TUNIS - A memorandum of understanding on the National Indicative Programme (NIP) spanning the 2011-2013 period with a budget of 240 million euros (450 million dinars under the form of donations) for technical and financial co-operation between Tunisia and the European Union (EU) was signed on Tuesday in Tunis.
The agreement was signed by Minister of Development and International Co-operation Mohamed Nouri Jouini and EU Commissioner for Enlargement and European Neighbourhood Policy Stefan Fule, who is on a working visit in Tunisia.
The programme encompasses several strategic sectors for Tunisia such as employment, particularly of university graduates', and consolidation of economic integration and competitiveness of enterprises.
Mr. Jouini expressed satisfaction at the excellent level of bilateral co-operation which involves several vital and priority fields. The latter include, in particular, economic reforms, reinforcement of the private sector and promotion of social and environmental aspects, in addition to energy saving.
The Minister reiterated Tunisia's will to broaden and enrich co-operation, given the available opportunities, especially in matters of scientific research, technological innovation, culture, youth, trade exchanges and investment.
Mr. Stefan Fule expressed EU's support to Tunisia which has made strides on the path of development and modernity, making it an active partner in the southern Mediterranean shore.
He also reiterated similarity of views of both sides concerning the opportunities available for strengthening and enriching bilateral co-operation.
This visit, the EU official added, provided the opportunity to familiarise with the future programmes set up by Tunisia to take up the challenges of the next stage.
Mr. Stefan Fule expressed appreciation for the Tunisian development experience which, he stressed, is an example of success in matters of economic and social progress, in addition to the promotion of human resources which represent an ideal platform to guarantee further progress.
He also voiced will to further boost development programmes and projects set up by Tunisia.
© Agence Tunis Afrique Presse 2010
