“The city is a social fact that reflects a political choice, the involvement of politicians.” Concluding the EUROMED meeting, Fadela Amara wanted to highlight “the learning of living together.” For her, this EUROMED meeting is a very good initiative for the central problem posed by urban development in cities. But the opinion of the citizens is also very important. To create wealth and knowledge, the main actors who form citizenship must participate in decisions concerning public life.
The theme of sustainable development, discussed during the debates, was also praised by the Secretary of State. She considers it a “factor of social cohesion and citizenship” and finds it necessary to “involve citizens in decisions that concern them.”
Thirdly, exchanges between the cities of the EUROMED network would improve the lives of Mediterraneans. According to Fadela Amara, the network, which today includes 39 European cities and 39 Mediterranean cities, shares “the same functions and assets.” She gives the example of connecting port cities, which would promote exchanges.
These remarks were also highlighted in his speech by Christian Estrosi, who plans to “manage the Mediterranean coastal areas, create a Mediterranean EUROMED conservatory, or set up actions to control renewable energy.” For him, “the Mediterranean brings us together, unites us. It is the cradle of civilizations.”
