2017

The Mediterranean region reflects today’s most pressing global challenges. North of the Mediterranean, the effects of the economic crisis continue to weaken social and economic cohesion. South of it, the hopes of the Arab Spring have faded, replaced by conflict and instability. Turkey, Lebanon, and Jordan remain heavily affected by rising migration flows, while the migration crisis in Europe has fuelled populist and separatist sentiment within the EU. Participants of the XIII High-Level Meeting of the Nizami Ganjavi International Center (NGIC) agreed that stability in this historic and culturally rich region depends on stronger partnerships and intercultural exchange.

On 22–23 November 2017, the XIII High-Level Meeting of the NGIC gathered 30 former Presidents, Prime Ministers, and Ministers to discuss the humanitarian challenges facing the Euro-Mediterranean region. Held in Athens in partnership with the Marianna V. Vardinoyannis Foundation and hosted by Mrs. Vardinoyannis, the meeting aimed to identify options for a region long familiar with both instability and resilience. Day 1 took place at the Acropolis Museum of Athens, a symbolic reminder of the deep heritage of the Mediterranean lands.

Committed to fostering cross-border dialogue in support of peace, the NGIC convened distinguished leaders to address complex issues and explore ways to revitalise the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership. From the humanitarian pressures of migration to the threat of separatism, participants presented recommendations to strengthen this essential partnership.