Washington DC, 14 October 2022 (TDI): The United States (US) announced a grant of $60 million for the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF). This grant to UNICEF is to deliver direct support to vulnerable Tunisian families.
The US Agency for International Development (USAID) announced the grant to UNICEF to support Tunisian families in times of economic uncertainty.
Tunisia is facing a rise in fuel and food prices and a food shortage. The economic situation of the state is uncertain.
The market was already suffering after experiencing a shortage of commodities due to the war in Ukraine as the war disturbed the supply chain and which resulted in a price hike in fuel and food.
US-Tunisia Relations
The bilateral relations between the United States and Tunisia have been close since Tunisia’s independence in 1956.
A bilateral agreement between both states was signed in 1957 according to which the US provided technical and economic assistance to Tunisia. The USAID managed programs in the state until the economy advanced in 1994.
The US has been investing in Tunisia’s development under various programs whether it be the US-North African Economic Partnership (USNAEP) or Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI).
Under these programs, USAID invested in the educational, civil, as well as women empowerment sectors in Tunisia.
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The US has been a staunch supporter of the democratic movement in the country as well. The recent announcement of a grant for Tunisia reflects the US commitment to help the state during an economic crunch.
The gift of $60 million would be provided to UNICEF by USAID to operate to support the Tunisian people. It reaffirms the commitment of the US to continue supporting Tunisia.
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USAID has been promoting private sector economic growth, inclusive and dynamic economic policies, and an accountable political system in Tunisia. Through this Tunisia has been provided a boost to advance on its journey of self-reliance.
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