Tunisian Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti met with Rania Al-Mashat, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), on September 26, 2026, in New York. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the high-level week of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly. Minister Nafti emphasized the importance Tunisia attaches to ESCWA's role in supporting Arab countries and accompanying their development, economic, and social efforts to address challenges.
The meeting focused on ways to enhance and expand cooperation between Tunisia and ESCWA, particularly in economic, social, developmental, and technological fields. Minister Nafti renewed his invitation to the Executive Secretary to continue discussing prospects for developing this cooperation. Both parties explored ESCWA's initiative to swap debt for climate and development financing. They emphasized the need for technical support from ESCWA in preparing a roadmap and approving priority projects for Tunisia.
Minister Nafti highlighted the significance of transitioning to the implementation phase of the debt-swapping initiative. This involves signing swap agreements with partners and donors, which would help alleviate debt burdens and mobilize additional resources for climate action and inclusive development. Tunisia aims to benefit from ESCWA's expertise and resources to address its development challenges.
The Executive Secretary and Minister Nafti reviewed ongoing cooperation between Tunisia and ESCWA. They discussed ways to strengthen partnerships and implement joint projects that promote sustainable development and economic growth. ESCWA's work focuses on supporting its member states in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Tunisia values its partnership with ESCWA, considering the commission's role in fostering regional cooperation and development. By working together, Tunisia and ESCWA can address common challenges and capitalize on opportunities for growth and development. The two parties expressed their commitment to deepening their collaboration.
The meeting between Minister Nafti and Al-Mashat reflects Tunisia's proactive engagement with international organizations to promote its development agenda. Tunisia seeks to leverage its partnerships with organizations like ESCWA to achieve its national priorities and contribute to regional stability and prosperity.
The discussions between Minister Nafti and Al-Mashat concluded with a shared commitment to advancing Tunisia-ESCWA cooperation. The two parties agreed to maintain communication and follow up on the initiatives and projects discussed during their meeting. This cooperation aims to support Tunisia's development aspirations and address the country's challenges.
Key points
- Tunisia and ESCWA agree to enhance cooperation in economic, social, and developmental fields.
- ESCWA's debt-swapping initiative for climate and development financing is a key area of collaboration.
- Tunisia values ESCWA's role in supporting Arab countries and promoting regional development.
