On 8 July 2026, European Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Šuica delivered a video message to The Economist's 30th Annual Government Roundtable, outlining the EU's approach to addressing upheaval in the Middle East through the Pact for the Mediterranean. The speech, titled 'Power and influence: US, Europe and the changing Middle East', emphasised building robust partnerships to create stability, peace, and prosperity in the region.
Šuica highlighted several concrete initiatives under the Pact, including the Mediterranean University to connect universities and boost learning mobility, T-MED for renewable energy investment, and the Medusa cable system to enhance regional connectivity. She also referenced bilateral partnerships with Tunisia, Egypt, Jordan, and future Strategic Partnership Agreements with Gulf states, as well as projects like IMEC to strengthen free trade and resilience. The speech did not introduce new numerical targets or deadlines but reaffirmed existing commitments and called for continued cooperation.
The Commissioner stressed Europe's role as a trusted partner and honest broker in Middle East crises, citing humanitarian and development work in Palestine, Syria, Lebanon, and the Gulf. She noted that Europe intends to play a key role in shaping a stable, peaceful, and prosperous region, while acknowledging the fragility of the situation despite a deal now on the table regarding the Gaza war and Hormuz crisis.
The speech did not address specific criticisms or diverging views from other EU institutions or member states, nor did it provide detailed implementation timelines or budget figures. It focused on declarative support for partnership and multilateral engagement, with no mention of increased EU powers or regulatory changes. The policy orientation is conciliatory, emphasising cooperation and mutual respect rather than assertive demands on third countries.