On 12 August, they all came. From mountain villages to coastal towns, more than 15 municipalities gathered for the final Clima-Med event in Lebanon — a true celebration of seven years of shared work, challenges, and achievements. For over seven years, training after meeting, tirelessly and side by side, municipalities and the Clima-Med team have built strong connections, worked relentlessly, and delivered 10 Sustainable Energy Access and Climate Action Plans. Yet the greatest achievement goes beyond numbers: municipalities have shown extraordinary resilience and courage, proving that even in the face of Lebanon’s multiple crises, they remain a vital pillar in leading the country toward sustainability and a brighter future.

The closing event brought together Programme Manager at the 🇪🇺EU Delegation to Lebanon, Mr. Stephano Panighetti, alongside the Director General of Local Administrations and Councils, Ms. Faten Abu Hassan, mayors, and municipal representatives. The room was filled with both experienced local leaders who had already developed their SEACAPs, newly elected ones, and new members of the Covenant of Mayors for the Mediterranean (CoM Med), eager to embark on their own journey.

Municipal leaders echoed the value of Clima-Med. AAli Shokor President of the East Baalbeck Union of Municipalities, emphasized: “This project has benefited us financially through donors and investors. Our cities have been recognized internationally. We need more of such projects for our cities.” The mayors’ message was unanimous: the work must go on. They called for the continuation of the kind of support Clima-Med has provided from technical expertise and capacity building to SEACAP preparation.