In brief
Tunisia’s Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti said Thursday he would strengthen security and humanitarian efforts to curb smuggling networks, stressing the importance of cooperation with origin, transit and destination countries. The plan includes protecting borders, addressing root causes such as poverty and unemployment, and working closely with the International Organization for Migration for voluntary return assistance. No additional unconfirmed details have been reported.
Tunisia’s Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti said Thursday that the country will intensify its fight against migrant smuggling networks, rejecting any attempt to use its territory as a transit hub for irregular migrants.
Nafti urged Tunisian authorities to strengthen security measures and preserve national sovereignty while combating smuggling and human trafficking.
He said the ministry will adopt a balanced approach that incorporates security, humanitarian support and cooperation with origin, transit and destination countries.
The minister explained that Tunisia will focus on protecting borders, ensuring migrants’ dignity and rights, and preventing the country from becoming a landing platform for irregular migrants.
He noted that the ministry is developing a comprehensive strategy to promote regular and organized migration channels while addressing root causes of irregular migration, including poverty, unemployment and socio-economic disparities.
Nafti called for stronger cooperation and solidarity among countries of origin, transit and destination, emphasizing shared responsibility for sustainable migration management.
He added that Tunisia is strengthening coordination with the International Organization for Migration, especially for voluntary return assistance and reintegration, allowing migrants to return home safely and with dignity.
Nafti highlighted that Tunisia’s migration strategy extends beyond security, incorporating humanitarian and development elements to uphold migrants’ dignity and rights.
The minister emphasized shared responsibility to counter smuggling and reinforce safe, orderly migration paths, citing the need for international cooperation.
No unconfirmed reports have emerged regarding enforcement measures or policy changes beyond the minister’s statements.
The policy is expected to lead to increased border controls and enforcement, with Tunisia seeking to align its domestic measures with international legal frameworks.
The Foreign Ministry will publish detailed guidelines later in the week, but no official release has yet been issued.
