MedCities, as an observer member of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM),-as the PAM is for MedCities- participated in the 19th Plenary Session held in Rome, a MedCities member city. The session focused on key political and security issues in the Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf regions, addressing challenges such as counter-terrorism, regional instability, and geopolitical developments.

A significant moment during the session was the meeting between MedCities’ Secretary General and Mrs. Dubravka Suica, the first EU Commissioner for the Mediterranean. Mrs. Suica highlighted the critical role local authorities play in shaping the future of the region, marking an important milestone in fostering closer collaboration between states and cities on key issues.

In addition, the MedCoopAlliance took the opportunity to send a letter to Mrs. Suica, outlining the efforts and common vision of cooperation members. The letter, available in multiple languages, can be found here:

One of the main topics discussed during the session was the ceasefire in Gaza, as well as the ongoing progress in Syria and Lebanon. Delegates emphasized the need for social and economic recovery in the region and stressed the importance of peace-building dialogue.

The PAM 19th Plenary Session also reinforced the significance of cooperation between the European Parliament and PAM, particularly regarding the stability of the Maghreb and the Arab Peninsula, which are essential for regional progress. Following constructive discussions, two resolutions on regional security and counter-terrorism were adopted by consensus.

The session participants highlighted the need for continued dialogue, collaboration, and efforts to address the complex political, security, and terrorism-related challenges facing the Euro-Mediterranean region.

During the visit to Rome, the MedCities Secretary-General met with Mr. Fabio Sokolowicz, Advisor to the Mayor and Director of International Relations. They discussed ongoing projects and future collaborations, with a focus on initiatives addressing climate change risk and mitigation actions.

More about the PAM:

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM) is an international organization, bringing together 34 member parliaments from the Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf regions to discuss and face critical issues, such as regional conflicts, security and counter-terrorism, humanitarian crises, economic integration, climate change, mass migrations, education, human rights and inter-faith dialogue.

Through PAM, Member Parliaments engage in productive debates, share legislative experiences and work together towards constructive solutions.

For the biennium 2023-2024, PAM is presided by H.E. Sen. ENAAM MAYARA (Morocco).