The Mediterranean has always been an area of exchanges of peoples and goods, but also of clashes and mutual lack of understanding. While some intellectuals, like Fernand Braudel, considered the Mediterranean as a place of unity, others, like Henri Pirenne, saw it as a place of division. In any case the Mediterranean encompasses centuries of shared history, which forged both belongings and differences. The promotion of shared Mediterranean cultural roots is now more crucial than ever for the stabilization of the region. This session explores the potential of culture as the basis for the valorisation of the common Mediterranean memory. How can Mediterranean countries leverage shared cultural roots to foster dialogue and promote cooperation? How can intellectuals from the two shores collaborate with policy makers to facilitate synergy on key challenges such as shared security and economic prosperity?