Tunis, 9 July 2023 (TDI): The  President of the Tunisian Parliament, Ibrahim Bouderbala, held a significant meeting on July 8 with the Ambassador of Pakistan to Tunis Tahir Andrabi.

The purpose of this meeting was to explore opportunities for parliamentary exchange and cooperation between Pakistan and Tunisia and reinforce the fraternal ties between the two nations across various fields.

During the meeting, Ambassador Andrabi expressed Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing bilateral relations with Tunisia, emphasizing the importance of parliamentary collaboration in achieving this goal. Both parties acknowledged the significance of strengthening ties between their respective legislative bodies to foster closer diplomatic, economic, and cultural cooperation.

The meeting witnessed an engaging discussion on various avenues for parliamentary exchange and cooperation, including sharing legislative experiences, best practices, and policy frameworks.

Ambassador Andrabi highlighted the importance of learning from Tunisia’s rich parliamentary history and experience, particularly in the context of democratic development and governance.

In the spirit of fraternal relations, the two representatives explored opportunities for collaboration in sectors such as trade, investment, education, and tourism.

They acknowledged the mutual benefits of promoting people-to-people exchanges and enhancing cultural understanding between Pakistan and Tunisia.

Ambassador Andrabi, on behalf of the Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan, extended a cordial invitation to the Honorable President Bouderbala to visit Pakistan.

The invitation aimed to provide an opportunity for the Tunisian delegation to experience firsthand the rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality, and vibrant democratic processes of Pakistan.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to further deepen bilateral relations and explore avenues for cooperation between the parliaments of Pakistan and Tunisia. Both parties expressed their desire to foster stronger ties in various sectors, which would contribute to the mutual progress and prosperity of their nations.

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The examples could be found in the past when Ambassador Adel Elarbi exchanged his views with Chairman Senate Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani. Recognizing the underutilized potential in political, economic, and cultural cooperation, the Chairman of the Senate emphasized the significance of increased high-level visits and people-to-people contacts. The Chairman stressed the importance of promoting and strengthening parliamentary cooperation through inter-parliamentary engagements and capacity-building initiatives to enhance collaboration.

Pakistan-Tunisia Bilateral Ties

Pakistan and Tunisia enjoy a longstanding relationship based on shared values, mutual respect, and cooperation across various fields. The diplomatic ties between these two nations have evolved over the years, fostering closer cooperation in areas of mutual interest and contributing to regional stability.

In the political sphere, both countries have supported each other on important regional and international issues. For instance, advocating for the rights of the Palestinian people. In 2018, signed a Memorandum of Understanding promoting economic cooperation, emphasizing trade exchanges and investment opportunities.

 

Pakistan and Tunisia share historical and cultural ties dating back several decades. Both countries gained independence around the same time and faced similar challenges in the early years of their existence. This common struggle for independence and the desire for self-determination laid the foundation for a strong bond of solidarity between the two nations.

Political cooperation between Pakistan and Tunisia has been robust, with regular exchanges of high-level visits and interactions. The leaders of both countries have shown a commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and exploring new avenues of cooperation. Such exchanges help strengthen diplomatic ties, promote understanding, and foster dialogue on regional and international issues.

Trade and economic cooperation are essential to the Pakistan-Tunisia relationship. Efforts have been made to boost bilateral trade and explore opportunities for investment and joint ventures. There is significant potential for collaboration in textiles, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and information technology sectors. Both countries have also been engaged in promoting trade delegations and exhibitions to further enhance economic ties.

Cultural exchanges play a vital role in deepening the bonds of friendship between Pakistan and Tunisia. Cultural events, exhibitions, and film festivals are organized to showcase the rich heritage, art, and traditions of both countries. These exchanges provide opportunities for people-to-people contact, promoting cultural understanding and fostering lasting friendships.

Cooperation in the field of education and technical expertise has been an important aspect of the Pakistan-Tunisia relationship. Both countries have been actively involved in academic exchanges, scholarships, and capacity-building programs. The exchange of students and professionals has contributed to the sharing of knowledge, skills, and expertise in various fields.

Pakistan and Tunisia have often supported each other at various international forums, including the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Both countries have shared positions on key global issues, advocating for peace, stability, and the rights of oppressed nations. Their collaboration strengthens the voice of the Muslim world on the international stage.