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A landmark protocol has been signed between Mugla Metropolitan Municipality in Türkiye and the Municipality of Bastia in France, aiming to protect cultural and natural heritage and enhance environmental and cultural cooperation between the two Mediterranean coastal cities.
During the signing ceremony held at the Mugla Metropolitan Municipality, Mayor Ahmet Aras emphasized the strategic significance of the agreement for the future of the Mediterranean region.
"The Mediterranean has always been a crossroads of cultures, trade, and civilizations," said Aras. "However, today we face common threats such as the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, and socioeconomic inequalities. To enhance regional resilience, we must reconnect the relationship between land and sea."
Mayor Aras outlined the main pillars of the agreement, officially named the Bastia Cultural Cooperation Protocol. The agreement focuses on:
French Consul General in Istanbul Nadia Fanton hailed the agreement as a historic milestone.
"This is a historic protocol because it brings people together," said Fanton. "One of the most significant aspects is the empowerment of women. Thanks to this agreement, women from Mugla and Bastia will have new opportunities for collaboration."
Mattea Lacave, Deputy Mayor of Bastia, expressed pride in being in Mugla for this occasion.
"This is the first time Bastia has signed such a protocol with a municipality in Türkiye," said Lacave. "As a city with open access to the Mediterranean, this agreement will keep our connection vibrant. For us, protecting the environment and preserving our shared heritage is essential."
Following the speeches, the cooperation protocol was signed by Mayor Ahmet Aras and Deputy Mayor Mattea Lacave.
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