Tunisia's Minister of Economy and Planning, Samir Abdel Hafiz, met with Amadou Mustafa Ndaiye, Regional Director for the Maghreb and Malta at the World Bank, to discuss cooperation between Tunisia and the World Bank. The meeting, which took place on September 23, 2026, in Tunis, focused on the current state of cooperation and future prospects. Abdel Hafiz praised the existing level of cooperation between Tunisia and the World Bank, expressing hope for further enhancement in key areas such as water, energy, health, and social protection.
The two officials discussed the possibility of expanding cooperation to include infrastructure development, given the significant projects outlined in Tunisia's 2026-2030 development plan. Abdel Hafiz emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation with the World Bank, particularly in supporting the private sector and improving the business climate. Ndaiye reaffirmed the World Bank's commitment to supporting Tunisia's reform programs and development projects, expressing readiness to expand cooperation within the framework of a new partnership program.
The World Bank's Regional Director for the Maghreb and Malta praised Tunisia's economy for its resilience in the face of external shocks and global economic challenges. He noted that this resilience could pave the way for a gradual recovery. Ndaiye also highlighted the importance of aligning cooperation with Tunisia's priorities and objectives outlined in its 2026-2030 development plan.
Ari Naeem, the new Director for North Africa and the Horn of Africa at the World Bank, expressed the institution's commitment to enhancing financial and technical cooperation with Tunisia. He emphasized the importance of supporting the private sector to further develop and expand its activities, given the available opportunities and potential.
The meeting between Tunisia and World Bank officials reflects the ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation and support Tunisia's development goals. The World Bank has been a key partner for Tunisia, providing financial and technical assistance in various sectors.
Tunisia's development plan for 2026-2030 outlines several priority areas, including water, energy, health, and social protection. The plan aims to promote sustainable development and improve the living standards of Tunisian citizens. The World Bank's support for these efforts is seen as crucial in achieving these objectives.
The discussions between Tunisia and the World Bank are set to continue, with a focus on finalizing a new partnership program that aligns with Tunisia's development priorities. The enhanced cooperation is expected to have a positive impact on Tunisia's economy and support its ongoing reform efforts.
Key points
- Tunisia and World Bank officials discuss cooperation prospects
- Enhanced cooperation to focus on priority areas
- World Bank reaffirms commitment to supporting Tunisia's development goals
