As more Mediterranean countries open up their markets for commerce and foreign direct investment, the rule of law, good governance and the implementation of principles of market economy enhance the necessary environment for foreign direct investment in the Euro-Med process of creating a Mediterranean Free Trade Area.

Of course, these comments are being made, Dr Frendo stated, in the full understanding and sensitivity to the diversified cultural and historical development of each country.

The EuroMed Trade Ministerial Conference discussed various other issues such as Trade Facilitation, Rules of Origin, a Protocol on a Free Trade Area in Services in the Mediterranean region and the Doha Development Agenda and World Trade Organisation matters.