The 2 Mission (Tourism and Green Living Areas)
We are proud to have participated in the 2025 UN Ocean Conference and with a presentation in the CPMR Intermediterranean Commission (IMC) General Assembly, held in Nice (Région Sud, France) on 11 June 2025.
This pivotal gathering brought together coastal regions and key stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to sustainable development and cooperation across the Euro-Mediterranean space.
Endorsement of the 2025 IMC Final Declaration
A highlight of the Assembly was the presentation and endorsement of the 2025 IMC Final Declaration, a consolidated roadmap aligning regional priorities for a resilient and inclusive Mediterranean. Of particular significance were two major initiatives:
- The Agreements for a Sustainable Mediterranean, spearheaded by Région Sud, which participants were invited to sign at the conclusion of the institutional session.
- The Voice of the Mediterranean Declaration, promoted by AVITEM, encapsulates the joint efforts of the Coastal Regions and Cities Coalition (2024–2025) and reflects shared ambitions for the Mediterranean future.
Spotlight on Key Regional Projects
During the “Update on Current and New Projects” session, Prof. Em. Yorgos Stephanedes from the University of Patras (Region of Western Greece – Dytiki Ellada) presented the Dialogue4LivingAreas project, part of the Interreg Euro-MED Green Living Areas Mission. On the same occasion, Mr. Ioannis Mardikis showcased the Dialogue4Tourism initiative, contributing to the dissemination of outcomes from two of the four core Programme Missions, thereby significantly amplifying their visibility and impact.
Prof. Stephanedes said:
Mr. Zaimis, Deputy Governor of Achaia and President of the CPMR Balkan and Black Sea Commission (left), Prof. em. Stephanedes (right)
“I’m honoured to be here today on behalf of the Region of Western Greece (partner in the Community4LivingAreas) and the University of Patras (partner in the Dialogue4LivingAreas) for our common Green Living Areas Mission. I would like to express my appreciation to Mr. Fokion Zaimis, Deputy Governor of Achaia and President of the CPMR Balkan and Black Sea Commission, for inviting us to contribute to this important Assembly.”
He went on to highlight the pivotal role of two governance projects that collectively support 24 thematic projects, all aimed at maximising technical efficiency and policy impact across the Euro-Mediterranean region.
These projects are centred on innovation, policy transfer, and sustainable territorial development, the core pillars of the Green Living Areas Mission. This dual involvement of both our regional authority and academic institution reflects a unique and highly effective partnership, integrating governance, research, and territorial action. It shows how collaboration at local, regional, and academic levels can become a driving force in shaping green, inclusive, and future-ready living areas.
Looking Ahead
We are inspired by the momentum created in Nice and remain committed to enhancing our supportive role in the Thematic Projects, thus allowing them to achieve evidence-based solutions for sustainable living in the Mediterranean.
Thank you to the organisers for a forward-looking and impactful Assembly.
