• Organised by CIHEAM and the Embassy of Spain in France, the high-level meeting brought together 18 representatives from the diplomatic delegations in France of Mediterranean countries

CIHEAM Zaragoza took part in the second edition of the Ambassadors’ Luncheon on 15 April 2026 in Paris, organised by CIHEAM and the Embassy of Spain in France. Building on the dialogue initiated in 2025, this high-level meeting reinforced CIHEAM’s role as a key actor for consultation and cooperation in the Mediterranean.

The event, chaired by the Spanish Ambassador to France, Victorio Redondo Baldrich, brought together 18 representatives from the diplomatic delegations in France of Mediterranean countries, providing a conducive environment for in-depth discussions on the major challenges shaping the future of the region.

Need for multilateral dialogue

Conversations focused on the role of specialised agricultural training, the transition of agri-food systems, sustainable water management and adaptation to climate change, with special attention to the need for multilateral dialogue in support of peace.

Raúl Compés, director of CIHEAM Zaragoza, presented an overview of the Institute’s main activities and projects, including gender-related initiatives and women’s empowerment in agriculture.

The meeting also offered an opportunity to reflect on the priorities of the 13th CIHEAM Ministerial Meeting, scheduled to take place in Rome in November 2026, which will represent an important milestone in reaffirming the collective commitment to sustainable agri-food systems.

Strengthening Euro-Mediterranean relations

Particular attention was given to the opportunities for Mediterranean countries engaged in a process of rapprochement with CIHEAM, seen as a significant step forward in strengthening Euro-Mediterranean relations.

Beyond the thematic exchanges, this second edition confirmed the value of regular dialogue between CIHEAM and diplomatic missions. It enabled the identification of common ground, the exploration of new avenues for cooperation, and the strengthening of collective momentum in favour of a more united, resilient, and prosperous Mediterranean.