Mauritanie.

Dans ce cadre il a cité la Banque Mondiale qui prépare actuellement un grand projet WACA+ qui devrait comprendre un volet dédié à la promotion de l’économie bleue en Mauritanie. De même, la BIE vient de signer une convention de prêt de 20 millions d’euro avec une Banque mauritanienne (BEA- Al AMANA) destinée au financement des projets dans le domaine de l’économie bleue en Mauritanie.

L’intervention du Hub National de la Mauritanie a siccité beaucoup d’intérêt de la part des participants.

En marge de cet évènement, le Hub National de la Mauritanie a rencontré le Cluster Maritime des Canaries pour discuter des opportunités de collaboration.

Pour plus d’informations, veuillez contacter le centre national WestMED Mauritanie (Mohamed Lemine) : mauritania@westmed-initiative.ec.europa.eu

 

Mohamed Lemine at the Ameis Summit 2025 - one-on-one meeting with a colleague

Copyright photos: Ameis Summit 2025

 

Two men posing behind table in libya. ali shagrune and saber al

President of the Libyan Maritime Cluster and WestMED coordinator meets with the Libyan Minister of Marine Wealth

On 12 October 2025, H.E. Dr. Saber Al-Azabi, Minister of Marine Wealth, met with Eng. Ali Mohamed Ageli Shagrune, President of the Libyan Maritime Cluster and National Coordinator WestMED Steering Committee Member of the Initiative.

At the beginning of the meeting, His Excellency welcomed Eng. Shagrune and praised his significant efforts in strengthening international cooperation and promoting the development of Libya’s blue economy. He also commended the active role played by the Libyan Maritime Cluster in supporting blue economy initiatives.

The meeting discussed the activities of the Libyan Maritime Cluster and its collaboration with maritime clusters in friendly countries within the framework of blue economy initiatives that aim to transform Libya’s economy from a rent-based system to a diversified and sustainable one, built on innovation and investment in marine resources.

Both sides emphasized the importance of enhancing regional and international partnerships in the fields of fisheries, aquaculture, marine renewable energy, and sustainable coastal governance, to contribute to building a prosperous economic future for Libya.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Eng. Ali Shagrune expressed his sincere appreciation to H.E. the Minister for the warm reception and reaffirmed the Libyan Maritime Cluster’s readiness to continue joint efforts with the Ministry of Marine Wealth in pursuit of a national vision for a sustainable blue economy in Libya.