Barcelona, 30 November 2021 (TDI): New Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)–Regional Bureau for the Arab States, for three years on 29th of November.
The Secretary-General of the UfM Nasser Kamel and Regional Director for the Arab States UNDP Khalida Bouzar chaired the signing ceremony.
The key areas of agreement mainly focused on economic integration, combat climate change, women empowerment, and support for youth. The agreement aims to develop a strong corporation, fabricate peace and prosperity between the Mediterranean and Arab States Region enabling them to work together, through policy exchange knowledge, development, and project execution for the next three years.
Moreover, empowering the youth and women through instigating economic growth programs and promoting and increasing employment in the Arab region where the young population is more than half.
“The signature of this MoU, in the sidelines of the UfM Regional Forum of its 42 Member States, signals a strong renewed commitment to the relationship between the UfM and UNDP. By joining forces, we will be able to create a widened platform for regional dialogue and cooperation. Contributing to regional integration and stability in the Euro-Mediterranean region, is amongst the UfM’s top priorities discussed today, and we look forward to pursuing and intensifying this effort together with UNDP,” said Nasser Kamel.
Regional Director for the Arab States, Khalida Bouzar added “Building adaptable societies, particularly in conflict-affected areas, cannot be achieved by one entity alone.”
Khalida Bouzar showed a positive attitude towards the establishment of solid foundations for peace and prosperity in the region through collective efforts for exciting partnerships to fruition.
Mirjana Spoljaric Egger, Director of UNDP’s Regional Bureau for Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) also expressed her views.
“From the protection of unique maritime ecosystems in Albania to innovative solutions to plastic waste in Turkey, UNDP’s Regional Bureau for Europe and CIS is committed to safeguarding our natural heritage in the Mediterranean. The countries of the Mediterranean all share common concerns for the effects of the climate crisis and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the most vulnerable, including youth and women. This new partnership between UNDP and the Union for the Mediterranean is testimony to our commitment to address these challenges together and endeavor to build back better and greener together,” she said.
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