Within this region, Nor th Africa is a strategic priority for Spain due to its geographic proximity, political and cultural impor tance, and the potential for economic and trade relations. Nor th Africa is also a priority because of its possible direct and indirect impact on national security, given the concentration of threats and challenges in the area. The region’s stability and prosperity is in Spain’s direct interest in order to ensure key energy flows, address irregular immigration, combat drug trafficking, and prevent jihadist terrorism. To achieve these goals and advance towards greater regional security, Spain is promoting political stability, plural societies, and inclusive governments ruled by institutions based on the rule of law and following good governance practices. Spain also suppor ts the integration of the region’s economies, and security sector reform. Likewise, Spain is cooperating with these countries in the areas of security, defence, and home affairs, through bilateral and multilateral programmes. As a complement to its bilateral ties with the countries of Nor th Africa, within the framework of the EU, Spain suppor ts revitalizing the southern dimension of the European Neighbourhood Policy, especially as regards those countries most committed to a closer relationship with Europe, as well as initiatives against people smuggling and other means of protecting common borders. Spain also suppor ts a higher profile for NATO in the south—an initiative that has been backed by the increase of NATO capabilities in the Mediterranean. The case of Libya deserves a special mention, given its geographic proximity and its condition as a por t of entry for a large par t of irregular Sub-Saharan migration seeking a passage across the Mediterranean. The situation in Libya is very delicate, and there is a real risk that the conflict will intensify. As a key actor in the Mediterranean space, Spain will continue to contribute to international effor ts to make Libya a safe place. The Middle East is a Spanish and international focal point for a number of reasons: its persistent instability; the proliferation of conflicts with a high cost in human lives, which are also contributing to the expansion of jihadist terrorism; and the subsequent 44 National Security Strategy 2017 Presidency of the Government