Iran-Tunisia ties show Tehran’s commitment to expanding ‘strong ties with Islamic world’: FM

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says that the relations between Iran and Tunisia serve as a “shining example” of Tehran’s commitment to expanding strong ties with the Islamic world based on “common interests and respect for national sovereignty.”

Araghchi made the remarks in a note titled “Unbreakable ties; towards a common future for Iran and Tunisia” published in Tunisian media.

The publication followed his visit to the North African country, where he met with President Kais Saied and Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti to discuss key bilateral issues.

Tunisia, he said, has a “high and special position” in Iran’s foreign policy, noting that the ties between the two countries, which are rooted in history, are based on “brotherhood, mutual respect, deep religious and cultural commonalities, and common international goals.”

The ties of the two countries have witnessed a positive and dynamic development, he said, adding that the historic visit of Tunisian President Kais Saied to Iran in May 2024, which included a meeting with Leader of the Islamic Revolution Seyyed Ali Khamenei, was a turning point that “opened a new chapter of comprehensive cooperation.”

Araghchi praised Tunisia for its “resolute, principled stance and valuable support” during the recent Israeli aggression on Iranian soil in June, saying this support showed “the depth of fraternal relations and unbreakable solidarity between the two nations.”

Iran and Tunisia, he noted, have consistently shared aligned positions on the international stage, including firm opposition to foreign interference, strong support for the Palestinian cause, and a joint rejection of efforts to normalize relations with Israel.

Tunisia, Iran agree to expand ties as FM Araghchi visits Tunis

The Tunisian FM says he agreed with his Iranian counterpart to expand Tunisia-Iran bilateral ties.

The top Iranian diplomat acknowledged that while political ties with Tunisia have historically been “positive and constructive,” the two nations have yet to fully capitalize on their significant economic potential.

Araghchi stated that a “long leap” in bilateral trade would require “double determination,” but expressed optimism that the firm resolve of both nations’ senior officials promises a bright future for economic relations.

According to Araghchi, enhancing tourism cooperation through the recent cancellation of bilateral visas, establishing direct flights, and convening a new session of the Joint Economic Commission are among the effective steps that could strengthen economic ties between Iran and Tunisia. 

He also expressed Iran’s readiness to cooperate with Tunisia in various fields by utilizing its experiences, technical knowledge and indigenous technologies.

Araghchi also underscored the importance of enhancing cultural and artistic exchanges, particularly in cinema, music, handicrafts, and sports, to deepen mutual understanding and strengthen people-to-people ties between Iran and Tunisia.

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