In a ceremony marked by diplomatic and academic presence, the American University of Beirut (AUB) unveiled its first international campus, AUB - Mediterraneo, at the Paphos Innovation Centre on Wednesday afternoon.

The momentous event was graced by key officials, including the Ministers of Education from both Cyprus and Lebanon, the U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus, Trustees of the American University of Beirut, as well as local dignitaries and academic leaders from the Municipality of Pafos.

Athena Michaelidou, Cyprus' Minister of Education, hailed the establishment of AUB - Mediterraneo as a "significant milestone in our collective quest for educational excellence." She emphasized the institution's role in stimulating intellectual curiosity, stating that it would "empower students to explore, question, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge."

Michaelidou highlighted Cyprus' progress in higher education in recent years, stating that the country continues to evolve into a regional and international center for education, technology, and research. "The role of higher education is vital in driving the economic and social fabric of Cyprus," she said, emphasizing that new academic institutions like AUB - Mediterraneo further bolster the country's financial growth.

Reiterating the importance of the inauguration, the Minister expressed that it symbolizes Cyprus' unwavering commitment to academic excellence and cultural exchange. "This occasion signifies the collaborative spirit and shared educational vision that transcends geographical boundaries," she added.

Julie D. Fisher, the U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus, praised the country for being a cornerstone of stability, prosperity, and democracy, not just in the Eastern Mediterranean, but on a global scale. Fisher emphasized the critical role of people-to-people connections between the U.S. and Cyprus in promoting shared values and security.

Additionally, Fisher celebrated the long-standing partnership between the U.S. and AUB, lauding the Beirut-based university as a "regional model and a beacon of American educational values and standards."

Fadlo R. Khuri, President of AUB, discussed the pivotal role the new campus will play in the university's ongoing evolution. "The meticulous planning and strategic vision that laid the groundwork for AUB Mediterraneo began 17 months ago. Our efforts culminate today with the inauguration and our first enrolment of 45 undergraduate and 8 graduate students," Khuri said. He expressed confidence that these foundational steps would have a lasting impact.

Khuri also spoke to the rich cultural legacy of the Mediterranean region, referring to it as the cradle of Western civilization and a historic wellspring of knowledge. The new campus, he stated, will focus on the ancient Greek concept of "Arête," or excellence, as a guiding principle. "This commitment to societal excellence has been deeply ingrained in AUB's history and ethos," he added, praising the university's positive societal contributions, including the recent "heroic performance" of its medical staff during crises.

Khuri stressed the crucial role that premier educational institutions play in influencing economic and democratic development. He cited research that associates strong university communities with diversified economies and pro-democratic attitudes.

The AUB President acknowledged the common challenges facing Cyprus, Lebanon, and neighboring countries, particularly the need to retain talented youth and address social and economic disparities. "Our universities can act as stabilizing forces in an otherwise turbulent region," he said.