The Tunisian government has reiterated its call for the restitution of its diverted assets transferred abroad, while advocating for a reform of the international financial system to combat the over-indebtedness of developing countries. This stance was reaffirmed by Tunisia's permanent mission to the United Nations Office in Geneva, on the sidelines of its participation in the 73rd session of the UN Conference on Trade and Development's Trade and Development Board.
Ramzi Louati, chargé d'affaires ad interim of Tunisia's permanent mission to the UN Office in Geneva, emphasized the need for serious cooperation between concerned states, based on a genuine political will, to facilitate the restitution of diverted assets transferred abroad. These funds could be reinvested in development projects benefiting populations and contribute to poverty reduction, without further increasing the debt burden on concerned countries.
Tunisia's mission also called on countries hosting these assets to cease invoking procedural, judicial, and legal obstacles that hinder their restitution to developing countries, including Tunisia. The persistence of these obstacles was deemed to hinder the exercise of a legitimate sovereign right.
Tunis advocated for a reform of the international financial system to make it more just and equitable, enabling a response to the debt difficulties weighing on the economies of many developing countries. In this context, Tunisia reaffirmed its support for the adoption of an international, legally binding pact on the right to development.
The Tunisian mission urged the international community to increase development aid financing and facilitate technology transfers to developing countries. This appeal was made during a meeting at the UN Conference on Trade and Development's Trade and Development Board, where Tunisia is participating.
According to Tunisian officials, the return of diverted assets would enable the country to redirect these resources towards development projects, improving the living conditions of its population. This would also contribute to reducing poverty and inequality, while promoting sustainable economic growth.
The issue of diverted assets and international financial reform remains a pressing concern for Tunisia and other developing countries. The country's call for cooperation and solidarity from the international community highlights the need for a more equitable global financial system.
Key points
- Tunisia urges the international community to return diverted assets and reform the global financial system.
- The country's permanent mission to the UN Office in Geneva emphasized the need for serious cooperation between concerned states.
- Tunis advocates for an international, legally binding pact on the right to development.
