Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed pride in the work Italy has done to contribute to the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Tunisia and the EU, which laid the foundation for a partnership model with countries in the wider Mediterranean region. This statement was made in Tunisia, at the Carthage palace, following a meeting with Tunisian President Kais Saied and the signing of agreements between the Italian and Tunisian governments. Three agreements were signed: a memorandum of understanding between the Ministry of University and Research and the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, an agreement to support the Tunisian state budget, and financial conventions related to support for the Tunisian state budget and a credit line for small and medium enterprises.
Meloni highlighted the significance of the three agreements, including direct support for the Tunisian budget in renewable energy and energy efficiency, a new credit line for Tunisian SMEs, and a framework agreement for cooperation in the university and higher education sector. She also thanked President Saied for his efforts in managing migration flows and expressed the need for cooperation in combatting human traffickers. Meloni emphasized the importance of working together to prevent Tunisia from becoming a destination for migrants and highlighted the need to strengthen cooperation with international organizations, focus on repatriation efforts, and promote regular migration flows, such as through Italy’s decree allowing 12,000 trained Tunisian citizens to legally come to Italy.
In the fight against modern-day slavery, Meloni stressed the need for joint efforts to combat mafia organizations that exploit legitimate aspirations for a better life. While acknowledging the potential for Italy to do more in terms of legal migration, she emphasized the importance of continued collaboration to combat human traffickers and ensure the rights and safety of migrants. Meloni’s visit to Tunisia and the signing of agreements reflect Italy’s commitment to strengthening ties with Mediterranean countries, promoting economic cooperation, energy efficiency, and higher education collaborations, while addressing shared challenges such as migration management.
The agreements signed between Italy and Tunisia demonstrate a commitment to mutual cooperation and partnership in various sectors, including research, education, finance, and renewable energy. Meloni’s remarks highlight the importance of addressing migration challenges through a comprehensive approach that includes legal pathways for migration, collaboration with international organizations, and efforts to combat human trafficking. By working together, Italy and Tunisia aim to promote economic development, enhance energy efficiency, and strengthen higher education initiatives, while addressing common concerns related to migration management and security. This collaborative approach reflects a shared commitment to advancing regional stability and prosperity in the Mediterranean region.
