Opportunities for Enhanced EU Diplomacy in the Mediterranean: Recommendations for energy and industrial cooperation

The Global Energy Transition Forum (GETF), endorsed by 20 leaders at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, provides momentum to advance EU energy diplomacy. The Mediterranean can be a natural partner for it. The Southern Neighbourhood has become a key region for diversifying the EU’s energy supply, strengthening energy independence and forging industrial cooperation.

The upcoming Pact for the Mediterranean, to be published on October 16, is an opportunity to set a clear trajectory for it. It can frame cooperation with the Mediterranean and set priorities for the Trans-Mediterranean and Clean Tech initiative (T-Med), foreseen for publication in January 2026. T-Med is an opportunity to cooperate on an equal footing in the neighbourhood, accelerating cross-border electricity trade and cleantech industrial development. 

Its pillars can be: 

• Industrial decarbonisation: Key for jobs and local value in the Mediterranean. Morocco and Tunisia can expand EV, battery, and precision component production with EU support, while Egypt can produce green steel for low-carbon supply chains. 
• Energy security: T-Med can boost energy security by investing in renewables and green hydrogen, reducing EU gas dependence and avoiding fossil-fuel lock-in
• Connectivity and trade: The India–Middle East–Europe Corridor (IMEC) can scale clean energy flows, enhance trade, and strengthen EU geoeconomic leverage while balancing Chinese competition.

By defining clear priorities, projects, and financial governance, the Pact for the Mediterranean can position the T-Med Initiative as a connected clean-energy hub, enhancing EU energy security and driving mutually beneficial industrial cooperation.