Addressing critical questions about how enhanced connectivity in logistics, energy, and digital technology can transform the Mediterranean requires evidence-based, open, and inclusive exchanges. By facilitating policy dialogues that bring together a diverse range of stakeholders—including policymakers, researchers, and practitioners from Europe, North Africa, and beyond—the Mediterranean Connectivity Platform seeks to develop innovative solutions to systemic challenges, such as underdeveloped infrastructure, limited regional integration, and geopolitical tensions. Through these efforts, the Platform harnesses regional expertise to foster a cohesive, competitive, and prosperous Mediterranean, unlocking its potential as a global hub for sustainable growth.

A pilot project of the Platform is the MAECI-funded project “New Opportunities for Trans-Mediterranean Cooperation and the Role of Italy and Egypt.” This project focuses on Italy and Egypt, recognizing their strategic significance and unique positioning in promoting and leading Mediterranean connectivity efforts.

Italy, with its advanced infrastructure and strategic vision outlined in the Mattei Plan, aims to solidify its role as a regional hub for energy and trade and influence EU’s approach to the Mediterranean. Egypt’s Suez Canal Economic Zone and Vision 2030 plan highlight its ambition to become a global logistics and industrial hub, leveraging its unmatched geographic position, growing energy capabilities, and strong commercial and investment ties with European, Gulf and Asian actors. Together, these strengths create opportunities for enhanced trade routes, energy collaboration, and digital networks, positioning both countries as key players in regional integration.

A pivotal component of this project is a policy dialogue event scheduled to take place in Rome in Spring 2025. This event will bring together stakeholders and experts from Italy, Egypt, and potentially other European and MENA countries to discuss the findings of a position paper prepared by the Platform and identify shared interests and opportunities for advancing Mediterranean connectivity.

This project is funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and in collaboration with the Fondazione Magna Carta.