23 projects have been implemented in Egypt as part of the European Union’s (EU) cross-border cooperation for the Mediterranean Sea Basin Program (CBC MED) during the 2014-2020 period, said Minister of International Cooperation Rania Al-Mashat.

Al-Mashat’s comments come on the sidelines of the EU day celebration held on Sunday.

The minister explained that the CBC MED contributes to accelerating Egypt’s efforts in achieving the sustainable development goals and enhancing economic growth for the Mediterranean basin countries.

The EU’s funding for this program amounts to € 208 million and benefits 14 countries, including Egypt.

The program also represents the largest cross-border cooperation implemented by the EU and aligns with the European Neighborhood Instrument (ENI), with the aim of creating a competitive, innovative, inclusive, and sustainable Mediterranean region.

Al-Mashat added that this program aims to promote sustainable regional economic and social development, which shall enhance cross-border cooperation and increase the economic growth of the participating countries, as well as support them in facing global challenges. The minister also hinted towards the high rate of unemployment, climate change risks, and other challenges, as huge obstacles facing the Mediterranean region.

She added that the previous phase of the programme was able to reach more than 10 million people and provide them with newly developed services, in addition to providing training to 35,000 people, supporting 344 start-ups, developing 215 heritage sites, and supporting the work of 144 tour operators.

The 2014-2020 phase of the programme resulted in producing more than 1 million kWh of clean energy and allowing entry to the 9 ports to the Mediterranean Sea as part of the initiative that aims to enhance logistics services, according to the minister.

On 9 May, Europe celebrated Europe Day which is an annual celebration of peace and unity in the continent.