The University of Balamand participated in the opening ceremony of the European Security and Defence College (ESDC) course, “Hydrodiplomacy: A Tool for Climate and Environmental Resilience, Peace and Security,” hosted by The Cyprus Institute in Nicosia, Cyprus.
The ceremony brought together academics, policymakers, diplomats, and defence representatives to discuss the role of water security and climate diplomacy in promoting regional cooperation, peace, and stability.
Prof. Elias Warrak, President of the University of Balamand, delivered opening remarks alongside Prof. Stavros Malas, President of The Cyprus Institute; Colonel Symeon Zambas of the ESDC; and Mr. Alain Meyssonnier, President of the Institut Méditerranéen de l’Eau (IME).
In his speech, Prof. Warrak highlighted the role of universities in addressing shared environmental and security challenges, stressing the importance of cooperation between academic institutions and policymakers. He stated, “Water must always unite us rather than divide us”, emphasizing the importance of hydrodiplomacy in building trust and promoting peace across borders.
Prof. Warrak also highlighted the strong partnership between the University of Balamand and The Cyprus Institute, describing academic cooperation as a key driver of scientific progress and regional stability. He reaffirmed the University’s commitment to advancing climate diplomacy through its Climate Diplomacy and Sustainable Peace Hub (CDSP-HUB).
The ceremony was moderated by Prof. Fadi Comair, Director of the CDSP-HUB at the University of Balamand and Course Director at The Cyprus Institute. The programme also featured a keynote address by Prof. Costas N. Papanicolas, along with contributions from Senator Olivier Cadic and H.E. Vasilis Palmas, Minister of Defence of the Republic of Cyprus.
Through its participation in this international initiative, the University of Balamand continues to strengthen academic partnerships and promote sustainable solutions to shared water, climate, and security challenges in the Eastern Mediterranean.
