(ANSA) - TRIESTE, MAR 18 - "Imec is a strategic initiative that connects resources and brings together all those with the will and skills to act. It is a bridge that stimulates economic growth and enables people to realize their values with resilience, in diversified and sustainable economies. This is critical. Your presence here in Trieste strengthens the connection between Asia and Europe in a rapidly changing world." This was said yesterday in Trieste by Dubravka Šuica, EU Commissioner for the Mediterranean, speaking by video link. "It is therefore important to consolidate these values over time," he continued, "throughout history. We see how important this is today in the European region, for example with the Mediterranean Pact or the Medusa project, which make our societies increasingly interconnected. There are many partners, many companies, and the European Union is at your side. We want to support you in ensuring a stable legal environment, coordinating efforts and managing the potential investments of this initiative. So it all depends not only on goodwill, but also on our ability to navigate this complex geopolitical environment and ensure stable progress toward peace and prosperity, particularly in the Middle East. Together we have the opportunity and the chance to make progress, to move forward and to build these values of peace, prosperity and stability." (ANSA).