Tunisian Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti emphasized the need to revise the partnership agreement between Tunisia and the European Union during a meeting with European Commission's Mediterranean Commissioner Dubravka Šuica in New York. The revision aims to make the agreement more realistic, fair, and reflective of current transformations, while better considering the interests and priorities of both parties.
Minister Nafti highlighted the importance of including areas such as trade exchanges, financial cooperation, and joint scientific programs in the revision, to promote a balanced relationship between the two sides. The meeting provided an opportunity to stress the significance of Tunisian-European relations and the need to continue developing them within a balanced partnership based on mutual respect and equality.
The discussion also touched on the prospects of Euro-Mediterranean cooperation, with Minister Nafti expressing Tunisia's support for initiatives aimed at enhancing integration and cooperation in the Mediterranean region. He emphasized the importance of a genuine partnership and shared responsibility that takes into account the priorities of partner countries.
The Palestinian issue was also addressed, with Minister Nafti considering a fair, comprehensive, and lasting solution as a fundamental condition for establishing security, stability, and joint development in the region. The minister and the commissioner discussed the migration and mobility file, with Nafti reiterating Tunisia's commitment to a comprehensive and balanced approach to migration.
Minister Nafti emphasized Tunisia's efforts to combat human trafficking and smuggling networks, while promoting regular migration and mobility pathways. Commissioner Šuica acknowledged the requirements for establishing a partnership based on shared interests, respect for sovereignty, and the development of dialogue frameworks.
The European Commission's Mediterranean Commissioner expressed her hope that the Tunisian-European Partnership Council would serve as a starting point for advancing and developing the relationship between Tunisia and the EU. The meeting demonstrated the commitment of both parties to strengthening their cooperation and addressing common challenges.
The revision of the partnership agreement is expected to strengthen the relationship between Tunisia and the EU, promoting a more balanced and mutually beneficial cooperation. The two parties agreed to continue their dialogue and cooperation on various issues, including trade, migration, and regional security.
Key points
- Tunisian Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti calls for revising the EU partnership agreement to make it more realistic and fair.
- The revision aims to promote a balanced relationship between Tunisia and the EU, considering the interests and priorities of both parties.
- The meeting also addressed issues such as migration, regional security, and the Palestinian issue.
