Šuica commissioner for the Mediterranean

On September 17, 2024, Dubravka Šuica, the Croatian representative in the new European Commission, was appointed as the Commissioner for the Mediterranean. This role includes responsibilities for demography and the establishment of a new Directorate-General specifically for the Mediterranean region. The announcement was made by Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the Commission, who emphasized the importance of Šuica's presence in the region to address common challenges and foster prosperity and security. Šuica's responsibilities will involve collaborating closely with Kaja Kallas, the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, to work on a new Mediterranean pact. This initiative aims to strengthen trade relations and encourage investment in the Mediterranean area. The letter from von der Leyen highlighted the need for Šuica to consult with regional partners to effectively tackle shared issues and promote a collaborative future. Additionally, Šuica is tasked with working alongside Dan Jørgensen, the Commissioner for Energy and Housing, to develop the Trans-Mediterranean Cooperation Initiative. This initiative focuses on enhancing trade in renewable energy and promoting the production of clean technologies, which are crucial for sustainable development in the region. The formation of the new Directorate-General for the Mediterranean signifies a strategic move by the European Commission to prioritize the region's unique challenges and opportunities. This new structure aims to provide dedicated support for Šuica's efforts in fostering cooperation and addressing demographic issues, ultimately contributing to the overall stability and growth of the Mediterranean area.