Tunisia's Prime Minister, Sarra Zaâfrani Zenzri, delivered a speech at the Russia-Africa Summit held from October 27-29, emphasizing the importance of peace and security as prerequisites for the continent's development. In her address to Russian President Vladimir Poutine, she highlighted the complexities of the current international landscape, marked by conflicts, economic and energy tensions, health threats, and climate change.
Zaâfrani Zenzri advocated for preventive diplomacy, support for African Union mechanisms, and African-led solutions based on dialogue and respect for state sovereignty. She stressed the need for enhanced cooperation in areas such as food security, health security, energy, and climate change. This includes sustainable agriculture, water management, and investment in the production of medicines and vaccines.
The Prime Minister also underscored the vital role of Africa's youth, which requires quality education, training, and employment opportunities. She welcomed the Africa-Russia Action Plan 2027-2029 and expressed Tunisia's readiness to actively contribute to its implementation. Furthermore, she called for a deep reform of the United Nations to ensure equitable representation of Africa and balanced partnerships that respect national decision-making independence.
Zaâfrani Zenzri criticized the current international peace and security system, citing its selective application of international law and failure to address the Palestinian tragedy. She praised Russia on the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations, established in 1956, shortly after Tunisia's independence. The Soviet Union supported Tunisia's development, particularly in engineering and healthcare.
The Prime Minister's visit to Russia included multiple meetings with other heads of state, reflecting Tunisia's efforts to strengthen its international partnerships. Her speech at the summit showcased Tunisia's commitment to fostering cooperation with Russia and other African nations. This engagement aims to promote peace, security, and sustainable development across the continent.
Zaâfrani Zenzri's advocacy for a renewed multilateralism and equitable global governance resonated with the summit's themes. Her emphasis on African solutions to African challenges aligns with the aspirations of many nations on the continent. The Russia-Africa Summit provided a platform for leaders to discuss pressing issues and explore opportunities for collaboration.
The outcomes of the Russia-Africa Summit and Zaâfrani Zenzri's participation are expected to contribute to the evolution of Tunisia's relationships with Russia and other African countries. The summit's focus on peace, security, and development underscores the complexities of achieving sustainable progress in a rapidly changing world. Tunisia's active engagement in these discussions highlights its commitment to shaping a more equitable and peaceful future.
Key points
- Tunisia's Prime Minister Sarra Zaâfrani Zenzri calls for a partnership based on peace, security, and renewed multilateralism at the Russia-Africa Summit.
- Zaâfrani Zenzri emphasizes the importance of youth education, training, and employment opportunities for Africa's development.
- Tunisia seeks to strengthen cooperation with Russia in areas such as food security, health security, energy, and climate change.
