Zingaretti (S&D): “We need to reignite dialogue in the Mediterranean, putting people at the heart of it”

Brussels – “We cannot wait for governments alone to rebuild a climate of cooperation and dialogue in the Mediterranean. We must usher in a new phase of dialogue.” This is the political line advocated by MEP Nicola Zingaretti (S&D), head of the PD delegation, who today presented a series of initiatives within the framework of the Mediterranean Pact, for which he is the rapporteur in the European Parliament. 

For Zingaretti, given the rise in instability and conflict in the region, the pact represents “a genuine political investment, not only in dialogue but also in vision and strategy.” While acknowledging the positive nature of the challenge set by the Commission to re-establish a commissioner, a budget, and a directorate-general for the Mediterranean, the MEP reiterated that “we must not wait for the geopolitical climate or governments to change, but it is people and economic and social actors who generate dialogue and discussion.” He therefore proposed a series of initiatives to foster dialogue among economic, social, and cultural actors in the region. In particular, the text is structured around three pillars: people, identified as the driving force for change, connections, and innovation; stronger, sustainable and integrated economies; security, preparedness, and migration management. On the first point, the MEP also pointed out that, following various hearings and meetings with civil society, a common denominator had emerged: “The satisfaction of seeing a process that is not merely an agenda or a list of good intentions, but of concrete actions.” 

As regards the budget, Zingaretti announced that “there is an intention to include a fund dedicated to the Mediterranean Pact in the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF)” and “to request additional funds for its roadmap within the framework of the Global Euro.” However, the main focus will be the recognition of the right to a name for citizens who have died in the Mediterranean. Zingaretti explained that this initiative is linked to the issue of identity, aimed at “not reducing human beings to numbers, as happened in the 20th century,” and that it will be necessary to “build a consensus first and foremost with the pro-European majority” in the Chamber. 

Zingaretti will present his proposal to the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET) today, following the presentation of the draft report on 13 May. The vote in the Commission is scheduled for 10 September, while the vote in plenary is due to take place between 2 and 3 October.