On September 22, 2026, Tunisia's Minister of National Defense, Khaled Sehili, inaugurated the first symposium organized by the Military Research Center on technological development and defense manufacturing. The event, held at the National Center for Cartography and Remote Sensing, brought together officials from national industrial institutions, Tunisian experts, and military and civilian personnel. The minister emphasized the significance of the symposium, highlighting the need for mobilization of human, material, and technological resources to drive the country's economic transition.
Minister Sehili stressed the importance of partnership between the public and private sectors in supporting scientific research, technological development, and openness to national research institutions and technological hubs. This partnership aims to establish a national strategy for military manufacturing, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers and promoting local production using domestic resources and expertise. The minister acknowledged the capabilities of Tunisian institutions in design, development, manufacturing, and integration, enabling them to contribute to defense-related sectors.
The symposium featured interventions from industrialists, which Minister Sehili attended before visiting an exhibition showcasing samples of industrial products and technological renewal projects from national institutions. The exhibition demonstrated the potential of Tunisian industries to support the country's defense sector. The minister expressed his vision for a sustainable national defense industry, built on technological accumulation and strategic partnerships between the military, universities, research centers, and the national industrial fabric.
The event reflects the Tunisian government's efforts to promote economic diversification and enhance national security through technological development and industrial partnerships. By fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors, the government aims to leverage the country's industrial capabilities to drive growth and improve its defense infrastructure. The symposium also highlights the importance of investing in research and development to drive innovation and competitiveness in key sectors.
Tunisia's defense industry has shown significant potential, with local institutions demonstrating their ability to design, develop, and manufacture high-quality products. The government's focus on promoting partnerships and investing in research and development is expected to further enhance the country's industrial capabilities and contribute to its economic growth. The symposium provides a platform for stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities in the defense sector and explore ways to strengthen national security.
The Minister of National Defense emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to defense manufacturing, involving the mobilization of national resources and expertise. He highlighted the importance of building a sustainable defense industry that can meet the country's needs and contribute to its economic development. The government's efforts to promote technological development and industrial partnerships are expected to have a positive impact on the country's defense sector and economy.
The symposium concluded with a renewed commitment to promoting technological development and industrial partnerships in Tunisia's defense sector. The event demonstrated the country's potential for growth and innovation, and its determination to enhance national security through strategic investments in research and development. Key outcomes of the symposium are expected to inform future policy initiatives and partnerships aimed at driving economic growth and improving national security.
Key points
- Tunisia's Ministry of National Defense hosts a symposium on defense technology and manufacturing to enhance national security and promote economic diversification.
