In a pivotal move signaling the deepening cooperation between the European Union and North African nations, the Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, announced this Friday the disbursement of the first tranche of European Union assistance to Tunisia, set for the following week.
Speaking at a press conference in Valletta, amidst her participation in the “Euromed 9” sessions, Melloni remarked, “The first installment of the European Union’s aid directed to Tunisia will commence next week.
This is a tangible indication of our commitment.” The Italian Premier emphasized the significance of revitalizing the partnership with Tunisia, a nation she described as giving “reassuring signals.” Meloni further underscored Tunisia’s model as one that should be broadly emulated in engagements with North African countries.
This development trails Tunisia’s announcement in July of the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding regarding a comprehensive strategic partnership with the European Union. This collaboration aligns with the EU’s strategic vision to foster closer ties with the nations on the southern shores of the Mediterranean, amidst various challenges, including those related to irregular migration.
President Kais Saied of Tunisia, in a press conference following the signing of the MoU last July, appreciated the efforts of the Italian side in convening a conference in Rome on the issue of irregular migration. He emphasized, “The only solution to the inhumane situation of migrants is collective, addressing root causes before dealing with the outcomes.”
In the backdrop of escalating migration challenges in the Mediterranean, such cooperative measures between the EU and nations like Tunisia present a pragmatic approach. The renewed EU-Tunisia partnership, symbolized through this aid, could serve as a cornerstone in framing future strategies and collaborations for the region
