Egypt will participate in 26 projects within the first phase of the INTERREG NEXT MED cross-border cooperation programme for the Mediterranean Basin, following national coordination efforts led by the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation. The programme, funded by the European Union, aims to foster development across the Mediterranean region, with the first phase encompassing 60 projects and a total funding of 134 million euros, of which 119 million euros is provided by the EU.
Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation Rania Al-Mashat announced that these 26 projects will be implemented in Egypt and other Mediterranean countries, promoting regional development. The projects span various sectors, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs), tourism, education, scientific research, technological development, innovation, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
The programme will fund initiatives aimed at combating climate change, promoting environmental sustainability, improving water and waste management, developing renewable energy, and supporting integrated coastal zone management. Eighteen Egyptian entities, including government bodies, universities, and civil society organizations, will benefit from the funding under this phase.
The INTERREG NEXT MED programme is implemented through three calls for participation, with the first call already completed. The second call is open for applications until April 15, 2025, with a focus on green results and promoting inclusive environmental sustainability.
Participating Mediterranean countries include Egypt, Tunisia, Lebanon, Palestine, and Jordan, alongside European countries like France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Cyprus, Malta, and Portugal. Eligible Egyptian governorates for funding include Cairo, Kafr El Sheikh, Alexandria, Sharqia, and others.
The programme aims to contribute to smart, sustainable, and inclusive development across the Mediterranean Basin by addressing key social, economic, environmental, and governance challenges and supporting multi-level cooperation.
