The genesis of the Mediterranean Economic and Social Forum grew from questions about whether the affected regions would see themselves represented within this concept. The opening session held this Wednesday demonstrated that they would. From Girona to Málaga, the sea functions as both a conduit for connection and a trigger for shared challenges. Cities strive to attract global interest while contending with bureaucratic hurdles that slow industrial growth. The need to complete the railway corridor remained on the table, yet many participants already accept its eventual realization, even as train travel to Valencia remains slow because the Mediterranean coast serves as the region’s central hub. Three ideas stood out. First, Javier Moll, president of Prensa Ibérica, proposed a dialogue space that rises above ideological clashes and partisan extremes. Second, Málaga mayor Francisco de la Torre emphasized nurturing what he called the living industry in this region. And third, Miquel Barceló, the urban planner behind Barcelona’s 22@ district, urged the creation of an innovation and knowledge corridor that can connect universities, research centers, and local firms. [Citation: Valencia Forum Proceedings] In Valencia, the Mediterranean exists as more than a line on a map. It is a geographic reality shaping 40 percent of Spain’s population and generating 40 percent of the nation’s GDP. But its added value comes from productive capacity that links directly to innovation and a robust regional business ecosystem. After what has been heard, no Spanish project should proceed without embracing the Mediterranean as a partner rather than a rival. The first step is for the leading voices to recognize themselves as a shared reality and to demand that others acknowledge that reality as well. From there, concrete proposals can unfold. The corridor of innovation could become the inaugural initiative, and leadership in green energy could follow with strong support from the Valencian regional government. More ideas will undoubtedly emerge. Preparations for a second Forum are already underway in Málaga. [Citation: Regional Economic Forum Notes]