ISTANBUL

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced Thursday that the College of Commissioners approved the new Mediterranean pact to work on a "deeper integration."

"We should work on a deeper integration. We should simplify making business with each other, and we should create new ties between our industries, our universities, our institutions. This is why today we are making a clear offer to our neighbors. Let us create a common Mediterranean space with a goal of progressive integration," von der Leyen said in a news statement.

She noted that the pact focused on three main pillars, including people, economy, and the link between security, preparedness and migration.

Following von der Leyen, foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Suica also held a joint news conference where they gave further details regarding the new initiative.

Kallas explained that the pact includes over 100 projects aimed at strengthening local economies, providing better opportunities for young people, enhancing regional connectivity and improving security cooperation.

Suica then noted that the first pillar aims to empower people through shared spaces for learning, culture, sports, and mobility, with a key project of creating a Mediterranean University.

The pact's second pillar will modernize trade and investment relations, supporting startups and expanding cooperation in renewable energy, clean technologies, and blue economy, she added.

Suica further revealed that the third pillar covers security, justice, and migration, including fighting crime and terrorism, preventing "radicalization" and managing migration through legal pathways, talent partnerships, and student visas.  

 'We are real on Palestine'

The leaders also reiterated their support for Palestine, especially through contributions to the ceasefire plan and efforts in reconstruction, security, and governance.

"We are real on Palestine," Suica reassured.

Kallas also noted that they could contribute to several areas, including reconstruction, security and governance and underscored that there are still many issues that need to be solved for a sustainable peace in Gaza.

"After enduring unimaginable pain and loss, the devastating war in Gaza has now come to an end, marking a pivotal moment, not only for Gaza, but also for the European Union and the wider Mediterranean, marking the moment when the future of the region is being rewritten," von der Leyen also said.

She further noted that Europe "has a stake" in shaping a future of peace and prosperity, stressing that they want to play their part as partners.

"This is our commitment to our shared Mediterranean home," von der Leyen added.

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