On the 2^nd of December 2020, the Task Force in charge of the preparation of the Interreg NEXT MED Programme has appointed the Italian Region of Sardinia as Managing Authority for the period 2021-2027. 

Different participating countries have extended their appreciation to the work carried out by the Region of Sardinia in running professionally and efficiently the current ENI CBC Med Programme. 

Thanks to its consolidated experience since 2007, the Region of Sardinia offers a unique set of competencies, tools and seasoned human resources to manage the Interreg NEXT MED Programme. The third cycle of the EU-funded cooperation initiative in the Mediterranean area will take place in a context marked by the socio-economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. More than ever, a strong and sustainable partnership is needed to address in a concerted way the many joint challenges faced by both shores, including among other things job creation, inclusion of young people, climate change, economic integration, etc. 

15 countries - Algeria, Cyprus, Egypt, France, Greece, Jordan, Israel, Italy, Lebanon, Malta, Palestine, Portugal, Spain, Tunisia, and Turkey - are currently involved in the preparation works of the Interreg NEXT MED Joint Operational Programme which submission to the European Commission is expected by summer 2021.  

The Region of Sardinia would like to express its gratitude to the participating countries and the European Commission for their support and trust.