Egypt to Host Barcelona Convention COP24 Marine Protection
Mediterranean Nations Convene in Egypt for COP24 too Chart Sustainable Future
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Egypt is hosting the 24th Meeting of the Contracting Parties to the Barcelona convention (COP24) from December 2-5,2025,bringing together environmental leaders from 21 Mediterranean countries and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
Reviewing Progress and Setting the agenda for 2026-2027
The conference will assess the implementation of the Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP) during 2024-2025 and establish the programme of work and budget for the following two years. Egypt will assume the COP presidency from Slovenia at the opening session. Discussions will build upon outcomes from the MAP Coordinating Unit meeting held in Greece in september 2025.
Focus on the Sustainable Blue Economy
A high-level session on December 4 will center on the “Sustainable Blue Economy for a Resilient and Healthy Mediterranean,” highlighting its potential to drive a just transition towards a low-carbon economy. This focus aligns with the broader goals of the 2030 Agenda for sustainable Progress, emphasizing resource efficiency and circular economic models.
Key Frameworks for Regional Cooperation
COP24 is expected to formally adopt several crucial regional strategies. These include the updated Mediterranean Strategy for Sustainable Development 2026-2035, the Regional Climate Change Adaptation Framework 2026-2035, and the revised Ecosystem Approach Policy and Roadmap. These frameworks will guide collaborative efforts to address environmental challenges across the Mediterranean region.
Awards and Ministerial Declaration
The conference will also recognize environmental leadership with the presentation of the fifth Istanbul Environmentally Friendly City Award. Ministers will intentional on the Cairo Ministerial Declaration, proposed by Egypt, with its anticipated adoption marking a key outcome of COP24 before the final report is issued on December 5.