Euro-Mediterranean conference open in Helsinki

A Euro-Mediterranean conference on sustainable development was opened in Helsinki in the presence of environment ministers and concerned officials from the European Union's member states and 21 other countries including Syria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Algeria, Tunisia and Palestine. AFP said the conference is to adopt a priority work program for investing water projects, disposing of waste, preserving coasts and fighting desertification.

According to the Finnish environment minister, the program aims at suspending environment pollution in the Mediterranean basin. Sources close to French Environment minister said the conference aims at ensuring sustainable development in the Mediterranean region.