Tunisia-Defence Minister Imed Hazgui denies foreign military presence in Tunisia

Defence Minister  Imed Hazgui denied any foreign forces deployed in the country.

At a hearing by the Parliamentary Committee on Security and Defence at the parliament, the Minister emphasised that Tunisia had regularly said “No” to the establishment of a military base on its soil to conduct operations.

“Tunisia is still categorically rejecting the establishment of a foreign military base on its soil to carry intelligence and security operations,” he stated.

The minister declared Tunisia’s formal position on the Libyan crisis is very clear. It has been asserted several times by the President of the Republic who rejects any form of foreign interference in Libya.

“Tunisia favours the path of dialogue to resolve the Libyan crisis,” he added, pointing that the military option in Libya is not a solution.

Tunisia backs any political initiative which could lead to the settlement of the crisis in Libya, a country torn apart by war for more than five years, he said.