The National Institute of Marine Sciences and Technologies (INSTM) proudly organized the Co-Evolve4BG Closure event in Tunis, Tunisia, on October 25-26, 2023, hosted at El Mouradi Hotel. This event marked the culmination of a remarkable 4-year journey, focusing on the collaborative development of coastal human activities and Mediterranean natural systems.

The project explored their intricate relationship with sustainable tourism and Blue Growth in the Mediterranean basin. During this event, we were honoured to
have distinguished representatives from the Ministries of Agriculture, Environment, Transport, and Tourism, alongside representatives from partners and associated partners organizations, and local actors whose invaluable contributions shaped the project’s evolution.

Opening of the Closure Event
The opening day featured insightful sessions led by influential figures such as Mr. Abdelmeneem Belaati, Minister of Agriculture, Water Resources, and Fisheries, and Mrs. Leila Cheikhawi, Minister of Environment. Their speeches underscored the urgency of effective coastal management, integration of activities, and climate change adaptation at Tunisian level. The discussion emphasized the exchange of experiences and scientific research collaboration
across Mediterranean countries. Furthermore, Mr. Vincent Ernoux (Coordinator of Branch Office for the Western Mediterranean – Interreg NEXT-MED Programme), Mrs. Adriana Salazar Olivan (representative from Water, Environment, and Blue Economy Division - Union for the Mediterranean), Mrs. Irene Morell Rodriguez (representative from the joint Technical Secretariat – ENI CBC Med Programme) and Mr. Béchir Béjaoui (Co-EvolveBG General Coordinator) shared valuable insights into the achievements of the Co-Evolve4BG project and the new opportunities it presents.

Exhibition of the main findings of Co-Evolve4BG
The second day was dedicated to showcasing the fruits of Co-Evolve4BG’s partner's labor through a comprehensive exhibition featuring 14 stands. These displays encapsulated the project’s findings, outputs, and achievements. The event served as a hub for sharing best practices and innovative approaches in coastal zone management and sustainable tourism development. Notable organizations, including Cluster Maritime Tunisian, Plastic Busters CAP Project, Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), National Institute of Oceanography and Applied Geophysics (OGS) and MEET Secretariat - Blue Tourism Initiative Partner and many others, shared their impactful work.