Tunisia-U.S presses Saied on need for ‘swift return’ to democratic path

U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan urged President of the republic Kais Saied on Saturday to outline a swift return to the “democratic path” following his seizure of governing powers last Sunday, the White House said in a statement.

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan spoke to Mr Saied for an hour-long discussion, according to a statement from the White House.

“In an hour-long discussion, he conveyed President Biden’s strong support for the people of Tunisia and for Tunisian democracy based on fundamental rights, strong institutions, and a commitment to the rule of law,” the statement read.

In a phone call, Sullivan emphasised for the head of the state the need for “rapidly forming a new government, led by a capable prime minister to stabilize Tunisia’s economy and confront the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as ensuring the timely return of the elected parliament,” the White House National Security Council said in a statement.

Sullivan restated that the US “and other friends of the Tunisian people” stood ready to help the country move toward “a secure, prosperous, and democratic future.”