EU-Tunisia Memorandum of Understanding for Strategic and Global Partnership
- Mary
- Jul 20, 2023
- 2 min read
On 16 July 2023, President Saied signed a historic partnership agreement with the European Union (EU) solidifying Tunisia's strategic and global partnership. The momentous ceremony was graced by the presence of President of the European Commission, Ursula Von der Leyen, as well as the Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, and the Dutch Prime Minister, Mark Rutte.
President Von der Leyen elaborated on the agreement, highlighting its five fundamental pillars:
1. Development of Relations Between Peoples:
Recognizing Tunisia's vibrant and youthful population, the agreement aims to create new opportunities for its young citizens. As part of this initiative, 'windows' of opportunities will be established for young Tunisians in the Erasmus+ program, backed by a 10 million euros fund. This program aims to equip the youth with essential skills and knowledge, encouraging some to return and contribute to their homeland. Additionally, the EU has committed 65 million euros to modernize 80 schools, preparing them for the green and digital transition.
2. Economic Development:
A central focus of the partnership is to strengthen and bolster the Tunisian economy to make it more resilient against economic shocks. Immediate economic support will be provided as needed.
3. Investment and Trade:
The agreement aims to attract increased private sector investment in Tunisia. A planned investment forum in the autumn will facilitate dialogue and collaboration between European investors and Tunisian business entities.
4. Development of Renewable Energy:
Recognizing Tunisia's immense potential in renewable energy sources, the EU will provide the necessary technologies for the advancement of these resources. The EU views Tunisia as a reliable supplier, particularly in the context of developing hydrogen energy.
5. Migration and Mobility:
Both parties have committed to developing a holistic approach to migration that upholds human rights. This approach will combat criminal networks engaged in migrant and human trafficking, while also focusing on effective border management. A system for the identification and repatriation of irregular migrants already in Tunisia to their countries of origin will be established.
Regarding migration, President Saied reiterated Tunisia's stance of not being a destination for irregular migrants and emphasized their commitment to securing their borders.
To address the pressing issue of migrant trafficking, the EU pledged 100 million euros in funding to support Tunisia's efforts in combatting illegal immigration and dismantling criminal networks associated with such activities.
The memorandum of understanding signifies a landmark step in strengthening EU-Tunisia relations, fostering mutual prosperity, and addressing crucial issues such as migration in a human rights-focused and collaborative manner.
During and after this memorandum some terrible images were disseminated by operators of humanitarian organizations at the south of the southern border of Tunisia. Refugees (also women and children) are taken to the desert and removed from Tunisian territory at gunpoint in the vacuum of the Sahara, without enough water or food. We hope Europe understands soon the seriousness of the situation and what this memorandum can cause.
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