On September 22, 2026, Tunisian Defense Minister Khalid Sehili inaugurated the first conference 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. Minister Sehili highlighted the significance of the conference, which aligns with the current phase in Tunisia's development.
The minister emphasized the importance of mobilizing all available resources, including human, material, intellectual, and technological capabilities, to ensure a successful economic transition and provide a new impetus for the national economy. He stressed the need to diversify the economy by relying on domestic capacities. The minister also underscored the value of partnerships between the public and private sectors in supporting scientific research and technological development.
Minister Sehili praised the capabilities of Tunisian institutions, which have demonstrated their ability to design, develop, manufacture, and integrate products, achieving high levels of quality and specialization. He noted that these institutions can apply their expertise to defense-related sectors, provided the necessary technical, institutional, and security conditions are met. The minister expressed his hope that these institutions will contribute to the development of a national defense industry.
The conference also featured interventions from industrialists, who discussed their experiences and projects. Minister Sehili engaged with the participants, exploring ways to foster collaboration between the military, academic institutions, research centers, and the national industrial fabric. The goal is to establish a sustainable national defense industry based on technological accumulation and strategic partnerships.
As part of the conference, an exhibition was organized, showcasing samples of industrial products and technological renewal projects developed by national industrial institutions. The minister visited the exhibition, which highlighted the capabilities of Tunisian industries. The event provided a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas and explore opportunities for cooperation.
The conference is part of a broader effort to reduce Tunisia's reliance on foreign suppliers for military equipment. Minister Sehili emphasized the need for a national defense industry that can produce high-quality products using domestic resources and expertise. This initiative aligns with the government's goals for economic development and national security.
The Tunisian government has taken several steps to promote the development of a national defense industry, including the organization of conferences and exhibitions. The authorities aim to create a sustainable and self-sufficient defense industry that can contribute to the country's economic growth and national security.
Key points
- The Tunisian government aims to establish a sustainable national defense industry based on technological accumulation and strategic partnerships.
- The development of a national defense industry is expected to contribute to Tunisia's economic growth and national security.
- The conference brought together officials from national industrial institutions, experts, and military and civilian personnel to discuss defense technology and manufacturing.
