Brussels, 17/12/2010 (Agence Europe) - A conference entitled “EuroMed-2030” was held in Brussels on Thursday, organised by the European Commission under the aegis of DG R&D. It brought together experts in scientific, economic, human sciences and social research fields to trace the region's prospects for the next 20 years. Participants were briefed on the results of a study which, in particular, notes that the development of relations between the EU and countries on the southern and eastern rims of the Mediterranean is not always seen as a priority objective and often gives rise to more or less reticence from different areas. On the European side, the region is considered as a conflict zone, suffering from a human rights deficiency remote from European pluralist, democratic standards, and taking time to develop economically or to adopt modernity. Faced with this, the other side has feelings of suspicion, considering the EU is condescending or hypocritical when it affirms ideals of openness while keeping its agricultural markets partially closed, when it shows distrust or rejection towards legal or illegal migrants, and when it takes part in armed operations in other countries of the Muslim world. However, this is all external appearance as “beyond real differences, there is also convergence - interpenetration and interaction between both sides of the Mediterranean are strong and common interests are substantial”.
The report calls for differences to be overcome by looking at the potential of Euro-Mediterranean cooperation by 2030. After a detailed presentation relating to all areas (education, health, energy, etc) of the lives of citizens and economic activity, the report calls for attention to be paid to the major obstacles that currently prevent a real Euro-Med Community from being envisaged - the lack of common vision, of political will, of confidence, of resources and of adequate institutions. In any event, the undertaking will take time, which involves considerable cost. However, it would cost just as much if it did not happen. The achievements of Barcelona, completed by later achievements bringing the provisions of the Union for the Mediterranean, must serve as a point of departure to remedy the lack of common vision, it is written. This basic recommendation is to be noted - progress implies clarification of the institutional working and rules of intergovernmental cooperation and the involvement of the different civil society organisations in a spirit of strengthened comprehension and mutual trust. Experts say it is necessary to overcome the many obstacles and considerable scepticism. A concrete recommendation should be added, with experts suggesting that the Council of Europe should be extended to the southern and eastern Mediterranean countries, with gradual application of the European Convention on Human Rights. This action could help to build a solid basis of shared values. (F.B./transl.jl)