The European Union and the Mediterranean countries : projects, instruments and prospects for Euro-Mediterranean co-operation

Abstract

The article concentrates its analysis on the policies of co-operation and development of the European Union in the area of the Mediterranean based on an economic and political approach in order to strengthen cohesion, the Euro-Mediterranean partnership and peaceful neighbourly relations. Programmes to broaden resources have been worked out to reach these objectives. However the effective distribution of resources, of both the structural funds and of the MEDA programme, has been much less than what was promised, showing a weakness in the absorption of the supplied resources. In general, notwithstanding the support policies put into place the difference in income of the member states of the EU compared to the countries of the Mediterranean remain constant. Substantially, economic growth and financial co-operation have proposed a "lowprofile strategy" from the EU to ensure security and stability. This has led to the proposal for a Euro-Mediterranean Bank in order to create a place where European people and those of the Mediterranean can work together with equal dignity for a common project. In addition it would be wise for the neighbouring countries, in the process of realizing reform, to fully participate in our common policies (research, foreign and security policy), differing the approach depending on the base needs of the individual country. Today the European Union represents the first economic world power, serving the biggest market and with a currency which is constantly progressing as a reference point of global exchange. Yet to fully ensure this, it needs the contribution of the Mediterranean countries. Europe must concentrate all of its force to create an area where, despite the differences between the various countries, they can live peacefully with each other and this is only possible if the ideas and values of peace, democracy and solidarity are able to attract a greater number of individuals.