The official visit of General Dagvin Anderson, Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), marks a new stage in the consolidation of the strategic partnership between Tunisia and the United States.
Received Wednesday by Minister of National Defense Khaled Sehilithe senior American official praised the central role of Tunis in regional security and stability, confirming Tunisia’s place as a major ally of Washington in North Africa.
A strategic partnership at the heart of regional policy
At the headquarters of the Ministry of Defense, Minister Khaled Sehili recalled that Tunisian-American relations, more than two centuries old, are based on “trust, mutual respect and the sharing of universal values”. This cooperation has gradually expanded to become a pillar of Tunisian defense policy, notably through training, joint exercises and the exchange of expertise.
The minister stressed that Tunisia intends to fully play its role in regional security, by working with the United States to strengthen stability in North Africa and the Sahel. He focused on the implementation of the 2020–2030 military cooperation roadmap, which provides for the development of the operational capabilities of the Tunisian army, the modernization of its equipment and the strengthening of its logistical means in the face of unconventional threats: terrorism, cross-border crime, irregular migration and human trafficking.
Washington recognizes Tunisia’s pivotal role
For General Dagvin Anderson, this visit constitutes “an opportunity to explore new prospects for cooperation” and to reaffirm Tunisia’s strategic place in the African security architecture. The AFRICOM commander praised the “leading role” played by Tunis in the fight against regional threats and its commitment to the stability of the continent.
The American general also confirmed Washington’s desire to continue its support for Tunisian military modernization efforts, through joint training, intelligence and logistical support programs.
The meeting took place in the presence of several senior Tunisian and American military officials, in a climate described as “constructive and confident”. The two parties agreed to follow up on the recommendations of the Tunisian-American joint military commission and to continue coordination in regional security matters.
Through this visit, Tunisia confirms its desire to assume a stabilizing role in North Africa and its status as a privileged strategic partner of the United States, at a time when the geopolitical and security challenges of the African continent are being redefined.
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