The effective functioning of an agricultural research and extension system requires not a linear, but a triangular arrangement between research institutions, extension and training agencies and farmers' organizations. The presence of strong and representative farmers' organizations and their formal recognition as partners in research and extension is therefore an essential basis for agricultural and rural development in the Mediterranean region, with particular reference to its Eastern and Southern sub-regions. Time for such a partnership is also opportune, especially with the establishment and consolidation of the IFAP Mediterranean Committee, where farmers' organizations are ready to take the lead and cooperate on many of the vital issues for the region.