Italy and Tunisia have signed a €400 million deal to advance energy transition, renewables, and strengthen bilateral cooperation.
Italy and Tunisia have solidified a two-year partnership aimed at advancing development initiatives, particularly in energy transition and renewable energy, TAP news agency reports.
As part of the agreement, Italy has committed €400 million, representing a significant increase from its financial contributions under the 2021–2023 accord.
The agreement was formalised during a ceremony in Rome, where Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and his Tunisian counterpart, Mohammed Ali Nafti, signed the accord, the same source adds.
Following the signing, Nafti highlighted the importance of energy in the bilateral discussions, stating, “This is a very important step that will strengthen the collaboration between us in this vital sector.
“We will also work on other projects to make our two countries far ahead in terms of energy and to have an energy corridor, if you can say that, to connect Northern Africa with Europe.”
Responding to concerns about Tunisia’s treatment of sub-Saharan African migrants, Tajani emphasised Italy’s continued support for Tunisia, describing it as a “safe, friendly country.”
He noted, “One may not even agree with some analyses that are being done. We consider Tunisia a safe country, a friendly country.
“On the other hand, we contribute to the growth of that country and we do not see excessive dangers for Tunisian citizens. Tunisia has also made an important contribution in the fight against illegal immigration and human traffickers.”
This agreement aligns with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s broader African engagement strategy under the Mattei Plan, named after Enrico Mattei, the founder of Eni. The initiative seeks to stimulate economic development in African nations, aiming to reduce the drivers of irregular migration across the central Mediterranean.
TunisianMonitorOnline (NejiMed)
