Summary:

On 3 May 2023, Libyan Foreign Minister Najla Mangoush visited Tunisia at the invitation of Tunisian Foreign Minister Nabil Ammar. Mangoush’s delegation included the Libyan Communications Minister.

Mangoush held meetings with her counterpart, Nabil Ammar, during which they discussed a number of issues including healthcare, transportation, and oil. They also discussed the long-standing problem of name commonalities between individuals which result in disruptions to border crossings.

FM Mangoush also met with President Kais Saied, reportedly discussing Sudan and the mutual interest of both countries in the maintenance of a ceasefire. Mangoush continued her diplomatic tour with a visit to Algeria following her stop in Tunis.

Meanwhile, Tunisia and Libya have announced plans to sign a cooperation agreement that would help regulate the movement of doctors between Tunisia and Libya. The new system would require Tunisian doctors planning to practice medicine in Libya to inform the Libyan authorities of their plans. Libyans have long-relied upon Tunisia for medical services: thousands travel annually to Tunisia for treatment and there is a strong demand for Tunisian medical expertise within Libya itself.

Outlook:  

Tunisia and Libya continue to cultivate a healthy working relationship at the diplomatic level, even if the relationship continues to have limits as Libya’s political future remains unclear.

While Morocco has become alienated from the rest of North Africa, Libya, Tunisia, and Algeria have bolstered relations in recent months. Despite the usual disputes and diplomatic spats, the countries appear to be moving forward amicably.

Mangoush’s visits, which featured Sudan prominently as a talking point, are likely an effort to unify vision for how the North African countries can effectively navigate the next phases of the conflict in Sudan.

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