Tunisian Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti met with European Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner on September 23 in New York. The meeting took place on the sidelines of Tunisia's participation in the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. According to a statement from the Tunisian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the two officials discussed the current state and future prospects of partnership between Tunisia and the European Union in the field of migration.
Minister Nafti emphasized Tunisia's commitment to addressing the phenomenon of migration based on mutual respect, non-interference in internal affairs, and equality between partners. He also stressed that Tunisia will continue to adopt a calm, balanced, and comprehensive approach to this issue. This approach prioritizes respect for human rights and addressing the root causes of migration through support for inclusive and fair economic and social development.
The Tunisian minister highlighted his country's efforts to combat human trafficking networks and migrant smuggling. He reiterated that Tunisia has repeatedly refused to be a country of transit or settlement for migrants. Minister Nafti called on the European side to provide more support for voluntary return programs for migrants from sub-Saharan Africa. This support would be provided in cooperation with the International Organization for Migration to ensure the dignity and rights of migrants.
Minister Nafti also urged the European Union to enhance legal migration channels and facilitate movement between Tunisia and the EU. He believes that this would support joint development. On his part, Commissioner Brunner expressed satisfaction with the level of cooperation with Tunisia and understanding of Tunisia's approach to addressing the causes of migration.
Commissioner Brunner emphasized the European Union's commitment to strengthening cooperation with Tunisia, including in the field of legal migration. He also pledged to continue providing material and logistical support to the International Organization for Migration. The two officials' discussions reflect the shared goal of addressing migration challenges through a collaborative and comprehensive approach.
The meeting between Minister Nafti and Commissioner Brunner demonstrates the ongoing dialogue between Tunisia and the European Union on migration and cooperation. Tunisia's approach to migration has been characterized as calm and balanced, focusing on addressing root causes and respecting human rights. The European Union has expressed its commitment to supporting Tunisia's efforts and strengthening cooperation on migration and other issues.
The discussions between Tunisia and the European Union on migration and cooperation are set to continue. Both sides have emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach to addressing migration challenges. Key areas of cooperation include support for voluntary return programs, enhancement of legal migration channels, and facilitation of movement between Tunisia and the EU.
Key points
- Tunisia urges the EU to facilitate movement between countries to support joint development.
- The two officials discussed the current state and future prospects of partnership between Tunisia and the European Union in the field of migration.
- Commissioner Brunner emphasized the European Union's commitment to strengthening cooperation with Tunisia, including in the field of legal migration.
