By: Sally Goldman
The UAE stands as a distinguished model in fostering diplomatic and bilateral relations around the world. Within this exemplary framework is the UAE-Tunisia partnership, a relationship that has been grounded in the spirit of brotherhood and sustained communication since its foundation by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and former Tunisian President Habib Bourguiba. For over four decades, this relationship has flourished, guided by the UAE’s visionary leadership, under the direction of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The bilateral relations between the UAE and Tunisia extend to cooperation across various fields and economic sectors. Since 1974, the UAE has led investments, driven project execution, and funded Tunisian infrastructure through the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development. This fund has been pivotal in financing unprecedented projects in Tunisia’s industry, agriculture, energy, and service sectors. The collaboration between the two countries goes beyond economic interests, encompassing a strong humanitarian dimension, as the UAE has supported the Tunisian people without seeking recognition. Observers of UAE-Tunisia relations highlight that the UAE has committed resources to support Tunisia in addressing the challenges of natural disasters and bolstering institutions that provide essential services to Tunisian society, especially in recent years. In line with this commitment, the UAE has launched numerous initiatives to aid the Tunisian people, providing hospitals with advanced medical equipment and a fleet of ambulances. According to official figures published by the Tunisian Export Promotion Center, the UAE stands as Tunisia’s leading trade partner in the Gulf region. In 2023, the trade volume between the two countries reached approximately 947.5 million Tunisian dinars (about 1.2 billion UAE dirhams), with Tunisian exports to the UAE amounting to 335 million dinars (about 500 million dirhams), making up 60% of Tunisia’s total exports to Gulf nations. The UAE has also made significant investments in Tunisia’s renewable energy sector, including a major project by Amea Power, establishing a solar power plant in Kairouan with a 100-megawatt capacity. Under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE has cemented itself as a global player with a strategic commitment to safeguarding stability in the region. The UAE stands as a proactive force against political extremism and ideological threats, often seen as a “Spartan” defender of peace and progress in the Arab world. This steadfast commitment was further underscored by Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed’s message congratulating Tunisian President Kais Saied on his re-election, wherein he expressed his best wishes for Tunisia’s continued progress and development. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening the UAE-Tunisia partnership to further serve the interests and prosperity of both nations and their citizens. This partnership reflects a shared vision for sustainable development and an enduring alliance that fortifies regional stability. The UAE-Tunisia relationship stands as a testament to effective and meaningful diplomacy, paving the way for mutual growth and a brighter future for the region.
