The Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) commended Kuwait on Sunday for its efforts to diversify energy sources and address climate challenges, describing the country as an ideal hub to foster collaboration between the Arabian Gulf, Mediterranean, and Europe in renewable energy R&D and technology.

The remarks came during an interview by Hatem Aznak, UfM's Climate & Energy Projects Analyst, with KUNA ahead of Kuwait hosting the 5th UfM Business Forum on Energy & Climate on Monday as part of *Kuwait Sustainable Energy Week (11-13 May)*.

Key Highlights:

1. Historic Hosting:

   • This marks the first UfM initiative outside the Mediterranean, with Kuwait being its Gulf debut.

   • Aznak hailed Kuwait’s climate leadership, particularly in clean energy investments and diversification.

2. Forum Objectives:

   • Enhance regional cooperation between Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf states.

   • Accelerate sustainable energy solutions, energy efficiency, and climate resilience.

   • Facilitate green financing, entrepreneurship, and youth/women empowerment in climate innovation.

3. New Features:

   • Deal-making workshops connecting Mediterranean and Gulf stakeholders.

   • Strong participation from Arab women leaders and private-sector partners.

4. Strategic Vision:

   • Aznak stressed the private sector’s role in launching cross-regional partnerships.

   • The forum serves as a gateway for ongoing Gulf-Euro-Med collaboration in green investments and knowledge exchange.

UfM Statement:

Co-organized with Kuwait’s Ministry of Electricity, Water & Renewable Energy and the Regional Center for Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency (RCREEE), the forum will feature:

• High-level dialogues and specialized workshops at Kuwait International Fair.

• Focus on energy transition, climate adaptation, and showcasing Mediterranean projects to Gulf investors.

Context:

• Previous forums were held in Cairo (2023), Tangier (2023), Lisbon (2019), and Cairo (2017).

• The UfM—an intergovernmental Euro-Med body of 27 EU and 15 Mediterranean countries—aims to drive sustainable development and regional integration.