MEP Nikola Farandouris and former Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Giannis Valinakis have proposed the establishment of a 'European Exclusive Economic Zone' (EEZ) in the Mediterranean to respond to regional threats. The proposal was put forward during a special event at the European Parliament in Brussels, which highlighted the urgent need for a coordinated European policy regarding maritime boundaries. The event also featured discussions on various international relations and legal frameworks regarding maritime issues.

The initiative comes in the context of growing tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean, where overlapping claims to maritime territories have led to conflicts of interest among nations. The participants emphasized that, under European Law, the delimitation of maritime zones is primarily a responsibility of individual Member States. However, the Lisbon Treaty provides mechanisms for coordination between States on these maritime boundary issues, which supporters of the proposal believe could strengthen Europe's position in the region.

This proposed EEZ aims not only to safeguard European interests in the Mediterranean but also to establish a framework for peaceful negotiations over maritime resources. The implications of such an initiative could lead to a renewed focus on cooperation among EU member states, potentially mitigating conflicts while enhancing the security and economic stability of the region.