The Mediterranean basin is still in turmoil. New geo-political and economic dynamics are traversing the area, while political transitions in North African countries have proven to be very complex and long-term processes. In an era of transformation what challenges do the region’s countries have to face? What is the role of international and regional players and of Italy in particular? How could this period of crisis in both Northern and Southern Mediterranean countries turn into an opportunity to foster cooperation and economic growth?
Representatives from European Institute of the Mediterranean (IEMed), American University of Beirut, Woodrow Wilson Center, International Monetary Fund and The Egyptian Center for Public Opinion Research (Baseera) participated in the debate. The Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emma Bonino, closed the first session of the Conference.