Held under the theme “Harnessing Innovation and Integration for Sustainable and Inclusive Development in the Mediterranean Region”, the conference was organised in cooperation with Banco de España, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the European Institute of the Mediterranean (IEMed), and the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM). The gathering served as a platform for dialogue on pressing global and regional economic challenges.
CBE Governor Hassan Abdalla opened the event by stressing Egypt’s commitment to fostering regional cooperation and knowledge exchange. He described the Mediterranean as a historic bridge between cultures that must now evolve into a hub of innovation and resilience. “By working together, today’s challenges can be turned into opportunities to build a financial system that is more stable, inclusive, and sustainable,” he said.
Banco de España Governor José Luis Escrivá called for reinforcing multilateralism and building resilient financial systems that serve all segments of society. OECD’s Luiz de Mello highlighted the role of central banks in financing green transitions and supporting inclusive growth. At the same time, IEMed President Senén Florensa warned of regional pressures from conflicts, climate risks, and debt crises. UfM Deputy Secretary General Meltem Büyükkarakaş emphasised the advancement of digital and green integration to unlock the region’s potential.
The agenda featured four sessions covering artificial intelligence in finance, financing for sustainable development, financial inclusion, and regional financial integration.
In his closing remarks, Abdalla praised the constructive exchanges and affirmed that the outcomes mark a step toward stability and sustainable growth across the Mediterranean. The participants agreed that Banco de España will host the next edition, which will be preceded by a technical meeting among central banks to strengthen coordination.
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