Tunisia's Central Bank Governor, Fathi Zouhir Nouri, has emphasized the need to accelerate the implementation of projects and investments, particularly in the phosphate and renewable energy sectors. This call was made during a meeting with the Regional Director of the World Bank for the Maghreb and Malta, Ahmadou Mustafa Ndaye, and the Director of the International Finance Corporation for Africa, Ary Naim. The meeting was held at the Central Bank of Tunisia and was attended by several officials from the bank and a delegation from the World Bank.
Governor Nouri highlighted Tunisia's ability to meet its commitments and demonstrate resilience in the face of climate and geopolitical shocks. However, he stressed the need for a change in approach, urging a transition from a "survival mindset to a wealth creation mindset." He emphasized that the time has come for Tunisia to move beyond mere survival and focus on creating wealth. This transition is crucial for the country's economic development and growth.
The Governor identified the development of the phosphate sector and renewable energy as key areas that require accelerated implementation. He also highlighted the efforts made to maintain exchange rate stability and an adequate level of foreign currency reserves. Nevertheless, Nouri emphasized the need to revive private investment, which is being closely monitored by the Central Bank. This revival is essential for driving economic growth and job creation.
Governor Nouri praised the quality of cooperation with the World Bank and the ongoing support provided to Tunisia. He expressed confidence in the country's potential and ambitious projects, highlighting the need for continued collaboration to achieve these goals. The World Bank and the International Finance Corporation have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Tunisia's development efforts.
Ahmadou Mustafa Ndaye, Regional Director of the World Bank, described the partnership with Tunisia as "model" and emphasized the bank's focus on providing comprehensive solutions for its member countries. These solutions include developing infrastructure and promoting the private sector. Ndaye highlighted the importance of achieving tangible results and finding concrete solutions to support Tunisia's economic development.
Ary Naim, Director of the International Finance Corporation for Africa, emphasized Tunisia's significant potential and outlined the corporation's goal of substantially increasing its financing for the country. The corporation plans to implement major investments in infrastructure and support Tunisian companies' access to international markets. This support will be provided through various tools and mechanisms aimed at facilitating access to finance.
The meeting between the Central Bank Governor and the World Bank and International Finance Corporation officials underscores the ongoing cooperation between Tunisia and these international institutions. The discussions focused on accelerating project implementation, promoting private investment, and supporting Tunisia's economic development. The partnership aims to help Tunisia achieve its development goals and create wealth for its citizens.
Key points
- The Governor of Tunisia's Central Bank, Fathi Zouhir Nouri, has called for accelerating the implementation of projects and investments to transition from a survival mindset to a wealth creation mindset.
- The World Bank and International Finance Corporation have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Tunisia's development efforts, focusing on infrastructure development and private sector promotion.
- Tunisia aims to revive private investment and accelerate project implementation in key sectors such as phosphate and renewable energy to drive economic growth.
