The European Union and Tunisia have held in Brussels the fifteenth session of the Association Council, during which the different sectors of the privileged partnership have been under review.

As Erasmus+ scholarships in favour of Tunisian students and researchers tripled in 2018, a funding of 60 million euros has been signed in the framework of the joint programme EU4Youth, to support youth, and more specifically underprivileged youth, and to work for its economic, social and political inclusion.

“Our cooperation and our economic relations are now strong. This year, the financial commitment of the European union to Tunisia has reached 305 million euros of grants,” the High Representative Federica Mogherini said, confirming the will to pursue the cooperation in domains as varied as transport, environment, energy, research and innovation, or civil protection.

The High Representative has also reaffirmed EU’s commitment in support of economic and social structural reforms. “Tunisia is a valuable regional example in terms of democratic consolidation.”

Both parties have confirmed their will to maintain the ongoing negotiations for the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA). “We think that the DCFTA could help Tunisia diversify its economy, increase its competitiveness and develop its exports towards the EU, its main commercial partner. From our side, we will keep supporting Tunisia, as we are doing today to ensure inclusive and sustainable development, as well as economic recovery”, the High Representative added.

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Press release