The international conference “Climate Action in the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East: Regional Cooperation Empowered by Science and Innovation” was held in Nicosia, on April 8–9 2026 at the Filoxenia Conference Centre.

 

The conference was organised by the Secretariat of the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East hosted by The Cyprus Institute, in collaboration with the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, under the auspices of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union. It brought together representatives of governments, international organisations, policymakers, and scientists from 18 countries, focusing on coordinated climate action in one of the world’s most climate‑vulnerable regions.

 

The conference featured high-level addresses by H.E. Dr. Nikos Christodoulides President of the Republic of Cyprus, Prince Hassan bin Talal of Jordan, Dr. Maria Panayiotou Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Dr. Nikodemos Damianou Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy and Ms. Dubravka Šuica European Commissioner for the Mediterranean.

 

Key policy priorities and strategic responses to the climate crisis were further outlined by Mr. Michael Damianos Minister of Energy and Dr. Costas Kadis European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, highlighting national and European Union actions addressing climate mitigation, adaptation, and resilience.

 

A central outcome of the conference was the adoption of the Nicosia Call for Action 2026, a shared framework defining priorities for enhanced regional cooperation, resilience, and sustainable development in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East.

 

Participants underlined the strategic role of the Mediterranean as a bridge connecting Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, stressing that balanced, inclusive, and mutually beneficial cooperation is essential to the region’s future. The discussions highlighted the interconnected nature of climate change, environmental degradation, economic inequality, migration pressures, and security risks, calling for coordinated and long-term responses.

 

The conference emphasised the pivotal role of science, innovation, and science diplomacy as essential tools for addressing climate challenges, even in complex geopolitical environments. Particular focus was placed on collaboration across key sectors, including energy, water, food systems, health, urban development, and cultural heritage.

 

Sustainable consumption patterns and the responsible use of natural resources were identified as critical components of effective climate strategies, alongside the importance of accelerating the transition to clean energy and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

 

The Nicosia Call for Action 2026 sets out key priorities, including:

• Empowering citizens and societies, with investment in education, skills, youth, and women as foundations for resilient communities and a socially just transition.
• Strengthening science and innovation cooperation, including shared research infrastructure and data systems to support evidence-based policymaking.
• Enhancing governance, investment, and policy coordination, ensuring effective and participatory decision‑making.
• Developing flagship cross-border partnerships and projects, leveraging science diplomacy to deliver tangible regional impact.

Through its scientific expertise, regional networks, and emphasis on science diplomacy, The Cyprus Institute continues to play a key role in supporting evidence‑based climate policy and fostering regional cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East.

 

The conference and the adoption of the Nicosia Call for Action 2026 reinforce Cyprus’s position as a regional hub for climate science and dialogue, sending a clear message that addressing the climate crisis requires collective action, shared responsibility, and long-term commitment to resilience, prosperity, and stability for future generations.