Tunisian Minister of Economy and Planning Samir Abdel Hafiz met with Amadou Mustafa Ndaiye, Regional Director for the Maghreb and Malta at the World Bank, and Ari Naim, new Director for North Africa and the Horn of Africa at the International Financial Institution. The meeting, which took place on September 23, 2026, in Tunis, focused on the current state of cooperation between Tunisia and the World Bank, as well as future programs and prospects. Abdel Hafiz highlighted the existing level of cooperation between Tunisia and the International Financial Institution.
Abdel Hafiz expressed his desire to further enhance cooperation between Tunisia and the World Bank during the upcoming phase, in line with the orientations and priorities set out in the 2026-2030 development plan. The plan focuses on vital areas such as water, energy, health, and social protection. The Minister also suggested exploring the possibility of expanding cooperation to include infrastructure, given the significant projects outlined in the plan. He emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation with the International Financial Institution.
Ndaiye reaffirmed the World Bank's commitment to continuing its support for Tunisia in implementing its reform programs and development projects. He expressed readiness to expand areas of cooperation within the framework of the Country Partnership Program. The program is set to be prepared soon by both parties, in line with Tunisia's priorities and orientations for the next five years. Ndaiye acknowledged the resilience shown by the Tunisian economy despite external shocks and global economic difficulties.
Ndaiye noted that this resilience could pave the way for a gradual recovery. Naim, the new Director for North Africa and the Horn of Africa, also expressed the Institution's commitment to enhancing financial and technical cooperation with Tunisia. This cooperation would focus on supporting the private sector to further develop and expand its activities, given the available opportunities and potential. Naim also highlighted the continuation of cooperation programs aimed at improving the business climate.
The meeting between the Tunisian Minister and World Bank officials reflects the ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between Tunisia and the International Financial Institution. These efforts aim to support Tunisia's development goals and address its economic challenges. The discussions also underscore the importance of collaboration in promoting economic growth and stability in the region.
Tunisia's economic development plan for 2026-2030 outlines several key priorities, including investment in vital sectors and infrastructure projects. The World Bank's support is seen as crucial in helping Tunisia achieve these objectives. The cooperation between Tunisia and the World Bank is expected to have a positive impact on the country's economic prospects.
The outcome of the meeting is expected to contribute to the growth and development of Tunisia's economy. The cooperation between Tunisia and the World Bank is set to continue, with a focus on supporting the private sector and improving the business climate.
Key points
- Tunisia and World Bank officials discuss cooperation prospects under 2026-2030 development plan.
