Synopsis
On April 7, Tunisian President Kais Saied denied any agreements with European nations for deporting illegal Tunisian migrants during his presidency. He emphasized that past agreements existed prior to his tenure and highlighted Tunisia's humanitarian approach towards migrants. The president also detailed the peaceful evacuation of camps in Sfax, stressing respect for migrants.Key Takeaways
- Tunisian President Kais Saied denies deportation agreements with Europe.
- Claims of humanitarian actions guiding Tunisia's migrant policy.
- Recent dismantling of migrant camps in Sfax was peaceful.
- Historical context of bilateral agreements predating Saied's presidency.
- Increase in deportations since 2009 agreement with Italy.
Tunis, April 7 (NationPress) Tunisian President Kais Saied categorically refuted claims that Tunisia has made any agreements with European nations regarding the deportation of Tunisians living illegally in Europe during his time in office, as reported by the private radio station Mosaique FM.
During a ceremony held on Sunday in the eastern coastal region of Monastir to commemorate the 25th anniversary of former President Habib Bourguiba's passing, Saied highlighted that any such agreements were established prior to his presidency.
In reference to the recent dismantling of migrant camps for sub-Saharan Africans in the southeastern province of Sfax, Saied stated that Tunisia’s approach was founded on humanitarian and ethical considerations.
Saied disclosed that an alleged scheme to relocate undocumented migrants to the areas of El Amra and Jebniana in Sfax had been successfully thwarted, according to reports from Xinhua news agency.
The president emphasized that the evacuation was carried out peacefully, without the deployment of firearms or tear gas, asserting that all migrants were treated with dignity and respect.
The Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights (FTDES), a non-governmental organization, noted that a bilateral agreement was established between the interior ministers of Tunisia and Italy on January 27, 2009. This agreement provided a framework for the gradual deportation of undocumented Tunisian migrants in groups, as well as the readmission of third-country nationals who had transited through Tunisia.
The agreement was further refined in April 2011 through additional meeting minutes. Since that time, the rate of deported migrants has consistently risen, from 40 individuals weekly to 80, then 160, eventually reaching an unspecified number, according to FTDES.
Saied has been serving as the president of Tunisia since October 2019.
