Strategic EU R&I Projects for the Green Transition in the Mediterranean and Africa

The European Union is investing significantly in Research and Innovation (R&I) to foster sustainable development, climate resilience, and inclusive growth in the Mediterranean and African regions. These efforts are part of broader geopolitical and neighborhood strategies, and are implemented through a variety of instruments and partnerships, including Horizon Europe, PRIMA, EDCTP, and the EU–AU R&I Partnership.

This session will highlight the strategic vision behind these initiatives, the tools available to support cooperation, and concrete examples of successful projects involving Italian public and private actors. By showcasing impactful results and best practices, the event aims to demonstrate how R&I can serve as a bridge between Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean, and how these efforts contribute to the implementation of the Mattei Plan — Italy’s strategic framework for cooperation with Africa and the wider Mediterranean.

The session will feature contributions from the European Commission, key programme representatives, and project leaders, and will conclude with a forward-looking discussion on how to maximise the impact of R&I collaboration in the region.

Session Chairs

Serena Borgna, APRE
Michele Mazzola, Italian Ministry of University and Research

Program

10.30 Introduction by the Chairs

10.35 EU strategies for R&I collaboration in Africa and Mediterranean areas
Vincenzo Lorusso, European Commission 
Alessandro Calabrò, European Commission 

11.05 EU instrument for R&I collaboration with African and Mediterranean partners
Serena Borgna, APRE
Angelo Riccaboni, PRIMA 

11.35 Showcasing Impact: Experiences and Success Stories from EU R&I Cooperation in Africa and the Mediterranean
Margherita Trestini, Apodissi
Fausto Giunchiglia, Università degli Studi di Trento 
Maroun El Moujabber, CIHEAM BARI
Carlo Cecchetti, RES4AFRICA
Representative of PRIMA (TBD) 

12.20 The Mattei Plan in Action: Enabling Success Stories through Education and Bilateral Partnerships in Africa and the Mediterranean
Michele Mazzola, Italian Ministry of University and Research

12.25 Discussion and closure by the Chairs