Economic co-operation to support democratic transition in Mediterranean focus of OSCE Rome conference

ROME, 30 October 2012 – Supporting democratic transition and political reforms through economic co-operation in the Southern Mediterranean region is the topic of a two-day OSCE conference that opened today in Rome.

The 2012 OSCE Mediterranean Conference brings together some 130 representatives of the 56 OSCE participating States and the six Mediterranean Partners for Co-operation - Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Morocco and Tunisia – as well as from other OSCE partner countries and relevant international and non-governmental organizations.

Italian Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs, Staffan De Mistura, opening the conference on behalf of the host country, highlighted the OSCE’s vision in establishing the Partnership more than a decade ago and said: “Italy believes that the existing Mediterranean Partnership ought to be strengthened and tailored to support the Partners’ path towards stability and democratization, consistent with the inclusive and holistic approach to security, which represents both the firm target and the historical heritage of OSCE.”

Participants will discuss economic and social challenges in the region, as well as OSCE best practices in enhancing economies, co-operation on sustainable energy including renewable energy sources, OSCE experience in addressing transnational threats to security, and enhancing the participation of women in political and public life.

OSCE Secretary General Lamberto Zannier said: “I am personally committed to making our partnership more operational and dynamic. We are currently exploring options for action-oriented and results based co-operation with the Mediterranean partnership in a number of areas where the OSCE can offer substantial expertise and experience.”