The Chinese Ambassador to Tunisia, Wan Li, and Tunisian Minister of Economy and Planning, Samir Abdelhafidh, recently celebrated the 77th anniversary of the People's Republic of China. The ceremony, attended by ambassadors and representatives of international organizations, highlighted the growing bilateral relationship between the two nations. Wan Li praised the long-standing support of Tunisians for China's development and friendship.
The two officials reviewed the history of their rapprochement, recalling the establishment of a strategic partnership between China and Tunisia in 2024. This partnership has strengthened mutual political trust and yielded concrete results in various fields. Abdelhafidh noted that the relationship has shown remarkable dynamism and growth, with frequent high-level visits and exchanges between the two countries.
On the economic front, Wan Li mentioned that the two sides are translating the consensus reached by their leaders into concrete actions. He cited the launch of the Gabès Oncology Center project, financed by a Chinese grant, and the upcoming examination of a project to expand the Sfax hospital. These initiatives are part of broader cooperation in healthcare, water resources, and infrastructure.
The ambassador also reported a positive trend in Chinese direct investments in Tunisia, with several companies exploring new opportunities this year. The implementation of a "zero tariff" measure proposed by President Xi Jinping is expected to facilitate access to the Chinese market for Tunisian products and encourage more Chinese businesses to invest in Tunisia.
Wan Li and Abdelhafidh also discussed the development of artificial intelligence, with the ambassador emphasizing the need for a global governance framework. China and Tunisia aim to work together to ensure that AI development serves the common good and that both countries play a role in shaping its international governance.
The situation in the Middle East, particularly in Gaza, was also addressed, with Wan Li recalling President Xi Jinping's recent proposals for a new regional security architecture. China reaffirms its support for the Palestinian people's aspiration for an independent state and is committed to working with the international community for a durable ceasefire and a comprehensive resolution to the Palestinian question.
The two countries also cooperate in cultural and archaeological fields, with joint projects in the protection of historical sites and the promotion of exchanges in cinema, television, and media. Wan Li expressed China's willingness to expand people-to-people exchanges and strengthen ties between local authorities.
Key points
- China and Tunisia have strengthened their bilateral relationship through a strategic partnership established in 2024.
- The two countries cooperate in various fields, including economy, healthcare, technology, and culture.
- China supports Tunisia's aspiration for an independent Palestinian state and advocates for a durable ceasefire in Gaza.
