Winds of Change, Tides of Power

The Eastern Mediterranean region faces a complex interplay between climate change impacts and the growing influence of great powers through their competing infrastructure development initiatives. China's Belt and Road Initiative, the EU's Global Gateway, and the G7's Partnership for Global Infrastructure Investment vie for influence, each with its own strategic objectives, posing challenges for advancing climate action in a context of multipolarity and rivalry. Countries in the region must navigate shifting geopolitical sands, balancing short-term gains with long-term sustainability. The absence of a unified regional approach further complicates this landscape. To forge a low-carbon future, Eastern Mediterranean countries must work together to establish a coordinated vision, engage with external powers to align investments with regional priorities, and prioritise cooperation on climate action.