Tunisia: Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Tunisia Wan Li has announced China’s plans to further expand opportunities for both Chinese and Tunisian companies to benefit from the advantages of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). He described the initiative as “a platform for practical cooperation and positive convergence in the interests of both peoples.”
According to Agence Tunis Afrique Presse, Ambassador Wan Li elaborated during an interview with TAP that the Belt and Road Initiative, also known as the Silk Road, was launched by Chinese President Xi Jinping. Tunisia joined the initiative on July 10, 2018, through a Memorandum of Understanding. The ambassador emphasized that this initiative represents “a valuable opportunity to boost cooperation with Tunisia, particularly in the economic field.”
He highlighted China’s concrete contributions to various development projects in Tunisia, such as the funding and construction of the Youth Cultural and Sports Centre in Ben Arous, the International Diplomatic Academy, and the University Hospital of Sfax. Chinese companies are also involved in the Bizerte Bridge project and the construction of the Mellag Dam, which is expected to be completed soon.
The ambassador noted that bilateral trade between China and Tunisia doubled from 2019 to 2024, with Chinese investments growing across sectors like building materials and automotive components. A notable project is the largest photovoltaic power plant in Tunisia, with an installed capacity of around 100 megawatts, aiding the country’s transition to green energy.
Wan Li also mentioned that cooperation between Tunisia and China extends into the cultural sphere, with various programs designed to enhance relations and mutual understanding. China plans to work with Tunisia to intensify cultural and media exchanges, aiming to institutionalize these initiatives under the framework of the “five connectivity principles” outlined in bilateral agreements focused on economic and civilizational cooperation.
The New Silk Road, launched in September 2013 by President Xi Jinping, aims to revive ancient trade routes to enhance economic and commercial cooperation between China and countries along the Belt and Road corridors.