On the territory of Egypt, and amid a wide international presence from 21 countries of the Mediterranean Basin, the activities of the twenty-fourth meeting of the contracting parties to the Barcelona Convention and its Protocols (COP24) began today, which Cairo will host during the period from 2 to 5 December 2025.
The conference will be held in the presence of Tatiana Hema, coordinator of the United Nations Environment Programme, and Mitia Priscelli, the current president of the conference, along with a number of Environment Ministers and heads of delegations.
Dr. Manal Awad stressed that the COP24 conference represents an important gateway for the Mediterranean countries to move towards a sustainable blue economy, noting Egypt’s aspiration for results that enhance international multilateral cooperation in the environmental fields.
The Minister explained that today’s meetings discuss what was accomplished during the years 2024-2025, in addition to preparing for the adoption of the work program and budget for 2026 – 2027.
Today’s activities
– An informal meeting of heads of delegations.
_The opening session and the handover of the presidency of the conference from Slovenia to Egypt.
_The start of discussions on the Cairo Ministerial Declaration.
Highlights of the Conference
_ Report on Mediterranean Action Plan activities since COP23.
_ Mediterranean Strategy for Sustainable Development 2026 – 2035.
_ Regional Framework for Adaptation to Climate Change 2026 – 2035.
_ Revised Ecology Policy and Roadmap.
_ Announcement of the winning city of Istanbul Green City Award.
The importance of the event
COP24 highlights the sustainable blue economy as a key tool for the transition towards a low-carbon, circular and resource-efficient economy, in line with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
