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From January 14 to 16, Chinese Foreign Minister Mr. Wang Yi embarked on a diplomatic visit to Tunisia, marking the start of his African tour, which will also include Egypt, Togo, and the Ivory Coast. This visit is in line with the longstanding Chinese tradition of initiating foreign visits with an emphasis on Africa, underscoring the strategic significance that China places on the continent.
Accompanying Mr. Wang Yi in the Chinese delegation are vice ministers of Foreign Affairs and Trade, as well as the vice president of the China International Cooperation Agency. The delegation is actively partaking in a series of meetings with high-ranking Tunisian officials. Central to these discussions is the review of the progress in bilateral relations since the meeting between the Tunisian and Chinese presidents in December 2022, which took place during the Arab-Chinese summit.
Visit of particular importance
This visit holds particular significance as it seeks to follow up on the outcomes of the prior meeting, reaffirming the commitment of both countries to enhance and broaden their collaboration. A memorandum of understanding is presently under negotiation between the Tunisian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese International Cooperation Agency. This memorandum is fixed to establish a comprehensive framework for the execution of projects in pivotal areas, including health, green economy, communication technologies, and the joint effort against climate change.
This cooperation is part of the new directions of Chinese diplomacy, underscoring international solidarity and the creation of a multipolar world. China has already contributed greatly to Tunisian development via donations financing major projects, including infrastructure and efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.
Bilateral relations between Tunisia and China have seen substantial growth since the establishment of consultations in 2017, culminating with the signing of a memorandum of understanding in 2018. China has become Tunisia’s fourth trading partner, and trade has continued to grow since then.
Tunisia and the BRICS
Mr. Wang Yi’s visit likewise provides the opportunity to examine relations between Tunisia and BRICS. Although Tunisia has not officially voiced its wish to join the group, discussions with BRICS are suggested.
Observers state that at the centre of these talks is the possibility of increased cooperation with the BRICS which have established their independent financial system. BRICS created the BRICS Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA) and the New Development Bank to diversify international financial options.
Although Tunisia has not yet officially expressed its desire to join BRICS, Mr. Wang Yi’s visit provides an ideal opportunity to examine these possibilities.
Mr. Wang Yi’s visit to Tunisia goes beyond strengthening bilateral relations with China. It opens the door to favourable prospects for cooperation with the BRICS, offering Tunisia innovative strategic visions in a constantly changing global economic context.
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