On January 12, 2026, the Economic and Social Council of Jordan hosted a dialogue session at its headquarters in Amman to discuss the New Pact for the Mediterranean. The event welcomed Mr. Thomas Wagnssonner, Rapporteur of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), and was attended by the European Union Ambassador to Jordan.
The session brought together official representatives from the Economic and Social Councils and Similar Institutions of the following Arab countries:
- The People's Democratic Republic of Algeria
- The State of Palestine
- The Republic of the Sudan
- The Kingdom of Morocco
- The Lebanese Republic
The session opened with an address by Dr. Musa Shteiwi, President of the Jordanian Economic and Social Council and Vice-President of the Union of Arab Economic and Social Councils and Similar Institutions. Dr. Shteiwi warmly welcomed the attendees and highlighted the strategic importance of the gathering.
Following his remarks, the EESC Rapporteur, Mr. Thomas Wagnssonner, addressed the assembly, expressing his gratitude to the participants. He emphasized the vital role of the "New Pact for the Mediterranean"—officially launched in Barcelona in late October 2025—as a landmark framework designed to bolster cooperation between the European Union and Mediterranean countries, rooted in a true spirit of mutual benefit and equal partnership.
During the event, participants reviewed the advisory opinion issued by the EESC regarding the New Pact. Discussions centered on the fundamental principles shaping the future action plan for the Pact's constituent programs, as well as on the pivotal role of the private sector and civil society in driving economic and social synergy between the EU and Southern Mediterranean nations.
The meeting concluded with a strong consensus on the necessity of establishing a balanced Euro-Mediterranean partnership based on proactive consultation, mutual trust, and respect for national priorities. Delegates underscored that the New Pact for the Mediterranean will realize its potential only if it is successfully translated into practical and actionable programs capable of fostering sustainable development and regional stability.
Looking ahead, the participating councils announced a series of upcoming meetings to sustain momentum and deepen discussions. These joint consultations are set to serve as preparatory steps for the upcoming Euro-Mediterranean Summit in Lisbon, ensuring a highly coordinated presence and a substantial collective contribution. Attendees also reaffirmed the critical need to enhance institutional cooperation between the European Economic and Social Committee and the Union of Arab Economic and Social Councils, enabling them to align their positions and formulate joint proposals ahead of future international milestones.