Tunisia Roundup: Irregular migration, state of emergency extended, ties with Italy
Tunisia partners with UK to tackle irregular migration
The UK has embarked on a significant partnership with Tunisia to tackle the underlying factors contributing to irregular migration. This initiative, spearheaded by Foreign Secretary David Lammy, includes a £5 million funding package aimed at educating and equipping potential migrants in Tunisia for employment opportunities, thereby reducing the need for dangerous journeys to Europe. Additionally, $1.2 million will be directed towards the International Organisation for Migration's Assisted Voluntary Returns & Reintegration Programme, facilitating safe returns for migrants, Gov.UK reports. This initiative forms part of the UK's wider 'Plan for Change', which seeks to enhance border security, curtail human smuggling, and uplift living conditions in migrants' home countries.
11 Russians arrested on suspicion of terrorism
Tunisian authorities have detained 11 Russian nationals on terrorism suspicions near the Algerian border due to suspicious equipment and alleged ties to terrorist activities. Although no formal charges are in place, these arrests follow police findings of equipment inconsistent with their tourist claims, as per Russian media reports. The Russian embassy in Tunisia has described these individuals as tourists exploring Roman ruins in Haïdra. Watan reports that While Tunisia is generally a preferred destination for Russian tourists, Haïdra is not commonly visited by them. Despite this incident, the diplomatic relations between Tunisia and Russia remain stable, with an emphasis on enhancing bilateral ties in the agriculture and energy sectors.
State of emergency extended until the end of 2025
In a move reflecting the ongoing security landscape, Tunisian President Kais Saied has extended the state of emergency to December 31, 2025, following a previous extension that was initially set to last from January 1 to January 30, 2025. According to Al24 News, Tunisia's state of emergency was initially declared on November 24, 2015, in response to a devastating terrorist attack. On that day, a bomb exploded on a bus carrying presidential guards, claiming the lives of 12 agents.
Tunisia expresses deep concern over escalation in Congo
Tunisia has voiced significant concern regarding the escalating hostilities in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), emphasising that the unrest poses a threat to peace initiatives and regional stability. The Tunisian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reached out with condolences to the bereaved families and urged for the safeguarding of DRC's sovereignty, a de-escalation of violent actions, and adherence to the ceasefire established under the Luanda Process. President Felix Tshisekedi of DRC has promised a robust response to the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels, who currently control Goma and key infrastructure in the region. He has reiterated ongoing military and diplomatic efforts supported by the UN and regional organizations. Violent confrontations have critically affected Goma, which is home to over 700,000 internally displaced persons, reports Social News XYZ.
Italy and Tunisia strengthen ties with the Elmed energy link
A strategic partnership has been inaugurated between Italy and Tunisia focusing on the Elmed project, which aims to establish the first direct current electrical connection between Europe and Africa through a 200-kilometre submarine cable intended to integrate renewable energy sources. This collaborative effort aligns with Italy’s Mattei Plan, designed to enhance cooperation across the Mediterranean region and is spearheaded by the Italian grid operator Terna in partnership with Tunisia’s Sociéte Tunisienne de l'Électricité et du Gaz (STEG). As reported by Decode39, The primary objective of the Elmed project is to amplify cross-border energy flows, diminish reliance on fossil fuels, and support overarching clean energy goals. The inauguration of the Terna Innovation Zone in Tunis is projected to foster knowledge-sharing and boost business growth in the renewable energy sector, providing a foundational training environment for local talent.
