The Covid-19 pandemic adds yet another layer of instability to a region already shaken by multiple crises: great powers competition, fragmented or fragile states and the rise of non-state actors, struggles over energy resources, organized crime and illicit trafficking are all challenges stirring the waters of the Mediterranean. From conflicts in Libya and Syria, to growing tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean, how to decrease tensions, correct misperceptions, and promote co-operation throughout the Euro-Mediterranean region? 

Opening Remarks 

Marina Sereni, Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Italy 

Session I – Building Peace 

Marwa Daoudy, Associate Professor, Georgetown University, USA; Author “The Origin of the Syrian Conflict, Climate Change and Human Security”

Geir O. Pedersen, Special Envoy for Syria, United Nations 

Mohamed Taher Syala, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Libya 

Stephanie Williams, Acting Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Libya, United Nations

Stefano Del Col, Head of Mission and Force Commander, UNIFIL

Moderators:
Monica Maggioni, RAI
Ian Lesser, Vice President, The German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF)

Session II – Stabilizing the Region 

Nikos Christodoulides, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cyprus 

Claudio Graziano, Chairman, Military Committee, European Union 

Ján Kubiš, Special Coordinator for Lebanon, United Nations 

Nickolay Mladenov, Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, United Nations 

Olivér Varhélyi, Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, European Commission 

Matthew A. Palmer, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs, U.S. Department of State

Moderators:
James McGann, Director, Think Tanks and Civil Societies Program (TTCSP), Lauder Institute,
University of Pennsylvania, USA
Riccardo Chartroux, RAI