Washington D.C., 22 November 2021 (TDI): The U.S. State Department announced the telephonic conversation between US State Secretary Antony Blinken and Tunisia’s President Kais Saied. The officials spoke yesterday about the recent developments in Tunis.
They discussed the recent formation of the new government in Tunis and ways to alleviate the economic crisis. During the conversation, Blinken called for a transparent and inclusive reform process in the country to address Tunisia’s economic, political, and social challenges.
Moreover, the US State Secretary urged President Saied to respond to the Tunisian citizens’ aspirations for continued democratic progress.
I had a phone call with Tunisia’s President Kais Saied to discuss developments there and the new government’s initiatives. I encouraged a transparent and inclusive reform process to address Tunisia’s significant political, economic, and social challenges.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) November 21, 2021
A Tunisian Presidency statement noted earlier that Washington would be assisting the country once it has announced the schedule for bringing political reforms.
President Saied maintained last week that he was making continuous efforts to bring substantial reforms to the state. He aspired to mitigate the growing criticism at home and abroad as he suspended parliament and the cabinet after assuming personal power in July 2021.
Kais Saied assumed the presidential office in July and in September 2021, he installed the rule by decree after suspending parts of the constitution and obtaining full control of the judiciary along with powers to issue laws.
However, President Saied has defended the takeover by stating it was the only way to end governmental paralysis after years of economic stagnation and political differences.
US-Tunisia Relations
The United States formally established diplomatic relations with Tunisia in 1956 after its independence from France. Washington was the first major power to recognize Tunisia’s sovereignty, and the two states have since continued to bolster their bilateral relations.
The US exhibits a commitment to strengthening Tunisia’s political structure through promoting democracy. It also aims to empower the youth, civil society, and women of the country.
Lastly, the US government has made several attempts to advance Tunis’ economic reforms, bolster the security conditions, and enhance citizen participation in the Tunisian government.
