France and Tunisia: A Flourishing Partnership
On May 29, 2024, Anne Guéguen, French Ambassador to Tunisia, was a guest on "Expresso" with Wassim Ben Larbi on Express FM. She highlighted the remarkable progress in relations between Tunisia and France, emphasizing their thriving economic and human partnership.
Economic Partnership
Guéguen revealed that a trade surplus of two billion euros in favor of Tunisia results from exchanges between the two countries, surpassing the revenue from remittances from Tunisians living abroad and tourism. The presence of 1,500 French companies in Tunisia, employing 150,000 people, testifies to the importance of this economic exchange.
Mobility and People-to-People Ties
Guéguen also stressed the significance of mobility in these relations, with nearly one million people of Tunisian nationality or origin living in France. In this context, the ambassador indicated that French authorities, aware of this dynamic, have facilitated visa procedures, with 85,000 visas issued last year, including 5,000 for new students, marking a 12% increase compared to the previous year.
Migration and Cooperation
Regarding clandestine migration, Guéguen affirmed France's and European authorities' willingness to support Tunisia in managing this issue. The next meeting of the High Council for Cooperation between the two countries will focus on various areas, including higher education, scientific research, culture and art, security, migration, tourism, economy, and sustainable development.
Tourism and Cultural Exchange
Guéguen highlighted the promising prospects for tourism in Tunisia, with over one million French tourists visiting the country last year. This diversity of tourist attractions reinforces the bonds between the two nations.
Conclusion
In summary, Guéguen's intervention reflects dynamic Tunisian-French relations, characterized by solid economic exchanges, growing mobility, and close cooperation on essential issues such as migration and security.