Tunisia's Defense Minister Khaled Shili has stressed the importance of mobilizing all available resources and synergizing efforts between public and private institutions to support the country's economic transition and diversification. Speaking at the opening of a conference organized by the Military Research Center, Shili highlighted the need for a national strategy to develop the military industry. This strategy aims to reduce Tunisia's dependence on imported military equipment and promote local manufacturing.

The conference, themed "Technological Development and Defense Industry for Strengthening National Security," brought together various stakeholders, including industrialists, academics, and experts. Shili emphasized that the partnership between the public and private sectors is crucial for supporting scientific research, technological development, and innovation. This collaboration is expected to leverage Tunisia's existing industrial base and human resources to drive growth in the defense sector.

Shili noted that Tunisian companies have demonstrated their capabilities in design, development, manufacturing, and integration, achieving high levels of quality and specialization. He expressed confidence that these competencies can be harnessed to support the defense industry, provided that the necessary technical, institutional, and security conditions are met. The minister's vision is to move beyond individual projects and establish a sustainable and sovereign national defense industry.

The conference featured interventions from industrialists and experts, who discussed the potential for collaboration and innovation in the defense sector. Shili also visited an exhibition showcasing samples of industrial products and technological innovation projects developed by national companies. The event demonstrated the capabilities of Tunisia's industrial sector and its potential to contribute to the country's defense industry.

Shili emphasized that the current phase in Tunisia requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders to drive economic growth and transformation. He believes that a strong national defense industry is essential for ensuring the country's security and sovereignty. The minister's call for public-private partnerships reflects the government's efforts to leverage the strengths of both sectors to achieve strategic objectives.

The development of a national military industry is seen as a key component of Tunisia's economic diversification strategy. By promoting local manufacturing and reducing reliance on imports, the country aims to enhance its economic resilience and competitiveness. The conference has highlighted the potential for collaboration and innovation in the defense sector, which could have broader benefits for Tunisia's economy.

The Tunisian government is committed to supporting the growth of a national defense industry, with a focus on leveraging local resources and expertise. The conference has provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss opportunities and challenges in this sector. Key points include the importance of public-private partnerships, the potential for innovation and collaboration, and the need for a strategic approach to developing the national defense industry.

Key points

  • Tunisia's Defense Minister Khaled Shili emphasizes the need for public-private partnerships to enhance the country's military industry and reduce reliance on imports.
  • The development of a national military industry is seen as a key component of Tunisia's economic diversification strategy.
  • The conference highlighted the potential for collaboration and innovation in the defense sector, which could have broader benefits for Tunisia's economy.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.