Developing the Mediterranean and its entire expanse as a space to attract and retain talent, boost progress in rural areas, and use collaboration between public administrations and private actors as a channel for improvement. Those were among the conclusions shared on Wednesday by Málaga’s mayor, Francisco de la Torre, during his participation in the I Mediterranean Economic and Social Forum, organized by Prensa Ibérica in collaboration with the Caixa Foundation.
In an morning address to attendees, De la Torre emphasized the importance of the so-called Mediterranean of knowledge, a path Málaga sees as aiming to innovate further and ensure that knowledge is increasingly applied to the broader economy. He also noted that there is still a need for a more open corporate mindset toward innovation and a more engaged university culture with industry.
De la Torre underlined that the Mediterranean is a remarkable place to live, to attract and retain local talent. In this vision, he called on different administrations to ensure that people find the best responses to their aspirations there. In a context shaped by rapid technological change that enables work from anywhere, the Mediterranean holds greater potential to draw skilled individuals. He stressed that these opportunities should be seized.
A focus on housing
During his remarks, De la Torre also addressed housing, explaining that when supply does not grow alongside demand, there is a need to increase production for sale, for rent, and especially for official protection housing. He urged a clear, concerted effort from everyone involved and urged looking beyond city limits. Collaboration across supramunicipal management areas such as water, mobility, land for housing, and waste should be strengthened.
He noted the lack of competencies faced by municipal authorities in recent decades and urged a more loyal collaboration between local, regional, and national levels to advance. He also highlighted the importance of public-private cooperation as a fundamental pillar.
Describing the Mediterranean as a place of success, De la Torre argued that the space will flourish if the region leverages technological and scientific advances and if it can meet housing challenges effectively. He pointed to Málaga’s own example, illustrating how a city and its tech park can create a compelling combination of living, innovation, and opportunity.
He also asked that the Mediterranean not be self-centered, noting its potential to extend to inland areas. He expressed satisfaction that Málaga’s strength could support Córdoba and nearby Granada, stressing the goal of keeping rural areas vibrant and alive with both technology and the industrial or housing sectors that accompany development. He asserted that rural towns need industry and housing alongside technology.
Finally, De la Torre stressed that migration presents a constructive and humanitarian challenge that requires effective European development cooperation. He called for bolder action, arguing that the Mediterranean is both a corridor and a boundary, and that the region must meet the tests that lie ahead.
Ibérica based on remarks from the Málaga mayor at the I Mediterranean Economic and Social Forum.