Leaders of MED9 nations convene in Split to discuss Mediterranean security and regional crises

The 13th summit of the MED9 Mediterranean countries is scheduled for Wednesday, October 7, in Split, Croatia. Leaders from Croatia, Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Slovenia, and Spain will attend, alongside European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The agenda includes preparations for the October European Council meeting, European energy security, and the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

The summit will feature thematic discussions on the "Sustainable Mediterranean" with Prince Albert II of Monaco, and a working lunch focusing on Middle Eastern developments in the presence of the Crown Prince of Jordan. Draft documents indicate that the leaders will reaffirm their commitment to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus issue under the United Nations framework, in accordance with EU principles. Furthermore, they will address the protection of external borders and developments in the Eastern Mediterranean. The summit will conclude with a joint press conference at 3:30 p.m. local time.

This high-level meeting serves as a precursor to the broader October European Council, aiming to harmonize the positions of Mediterranean member states on critical geopolitical and economic challenges facing the region.