Tunisia's Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti attended the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where he held bilateral talks with his Dutch counterpart Tom Brindsen and Senegalese counterpart Cheikh Niang. The talks focused on strengthening cooperation between Tunisia and the two countries. According to a statement from the Tunisian Foreign Ministry, Nafti's visit aimed to enhance bilateral relations and discuss key issues such as investment, climate change, and African cooperation.
During his meeting with Tom Brindsen, Nafti reviewed bilateral relations and welcomed the positive dynamic in cooperation between Tunisia and the Netherlands, particularly in environmental protection and coastal conservation. The two ministers reaffirmed their commitment to deepening their partnership through increased visits, enhanced political consultation, and expanded cooperation areas. They also explored new opportunities in agriculture, water management, sustainable development, and climate change mitigation.
The Dutch and Tunisian ministers discussed ways to increase Dutch investments in Tunisia, emphasizing the need for stronger economic ties. They also touched on Tunisian-European relations, advocating for a more balanced and equitable partnership in line with current economic and geopolitical changes. The ministers highlighted the importance of cooperation in addressing common challenges.
Nafti also met with Cheikh Niang, his Senegalese counterpart, to discuss upcoming bilateral events, including the 9th session of the Tunisian-Senegalese Mixed Commission, scheduled for late 2026 in Tunis. The two ministers praised the depth of historical relations and cooperation in areas such as economy, commerce, higher education, and vocational training.
The Tunisian and Senegalese ministers agreed to strengthen their partnership in promising sectors like digital transformation, artificial intelligence, health tourism, agriculture, agribusiness, and insurance. They emphasized the need to expand cooperation and enhance coordination within the African group to address continental challenges. Senegal is Tunisia's second-largest economic partner in West Africa.
As the head of the Tunisian delegation to the 81st UN General Assembly, Nafti delivered Tunisia's statement during the general debate and chaired the meeting of Arab foreign ministers. The Assembly took place from September 22 to 29, 2026, in New York. Nafti's participation highlighted Tunisia's engagement in international diplomacy and cooperation.
The bilateral talks held by Nafti in New York underscored Tunisia's commitment to fostering partnerships with other countries, particularly in Africa and Europe. The discussions covered a range of topics, from economic cooperation to climate change and regional challenges. The outcomes of these meetings are expected to enhance Tunisia's relations with the Netherlands and Senegal.
Key points
- Tunisia's Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti holds bilateral talks with Dutch and Senegalese counterparts in New York to discuss investment, climate change, and African cooperation.
