Cyprus is taking a leading role in shaping a safer and more sustainable future for the region, President Nikos Christodoulides said at the International Conference on the Climate Crisis in Nicosia.
The conference, titled “Climate Action in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East: Regional Cooperation Supported by Science and Innovation,” is held under the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union and co‑organized by the Cyprus Institute and the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy. It brings together foreign officials, scientists, policymakers and representatives of international organizations to strengthen regional cooperation in one of the world’s most climate‑vulnerable regions.
In his opening message, Christodoulides said the conference must move beyond dialogue and deliver concrete results, reinforcing the commitment of all parties to act collectively and without delay. He noted that the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East face severe climate impacts and must assume a leadership role in addressing them by aligning science, policy and innovation.
“This challenge can become an opportunity to build more resilient economies and sustainable societies, and a safer future for all,” he said, reaffirming Cyprus’ commitment to this vision.
European Commissioner Dubravka Šuica said the region is experiencing a period of intense crisis, with high fossil‑fuel prices and climate impacts placing heavy pressure on economies. She highlighted the potential of the Mediterranean—especially the southern part—for renewable energy development and stressed the importance of regional cooperation and investment in clean technologies.
European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Kostas Kadis emphasized the urgent need for coordinated, science‑based action to address the effects of climate change on seas and coastal communities. He warned that rising sea temperatures, marine heatwaves, acidification and invasive species are already transforming Mediterranean ecosystems.
Jordan’s Prince Hassan bin Talal warned that instability has become a defining regional condition. Citing World Bank and UNICEF data, he noted that millions face life‑threatening risks while global military spending rises and funding gaps for sustainable development widen. He called for cooperation centered on science and innovation to build a more resilient future.
The opening ceremony also included remarks by Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou, Deputy Minister of Research Nikodimos Damianou, Cyprus Institute Honorary President Professor Costas Papanicolas and Cyprus Institute President Professor Stavros Malas.
The conference, held ahead of the informal European Council meeting in Nicosia on April 23, will focus on key aspects of the climate crisis, including climate science, energy transition, water systems and sustainable development, with emphasis on cross‑border cooperation and policy implementation.
The climate crisis poses one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century, with Cyprus and the wider region among the most vulnerable globally. Coordinated planning and meaningful action, supported by regional cooperation, are seen as essential to addressing its impacts.