Summary:

In early May, multiple international agreements moved forward between Tunisia and global partners, among them South Korea, Spain, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

During a bi-lateral trade expo held with South Korea, the two countries signed multiple agreements indicating plans to expand trade and economic cooperation. The agreements spelled out plans to share trade information and data and to organize and mutually attend trade and industry shows.

On 8 and 9 May, Spain’s Secretary of State for Trade, Xiana Mendez, led a 30-member delegation on a visit to Tunisia hosted by the Union of Industry, Trade, and Handicrafts (UTICA) – Tunisia’s private sector union body. The two countries discussed ways to better access and service markets across North and sub-Saharan Africa.

Meanwhile, Tunisia’s Minister of Cultural Affairs, Hayat al Qarazi, signed an agreement with representatives from the UAE on a plan to restore the 14^th century Tunis residence of Arab philosopher Ibn Khaldun.  

Outlook:  

Despite turmoil both domestically and internationally, Tunisia has continued to press into international partnerships that appear largely unimpacted by headlines regarding the uncertain fate of the country’s democracy.

Regional partners like Spain and the UAE maintain more direct interests in Tunisia’s future. Spain, like many European countries, is working to counter the flow of migrants to Europe, partially through economic development. The UAE remains an important voice and financial backer in the Arab world, which Tunisia has often looked to for financial investment.

South Korea has a growing number of citizens living and working in Tunisia and, while not a major trade partner, has a rapidly growing level of economic exchange with Tunisia.

Tunisia’s future stability will be heavily dependent on developing equitable trade relationships that benefit and empower rather than exploit Tunisia’s people and resources.

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