The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, called on behalf of the EU on Tuesday 27 July for the return of institutional stability in Tunisia as soon as possible.
On Sunday 25 July, the Tunisian President, Kaïs Saïed, suspended the activities of the Parliament for thirty days and dismissed the Prime Minister, Hichem Mechichi, after a day of demonstrations in many cities of the country against the management of the Covid-19 pandemic. On Monday, the President dismissed the Minister of Defence.
“We call for the restoration of institutional stability as soon as possible, and in particular for the resumption of parliamentary activity, respect for fundamental rights and abstention from all forms of violence”, Mr Borrell said in a statement on behalf of the EU-27. He said that the country’s democratic foundations, respect for the rule of law, the Constitution and the legislative framework must be preserved while remaining attentive to the wishes and aspirations of the Tunisian people.
“The preservation of democracy and the stability of the country are priorities”, he warned.
Mr Borrell explained that the EU was following developments in the country with the utmost attention and would continue to do so. He also highlighted the “considerable support” of the EU and its Member States to Tunisia in the context of a “major pandemic and economic crisis”. The country is on the brink of a health catastrophe.
Commission spokeswoman Ana Pisonero noted that the EU had mobilised €330 million to help Tunisia fight Covid-19, of which around €260 million had already been spent. The EU has also approved macro-financial assistance of €600 million.
In addition, the High Representative met with the Tunisian Foreign Minister on 26 July. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)