Lord Ahmad paid a 2-day visit to Tunisia from 7 to 8 June. He met the President of Tunisia His Excellency Kais Saied, the Head of Government Her Excellency Najla Bouden, Minister of Foreign Affairs His Excellency Othman Jerandi, Minister for Economy and Planning His Excellency Samir Saied, Minister for Industry, Energy and Mines Her Excellency Neila Nouira Gonji, and Minister of Religious Affairs His Excellency Ibrahim Chaybi.
Lord Ahmad signed an agreement between the UK and Tunisian Governments to increase cooperation on sustainable energy and unlock opportunities for private sector trade and investment. He also met senior members of International Financial Institutions, plus representatives of Tunisia's civil society, students and faith leaders.
Speaking following his visit, Lord Ahmad said:
Tunisia's diverse religious sites are testament to this country's rich history of inclusion, and I was delighted to visit Zaytuna Mosque, St Vincent de Paul Cathedral, and the Grand Synagogue of Tunis.
In my meetings with ministers we discussed a broad range of issues including: economic cooperation and reform, the importance of inclusive political participation in the democratic process and the role of civil society and strengthening human rights.
During my visit to Tunis I also met civil society representatives. The UK believes in the importance of including all voices in building resilient and successful democracies.
I look forward to strengthening the UK's friendship and partnership with Tunisia.
