Tunisian Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti held a meeting with Jean-Pierre Lacroix, UN Deputy Secretary-General for Peace Operations, on September 23, 2026, in New York. The meeting took place during the high-level segment of the 81st UN General Assembly. The two officials discussed the current state of UN peacekeeping operations and ways to improve them in light of evolving conflicts and growing challenges.
The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on peacekeeping operations and their development. Minister Nafti emphasized Tunisia's commitment to the principles and purposes of the UN Charter and its continued contribution to international peace and security efforts. He recalled Tunisia's participation in peacekeeping operations since the 1960s and highlighted the country's efforts to enhance its peacekeepers' training and efficiency.
Minister Nafti also emphasized the importance of follow-up to the outcomes of the International Conference on the Role of Armed Forces in Protecting Civilians during Peacekeeping Operations, held in Tunisia on July 10-11, 2025. The conference aimed to enhance the effectiveness of peacekeeping operations and their ability to protect civilians. Tunisia proposed several initiatives, including an international regional platform for exchanging experiences and a unified procedural guide.
Jean-Pierre Lacroix expressed appreciation for the high level of professionalism of Tunisian military and security units. He emphasized the need to continue developing and adapting UN peacekeeping operations to the changing nature of conflicts and growing challenges. Lacroix also expressed willingness to engage positively with the initiatives proposed by Tunisia.
The meeting between Minister Nafti and Deputy Secretary-General Lacroix reflects Tunisia's commitment to strengthening its relations with the UN. Tunisia aims to ensure that its peacekeepers are equipped with the highest levels of training and efficiency to address various challenges. The country has been actively involved in peacekeeping operations for decades and seeks to enhance its contributions.
The discussion also highlighted the importance of protecting civilians during peacekeeping operations. Tunisia's initiatives in this regard aim to promote the safety and security of civilians in conflict zones. The country's efforts have been recognized by the international community, and its proposals are seen as valuable contributions to improving peacekeeping operations.
The meeting between Minister Nafti and Deputy Secretary-General Lacroix concluded with a shared commitment to enhancing cooperation between Tunisia and the UN on peacekeeping operations. Both sides acknowledged the importance of continued dialogue and collaboration to address the evolving challenges of peacekeeping and to promote international peace and security.
Key points
- Tunisia reaffirms its commitment to UN peacekeeping operations and seeks to enhance its contributions.
